Santorini, Greece was one of the most beautiful destinations I’ve ever travelled to. Our visit was only for a day as part of our Greek Islands cruise, but it was long enough to inspire me to return in the future. Let me also tell you how much I loved the movie The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, and ever since seeing that movie I knew I had to visit. It definitely lived up to my expectations, and actually exceeded what I expected. Here are 12 photos of my visit to inspire you to travel to Santorini, Greece.
Santorini, Greece – Journey to the Top
Our day began with a tender from our cruise ship to the Old Port of Ormos Firon. We had the choice of walking up 588 steps – the old Karavolades stairs, riding a donkey to the top, or taking the cable car. We chose to take the cable car up, and walked down the steps. Beware – the steps are very steep, can be slippery. I know from experience, because I fell while carrying a gyro and my camera; don’t worry though, both the gyro and camera survived safely! I only had a bruised ego and scraped knee. The cable car cost a few euro, but it was a beautiful view!
The Beautiful Scenery of Santorini, Greece
Everywhere you looked there was a photo opportunity. The blue domes, white buildings, clear blue sea, ships in the distance – literally Santorini was stunning. We walked as much as we could to explore Fira. I wish we did an excursion or rented a car to see more of the island, but we will just have to go back to see the rest of the sights.
The Donkeys
One thing I wasn’t expecting was how many donkeys there were walking up and down those stairs! And if you didn’t move out of the way, they would almost knock you right over. I suppose given they are carrying a human, it’s a little difficult for them to stop their momentum as they walk the steps.
The Delicious Food
No matter where you went there was no shortage of delicious food. We went to a Greek bakery, stopped into a cafe, had some delicious tzatziki and pita for a snack, tested out the Mythos Lager (very light and refreshing on a hot day in Greece, but not as strong or hoppy as I’d prefer) and ended the day with a traditional gyro. Honestly, just reminiscing about the food has me hungry!
The Activities in Santorini
We didn’t do very much aside from shop, eat and sight-see, but there were many activities to do if you chose. There were numerous tours, catamaran excursions, places to swim, wineries and hiking options to name a few. If I go back I’ll be heading to any of the beautiful beaches, sipping wine at a winery, and definitely stopping for photos of Amoudi Bay.
Overall Verdict on Santorini, Greece
Must visit. Santorini, Greece is definitely a destination for your bucket list if you haven’t been already. My experience was short, so it’s on my “round 2” list for future travels. Check out my post on the Pros and Cons of Cruising to learn more about your time in port.
8 comments
Santorini, Athens, these are all on my bucket list and these photos make me yearn even more to go there. Such a photogenic place. But I definitely won’t be riding any donkeys.
Yes, the donkeys were not my thing either. I felt bad that they were carrying people up and down those steps!
Greece is on my list of countries I want to see…it’s been on my list for a long time! Your photos of Santorini look absolutely stunning. Now I really want to go! I would not have expected the donkeys, either. 🙂
It’s such a lovely place, I hope you get there one day.
You’ve brought back so many great memories! I love Greece in general and Santorini is very special. Greek food is wonderful, especially with the view of the sea and the white domed houses too! Looks like you had a great time.
The more I see Santorini on social media, the more I want to go! Your pictures look beautiful Sara! I have been to Greece, but only to Rhodes – so far! x
Santorini is a nice place to photograph! All this black and blue colored buildings are lovely and enough to inspire the visit.
I have been to Santorini for a week and what I liked most are the mythological ties of this place with its caldera and the archeological area in the south of the island. Oia, the northern part, is just enchanting.