Santorini, GreeceDiscovering the Best of Santorini
Summary: Our Guide to Santorini: Top Attractions, Culinary Hotspots, Nightlife, and More. Plus, Tips on Making Connections with the Locals and Finding Fun Recreational Activities
Welcome to Santorini! If you're planning to move to Santorini, congratulations on taking the first step towards a new adventure. While there are many things to think about before you leave, such as visas, housing, and transportation, it's important to remember that once you arrive, the fun really begins. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best sites, restaurants, and nightlife that Santorini has to offer, as well as provide tips on recreational activities and making friends in Santorini.
Santorini, is a stunning island in the Aegean Sea known for its dramatic landscapes, beautiful sunsets, and unique architecture. There are several sites of interest for tourists and locals alike. One of the most famous attractions is the village of Oia, perched on the edge of a cliff and offering breathtaking views of the caldera and the surrounding islands. The village is famous for its blue-domed churches, narrow streets, and traditional Cycladic architecture. A visit to Oia is incomplete without witnessing the magical sunset from the castle ruins of Kastro.
Fira, the island's capital, is another must-visit destination. It is a bustling town with a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars. The Archaeological Museum of Thera and the Museum of Prehistoric Thera are both located in Fira, showcasing the island's rich history and artifacts from ancient civilizations. The cable car ride from Fira to the old port of Gialos is a popular activity, offering stunning views of the caldera and the sea.
Akrotiri is an ancient Minoan settlement that was buried under volcanic ash during the eruption of Thera in 1627 BC. The well-preserved ruins provide a fascinating insight into the life of the Minoan civilization. Nearby, the Red Beach and White Beach are unique geological formations with striking red and white cliffs, respectively, and crystal-clear waters for swimming and snorkeling.
For wine enthusiasts, a visit to one of Santorini's many wineries is a must. The island is known for its unique volcanic soil, which produces distinctive wines such as Assyrtiko, Vinsanto, and Nykteri. Popular wineries include Santo Wines, Domaine Sigalas, and Venetsanos Winery, all offering wine tastings and tours.
The restaurant and nightlife scene in Santorini is diverse and vibrant, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Selene, located in Pyrgos, is a fine dining restaurant that has been serving innovative Greek cuisine for over 30 years. The restaurant focuses on using local ingredients and offers a stunning view of the island. Another popular restaurant is Argo, located in Fira, which offers a fusion of Greek and Mediterranean cuisine with a modern twist.
For a more casual dining experience, Lucky's Souvlakis in Fira is a local favorite, serving delicious souvlaki and gyros at affordable prices. To Psaraki, located in Vlychada, is a popular seafood restaurant offering fresh fish and seafood dishes with a beautiful view of the marina.
Santorini's nightlife is centered around Fira, with numerous bars and clubs offering a lively atmosphere. Tropical Bar is a popular spot, known for its stunning views of the caldera and lively atmosphere. Kira Thira Jazz Bar is a cozy and intimate venue, offering live jazz music and a wide selection of wines and cocktails. For those looking to dance the night away, Enigma Club and Koo Club are popular choices, featuring DJs and a lively party atmosphere.
Recreational activities in Santorini are abundant, with options for both relaxation and adventure. Water sports such as windsurfing, kiteboarding, and paddleboarding can be enjoyed at Perivolos Beach and Kamari Beach. Santorini Kite and Santorini Water Park are popular spots for these activities.
Hiking is another popular activity, with the Fira to Oia hike being a favorite among visitors. This scenic trail offers stunning views of the caldera and passes through the villages of Firostefani and Imerovigli. For a more challenging hike, visitors can trek to the summit of Mount Profitis Ilias, the highest point on the island, for panoramic views of Santorini.
Boat tours and sailing excursions are a great way to explore the island's coastline and surrounding waters. Companies such as Santorini Sailing and Caldera Yachting offer a variety of options, including sunset cruises, catamaran tours, and private charters. These tours often include stops at the volcanic hot springs, the island of Thirassia, and secluded beaches for swimming and snorkeling.
Finally, for those looking to relax and rejuvenate, Santorini has several spas and wellness centers. Santo Maris Oia Luxury Suites & Spa and Andronis Concept Wellness Resort are popular choices, offering a range of treatments and therapies, including massages, facials, and yoga classes.
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Insider Tips from Expats in Santorini: Making the Most of Life and Connections
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Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
AGS Worldwide MoversRelocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Get Quote
AGS Worldwide MoversGet Quote
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
AGS Worldwide MoversRelocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Get Quote
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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