Things to do — Santorini

Most Santorini itineraries naturally revolve around the caldera and its cliff-top villages. Fira, the capital, mixes boutiques, restaurants and front-row views over the volcanic cliffs; Imerovigli, slightly quieter, offers the best perspective on the Skaros rock. Firostefani slots discreetly between the two, with an intimate charm appreciated by travellers who'd rather skip the busier squares. Then there's Oia, on the island's northern tip — cobbled lanes, blue domes, jewellery boutiques and the most famous sunset in Greece. To enjoy the spectacle without the crush, claim a spot on the castle ramparts at least an hour ahead or — far better — pick an alternative viewpoint such as Pyrgos castle in the centre of Santorini, or the harbour of Ammoudi just below Oia, where the same sunset comes with seafood tavernas and a glass of Assyrtiko.

The Fira–Oia walk (roughly 10 km, around 3 hours) hugs the caldera edge and reveals panoramas you simply cannot get from a vehicle. It is, without much exaggeration, one of the most beautiful coastal walks in the Mediterranean. Start at dawn from Fira, give yourself a long mid-morning breakfast in Imerovigli, then continue at your own pace. Santorini's volcanic beaches also reward a visit: the dramatic black sand of Kamari and Perissa, the rust-coloured cliffs of the famous Red Beach near Akrotiri and the less-visited White Beach form a striking trio. The water is crystal-clear, but expect pebbles or coarse sand rather than the powdery white sand of other Cyclades.

The archaeological site of Akrotiri — often dubbed 'the Pompeii of the Aegean' — is one of the most unmissable stops on Santorini. This Minoan city, buried under volcanic ash in the 17th century BC, has been beautifully preserved and is visited under an elegant protective canopy (entry around €12). The frescoes, drainage systems and multi-storey buildings are remarkable. Nearby, the wineries of Santo Wines, Domaine Sigalas and Venetsanos host tastings of Assyrtiko — a saline, mineral white grown on volcanic soils that locals train into low, basket-shaped 'kouloura' vines unique to Santorini.

For an unforgettable finale, book a sunset caldera cruise: swimming in the hot springs near Nea Kameni, a stop on Thirassia and a glass of wine in hand as the sun drops behind the cliffs. Budget around half a day and €40–€55 per person depending on the type of cruise. It remains the single best way to grasp the geological power that shaped Santorini — and one of the experiences travellers reliably cite as their favourite memory of the island.