Top 10: Santorini

Nobu restaurant (part of the new Nobu hotel) on Santorini. (Image supplied)

Enjoy sushi with a view

Japanese food might not be an obvious choice when you’re on a Greek island – but dining at Nobu restaurant (part of the glamorous newly-opened Nobu hotel) is an experience that shouldn’t be missed. Tuck into the world-famous chef’s signature black cod miso and new dishes like tacos with caviar while taking in the dazzling water views (preferably at sunset).

Taste the local wine 

The wine industry is booming on Santorini with more than 20 wineries now offering tours and tastings to visitors. Head to the Vassaltis Vineyard, one of the newer wineries to open to the public. This family-owned business has been growing grapes and selling them to other vineyards for years but only recently have they started to produce their own excellent wine. Book in for one of their food and wine tastings for the full experience.

Capture the moment

If you only have a short time in Santorini and want to make the most of it, book a session with a professional photographer to help record your experience. Santorini Photo Tours offer a range of options, from classic couples shots through to dramatic ‘flying dress’ photos that will make you feel like a supermodel. They do one and two hour packages – plus a special offering specifically for cruise passengers.

Dress like a local

Stock up on floaty linen pieces created by Greek designers at Haris Coton. This local brand has been around since the 70s when it first launched in Athens and has now come to Santorini with this beautiful new store in Fira, the largest town on the island. All of the simple, elegant items are designed and made in Greece using natural fabrics and sustainable practices.

Cruise like the stars

Get a taste of the high life by renting a private luxury catamaran for the afternoon. You can pick your own itinerary for the five-hour sunset cruise and it’s a great way to experience some of the highlights of the island including swimming in the hot springs. Full day rental runs to 2000 euros in high season, but the boat can accommodate up to 24 people and includes a lavish lunch spread and open bar.  

Try a clifftop happy hour

For a truly unforgettable experience, book the Sommelier’s Table at Lycabettus restaurant. Served to only one couple per night (so you need to plan ahead) this is a chance to try a carefully curated flight of local wines paired with local dishes while seated at the exclusive cliff-top table. Even if you aren’t able to book this table, it’s worth stopping by to sample some of the treasures on their 1200-strong wine list.

Go with the flow

If you’re after a more relaxed experience on the island, head to the luxurious Aegeos Spa for a spot of pampering. Located in the recently opened Sea Breeze Beach Resort Santorini (the first Hilton hotel to open on the island) it’s a true temple to wellness and the perfect place to unwind. Try one of their signature treatments such as the massage with Cretan olive oil or the black lava facial.

Experience food as art

There are plenty of places to try classic Greek cuisine, but for an elevated dining experience head to the newly opened Varoulko restaurant located in the lavish Grace Hotel. The views are spectacular – but you’ll hardly notice once chef Lefteris Lazarou’s food hits the table. His Athens restaurant was the first in Greece to win a Michelin star, and it’s easy to see why. Expect dishes such as crab with green apple and octopus tart.

Discover a local artist

There are many small art spaces to explore across the island, and one of the newest to the scene is the charming t.k.place art gallery, which features a carefully curated collection of ceramics, jewellery, textiles and paintings from both established and newer local artists. Located in the village of Kamari, it’s the perfect place to pick up a memento of your visit to the island.

Have an authentic meal

For a taste of true Santorini cuisine, head to the little village of Pyrgos, which has several little tavernas worth visiting such as local favourite Rymidi restaurant. Expect traditional fare such as fava puree, grilled haloumi, a generous moussaka and spectacular souvlaki – plus unexpected treats like lobster spaghetti. Stick around for the post-dinner ouzo and, if you’re lucky, a bit of local music.