Exploring new countries is such an exciting experience. We have had the most amazing time getting to know all of the locations we have been staying in. One tip for your future travels is to plan out everywhere you want to visit, this way you will not forget anything. Here is a guide to the top 10 things you need to do the next time you are in Santorini!
Not all beaches are created equal, and this definitely not one you'll see everyday! The rocks surrounding this beach are all red from years of volcano activity and erosion. This site is very beautiful, and a must see when in Santorini! This is a large tourist attraction, so make sure you get here early to secure a spot! Julia Frohlich loved the red beach because of its beautiful views, and the crystal clear water. Having grown up in Florida, she pretty much lives on the beach. However, she appreciated this beach for its different atmosphere, and its distinct characteristics.
Akrotiri is about a 10 minute walk from Red Beach, so this is very easy to do in the same day! This historic site is an ancient Minoan city that was destroyed by a volcanic eruption in 1627 BC. The volcanic ash preserved many of the buildings, frescoes, and objects. Admission for this site is very inexpensive, so there is no excuse not to visit it! It is also an indoor site, allowing you to escape the heat for a little while. I highly recommend visiting Akrotiri for its beauty and history. Julianna Musumeci "went to see Akrotiri for a class to learn more about Santorini's history. The excavated site goes back to the 6th century BC and under the buried ash, it's still in great condition. It reminded [her] of the ancient city Pompeii in Italy. [She] was amazed to see how advanced the settlement was with its architecture and sewage system."
Picture 1: the view from Fira. Picture 2: a handmade sandal shop in Fira. Picture 3: a boutique in Fira.
When in Greece, you must shop! Fira is a small town located in the center of the island. Our hotel was actually about 5 minutes away from the center of Fira. This made is very convenient for all of us to walk to town for shopping, food, and night life. This adorable town has breathtaking views of the water surrounding the island. You can see the mountains holding the town high above the ocean. The white buildings are a beautiful backdrop for your pictures. Not only are the views beautiful, but the shops are awesome! You can find anything from handmade sandals, to cute boutiques. These stores line the streets, and you can shop for hours. Make sure to bring some extra cash, because you will definitely want to buy everything.
Oia is the most well-known city in Santorini. This beautiful town is located on the north-west side of the island, making it the perfect location to watch the sunset. Oia is famous for its sunsets, so make sure you get there at least an hour early, because it will be packed! A smart way to watch the sunset without feeling to crowded, is to try to find a restaurant that is right on the water.
Wine tasting in Greece is a must! The wine is made on vineyards located on the island, making it taste fresh and delicious. Wine tasting gives you the opportunity to try different types of wine, so you can figure out what your favorite is. This is a really great option for a big group of people! You are able to order different amounts, so you can easily share a large flight of wine. Greek wine companies have been giving tours and tastings for many years, so this is not something I would skip when you are in Santorini!
Alexa, Annie, Katy, Zindzi, Brittany, Hana, Alexa, Alena, Hope, Lauren, and Gaby at the Santorini Wine Museum & Tasting.
Hana Dawood said "having the opportunity to take part in this tasting gave [her] a greater sense of appreciation for the production of wine and its history." She said her favorite wine was the dessert wine 'Vinosanto', which Santorini is well known for.
The hot springs and the Mediterranean Ocean.
You can't go to Santorini and not swim in the natural hot springs! The hot springs, which are not actually that hot, are located next to the volcano Nea Kameni. The volcano heats up the hot springs, creating a natural warmth in the water. The water only actually reaches about 27 degrees Celcius, 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The reason the hot springs felt warmer than they actually are, is because you have to swim through the freezing Mediterranean sea to reach it! If you look closely at the pictures above, you can see a small orange/reddish patch of sea water as you get closer to the volcano, and this is the hot spring. The hot springs are red because of the sulfur, which is known to have therapeutic purposes.
Views from the top of the volcano Nea Kameni.
Nea Kameni means new burn in Greek, and it was given its name because it is the youngest volcano in Santorini's caldera. This volcano is also where the hot springs are located. This is still an active volcano, and its last eruption was in 1950. Don't worry, scientists are closely watching the volcano, and keeping it safe for tourists to explore. You can hike up the volcano for only 2.50 euros, and it is definitely worth it! This volcanic island has beautiful views of the surrounding water, and the islands of Santorini. You can see smoke coming out from the active volcano, and can even smell the sulfur in some locations.
Thirasia is another beautiful island to visit off of the main Santorini island, Thera. This small island has only a little more than 300 inhabitants. Once again, this beautiful island has high mountains with a great view of the water, and the surrounding volcanic islands. This island is perfect for a short getaway during lunchtime. The cute restaurants lined up along the water serve fresh and delicious food.
If you sign up for a Caldera Boat Tour, you are likely to hit multiple locations in one day! A caldera is a large crater that forms after a volcanic eruption. The Santorini caldera was formed from volcanic eruptions many, many years ago. This eruption has created the islands of Santorini: Thera, Thirasia, Aspronisi, and the Kameni volcanoes. You can sign up for boat tours that will give you the history of the caldera, while you are able to see it up close. They will bring you to beautiful locations, such as Thirasia, and the Kameni volcanoes! There are many different options for these boat tours, so you can figure out what works best with your plans.
Gabby, McKenna, Taylor, and Kayla on a Caldera Boat Tour.
Taylor Torok loved the boat tour she took on Santorini's famous caldera. She was able to visit the hot springs, both the red and white beaches, and she was able to see all the Greek islands that make up Santorini. She said "the best part was being able to hang out on a boat all day with [her] friends."
View from a restaurant on the water in Fira.
A perfect way to end your day in Santorini, is by eating dinner on the water. Almost every restaurant in Oia and Fira gives you a spectacular view of the town, mountains, and the caldera. You can't go wrong with a beautiful view of the Mediterranean Sea and the Santorini islands.
