Santorini – Cliffside Views, Blue Domes & Sunset Dreams
Santorini is the essence of Greek island romance — white houses, blue domes, stunning sunsets and dramatic caldera views. Here’s my personal travel guide, including must-see spots, insider tips and dreamy moments you won’t forget.
✨ First Impressions: Santorini vs. Mykonos
After a week of beach clubs and wild nights in Mykonos, Santorini was the perfect contrast — peaceful, romantic and breathtakingly beautiful. The energy is slower, softer, more intimate. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to pause, breathe and just take it all in.
🏨 Where to Stay in Santorini
Caldera views or beach vibes?
If it’s your first time in Santorini, go for the view:
- Oia & Imerovigli: Iconic cliffside villages with dreamy whitewashed hotels, cave suites and private plunge pools.
- Kamari & Perissa: More laid-back and budget-friendly, with black sand beaches and a casual vibe.
📍 My pick: Imerovigli – peaceful, central and seriously stunning.
🌅 Best Sunset Spots in Santorini
The sunsets here are legendary — and totally worth the hype.
- Oia Castle: Famous (and packed). Come early!
- Skaros Rock: A short hike and unbeatable 360° views.
- Catamaran cruise: Our favorite way to watch the sunset — from the sea, with wine, music and the sky on fire.
🗺️ Things to Do in Santorini
There’s more to Santorini than sunsets and Instagram.
- Hike from Fira to Oia: 3 hours of nonstop views.
- Volcano & Hot Springs boat tour
- Ancient Akrotiri: A Minoan city preserved by volcanic ash — like the Pompeii of Greece.
- Winery tour: Taste Assyrtiko and other local wines with epic backdrops.
- Red Beach & Black Beach: Raw, volcanic beauty.
🍴 Best Restaurants in Santorini
Fresh flavors, unforgettable views and laid-back elegance.
- Metaxi Mas (Exo Gonia): A local favorite — rustic, authentic and always packed.
- Ammoudi Fish Tavern: Set right on the water. Come for the sunset, stay for the seafood.
- Avocado (Imerovigli): Stylish, chill and perfect for lunch with a view.
🥂 And don’t skip the local white wine — crisp, mineral and totally Santorini.
👜 What to Pack: Island Chic
Think floaty dresses, woven bags, oversized sunnies and neutral tones with a pop of sunset color.
Perfect for golden hour shoots in front of blue domes and white walls.
Essentials: Flat sandals, SPF, light layers and your best vacation mood.
💙 Final Thoughts
Mykonos brings the party — but Santorini brings the soul.
It’s a place to reconnect, slow down and fall in love with the magic of the Aegean.
Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or on a romantic escape, it will stay with you long after you’ve left.
🔗 Planning a Greek island trip? Don’t miss my Mykonos guide — for beach clubs, boho vibes & sunset dinners
