Santorini

Chasing Sunsets and Ancient Wonders

Every year, the excitement builds up as summer inches closer, and so does the big question: Where to next? This time, our choices spanned across a few European gems—Switzerland’s serene landscapes, Belgium’s medieval charm, and Greece’s sun-drenched coastlines. We weighed the pros and cons of each, imagining ourselves trekking the Swiss Alps, strolling through Belgium’s quaint towns, and diving into Greece’s history and beaches. But it seemed like every conversation circled back to one word: Greece.

Greece had an undeniable allure, like a warm invitation wrapped in sunlit beaches, ancient ruins, and Mediterranean flavors. It wasn’t just the picture-perfect islands and deep blue waters; it was the history, the stories, and the culture that drew us in. So, with a shared sense of adventure and a dash of spontaneity, we decided to follow our instincts—Greece it was!

Once decided, we dove into the research. The attractions list was endless: the Acropolis in Athens, the white-washed houses of Santorini, Crete's ancient palaces, and hidden villages in the Peloponnese. Each place seemed like a portal to a different time and story, promising something unique and unforgettable.

We also turned to reviews from other travelers who had wandered these paths before us. From the cobblestone streets to the hidden bays, each review painted a more vivid picture. While some raved about Athens’ bustling neighborhoods, others shared their serene experiences on remote beaches far from the tourist trails. Transport was another topic of our deep dive. Greece, after all, is a mix of islands and mainland wonders. Would ferries be frequent and reliable? How easy is it to navigate the labyrinthine streets of Greek cities? Luckily, we found Greece to have a well-connected system of ferries, flights, and local buses ready to get us from island to island and town to town.

Food is one of our favorite parts of any travel experience, so naturally, we had to explore Greece’s cuisine. Greek food reviews were tempting us with visions of fresh seafood by the beach, flaky spanakopita, creamy tzatziki, and souvlaki hot off the grill. From the open-air tavernas in Athens to family-run restaurants in seaside villages, the cuisine seemed to promise a sensory journey in its own right.

And, of course, no trip to Greece is complete without touching on the history that’s as rich as it is ancient. Greece felt like a land where mythology and history blend seamlessly. We read up on everything, from the stories of gods and goddesses to tales of ancient philosophers and battles that shaped Western civilization. Even the ruins weren’t just stones to us—they were pieces of stories we couldn’t wait to see and feel in person.

As we planned each step, our excitement grew. Greece wasn’t just a destination anymore; it was becoming a promise of memories, new experiences, and a summer that we would always remember. So here’s to summer plans and the thrill of adventure—to Greece and everything waiting to be discovered.

First Stop: Santorini 

The moment we set foot on Santorini, it felt like stepping into a postcard. This island had captured our imaginations long before we arrived, with its iconic blue-domed churches, white-washed buildings, and cliffside views. As we approached by ferry, we were greeted by the sight of Santorini’s famous caldera, a volcanic masterpiece with jagged cliffs rising dramatically from the sparkling Aegean Sea.

Our first destination was Oia, the heart of Santorini’s charm and perhaps one of the most photographed places in the world. Wandering through Oia felt surreal—each winding pathway was framed by vibrant bougainvillea, charming artisan shops, and hidden cafes, each offering its own slice of paradise. We joined other travelers at the village’s famous sunset viewpoint. Watching the sun dip below the horizon, casting golden hues over the caldera, was nothing short of magical.

From there, we explored Fira, the bustling capital of Santorini. Fira’s energy was infectious, with its lively markets, tavernas, and the hum of local music. A highlight was the cable car ride down to the old port, where we marveled at the coastline from a different angle. Fira’s markets were a treat too—we found handmade jewelry, local ceramics, and plenty of irresistible souvenirs to take home.

Our adventures took us beyond the villages and into Santorini’s beaches. First up was Perissa Beach with its unique black sands—a stark contrast to the usual golden beaches, and a memorable experience to walk on. Just a short trip away, Red Beach near Akrotiri wowed us with its dramatic red cliffs, making the beach feel like another planet. Each beach offered something unique, whether it was swimming in the crystal-clear waters or simply soaking up the Mediterranean sun.

Of course, no visit to Santorini would be complete without diving into its ancient history. We spent an afternoon at Akrotiri, the island’s famous archaeological site. Walking through this Minoan civilization, which dates back to the 16th century BC, we could almost feel the echoes of ancient life—homes, pottery, and artwork preserved by volcanic ash. It was a fascinating glimpse into a past that still feels vividly present on the island.

In between exploring, we made sure to indulge in Santorini’s food and wine. Local tavernas served up fresh seafood, Greek salads drizzled with the island’s own olive oil, and some of the best grilled meats we’ve tasted. Santorini is known for its unique wines, especially Assyrtiko, which we enjoyed at a local winery overlooking the caldera. There, we learned about the island’s unique volcanic soil and how it lends a special character to the grapes.

Santorini was everything we dreamed of and more—a mix of natural beauty, rich history, and warm Greek hospitality. It was the perfect beginning to our journey, setting the bar high for the adventures that lay ahead in Greece.

Places we visited in Santorini Island:

#01. Oia

#02. Fira

#03. Fira Old Town

#03. Red Beach

#05. Akrotiri

#06. Caldera

Transportation options in Santorini:

Transportation on Santorini Island offers several convenient options, making it easy to explore its iconic spots and hidden gems. Here’s a rundown of the main ways to get around:

#1. Public Buses (KTEL)

- Cost-Effective: The local KTEL buses are a popular and budget-friendly way to travel between Santorini’s main towns and beaches.

- Routes and Frequency: The main hub is in Fira, and buses connect Fira to Oia, Perissa Beach, Kamari, Akrotiri, and other key spots. During peak season, buses run more frequently, though they can get crowded.

- Fares: Tickets are reasonably priced (usually around €1.60 - €2.50), and you pay the driver on board.

#2. ATV and Scooter Rentals

- Popular Option for Tourists: Renting an ATV or scooter is a fun and flexible way to navigate Santorini’s narrow roads and explore less accessible areas.

- Requirements: Most rental agencies require an international driver’s license for ATVs and scooters. Helmets are essential for safety.

- Cost: Prices vary, starting around €20-30 per day for a scooter and €35-50 for an ATV, depending on the season and vehicle.

#3. Car Rentals

- Flexibility and Convenience: Renting a car offers the most flexibility for reaching remote spots and exploring the island at your own pace.

- Availability: Several agencies, both local and international, operate in Santorini, and you can rent a car in advance or on arrival.

- Cost: Prices vary widely depending on the season, ranging from €40-100 per day. Remember that parking can be limited in popular areas like Oia and Fira.

- Note: The roads in Santorini can be narrow and winding, so drive carefully, especially on routes to popular attractions like Oia.

#4. Taxis

- Convenient but Limited: Taxis are available, but they are limited on the island, making them a bit hard to come by, especially during peak season.

- Taxi Stand Locations: Major taxi stands are in Fira and the port area, but it’s wise to book in advance if you need a taxi for early morning or late-night trips.

- Cost: Fares are relatively high compared to other options; expect around €20-30 for short trips and higher rates for longer journeys.

#5. Water Taxis and Boat Tours

- Ideal for Beach-Hopping and Island Views: Water taxis and organized boat tours are popular for reaching beaches like Red Beach, White Beach, and parts of the caldera.

- Variety of Tours: Options range from day tours and sunset cruises to private boat rentals. Many tours also offer stops at hot springs and the volcano.

- Cost: Boat tours typically range from €20 for basic trips to €100+ for luxury or private tours.

#6. Walking

- Best for Oia and Fira: Walking is the perfect way to explore the charming villages of Oia and Fira, as well as the scenic hiking path between them.

- Hiking Trail: The Fira to Oia hike is a popular 10-kilometer (6-mile) trail that offers spectacular caldera views, passing through villages and viewpoints along the way. It takes about 2-3 hours to complete.

#7. Cable Car in Fira

- Alternative to Walking from the Old Port: For those arriving by cruise or visiting the old port, the cable car offers a quick, scenic route up the cliffs to Fira town.

- Cost and Frequency: The ride costs around €6 per person and operates frequently, especially during cruise ship arrivals.

Each transportation option has its unique benefits, whether you’re looking for affordability, adventure, or convenience, so you can easily tailor your mode of travel to fit your itinerary.