With a dazzling one-of-a-kind landscape and stellar food and wine scene, it’s no surprise that Santorini ranks high as one of the world’s most popular destinations. Here, HAP’s guide to this magical Greek island.
TO STAY:
Katikies Garden Santorini
Located in the capital Fira, Katikies Garden is a design-forward alternative to the island’s emblematic cave hotels. The sophisticated hotel occupies an old monastery on one of the highest points in town (head to the rooftop infinity pool for the best views) and its courtyard is home to the acclaimed Selene Restaurant.
Andronis Concept Wellness Resort
This is the wellness resort of your dreams: Its spa is the biggest on the island, every suite has a private plunge pool overlooking the Aegean Sea, and its taupe-clad minimalistic decor soothes all who visit.
TO EAT / DRINK:
Sunset Taverna
Head to Ammoudi Bay just before sunset to snag a table at this popular seaside taverna. With the red cliffs of Oia on one side and the Mediterranean blue on the other, Ammoudi Sunset is a prime, but laid-back spot to savor dozens of traditional island specialties like sun-dried octopus and fava dip.
To Psaraki
This unfussy family-run taverna on Vlychada’s fishing port serves up a lot more than fantastic seafood. There’s everything from Greek salads to carpaccios and pasta, all made with the island’s freshest seasonal ingredients. Wash it all down with some local assyrtiko white wine.
TO DO:
Walk Around Oia
Walk around the winding pathways of Santorini’s most iconic area. Make sure you take in the beauty of Oia’s all-white cave houses that cascade down to the sea (if you ask us, they are the perfect backdrops for your next Insta), shop at upscale boutiques like The Silk Shop and Love Me Santorini, and celebrate your sweet tooth at Greek bakery, Patisserie Medevio (HAP tip: order traditional Greek dessert Ekmek Kataifi & eat it while lounging on their backside outdoor deck that looks out at the sea).
Santorini Arts Factory
Housed in an old tomato factory, this unique cultural destination hosts the D. Nomikos Tomato Industrial Museum, as well as an immersive art gallery and events venue. Check out Santorini Arts Factory’s calendar of rotating exhibitions and workshops, as well as performances ranging from dance to music, to plan your visit.
Domaine Sigalas
Santorini is home to some of the world’s oldest vineyards. To learn about the island’s one-of-a-kind viticultural heritage, sign up for a tour of this award-winning winery. You can also book a tasting to sample several varietals produced by the winery, or opt for a full-on gastronomic experience.
Nikki Beach Santorini
Who says you can’t have a Mykonos-caliber beach party on Santorini? Located on the black sand Monolithos Beach, Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Santorini boasts the largest pool on the island—it’s the beating heart of the trendy resort, you’ll catch a party crowd gorging on sushi platters and cocktails as the DJ spins house music beats.
