While visiting Greece, we spent time in Athens and Santorini. With both destinations having so much to offer, I have included recommendations on each below. We will absolutely return to Greece in the future and hope to also make a trip to Mykonos during our next visit. There is a certain charm and beauty within Santorini that I believe would be difficult to find anywhere else. The locals are friendly, the food is incredible, and the cobblestone streets are lined with whitewashed houses looking over some of the most breathtaking sea views. If you are choosing one place to visit during a trip to Greece, Santorini certainly has my vote!

 

Santorini

WHERE TO STAY: 

We stayed at Dana Villas located in Thera and we absolutely loved our time here! The villas are cozy and offer incredible views of Santorini. Some villas come with private pools/jacuzzi’s on your own private balcony. Every morning breakfast is provided and served poolside. The staff here were all very welcoming and friendly. We highly recommend Dana Villas if you are planning to visit Santorini.

Dana Villas

 

WHAT TO DO AND SEE: 

1.  Soak up the sun and relax on one of the beautiful beaches (there are many public beaches to choose from in Santorini). Making time to visit a few would be the best option. Black Sand beach is quite unique and definitely worth a visit)!

2. Tour the winding and charming streets of Oia- (you can get from Thera to Oia by a quick bus ride. Oia is a must do if you choose to stay in a different village on the island. Oia is known for having the most beautiful sunsets on the island).

3. Take a guided tour of the island -(there is much to see and learn about Santorini. We took a half day guided tour which stopped at several different landmarks by bus and allowed us to learn a bit about the culture and history of the island).

 

WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK:

1.  Koukoumavlos- Amazing food and views!

2. Naoussa-Authentic Greek food

3. Argo Restaurant

4. Lauda -Located in the Adronis Boutique Hotel in Oia

 

Athens

We were only in Athens for 2 days visiting a friend who was living there. He lived a little ways outside of the city, though I would recommend those visiting to stay within the city center at a hotel or Air bnb.

 

WHAT TO DO AND SEE: 

1.  Tour the Acropolis- (this is a given and something you must see while visiting Athens. It may be worth it to book a guided tour, though we walked through it on our own). 

2.  Watch the changing of the guard in Syntagma Square

3.  Stroll through the National Garden of Athens

4.  Swim in the therapeutic waters of Lake Vouliagmeni- (about a 30 minute drive from downtown Athens is this part saltwater/part spring water lake where people can swim year-round due to its steady temperatures. The warm water is known for its therapeutic mineral and healing properties which are great for people suffering from Eczema and Arthritis. The lake is also filled with a fish species called Garra Rufa, known as doctor fish, which clean the skin from dead cells and remove the outer peel of the skin while performing a relaxing massage. It can be a bit startling to feel the nibbles from the fish at first- but you get used to it)!

 

WHERE TO EAT & DRINK:

1.  Varoulko- Michelin star

2. Orizontes-Amazing food with one of the best views in Athens

3. Klimataria- Mediterranean food, music, and dance. 

4. Funky Gourmet- Michelin star & unique dining experience

5. Hytra- Michelin star & terrace