Lauren & Corey
Things To Do
Visit the red, white, black, and Kamari beaches (or go off-roading and find a private beach).
The beaches are on the east and southeast side of the island. It’s an easy drive or bus ride from Fira (the main town on Santorini) to get to the beaches (Kamari is the closest).
Hike the trail from Fira to Oia
Walking from Fira to Oia is one of Santorini’s highlights. Hike along the rim of a caldera, explore the towns of Oia, Imerovigli, Firostefani, and Fira, and enjoy some of the most beautiful views of the islands. If you go the entire distance, you will walk just over 10 km (about 6 miles). The walking path is a mix of paved, pedestrian streets and dirt hiking trails. It’s a hilly walk with little shade, however the weather should be mild in May and it is not a difficult hike. Along the way, you also have the option to make a detour out to Skaros Rock. This is an outcropping of rock located near Imerovigli. If you add this on to the walk, it will add another 45 to 60 minutes to the hike.
Santo Wines
Wine tasting in Santorini has grown up in recent years and no place has demonstrated it more clearly than the cafe and tasting area at Santo Winery. With a world-class view from high above the famed caldera, this is a very worthwhile stop during your adventures on the island of Santorini. The location is a terrific place to view the sunset, offering a different angle on the caldera. There’s a sizable parking lot on-site, and Santo is accessible via buses from Fira, Perissa, and Akrotiri. Daily wine tours are offered for €12 per person, two tastings included; tasting flights range from €18 to €55. Call after 9:30am to make reservations or book online.
Franco's Bar
A hidden gem we discovered in 2014, Franco's is tucked away high up in the village of Pyrgos. Quaint, with a spectacular rooftop views, fresh food, and excellent service. The walk up through the village is spectacular, but a bit of a climb. Well worth it for this local favorite, especially during sunset.
Ancient Thera
Remains of a historical Town that was abandoned prior to the Volcano erupting on the Island of Santorini. This 11th century BC Dorian settlement includes remains from Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine periods. Fantastic views from the top of all the Island on a clear day. Well maintained & signposted spots of interest. Entrance cost is around 4 Euros.
Open Air Cinema Kamari
Cine Kamari is one of the best outdoor cinemas in Europe. Watch a movie outside as the sun sets and the sky grows dark. Wine, beer, and simple snacks available. Tickets cost €8 and it’s cash only at the door and at the bar. All movies are popular current movies in English with Greek subtitles. Doors open at 8:30pm. Movies start at 9:30pm. There’s a bus stop directly across the street with buses back to Fira.
Santorini Brewing Company
The home of the island’s in-demand Donkey beers is well worth a stop. Sample the Yellow Donkey (hoppy golden ale), Red Donkey (amber ale), the Crazy Donkey (IPA), the White Donkey (wheat with a touch of orange peel), plus the Lazy Ass lager. All are unfiltered, unpasteurised and extremely palatable. There are free tastings for visitors.
Atlantis Books
The Atlantis Bookshop in Santorini is one of my favorite bookstores anywhere. Definitely stop in for a visit (and support the store by buying something) if you’re in Oia. It’s on the main footpath that runs through town and pretty much marks the end of the Fira to Oia hike. The owners and staff are smart and helpful and love to help customers find a great book (or a good gyro) so feel free to start a conversation. The shop is on your left as you’re walking north (towards the sunset). But it’s small and easy to miss – just ask any store owner, “Bookstore?” and they’ll point you in the right direction.
Yazz Bar
Yazz Bar is located at the end of Perissa Beach. A popular beach bar in the area, the Yazz is full of action that lasts well past midnight in the summer days. The bar offers some of the most amazing smoothies and cocktails on the island. Great live music.
Jo Jo's Beach Bar
Great lively bar by the beach with DJs, pool/swim up bar.
Koo Club
Koo Club is located on the north end of cliffside walkway in Fira. The club has a large outdoor patio in a tropical setting with palm trees and an indoor dance floor with high energy.
Candouni Restaurant
Great food, service and atmosphere. Candle-lit, family-run restaurant with gluten-free options. Just past the main crowds of Oia with excellent Greek fare.
Sphinx Wine Restaurant
Sphinx Wine Bar and Restaurant is located in Oia, Santorini. The mediterranean cuisine complements the wide variety of Greek and international wines of its cellar. Beautiful, high-end restaurant with incredible views of the Caldera.
La Maison
Local ingredients, excellent mediterranean fine dining.