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Greece·Cyclades, Aegean Sea
Santorini
Whitewashed cliffs over a sunken caldera
RomanceViewsWine
OverviewAt a glance
Born of a colossal volcanic eruption, Santorini curves around a flooded caldera in tiers of whitewashed houses and cobalt-domed churches. Oia’s legendary sunsets, black-sand beaches and volcanic wines make it the Aegean’s most romantic isle.
- Best season
- May – June & September – October
- Getting there
- Santorini Airport (JTR) or ferry from Athens (Piraeus) — 5–8h by boat
- Known for
- Caldera sunsets & blue domes
Signature beachesShores
Red Beach
A distinctive bay ringed by volcanic red cliffs
Perissa
A long black-volcanic-sand beach lined with bars
Kamari
Black-pebble beach packed with seaside restaurants
Things to doTo do
Oia sunset
Watch the world-famous sunset from clifftop Oia
Caldera catamaran
Sail between hot springs and red-and-white beaches
Assyrtiko wine tasting
Taste volcanic-soil whites at historic wineries
Good to knowTips
- 1July–August is packed and scorching; spring and autumn are kinder
- 2Oia sunsets are packed — claim a spot an hour early
- 3Lots of cliff steps — wear comfortable, grippy shoes
Next island
Bora Bora