Typically, I tend to shy away from super popular, tourist-packed locations. But, Santorini is the exception to the rule for me. Out of everywhere I’ve traveled, without a doubt, Santorini is one of my favorites. Here are five reasons why Santorini should be on your travel bucket list:
Sunset view in Oia
1. World Famous Sunsets
Oia, on the northern part of the island, is famous for its awe-inspiring sunsets. In fact, Oia is often touted to have the most beautiful sunsets in the world. Quite the lofty accolade, isn’t it? Well, I can promise you, the sunsets I witnessed in Oia did not disappoint. I’d recommend that you choose a restaurant with a view (get there early), sit back, relax and enjoy Mother Nature’s show.
Red Beach
2. Unique Beaches
Santorini offers travelers beach experiences like none other. Head to the Red Beach for a unique sunbathing experience… on red volcanic sand! The red volcanic cliff behind the beach serves as a dramatic backdrop for sunbathing. Although small in size, the beach is certainly worth a visit. After the Red Beach, be sure to head to one of the island’s black beaches, such as Perissa or Perivolos. These beaches are much larger than the Red Beach and are connected to boardwalks where you can dine on fresh fish for lunch, or grab a cool libation.
3. Delicious Food & Wine
Santorini offers some of the best food I’ve sampled throughout all of my travels. Fresh salads, generous portions of lamb, indulgent baklava, house-made aubergine dips, fried cheese… I could go on and on. For lower prices, head to the restaurants on the outskirts of the tourist centers, where you’ll also find tasty, inexpensive house-made barrel-wine flowing. If you consider yourself a “wine snob” and seek more extensive options other than “red or white,” the island also has wineries such as Santos Wines where you can sample the local Grecian grapes.
4. Island Hopping
Santorini is the perfect jumping off point to begin your Greek adventure since the island is part of the Cyclades Islands in the Aegean Sea. Hop a ferry or catch a flight to one of the other Greek isles such as Mykonos, Ios or Paros.
Iconic Santorini
5. Santorini is the Essential Greece Experience.
Santorini is instantly recognizable – picturesque cities with white washed buildings and blue domes, built upon a volcanic ledge overlooking the sea. To put it simply, the island is striking and there is no other place like it on Earth. If you’re headed to Southeastern Europe, you absolutely cannot miss the island of Santorini.
Have you been to Santorini? What else would you add to this list?
Karisa of Flirting with the Globe
About the Author:
Karisa Klee is a full-time attorney who prides herself for also working as a “part-time adventuress.” Karisa is the author of the travel blog, Flirting with the Globe, which is filled with travel tips for other “working stiffs.” She hopes to encourage others to make the most of their limited time in a city or country.