Santorini is one of the most popular islands in Greece. Located in the Aegean Sea, the island is one cruise excursion no one would want to miss. Some of the best things to do in Santorini include tasting wine, strolling the Old World streets and simply enjoying the view on this island, which is part of the Cyclades chain.
6 of the Best Things to Do in Santorini – According to Tour Specialists:
1. Hike across the Volcanic Landscape
If you happen to cruise to Santorini, then you will want to enjoy a day on this popular Greek escape. One of the most popular shore activities includes a hike over the island’s volcanic landscape. This particular excursion lasts around 5 hours and allows you to actually see the volcanic depression of a caldera. Holiday-goers, directed by a private guide, also get to hike up to Profitis Ilias, which is Santorini’s highest peak. A Greek Orthodox monastery is located at the summit.
2. Visit the Small and Charming Town of Oia
One of the other favorite excursions and best things to do in Santorini is to visit the charming village of Oia. This small yet dramatic enclave was constructed on a steep slope, with the dwellings in the town surrounded by volcanic rock. The narrowed cobbled streets run like a maze through the inviting little town featuring an array of shops. The shops highlight such items as handmade ceramic artworks, jewelry, and paintings. From its location on a high cliff, Oia also offers an amazing view of Santorini’s capital, Fira. The volcanic slope on which Oia is located gave birth to this enigmatic yet friendly piece of land.
3. Visit the Capital of Santorini
If you are ready to find another one of the best things to do in Santorini, it has to be a visit to Fira, the capital of the island. You can enjoy a short cable car ride to the pier, and then have lunch in one of the cafes or visit a wine bar. The capital is also an excellent location in which to take a boat tour or to visit one of the impressive cathedrals that are prominently displayed in town.
4. Visit a Vineyard and Sip Some Wine
If you love good wine, then you won’t want to miss a shore excursion to Santorini that features a trip of famous wineries. You can choose from a sunset or morning tour on the trip too! When exploring the wineries and vineyards, you will get a chance to taste some of the varietals as well as learn a thing or two about the island’s assyrtiko grape. This excursion lasts about three hours and is led by a private guide. Savor some local cheeses, bread and olives with the wines!
5. Relax on the Beach
Located 6 miles southeast of the capital of Fira, Kamari Beach is the place to retreat for a little sun or relaxation. You can try out your snorkeling gear here, too. This broad shoreline is inviting as it is dotted with striped, colorful umbrellas. If you love to fish, you will want to pursue the sport on one of the island’s bobbing boats. The volcanic sand beach is also home to taverns, restaurants and high-level resorts. Beach-goers can rent an umbrella and sun chair or enjoy a day of swimming and diving. If you land here in the summer, the town plays host to a jazz festival as well.
6. Tour the Island in a Helicopter
The island offers helicopter rides to its visitors who would like to take time out to explore the island from the air. Flights are available of 20 or 30 minutes duration. Helicopters take visitors over the white cubed houses for which the Greek island is famed as well as glide over the island’s Nea Kameni volcano. If you upgrade to the 30-minute tour, you will see the island’s impressive shores as well as the islands of Megalochori and Thirasia.
So, when are you planning to go to Santorini? Book a cruise holiday today and make Santorini one of your favorite port journey escapes.