Greece is an incredibly beautiful country – and I’m not just saying that because I’m half Greek! Not only is there so much history, architecture, food, and more on the mainland, but the Greek islands seem to be on a completely different realm of the universe. With the beaming sun shining on you to the gorgeous views, it’s so easy to fall in love with the Greek Islands! My favorite – Santorini. This island has been a popular travel destination for years and with one visit, it’s easy to know why.
Of all the places I’ve travelled to, this is definitely one of the places where I know I have to go back to – like right now! Santorini is so unlike any other island I’ve visited. With it’s beautiful stark white buildings that gleam in the sunlight, to the sunsets, and views of the caldera – it provides the ultimate relaxing atmosphere. The perfect place for a truly relaxing vacation!
It’s so hard to choose only 5 but, read on for my favorite, stand-out qualities of beautiful Santorini!
5 Things I Love About Santorini
1. The Views
If there’s one piece of advice I can give you about staying in Santorini, it’s to splurge on a hotel with views of the Caldera and famous volcano. This is quintessential Santorini and completely sets the mood for your relaxing vacation. I love how picturesque and vibrant this view is. The Aegean Sea looks like something out of a watercolor painting! You’ll almost want to spend a whole day lounging by the pool, soaking in this gorgeous view.
2. The Sunsets
The sunsets in Oia are unlike any other you’ve seen! Although there are beautiful sunsets from all the caldera villages, Oia surely has the most beautiful! I’m a big fan of sunsets so this was such a treat for me in Santorini. Hundreds of tourists will gather at the best lookout points to marvel at the amazing sunset every evening – like it’s a theatre production! It’s so nice to see people from all over the world gathering together to witness a naturally beautiful occurrence. The stunning orange hues from the sun slowing making its way down to the Aegean Sea is truly spectacular. I would so love to witness this again!
3. The Caldera Villages
The concept of the Caldera in itself, I think, is pretty fascinating. I mean, to build villages off the side of a cliff is pretty cool am I right? Maybe this is just the designer in me! Although making your way around the villages may mean a bit more cardio than you’re used to (hey, at least your legs will be in shape after all those uphill walks!), it’s a perfect way to explore the taverns and shops. I love how the blue and white colors of Greece stand proud on the village buildings and how prominent they look along the caledera – so photo worthy!
4. The Volcanic Beach
Although I wouldn’t classify Santorini as having the best beaches in Greece, they do have their own unique qualities to them. Not everyone can say they’ve lounged or partied on a volcanic beach before! Taking a dip into the Aegean Sea is truly special while taking in views of the geographical rock formations and sinking your toes in the volcanic sand (white, red, black – take your pick!) These characteristics alone really make Santorini beaches stand out in a category all on their own.
5. The Diversity
Having grown up in a big city like Toronto where every culture is present and celebrated, I always find it beautiful to experience the same diversity when in other parts of the world. Santorini was no exception! Growing up with a Greek mother, Greek grandparents, and going to Greek school as a kid, it’s always exciting to hear people who you wouldn’t expect to speak Greek, do so with such ease and expression! This is truly one of the best parts of traveling, for me at least. It’s beautiful to see a whole host of other travelers share the same love of travel as you do. Being such a popular vacation destination for many years now, Santorini is certainly no exception to this diversity.
Have you been to Santorini? What was your favorite part? Let me know in the comments section below!
