Santorini truly lives up to all the great things people say about it. Even if you’re a picky traveler, you’ll fall for its unique landscape, a stunning result of a major volcanic eruption. Just know that you’ll be sharing this beautiful place with millions of visitors each year. The most famous spot is the caldera, and there are many cliffs offering breathtaking sea views. This should definitely be on your travel itinerary. The best way to get to Santorini is by taking a slow ferry with an open deck to enjoy a panoramic view of the entire city.

Don’t miss the sunset during your visit—it’s absolutely stunning. Head to the small village of Oia in the northern part of the island for the best sunset experience. You’ll see a huge, orange ball dipping into the horizon. The area gets crowded with tourists, so try to grab a good spot early. If you’re not a fan of crowds, you can also catch the sunset from the caldera edge area.

Athinios is the main port in Santorini, located at the base of a cliff. It’s a busy place, especially when ferries arrive, with buses and taxis waiting for passengers. Nearby, you’ll find Perissa and Kamari beaches, where people with perfect tans enjoy the black sand. Yes, the sand is black, which makes these beaches unique. The area is filled with restaurants and shops, plus a water park for families and diving centers offering lessons.

For a dose of history, visit Akrotiri, known for its Minoan-period ruins. Not many people venture here due to its remote location, but it’s worth the trip if you want to see a secluded community. You can watch locals creating crafts and buy the finished products. From the top of the village, you get a fantastic view of the volcano and the entire island.

By Alba V