There are countless wine tastings and local cooking classes. 

Food is culture, and when it comes to gastronomy, Santorini brims with opportunities for indulging and learning through wine tastings and cooking classes. Learn how to make fava with the island’s yellow split peas, how to use sun-dried tomatoes in the most delicious fashion and how to cook with local farm-raised meats. Use the island’s native cherry tomatoes to make your own indulgent tomatokeftedes. Top-quality cooking instruction immerses you in Greek delicacies and culture, a one-of-a-kind souvenir to take home and put into practice for family and friends. 

When it comes to wine tasting, you’ll learn how the island’s volcanic, mineral-rich soil has resulted in rare grapes native to the island. Each of the island’s 13 wineries has their own take on these grapes, so go ahead, tour them all. Don’t miss the chance to sip Assyrtiko, a very dry white wine with volcanic mineral notes and hints of citrus, considered the country’s best white – in fact, one of the best in the world. 

You can feel the queen of glam. 

Feel on top of the world during your very own Santorini flying-dress photoshoot. Several island photography firms offer spectacular dress options – think vibrant, jewel-toned silk, flowing behind you in the trade winds, with the whitewashed architecture of Santorini and sparkling Mediterranean sea as a backdrop. It’s a unique memento of your Greece getaway – something glamorous to show your grandchildren years from now. 

Go one step further and hire a local photographer as a private guide. She’ll shadow you around the island, taking you to the top photogenic spots to capture perfect moments. You’ll barely even know she’s there, but later on, you’ll be so thrilled by the photos of your romantic retreat. 

Some of the world’s most luxurious hotels and resorts are here.

With every amenity you can imagine, Santorini’s ultra-luxe hotels and resorts are the stuff of dreams. Imagine whitewashed ocean view suites with private outdoor hot tubs or pools, exclusive spa treatments by the sea and striking gourmet dining locations. Every modern comfort is accounted for, while maintaining a sense of place and tradition. It’s barefoot luxury at its finest. 

Tip: For the best uninterrupted views of the volcano, the caldera and the sunset, reserve a stay on the west coast of the island. 

You can slip away to a secluded beach for hours. 

With its gorgeous red-, black- and white-sand beaches, Santorini has a place by the sea for everyone. There’s a different vibe at every beach, but it’s the quiet, secluded swaths of sand that hold special appeal for those seeking privacy. 

For the less-crowded, peaceful beaches, head toward Oia (great for swimming), Koloumbo (for warm water), Pori (for dramatic black sand) or Baxedes (for excellent surfing conditions). Rent a boat and venture to Armenaki Beach, set between Ammoudi and Armeni Bay in Oia. Head to Bella Bay (also known as Caldera Beach), a secluded length of black sand overlooking the caldera. Or, visit the Boutari winery and walk the footpath down to Thermes Beach, passing by a small chapel carved on the rock. Wherever you end up, it’s sure to be dreamy.