Exploring the Enchanting Island of Santorini with My Wife

Echoes of the Past, Tastes of the Earth

Today was a day of diving deep into Santorini's history and savoring the unique flavors born from its volcanic soil. Greta and I set out with a sense of anticipation, ready to explore museums and taste wines, eager to uncover more of what this island has to offer. From ancient artifacts to the fruits of the vine, Santorini continues to surprise and enchant us.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Naoussa in Fira. The moussaka came highly recommended, and it did not disappoint! After breakfast, we decided to head to the Museum of Prehistoric Thera. The museum is conveniently located in Fira, close to the main bus station. We arrived ready to explore the ancient history of Santorini. The museum focuses on the history of Thera, Santorini's geology, finds from the Neolithic and post-Cycladic eras, and a collection from the town of Akrotiri. It was truly fascinating to see artifacts from Akrotiri, the Minoan Bronze Age settlement that was buried by a volcanic eruption in the 17th century BC. It's incredible how well-preserved some of these items are, offering a tangible connection to the people who lived here thousands of years ago.


Explore the Museum of Prehistoric Thera, a remarkable archaeological treasure in Fira, showcasing the stunning legacy of ancient Minoan civilization.

The museum's collection of frescoes was particularly impressive. These colorful wall paintings depict various aspects of Minoan life, from serene landscapes to bustling market scenes. Seeing the Spring Fresco, with its vibrant depiction of nature, was a highlight. Greta, with her librarian's eye for detail, was captivated by the intricate patterns and the stories they told. We also spent a good amount of time examining the pottery and tools on display. These items gave us a sense of the daily lives and creative achievements of the Minoans. It's amazing to think about how these people lived and thrived on this island so long ago.

History is not the past but a map of the past, drawn from a particular point of view.

After immersing ourselves in the ancient world, we were ready for a change of pace. Our next stop was the Santorini Wine Museum, located in Vothonas. This museum offered a completely different experience, one that engaged our senses in a delightful way. The Santorini Wine Museum is housed in a cave and showcases the history of winemaking on the island. The museum is actually the Koutsogiannopoulos Winery and has been transformed into an exhibition that hosts many items, machinery, and human-sized wax models. The audio guide was informative, leading us through the exhibits that detail the winemaking process over the past 200 years.


Discover the rich heritage of Santorini's winemaking at the Santorini Wine Museum, where tradition meets taste in a captivating setting.

What makes Santorini wines so unique is the volcanic soil in which the grapes are grown. This soil imparts a distinct minerality and flavor to the wines, setting them apart from wines produced elsewhere. We learned about the traditional methods used by Santorini winemakers, including the unique way they prune the vines into basket-like shapes to protect the grapes from the strong winds and harsh sun. The care and dedication that goes into each bottle is truly remarkable.

Of course, the highlight of our visit was the wine tasting. We sampled several of the winery's offerings, each with its own unique character and flavor profile. The Assyrtiko, Santorini's signature white wine, was crisp and refreshing, with a citrusy aroma and a hint of salinity. The Nykteri, a barrel-aged Assyrtiko, was richer and more complex, with notes of honey and nuts. And the Vinsanto, a sweet dessert wine made from sun-dried grapes, was a decadent treat, with flavors of caramel, dried fruits, and spice. I even bought a bottle to bring back home to Berlin, so I can have a little reminder of our trip.

For lunch, we stopped at Kokkalo in Fira, which was recommended for its authentic Greek cuisine. We enjoyed a variety of dishes, including fresh seafood and traditional mezes. Greta particularly loved the lamb shank, while I enjoyed the tomahawk steak. The service was friendly and attentive, and the atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming. It was the perfect spot to refuel after a busy morning of exploring.


Experience authentic Greek flavors at Kokkalo in Fira, Santorini - where tradition meets culinary excellence.

As evening approached, we made our way to Selene Restaurant for dinner. Set in an 18th-century Catholic Monastery, the setting was romantic and inviting. The innovative menu combines traditional and creative dishes with locally sourced ingredients. We opted for the tasting menu, which allowed us to sample a variety of the chef's creations. Each dish was a work of art, both visually stunning and incredibly delicious. The staff was attentive, informative, and very kind, making the dining experience even more enjoyable. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with discovery and delight.


Experience the essence of Greek fine dining at Selene Restaurant in Fira – where exquisite cuisine meets stunning views.

After dinner, we decided to experience Santorini's nightlife at Tango Champagne & Cocktail Bar in Fira. The bar is known for its cocktails, music, and views of the Aegean Sea and volcano. The place was packed, but we found a spot on the terrace. We enjoyed a couple of cocktails while listening to the music and taking in the views. It was a lively and fun atmosphere, a great way to end the day.


Indulge in the vibrant nightlife of Santorini at Tango Champagne & Cocktail Bar, where exquisite cocktails meet stunning caldera views.

Today was a reminder of the many layers of Santorini. The island has a rich history that goes back thousands of years, and the wines are a testament to the unique terroir. I am looking forward to tomorrow, when we plan to visit the Santorini Arts Factory and the Venetian Castle of Emporio. And of course, we'll be trying out more of Santorini's restaurants, including Mama's Restaurant & Wine Bar for breakfast and Ammoudi Fish Tavern for dinner. I'm also hoping to do some shopping at NOI. Each day brings new adventures and new discoveries, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow holds. I'm also glad to be sharing these moments with Greta, and making memories that will last a lifetime.

It’s worth noting that Santorini experienced some seismic activity earlier this year, but things have stabilized and the island is safe for visitors. We felt completely safe throughout our visit, and the locals have been incredibly welcoming and accommodating. Also, there is a penumbral lunar eclipse happening tonight! We are hoping to catch a glimpse of it, as it will be visible here.

Santorini continues to enchant us with its beauty, history, and flavors. I can't wait to see what the rest of our trip has in store. And as I learn more about this place, I can't wait to share it with you all!