We have just arrived back from the most incredible eight days away in Santorini. It couldn’t have come at a better time, with all the wedding planning and organisation we felt like we needed some time just us two to relax and rejuvenate and take in what felt like an overwhelming amount of love from the wedding from our family, friends and you guys.
When it came to deciding where to go for our honeymoon, we knew we wanted it to be in Europe as we’re planning on doing a big trip to America next year. We’d both only been to Greece once and I’ve always dreamt of seeing the island of Santorini. We booked our flights and accommodation separately. I always like to do research when it comes to accommodation and the area, I actually love this part of planning a holiday. Anyone else?!
WHERE TO STAY
Taxis seemed like the best way to get from the airport to our hotel; with a short 10-minute journey costing us around €18.
We stayed at Casa Vitae Suites in a coastal village called Kamari. It’s situated further down south of the island. We did think about staying in Oia and Fira, however, after researching Kamari it seemed that it was the more relaxed chilled vibe that we wanted. I’m so glad we did.
Casa Vitae suites were definitely the place we could sit back and unwind but still situated within good distance to visit other parts of the island. Our suite was decorated beautifully with off-white shades and light brown wooden furniture. Every morning we’d enjoy breakfast on our balcony which would set us up for the day. The private jacuzzi pool was also lovely to have.
WHERE TO EAT
Santorini is foodie heaven. Here are some of our favourite spots mentioned below. Make sure if you’re visiting in peak season to book dinner reservations as they tend to get booked quite quickly especially around sunset time. We weren’t aware of this until we arrived, however, we were able to get in the restaurant a couple of nights after.
Argo – For the best sunset view, reserve a table early on the upstairs, it does get booked up well in advance. I got myself way full up on the tzatziki and pitta bread before my main came. My seafood linguini was really delicious here!
Elias Grill – For lunch we tended to pick on local street-food. If you’re looking for a great, casual lunch then head to Elias for some gyros. We went three times, their gyros are to die for and cost us around €3.
Metaxi Mas – Head here to try some traditional Santorinian- Cretan food. Order the pan-fried crusted feta in filo dipped in honey and sprinkled with sesame seeds! You’ll have zero regrets.
Dimitris – If it’s seafood you’re after then head to Amoudi Bay. A 300-step walk down from Oia, which is a great way to earn your dinner. You can also drive the quad or taxi down to Amoudi Bay (you’ll find a parking lot within a short walking distance of the waterfront strip of fish tavernas). This was easily one of my favorite meals on the island. The octopus and fish were so fresh, it tasted SO good. Make sure to book ahead though as it’s a super popular spot.
Pito Gyros – The perfect spot in Oia for quick, tasty gyros.
Fistikies – Rated as the number one restaurant in Kamari and I can definitely see why. Local Greek Cuisine but taken to the next level. They have a beautiful porch terrace where you sit right under the pistachio trees, and the vegetable garden next to you. Worth travelling to if you’re staying in Fira or Oia. A traditional greek dish is tomato fritters, the ones at Fistikies are insanely good!
Armeni – This place is a dream. Jonny surprised me with lunch here. We got the speed boat over from Amoudi Bay. It’s a secluded little restaurant where you can eat some of the best seafood washing it down with some Assyrtiko wine. You can also use their sunbeds here after lunch and chill. We relaxed, swam in the sea, and had such a lovely afternoon.
Franco’s Bar – An incredible classical music bar in Fira that overlooks the entire caldera with the most stunning of views. It’s rather overpriced, what with the views and it’s central location, however, it’s totally worth it!
WHAT TO DO
Open Air Cinema – This was such a magical evening and we got lucky with the film screening of ‘Mamma Mia’. It couldn’t be any more suited to the location. Set in a wind-protected garden, surrounded by old trees and lights. We took our seats with mojitos and some nachos and settled down to watch the film with the starry sky above, it was really romantic and I couldn’t recommend it enough. Tickets cost 8 euros per person, such good value!
Rent an ATV quad – I would 100% highly recommend getting a quad bike whilst you’re in Santorini. This was definitely the best way to see the island, I was slightly skeptical at first but literally, most tourists are travelling on quads. I can assure you I felt totally safe on the roads. The cost is around 45 euros per day.
Go wine tasting – A few friends recommend that we visit Santo wines. You can choose from a flight of 6-10 greek wines, olives and cheese to nibble on. It’s a great spot to watch the sunset as well. The sparkling rosé wine was my favourite!
Watch the sunset – Santorini is one of the most breathtaking places I’ve ever visited and watching the sunset is an absolute must. We watched the sunset in Fira at Franco’s Bar.
Go for a swim at Agios Nikolaos – From Amoudi follow the trail that clings to the coast at the bottom of the volcanic cliffs and follow the path around to Agios Nikolaos. You’ll see people cliff jumping and swimming in the crystal clear waters. It’s quite busy but find yourself a spot on the rocks and it’s a great way to spend an afternoon.
Go to the beach – There are a number of incredible beaches in the area such as Perissa, Red Beach and Kamari. Favourite beach was Kamari, least favourite was Red beach. It’s quite a trek down to Red beach and it’s very touristy when we got there.
Hope this blog post has helped if you’re visiting or plan to visit Santorini soon.
Gemma xx
