How to Plan Your Santorini Classic Highlights Tour

Santorini, the Greek island in the Aegean Sea, is a popular tourist attraction known for its stunning sunsets and unique architecture. There’s so much to see and explore on this island that it can be overwhelming to plan a visit. That’s why the Santorini Classic Highlights Tour is perfect for first-time visitors. In this blog post, we will show you how to plan your Santorini Classic Highlights Tour for a hassle-free experience.

Tour Overview

The Santorini Classic Highlights Tour covers all the essential sights across the island in a double-quick time. With round-trip transfers from numerous convenient locations all around the island, you can sit back and relax as your tour guide takes you on a journey of discovery.The tour includes a visit to the Profitis Ilias Monastery, located atop a mountainside, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the island. You’ll also see Pyrgos, a picturesque village with numerous blue-domed churches, narrow alleys lined with shops, and traditional houses.Perissa Black Sand Beach is another highlight of the tour. With black sand and crystal blue waters, it’s an excellent spot for taking a swim or lounging in the sun.After this, you’ll head to the Wine Museum Koutsogiannopoulos for a wine tasting experience. A sommelier will walk you through the history of local grape varietals while you sample three different types of wine.Finally, witness nature’s gorgeous spectacle as the sun sets over Oia, one of the most beautiful towns on the island.

What’s Included

The Santorini Classic Highlights Tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle with all fees and taxes, an escort, and lunch. Tips are not included in the package.

Meeting and Pickup

You can either head directly to the meeting point, the Pistachio Grove, located at 36°24’58.8″N 25°26’04.2″E Thira 847 00 Greece, or request pickup from your desired location. The tour pickup points are conveniently spread out across the island.

How to Book Your Santorini Classic Highlights Tour

Booking your Santorini Classic Highlights Tour is easy. Simply visit the Viator website at this link: book the tour here.

Once you’ve made your reservation, you’ll receive a confirmation email with all the required details, including your pickup time and meeting point. We recommend you to book in advance to secure your spot on the tour.

Conclusion

The Santorini Classic Highlights Tour is a must-do for anyone looking to explore the island’s beauty in a short amount of time. With numerous pickup points spread across the island, it is incredibly convenient for visitors. The tour provides an opportunity to experience the best of Santorini, from the picturesque villages to the famous sunset views, and the wine tasting. Follow the guide above, and you’ll be guaranteed a smooth, hassle-free, and enjoyable Santorini Classic Highlights Tour experience.

Most Frequently Asked Questions About Santorini

Santorini is one of the most famous and picturesque islands in Greece. Located in the Cyclades, it is renowned for its unique landscape with the famous caldera, gorgeous sunsets, and charming white houses. It attracts millions of visitors every year, who come to enjoy its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and of course, the legendary Greek hospitality. But, before you pack your bags and head to this Aegean paradise, here are the most frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Santorini that you should know.

1. What is the best time to visit Santorini?

The best time to visit Santorini is during spring (April to June) and fall (September to November). The weather is warm and sunny, but not too hot, and the crowds are smaller than in summer. The high season is from July to August, and the island can get very crowded, which can make it challenging to find accommodation and enjoy the attractions peacefully.

2. How do I get to Santorini?

The easiest and most convenient way to get to Santorini is by plane, as the island has its airport (JTR). There are direct flights from Athens and other Greek cities, as well as many European capitals. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Athens or other islands in the Cyclades. The journey time depends on the type of ferry and the route, but it usually takes around 5 to 8 hours.

3. Where should I stay in Santorini?

There are several beautiful and charming villages in Santorini where you can stay, depending on your preferences and budget. The most popular and bustling ones are Fira and Oia, which offer stunning views of the caldera, plenty of restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops, and a vibrant nightlife. If you prefer a quieter and more traditional atmosphere, you can choose Akrotiri, Pyrgos, or Megalochori, which are less touristy but equally charming.

4. What are the must-see attractions in Santorini?

Santorini has many stunning and unique attractions that you should not miss while you are there. The most famous and iconic one is the caldera, a natural wonder formed by a volcanic eruption that created a crescent-shaped bay surrounded by high cliffs. You can admire it from several spots, such as Fira, Oia, Imerovigli, and Firostefani. Other must-see attractions are the ancient site of Akrotiri, the black and red beaches, the traditional villages, the wineries, and the churches and chapels that dot the island.

5. Where can I taste the famous Santorini wine?

Santorini is renowned for its delicious and unique wine, made from the local grape varieties (Assyrtiko, Athiri, and Aidani) that grow in the volcanic soil of the island. You can visit several wineries and vineyards that offer wine tasting and tours, such as Santo Wines, Artemis Karamolegos, and Gaia Wines. You can also try the local wine in many restaurants and cafes, paired with the delicious Greek cuisine.

6. What is the traditional food in Santorini?

The traditional cuisine of Santorini is a delightful blend of Mediterranean and Aegean flavors, using fresh, local ingredients and herbs. Some of the most famous dishes are the tomato fritters (domatokeftedes), the white eggplant (melitzanosalata), the fish soup (psarosoupa), and the lamb in tomato sauce (kleftiko). You can find many restaurants and taverns that serve traditional Greek cuisine, especially in Fira, Oia, and Kamari.

7. What is the best way to explore Santorini?

The best way to explore Santorini is on foot or by public transport, as it is a small island, and the roads can be narrow and winding. You can take a bus from Fira to other villages and beaches, or rent a scooter, ATV, or car to explore the island independently. Another popular way to discover Santorini is by boat, either on a day cruise or a sunset cruise, which allows you to admire the caldera and the coastline from a different angle.

Conclusion

Santorini is a fascinating and enchanting destination that offers something for everyone, whether you are a nature lover, a history buff, a foodie, or a beach enthusiast. Knowing the answers to these frequently asked questions about Santorini can help you plan your trip better and make the most of your time on the island. Remember to pack light, wear sunscreen, and be respectful of the local customs and traditions. Have a fantastic trip to Santorini!

How to spend your time as a tourist in Santorini

Are you planning a trip to Santorini? Lucky you! There’s a reason why Santorini has become one of the most popular destinations in Greece. With its beautiful villages, stunning views, and delicious food, there’s something for everyone on this beautiful island. But with so much to see and do, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you make the most of your time in Santorini.

1. Explore the Villages

Santorini is home to many beautiful villages, all with their own unique charm. One of the most famous villages is Oia, known for its stunning sunsets, blue-domed churches, and picturesque alleyways. Fira, the island’s capital, is also well worth a visit. Here you’ll find beautiful architecture, great shopping, and stunning views of the Caldera. Other villages worth checking out include Pyrgos, Imerovigli, and Akrotiri.

2. Visit the Beaches

Santorini may not be known for its beaches, but there are still plenty of great spots to soak up the sun and swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea. Perissa and Perivolos are two of the most popular beaches on the island, both with a great selection of restaurants and bars. Kamari beach is another great option, with its black pebbles and stunning backdrop of Mesa Vouno mountain.

3. Take a Sunset Cruise

One of the best ways to experience Santorini is by taking a sunset cruise around the Caldera. You’ll get to see the island from a different perspective and watch the sun dip below the horizon while sipping on some local wine. Depending on the tour you choose, you may also get to swim in hot springs or visit nearby islands.

4. Visit the Wineries

Santorini is home to some of the oldest vineyards in the world. The volcanic soil gives the wine a unique taste, and there are plenty of wineries across the island that offer tours and tastings. Some of the most popular wineries include Santo, Gavalas, and Venetsanos.

5. Learn about the Island’s History

Santorini has a rich history, with evidence of settlements dating back to the Bronze Age. One of the best places to learn about the island’s past is at the Akrotiri Archaeological Site. Here you’ll find the remains of a Minoan Bronze Age settlement that was buried under volcanic ash. The site is well-preserved and provides a fascinating insight into life on the island thousands of years ago.

6. Try the Local Cuisine

Greek cuisine is famous around the world, and Santorini has plenty of delicious dishes to try. Some of the island’s specialties include fava, a type of yellow split pea dip, tomato fritters, and fresh seafood. Don’t forget to try some local wine as well!

7. Hike from Fira to Oia

For those who enjoy hiking, the trail from Fira to Oia is a must-do. The 10km trail takes you along the edge of the Caldera, offering stunning views of the sea and the villages along the way. It’s a moderately easy hike, but make sure you wear proper footwear and bring plenty of water.

8. Relax in a Hot Spring

Santorini is home to several hot springs, which are said to have therapeutic properties. The most popular hot spring is located on the island of Palea Kameni, which you can visit as part of a sunset cruise or by taking a ferry from the port of Athinios. The water is warm and relaxing, and the views of the Caldera are unbeatable.

9. Shop for Souvenirs

Whether you’re looking for handmade jewelry, local artwork, or traditional Greek products, Santorini has plenty of great shops to browse. Fira and Oia are both home to many boutiques and souvenir shops, but don’t be afraid to explore some of the smaller villages as well.

10. Enjoy the Sunset

Last but not least, make sure you take the time to enjoy one of Santorini’s famous sunsets. Whether you’re watching from a rooftop bar in Oia or taking a sunset cruise around the Caldera, there’s nothing quite like watching the sky turn shades of pink, orange, and gold over this beautiful island.

Final Thoughts

Santorini is a truly magical place, and we hope this guide has given you some ideas for how to make the most of your time on the island. From exploring the picturesque villages to soaking in a hot spring, there’s something for everyone in Santorini. Don’t be afraid to get off the beaten path and explore some of the lesser-known spots on the island, and most importantly, don’t forget to take a moment to relax and enjoy the beauty of your surroundings.