Traveling on a solo journey at the end of May, I sought the serene embrace of Greece, a land where the azure skies kiss the sea, and time seems to unwind in the most magical ways. My quest for relaxation found its answer in the sun-drenched landscapes of Santorini, the lively streets of Zakynthos, and beyond. Each island, with its unique charm, beckoned me to explore, to lose myself in the moment, and perhaps, find a piece of myself along the way.

Traveling alone, I found solace in the rhythm of the waves, the warmth of the sun, and the gentle pace of island life. It was a journey of self-discovery, a chance to breathe deeply and let the stresses of the world fall away with every sunset. But what truly made this adventure unforgettable were the connections formed along the way—friendships with fellow travelers, each on their own path, and encounters with locals whose kindness and stories added layers of richness to my experience.

Facts About Santorini

Santorini, or Thira as it's officially known in Greece, is the southernmost member of the Cyclades island group. Its dramatic landscape is the result of a massive volcanic eruption around 1600 BC, which led to the creation of its caldera—a large, mostly submerged crater surrounded by steep cliffs. The island's unique topography is a constant reminder of nature's power and beauty.

Oia Town in Santorini

Oia is perhaps the most photographed place in Greece, known for its cobblestone streets, blue-domed churches, and whitewashed buildings that gleam in the Aegean sun. It's the quintessential image of Santorini that adorns postcards and travel guides. Oia is famed for its breathtaking sunsets, which draw crowds from all over the island. The atmosphere here, as the sun dips below the horizon, is nothing short of magical.

Fira Town in Santorini

Fira, the island's bustling capital, sits perched on the edge of the caldera. With its mix of Venetian and Cycladic architecture, luxury boutiques, and stunning cliffside cafes, Fira offers a vibrant contrast to Oia's tranquil beauty. The town is also home to several museums, including the Museum of Prehistoric Thira, which houses artifacts from the ancient city of Akrotiri.

Akrotiri Archaeological Site

Speaking of Akrotiri, no visit to Santorini is complete without exploring this well-preserved Minoan city. Often referred to as the "Greek Pompeii," Akrotiri was buried under volcanic ash, which preserved many frescoes, artifacts, and multi-level buildings. Walking through this ancient site offers a fascinating glimpse into the island's distant past.

Santorini Beaches

Santorini's beaches are unlike any other in Greece, thanks to its volcanic history. From the striking black sands of Perissa and Kamari to the unique red beach near Akrotiri, the island's beaches are a showcase of its geological heritage. While not the typical sandy beaches found on other Greek islands, Santorini's shores offer a unique seaside experience, with crystal-clear waters and stunning natural backdrops.

Staying at Charisma Suites in Santorini

Nestled under the iconic windmills of Oia, Charisma Suites offers more than just a luxurious stay; it promises an immersion into the quintessence of Santorini’s beauty. Yet, for those wavering on where to plant their feet on this island of dreams, Oia, with its postcard-perfect landscapes, might seem too good to be true. It’s breathtakingly beautiful but also the most visited. As a first-time visitor, I chose Charisma Suites for a blend of luxury and tranquility, sparing me the need to navigate through the throngs of tourists. Here’s a candid recount of my indulgent escape, hoping to guide your decision for that perfect Santorini hideaway.

Upon arrival, the warmth and attentiveness of the Charisma Suites staff were immediately palpable. Positioned just a stone’s throw from a conveniently located parking lot, the accessibility of the hotel is a godsend, especially in a town known for its challenging topography. This ease of access, coupled with the heartfelt hospitality, sets the tone for a stay where every need is anticipated and catered to with a smile.

Charisma Cave Pool Suite with Caldera View

Charisma Suites redefines the cave dwelling experience with its modern, minimalist approach. My Cave Pool Suite exceeded my expectations with its luxurious comfort and breathtaking views. The suite’s balcony, a stage for the world-renowned Santorini sunset, offered an unparalleled panorama of the caldera and the serene Thirassia Island. It’s a vista that invites contemplation and countless photoshoots, capturing the essence of Santorini’s enchanting beauty.

Despite the minimal privacy due to the close proximity of neighboring balconies, the allure of these views makes it a negligible concern. The room’s spaciousness, the comfortable bedding, and the thoughtful touches, including a welcome bottle of wine and fresh fruit salads, underscore the suite’s appeal.

Breakfast with a View in Santorini

The complimentary breakfast served at Charisma Suites is a morning ritual I looked forward to. Opting to enjoy it on my balcony, I savored the local flavors of thick Greek yogurt and honey, alongside savory phyllo pastries, while basking in the early sunlight. The late start at 8:00 am might deter the early risers, but it’s a small compromise for the quality and tranquility of the morning feast.

Sunset from Charisma Suites

The Santorini sunset, a spectacle of nature’s grandeur, is best witnessed from the luxury of your balcony at Charisma Suites. Away from the bustling crowds, it’s a private show that dazzles each evening, painting the sky in hues of gold and crimson. The tranquility of watching this daily masterpiece unfold from the comfort of your suite, wine in hand, is an experience that epitomizes the essence of a Santorini getaway.

As I reflect on my stay, the charm and allure of Charisma Suites remain vivid in my memory—a beacon of luxury in the heart of Santorini’s splendor. It’s a place I eagerly anticipate returning to, a home away from home in the midst of the Aegean’s embrace.

Staying at Pegasus Suites & Spa in Imerovigli

Nestled in the serene village of Imerovigli, a stone's throw away from the bustling capital of Fira, Pegasus Suites and Spa proudly stands as a beacon of luxury in Santorini. This 5-star hotel is an exquisite blend of Santorini's traditional architectural charm and modern, chic design, ensuring an experience of utmost comfort and unparalleled luxury.

Strategically positioned just 1km from Fira and a mere 100m from a bustling shopping area, Pegasus Suites and Spa offers the perfect balance of tranquility and convenience. Its location in Imerovigli, known as the balcony to the Aegean, provides guests with breathtaking views of the endless blue sea, the caldera, and Santorini's iconic volcano.

The resort is a testament to the harmonious blend of Santorini's characteristic white-washed, cube-shaped buildings with sophisticated contemporary design elements. This fusion creates a visually stunning and comfortable environment that captivates and soothes the soul.

The Plunge Pool Cave at Pegasus Suites

One of the most talked-about accommodations at Pegasus Suites and Spa is the Plunge Pool Cave Suite. This unique offering combines the traditional cave-style living spaces of Santorini with modern luxuries, including a private plunge pool. The allure of these suites lies in their ability to provide an intimate, luxurious sanctuary that is both exceptional in comfort and significantly more value-oriented compared to similar accommodations in more crowded areas like Oia.

The hotel boasts spectacular views of the Aegean Sea, which can be enjoyed from the privacy of your suite or the communal areas of the resort. The sight of the caldera, with the famous Santorini volcano rising from its center, is an unforgettable spectacle that adds to the magic of your stay at Pegasus Suites and Spa.

Oia's Sunset Spots

Catching the sunset in Oia, Santorini, is almost a rite of passage for travelers. This activity, while verging on cliché, offers an unforgettable spectacle of nature's beauty. However, to avoid the overwhelming crowds and to ensure a more serene experience, it's wise to steer clear of the peak months of July and August. During these times, the quest for the perfect sunset view can become a battle for space along Oia's famed cliffsides.

Find Santorini sunset times here:

Oia Castle Sunset Spot

The most coveted spot for sunset watchers is undoubtedly near Oia Castle. Here, the convergence of eager tourists can reach staggering levels, all vying for the ultimate sunset photograph. The castle provides a stunning backdrop, with the iconic windmills and the quintessential whitewashed buildings clinging to the caldera's edge. To secure a prime viewing location, early arrival is essential, as spots fill up quickly hours before the sunset begins. The route to this vantage point is straightforward: ascend to the higher lookout at Oia Castle, continue past it, and navigate down the steps to a spacious, flat terrace, where turning right unveils the mesmerizing lookout Oia Panoramic View, overlooking both the windmills and the azure waters of Ammoudi Bay.

Despite its popularity, Oia Castle wasn't our favorite viewing spot due to the excessive crowds and the obscured view of the iconic blue domes that many come to see.

The Three Blue Domes in Oia

A more serene and equally breathtaking alternative is located near the three renowned blue domes of Oia. This spot not only offers the iconic view of the domes themselves but also frames the charming church bells against the backdrop of a sinking sun. Remarkably, this location remains relatively uncrowded, providing a more intimate sunset experience. The exact coordinates to this secret photo spot are 36°27’40.7″N 25°22’33.9″E.

Where to Eat and Drink in Santorini

Santorini's culinary scene is a direct reflection of its volcanic soil and unique climate, producing distinct ingredients like cherry tomatoes, white aubergines, capers, and fava beans. The island's wineries, such as Vassaltis, Sigalas, and Venetsanos, offer exquisite food and wine pairings, capitalizing on the mineral-rich terroir to produce exceptional Assyrtiko white wines and the sweet Vinsanto. For beer enthusiasts, the locally brewed Donkey beer presents a delightful surprise.

Fine dining is abundant in Santorini, from Selene, a pioneer in utilizing Cycladic ingredients, to Aktaion, known for its classic local dishes since 1922. The port of Ammoudi, just below Oia, is home to quintessential Greek fish tavernas, with Dimitris standing out as a perennial favorite. For a mix of fresh seafood and cocktails, places like To Psaraki and Oia Vineyart offer great options, the latter being a favorite among locals for a nightcap.

Oia Gefsis is a must-visit for anyone seeking to enjoy exquisite cuisine against the backdrop of Santorini's famous sunset. This spot combines the best of Greek culinary traditions with the magical ambiance of Oia, making every meal a memorable experience.

Know Before You Go to Santorini

• Currency: Euro. Dining or staying along the caldera can be pricey.
• Transport: Renting a car offers flexibility, but be mindful of narrow streets and limited parking. Public transport and taxis are alternatives, though taxis can be scarce.
• Travel Tips: To avoid peak season crowds, consider visiting in April or October. Ensure ample time for airport or port departures, especially in high season.

How to Get to Santorini

Santorini By Air

Direct flights from the UK and other European cities to Santorini increase during May to October. Booking flights well in advance is advisable due to high demand.

Santorini by Ferry

Ideal for those interested in island hopping. Various operators connect Santorini with nearby islands and Athens.

Santorini Airport to Hotel Transfers

Pre-booking a private transfer is recommended for convenience and avoiding the limited taxis on the island.

Best Time to Visit Santorini

The off-season from November to March sees a significant drop in tourism, with many establishments closed. The island is liveliest from May to early October, with July and August being particularly busy. For a balanced experience, visiting from late spring to early summer (May to mid-June) or from mid-September to October is recommended, offering milder crowds and pleasant weather. I decided to travel to Santorini in the end of May which was perfect, warm weather during the day and less crowd, but still lively on the streets.

*****

Whether it's marveling at Oia's sunset, indulging in the local culinary delights, or navigating the logistics of travel, Santorini promises an unforgettable journey steeped in natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture.