Visiting Santorini for the First Time ? Here's what you need to know

You’ve been dreaming about it. You’ve been planning it. Now the time has finally come for you to make that dream a reality and come to Santorini for the very first time. Congratulations! You’re in for the trip of a lifetime. Even though it’s small in size, this Cycladic superstar offers an abundance of fun activities, gorgeous places to visit and things to do (not to mention eat!) Ιf it all feels a little overwhelming, here are some Santorini basics to get you started.

To Caldera or not to Caldera

You’ve seen the pictures of Santorini, with its pearly white villages perched atop imposing cliffs against the Aegean blue backdrop. While that is certainly a true picture of the island itself (and trust us when we tell you it’s even better up close) it only represents its one side: that of the caldera. Fira, Firostefani, Oia and Imerovigli are all fantastic options if you want to stay at the heart of Santorini’s most gorgeous and unique side – however don’t disregard the island’s East Coast. If you’re a beach lover or enjoy a more peaceful, down-to-earth holiday, Kamari and Perissa might be best suited to you – not to mention significantly less costly. If you’re worried that there will be nothing to separate your experience there with that of any other Greek island, the fine volcanic sand and deep blue waters will remind you that yes, this is still very distinctly Santorini.

Which Beaches ?

You’ve seen the pictures of Santorini, with its pearly white villages perched atop imposing cliffs against the Aegean blue backdrop. While that is certainly a true picture of the island itself (and trust us when we tell you it’s even better up close) it only represents its one side: that of the caldera. Fira, Firostefani, Oia and Imerovigli are all fantastic options if you want to stay at the heart of Santorini’s most gorgeous and unique side – however don’t disregard the island’s East Coast. If you’re a beach lover or enjoy a more peaceful, down-to-earth holiday, Kamari and Perissa might be best suited to you – not to mention significantly less costly. If you’re worried that there will be nothing to separate your experience there with that of any other Greek island, the fine volcanic sand and deep blue waters will remind you that yes, this is still very distinctly Santorini.

So many activities, so little time

Walking the caldera at Fira and taking photos of its picturesque porches, domed churches and cute cats; watching the sunset in Oia (applause is optional); learning about the Assyrtiko grapes and the delicious Santorini wines (and tasting them of course); visiting the ancient site of Akrotiri; tanning to the perfect shade of sun-kissed on the beach; savouring domatokeftedes, fava and massive bowls of Greek salad followed by dipping your bread in divinely delicious olive oil; taking a day cruise to the volcano and swimming in the hot springs of Nea Kammeni. These are just some of the must-dos of your Santorini holiday. Try them all, with a Choose Yafy itinerary tailor-made to your needs and wants!

For travelers who demand a little something extra, and by that we mean anything from helicopter tours, horse riding, kayaking, to photography tours and anything else you might think of, the island is more than ready to accommodate. So, you’re looking for somebody who knows where everything is happening and how to get there, look no further than Choose Yafy! Simply let us know of your request, no matter how unconventional, and we will make it happen. Learn more about what Choose Yafy can do for you and let’s design your perfect first visit to Santorini together!