The Fawn Travel Guide to Santorini, Greece

To celebrate the launch of our new Travel Collection, we took our Weekender Bag on a whirlwind trip across Europe! The first stop on our adventure was SANTORINI, GREECE. We wandered the island's charming cobblestone pathways, rugged cliffs, and whitewashed villas; we ate tons of fresh seafood; and we swam in the sapphire-blue waters of the Aegean Sea. Needless to say, we fell in love with this beautiful Greek island. Below, read our Santorini Travel Guide—including tips on where to stay, things to do, and where to eat! 

WHERE TO STAY IN SANTORINI

We suggest staying in the coastal town of Oia at the north end of the island. You won't be disappointed! Oia is where all of the iconic photos from Santorini are captured. There a ton of great Airbnb options in classic white cave houses that are nestled among Santorini's rugged cliffs and offer epic views. Or if you're traveling with little ones, check out Kid & Coe's family-friendly rental properties in Santorini. 

THINGS TO DO IN SANTORINI 

1. WANDER

Oia offers the charm and beauty of a small coastal town with winding cobblestone roads and small cafes and restaurants overlooking the sea. The best way to explore is by foot—everyone walks around the causal setting. It’s a must to just wander the streets and take in all of the beautiful cave homes and sun-baked buildings.

2. SEE THE SIGHTS

There are so many natural wonders in Santorini, but there are a few iconic sights worth checking out too! Our top picks of must-visit sights in Santorini include:

• The Famous Three Blue Domes
• Byzantine Castle Ruins
• Panagia Platsani Church
• Agios Gerogios Church

3. GO FOR A SWIM

At the very tip of the island there's a spot where you can jump off the cliff into the sea below—the perfect way to experience Santorini's unbelievably blue waters. Ask any local for directions and they'll point you in the right way. Don't forget to bring a towel! 

4. VISIT THE BEACH

The beaches in Santorini are different than your typical beach. They are very unique and beautiful, and are mainly composed of volcanic sand and pebbles. If you're seeking sugar-soft sand you won't find it here, BUT you'll be rewarded with the most beautiful blue water. Because the beaches don’t have a lot of sand/dust, the surrounding water is crystal clear. 

5. GO ON A HIKE 

Stretch your legs after the long flight to Greece and explore the island's natural beauty. The popular hike from Fira to Oia is a highlight of any trip to Santorini. The hike is about 6.5 miles and takes you along the caldera cliff. Be prepared for a 2 to 5 hour hike (depending how fast you walk) comprised of sidewalk, cobblestones, and a dirt path. You'll be rewarded with stunning views along the way.

6. SET SAIL

A must-do on any visit to Santorini is renting a sail boat or signing up for a boat tour of the island. There are a lot of companies and options to set sail with a group, or you can rent a private sail boat for a smaller group. One of the best moments of our trip was renting a boat and sailing around the island. We were able to swim in the Aegean Sea, and even swam to the Santorini Volcano—the volcano is a big attraction, and it's responsible for the island's unique shape. After our dip in the sea, we ate dinner on the boat and watched the sunset. It was the highlight of our trip and a memory we will never forget! 

WHERE TO EAT IN SANTORINI

The food in Santorini is all incredibly fresh, and the amazing views are hard to beat! 

• BREAKFAST: Start your day on the balcony at Galini Cafe. Order acai bowls, smoothies, oatmeal, and more. This is a great spot for kids and vegetarians (some vegan options are available too). 
  
  
• LUNCH: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Melitini, a Greek tapas restaurant with a rooftop terrace. Everything we ordered was delicious! Try the fresh salads and seafood or something from the stove like baked feta cheese, fried potatoes, and meat balls.  
  
  
• DINNER: Dining under the stars on one of Santorini's many outdoor patios is a must! For something romantic, try Kapari Wine Restaurant, which offers local delicacies and premium wines at the chic Kapari Resort. 

Photos: Becky Kimball Photography