Santorini

Luxury hotels in Santorini can be a little bit different – often the most exclusive suites are converted yposkafa and canaves (domed cave houses and wine cellars), the sun streaming in through windows and skylights to illuminate naturally cool, curvaceous interiors.

You’ll find plenty of these types of suites in Oai, the main tourist town on the island, though you’ll also pay a little bit more here – especially if you opt for one with an infinity pool overlooking the Aegean Sea. If you’re holidaying on a budget you could venture to the less exclusive but still stunning town of Fira, right in the middle of the island, or to Perissa and Kamari for authentic charm and volcanic black-sand beaches.

The island is defined by a submerged volcanic crater (caldera), left when the centre collapsed thousands of years ago, and Santorini tourists typically take to the water on a sailing boat tour to fully appreciate its scale and the staggering beauty it left in its wake. You’ll sail around the scorched black islands of Palea Kameni and Nea Kameni, where you can swim in hot springs or join a guided hike up the active crater (tip: don’t wear flip flops!).

There’s plenty more history to soak up in Santorini, including old castles and ancient ruins, or you could ride the cable car in Fira the 220m down to the old port, as you float past swirls of solidified lava. Of course, you might not want to leave the beach in sunny Santorini, and you’ll find countless companies offering all sorts of water sports, from paddleboarding to jet skiing and parasailing.

Santorini is bursting with traditional tavernas, bustling bistros and family-run restaurants serving bright Mediterranean menus. And plenty of places have tables set up to watch the sunset over the caldera, for a dining experience you’ll never forget.

The island is famous for producing exceptional wines, including the crisp white Assyrtiko and the soft and sweet Vinsanto – and many of the island’s wineries offer food and wine pairings in their vineyards. Santorini also has a wealth of glamorous bars. Head to the bustling Perivolos beach for venues that wouldn’t look out of place in Ibiza – think Moët and oyster bars set in the black sand, with elaborate fruit platters and sophisticated champagne cocktails.

While there’s plenty to do in Santorini, most tourists are attracted to the island by the idea of relaxing – sunbathing, swimming, sleeping, eating, drinking, and soaking up the sensational views. It might be a cliché, but Santorini’s sunsets are truly phenomenal. Oai is often packed out with coach parties and selfie sticks, but head to the lighthouse on the other side of the island for pretty pink skies and peace and tranquillity.

If you’re in Santorini for the nightlife, you’ll not be short of buzzing beach bars and chic clubs. Think stylish alfresco venues serving champagne cocktails, the glow of lanterns, the waves lapping against the shore, and DJs playing sultry soundtracks as the sun goes down…