Exploring the Enchanting Island of Santorini with Friends

A Day of Ancient Wonders and Beach Bliss

Today was a fantastic blend of history, relaxation, and culinary delights here in Santorini. It’s amazing how much this island has to offer, from its ancient ruins to its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife. I'm excited to share all the details!

Our day began with a journey back in time at Ancient Thera. Perched high on Mesa Vouno Mountain, the views alone were worth the trek. It’s not the easiest place to reach, but the winding road from Kamari offered breathtaking panoramas of the island. I could see why the Dorians from Sparta chose this spot back in the 9th century BC; it’s a natural fortress with incredible vantage points over the Aegean Sea. I felt a real sense of connection to the past as I walked along the ancient streets, imagining life in this once-thriving city.


Discover the ancient wonders of Thera, a historical gem in Santorini offering breathtaking views and captivating ruins that reveal the island's rich past.

The archeological site is vast, and you can easily spend a few hours exploring the ruins. We saw the remains of the Agora, which was once the heart of public life, and the Sanctuary of Artemis, where ancient islanders paid homage to their gods. I was particularly impressed by the Royal Stoa, a grand building used for administrative matters. It's amazing to think that people walked these same paths centuries ago! The views from the top were simply stunning, with the sparkling blue sea stretching out in every direction. I took dozens of photos, trying to capture the essence of this historical place. I was thinking how Priya and Aarav would have loved this place, especially the views, I will definitely bring them back here one day.

After immersing ourselves in history, it was time for some relaxation at Kamari Beach Santorini. Located just below Ancient Thera, this black sand beach is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. The contrast of the dark sand against the crystal-clear water was striking. The beach was well-organized, with plenty of sunbeds and umbrellas for rent. I grabbed a spot and spent a few hours soaking up the sun and enjoying the gentle sea breeze. The water was cool and refreshing, perfect for a midday swim.


Experience the captivating beauty and vibrant energy of Kamari Beach, Santorini, where relaxation meets adventure amidst stunning landscapes.

Kamari Beach is more than just a pretty place to sunbathe; it’s a lively hub with plenty of activities. I saw people jet-skiing, windsurfing, and paddleboarding. There are numerous cafes and taverns lining the shore, offering everything from snacks and drinks to full meals. I decided to take a stroll along the waterfront, enjoying the bustling atmosphere and the stunning views of Mesa Vouno rising majestically in the distance. The beach is also close to many amenities, like mini-markets, taverns and cafes. I'm glad I remembered to bring my sunscreen today, unlike the travel adapter I forgot to pack at home!

The beauty of Santorini lies not only in its iconic sunsets but also in its ability to transport you through time and offer moments of pure relaxation.

Metaxi Mas for a memorable breakfast. This traditional Greek tavern is tucked away in Exo Gonia, a short drive from Kamari. The restaurant is known for its authentic Santorinian and Cretan cuisine, and it certainly didn't disappoint. Dimitri and his brother Kosta have been delighting customers with their twist on traditional Greek food for over 20 years. All ingredients used are carefully selected giving you the highest quality and consistency every time you dine here. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the staff were incredibly friendly. I ordered the white eggplant in the oven and spicy pork, both of which were bursting with flavor. The portions were generous, and the prices were reasonable.


Experience authentic Greek cuisine with stunning views at Metaxi Mas in Exo Gonia, Santorini – a true culinary delight.

What makes Metaxi Mas special is its location. Tucked away from the crowds and off the beaten path, you will be amazed by the stunning views of the ocean and surrounding villages this restaurant offers. The restaurant is located down the hill from Agios Charalambos church. The outdoor terrace offered stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the Aegean Sea. It was the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a leisurely meal. I savored every bite, knowing that this was a true taste of Santorini. I made a mental note to bring Priya here; she would absolutely love the romantic atmosphere and the delicious food.

For lunch, we decided to try Il Maestro, located at Santorini Airport. I had heard mixed reviews about this place, with some people praising its crunchy pizza and others criticizing its dry slices. Being at the airport, we did not have many options, but I was curious to try it for myself. I ordered a slice of pepperoni pizza and a cold drink. While the base of the pizza was indeed crunchy, I have to admit that the toppings didn't taste as fresh as I had hoped. The drink was also surprisingly warm, which was a bit disappointing considering the hot weather. Overall, Il Maestro was an okay experience, but not one that I would rave about. I think next time I’ll pack a sandwich instead!


Experience authentic Italian flavors at Il Maestro in Santorini, where every dish tells a story amid breathtaking island views.

As the day drew to a close, it was time for dinner. We chose Armeni Restaurant, a traditional fish tavern located in Armeni Bay, just below Oia. Getting there was an adventure in itself. Since there are no roads to Armeni Bay, we took a complimentary boat transfer from Ammoudi Bay. The boat ride was short but incredibly scenic, offering stunning views of the caldera cliffs and the charming village of Oia perched on top.


Discover exquisite seafood dining with breathtaking views at Armeni Restaurant in Oía – an unforgettable culinary journey on Santorini's coast.

Armeni Restaurant is a small, seaside cafe with a relaxed atmosphere and a beautiful sea view. The restaurant is dressed in Cycladic traditional colors, modernly decorated with comfortable seats, and fully illuminated by the rays of the sun! The setting was idyllic, with tables right at the water's edge. The menu focused on fresh seafood, caught locally. I ordered the grilled octopus and a glass of local wine. The octopus was cooked to perfection, tender and flavorful. The wine was crisp and refreshing, complementing the seafood perfectly. It was a truly memorable dining experience, made even more special by the stunning sunset views.

The boat will pick you up from Ammoudi bay at the small pier in front of the jewelry store YA, right next to Ammoudi restaurant. The skippers name is Mr. Kostas. The usage of the boat is complimentary for customers with a reservation. However, there is a minimum consumption requirement of 40 euros per person.

To end the day, we decided to check out the Kira Thira Jazz Bar in Fira. I had heard that this was the oldest bar in Fira. The bar is actually a cave house and it is decorated with a variety of musical instruments. This place is a bit of a departure from the typical nightclubs in Santorini, with its mellow lighting and fine wine. It was a totally laid back place, where locals, newcomers, revelers, and Jazz lovers can relax with a glass of wine. The Kira Thira is a place where locals, newcomers, revelers, and Jazz lovers can relax with a glass of wine. The Kira Thira is a bit of departure from the typical nightclubs in Santorini.


Experience the vibrant nightlife of Fira at Kira Thira Jazz Bar, where live jazz music meets exquisite cocktails and stunning views.

The bar was cozy and intimate, with live music creating a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. The mellow lighting and the sound of classic jazz created a perfect setting for relaxation. I ordered a glass of local wine and sat back to enjoy the music. It was the perfect way to end a busy but rewarding day. I made a mental note to return to Kira Thira later in the trip, perhaps with some of my friends. I also learned that the sangria is almost as good as the sounds.

As I sit here reflecting on the day, I can’t help but feel grateful for the experiences I’ve had. Santorini is a truly magical place, with something to offer everyone. From the ancient ruins to the stunning beaches and the vibrant nightlife, there’s never a dull moment. I’m excited to see what tomorrow brings, as we plan to visit Santo Wines and Venetsanos Winery. I'm looking forward to tasting some of Santorini's famous wines and learning more about the island's winemaking traditions. We might even pick up a few souvenirs at The Traditional Cave Souvenirs.

Goodnight from Santorini!