Santorini

If it’s picture-perfect scenery you’re seeking, Santorini is the place for you.

From inspiring ocean panoramas and volcanic beaches, to idyllic clifftop villages and dazzling architecture, this wonderful destination if full of Instagramable sights and scenery.

The capital Fira is an ideal spot for amazing views and pretty white-washed scenery, while Oia, Imerovigli and Firostefani are also worth a visit.

Santorini is also great for beach lovers, with crystal clear waters and white, red and black stretches of sand waiting to be discovered.

Perissa, Perivolos and Agios Georgios beaches are great options for water sports, while Almyra Beach to the south offers a more peaceful experience.

Red Beach is another popular spot, being famous for its stunning red rock formations, while Monolithos is a great beach for families, offering shallow waters and playgrounds for children to enjoy.

Santorini also has much to offer in the way of cuisine, with a host of exceptional restaurants and tavernas to explore, and plenty of delicious local delicacies to devour, such as Ntomatokeftedes (tomato fritters), Melitinia (traditional sweet cheese pie) and Souflaki, which is similar to a kebab.

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Crystal-clear waters, towering cliffs, magical sunsets and charming people make the mesmerising volcanic island of Santorini a great choice for the holiday of a lifetime.

This awe-inspiring escape has everything you need for an unforgettable beach getaway in the glorious Mediterranean sunshine.

You won’t find long golden sandy expanses which are common in many other Greek Islands, purely due to the volcanic nature of Santorini - but there’s still plenty to admire about the red, white and black sand and pebble beaches.

And, of course, there’s the jaw-dropping scenery and views.

Perivolos Beach has black sands and is located near Perissa. It has clear sparkling waters and a host of excellent facilities including beach volleyball courts. Jet-skiing and scuba diving are popular here and there are plenty of lively beach parties held daily.

Red Beach near Akrotiri village is hugely popular and famous for its red sands and hills. There are only limited facilities at this beautiful beach but it is definitely worth a visit. Snorkelling is popular here and provides the perfect opportunity to study the rich marine life.

Vlychada beach is a lovely spot on the south coast of Kos which is close to a delightful little port when you can enjoy a relaxing meal in a taverna. The beach is set against a backdrop of impressive cliffs and parts of the area looks like an enchanting lunar landscape.

If you are interested in finding a coastal spot which is tranquil and secluded, then Pori Beach fits the bill. This little sandy gem at Columbo Cape is surrounded by red cliffs and the unbelievably clear waters make it perfect for snorkelling and swimming.

Other beaches of note in Santorini include White Beach at Akrotiri, Monolithos Beach at Kamari and Agios Georgios Beach at Perivolos.

You’ll discover many colourful festivals and other celebrations throughout the year in Santorini. Here are some of those you may encounter when you visit the island.

Megaron Gyzi Festival

The event takes place during August in the Gyzi Cultural Centre in Fira. It involves an extensive range of activities including art exhibitions, jazz concerts and classical performances.

Ifestia Festival

This is the Greek Volcano festival which is organized on the island in September. The highlight is a representation of the eruption of Santorini's volcano with a display of fireworks. There are many other attractions including concerts and dance performances.

Santorini Jazz Festival

This is a wonderful musical event which is held in July and attracts many local and international jazz performers. If you are a music lover you really shouldn't miss it if it’s taking place during your stay.

Saint John’s Feast (Agios Ioannis)

This is held on August 29 in the island's largest church below the cliff of Mesa Vouno at the end of Perissa village. The highlight of the event is barefoot dancing on a dance floor near the sea. There's plenty of traditional music, plus many seafood delights and wine.

No matter where you are staying on the gorgeous island of Santorini you won’t be far away from a restaurant or taverna serving delicious traditional dishes and delicacies.

Ntomatokeftedes are scrumptious tomato fritters comprising a thick batter, tomatoes, peppers, onions, mint and aromatic herbs. Santorini tomatoes are renowned for their sweetness and intense colour so it’s not surprising these fritters are so popular.

Melitinia is a traditional sweet cheese pie made with fresh mizithra cheese, mastiha powder and sugar while Kopania are tasty Santorini sweets made from powdered barley rusks, raisins and sesame seeds.

Souflaki is a fast food you'll find all over the island which is made from tender cuts of meat and is similar in appearance to a kebab. These are flavoured with a traditional Greek seasoning.

A Santorini salad is definitely worth trying when you visit the island. This comprises tomatoes, cucumber, feta cheese, herbs, olives, red onion, sweet cherry tomatoes, capers and olive oil.

There are many wonderful restaurants and tavernas in Santorini where you can enjoy a range of gastronomic delights. Among them are Selene in Pýrgos village, Meze Meze in Finikiá village centre, Metaxy Mas in Éxo Goniá and Mousiko Kouti in Megalochori.