Exploring the Enchanting Island of Santorini with Friends

A Day of Myths and Modernity

Today was a fascinating blend of history, myth, and art here in Santorini. From exploring the legendary Atlantis to immersing myself in the local art scene, it was a day that engaged both my mind and my senses. The allure of Santorini lies not only in its stunning landscapes but also in the stories it whispers, stories of ancient civilizations and artistic expression.

The day started with a delightful breakfast at Xeporto. Priya and I enjoyed a light and satisfying continental breakfast. The freshly baked breads with butter and fruit marmalades were a treat, and the local boiled eggs and fresh veggies gave us a taste of Santorini's local flavors. It was the perfect start to a day filled with exploration and discovery. It’s amazing how a simple breakfast can set the tone for a day of adventure.


Experience authentic Greek flavors at Xeporto in Pyrgos Kallistis, where every dish tells a story and every meal is a celebration.

Our first stop was the Santorini Arts Factory, housed in the old tomato factory. It was fascinating to see how this space has been transformed into a hub for cultural activities. The Santorini Arts Factory, or SAF, is a testament to the island's rich cultural and artistic heritage. This unique museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of Santorini through its various artistic expressions. I am always intrigued by how spaces can be repurposed to celebrate history and art. The building itself, a beautifully restored industrial structure, added to the charm and aesthetic appeal of the place. The museum delves into the island's volcanic landscape, traditional practices, and the evolution of local art. It also serves as a creative space where artists can exhibit their work, making it a dynamic hub for culture and creativity.


Explore the vibrant Santorini Arts Factory, a cultural hub celebrating local artistry and creativity in a stunning setting.

I learned that the Santorini Arts Factory offers qualitative art events, such as music, theater and dance performances, as well as art exhibitions, which take place throughout the year, and mostly during the summer period. It’s wonderful to see how the SAF contributes to the promotion of the island, its ancient and modern history. The factory closely collaborates with teachers, schools, associations and notable organizations, located at Santorini and the rest of Greece, and carries out educational programs and workshops throughout the year. Unfortunately, there weren't any events taking place during our visit, but I was still able to appreciate the art on display and learn about the factory's history.

From the Santorini Arts Factory, we ventured to the Lost Atlantis Experience - Interactive Museum. I’ve always been captivated by the myth of Atlantis, and the idea that Santorini might be linked to this legendary city made the visit even more intriguing. The museum is located in Megalochori village. The Lost Atlantis Experience is an interactive museum on Santorini's west coast devoted to telling the myth of Atlantis. Inside, guests will find a 9D cinema, interactive exhibits chronicling Plato's life, and a diorama of what the Lost City may have looked like. The experience begins with an intricate scale model of Atlantis, setting the stage for the journey ahead. Electronic touchscreens offer short informational videos in multiple languages, providing insights into the museum's exhibits.


Explore the legendary myth of Atlantis at the Lost Atlantis Experience, a captivating interactive museum in the heart of Megalochori, Santorini.

The Lost Atlantis Experience is more than just a museum; it's a portal to a world of imagination and discovery, where the past and present merge in a captivating narrative.

One of the highlights was the 9D cinema, which vividly recreated the cataclysmic destruction of Atlantis. Experiencing the earthquake, tsunami, and volcanic eruption that supposedly led to Atlantis's demise was both thrilling and educational. I also enjoyed the interactive exhibits, where I could converse with a hologram of Plato and explore the largest Atlantis diorama in the world. It was fascinating to see how ancient civilizations and advanced technology were brought together in such an engaging way.

The museum presents various theories about Atlantis's existence, referencing Plato's narrative in Timaeus and Critias. According to Plato, Atlantis was a naval power that attacked Ancient Athens, only to fall out of favor with the gods and sink into the Atlantic Ocean. Aristotle, a student of Plato's, suggested that Plato invented the island to teach philosophy. In Plato's tale, Poseidon's son, Atlas, became the king of Atlantis, and the surrounding ocean was named in his honor. I found it interesting to learn about these different perspectives and how they connect to Santorini's history.

After a morning of exploring art and mythology, it was time for lunch. We headed to KooKoo Bar Restaurant Sunset Rooftop for a delightful meal with a view. The rooftop setting was perfect, offering breathtaking views of the Aegean. I had heard that Kookoo Bar is a gem, down to every detail and that they are open all day for all meals and their lunch and dinner + cocktails are also fantastic. The Greek Mediterranean menu was vibrant, and everything we ordered was delicious. The portions were generous, and the prices were fair. It’s always a pleasure to find a place where the food, service, and ambiance all come together perfectly.


Experience breathtaking sunsets and delightful Greek cuisine at KooKoo Bar Restaurant in Oia, Santorini.

In the late afternoon, we stopped by Sun Spirit for a drink. Located on Oia's foremost cape, Sun Spirit offers an unobstructed view of the most famous sunset and the Aegean Sea. The bar serves all beverages, long-drinks & cocktails, together with delicious side dishes and assortments, as well as a wide variety of wines and beers. I opted for a refreshing cocktail, while Priya chose a local Santorinian wine. The atmosphere was lively, with both locals and tourists gathering to enjoy the view. The sunset was, of course, spectacular, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink. Sipping our drinks while watching the sun dip below the horizon was the perfect way to end the day.


Experience the best cocktails in Oia, Santorini, as you unwind with stunning views and a vibrant atmosphere at Sun Spirit.

Before dinner, I took some time to reflect on the day's adventures. The contrast between the ancient myth of Atlantis and the modern art scene of Santorini was striking. It made me think about how history and culture are constantly being reinterpreted and reimagined. As an immigration consultant, I often see how people carry their history and culture with them as they build new lives in Canada. It's a reminder that our past shapes our present and influences our future.

For dinner, we had reservations at Lauda Restaurant. I had read that Lauda was built on this rock in 1971, and was the place where the locals met to discuss and have a drink, where the only telephone of the village was. Today, the restaurant is committed to honoring the history and tradition of this unique place while welcoming couples from all over the world to feel the romance, admire the breathtaking views and taste unique flavors. The restaurant's commitment to using local ingredients and honoring the island's history resonated with me. We started with the carpaccio of sea bream, thinly sliced and marinated with vierge sauce, pickled fennel & caper leaves. The wine list featured a variety of local wines, and our server was knowledgeable and helpful in recommending pairings. The ambiance was elegant and romantic, making it the perfect setting for a special evening.


Experience exquisite Mediterranean flavors and breathtaking caldera views at Lauda Restaurant in Oia.

Lauda’s Head Chef, George Dospras, stands next to Emmanuel Renaut since 2015. Inspired by the breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea, he has since infused Lauda with his signature blend of Greek culinary heritage and modern flair. With a commitment to sourcing only the finest local ingredients, Lauda promises a culinary experience that transcends the ordinary, solidifying its status as Santorini's culinary pinnacle.

As we walked back to Victoria Caves, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the experiences of the day. Santorini has a way of captivating you with its beauty, history, and culture. I’m looking forward to tomorrow, when we plan to explore Imerovigli and Panagia Episkopi. I’ve heard that Imerovigli offers some of the best views on the island, and I’m excited to see the traditional architecture of Panagia Episkopi. We’ll also be having breakfast at Cosi Italian Restaurant, lunch at Almira, and dinner at Kantouni. And of course, I’m hoping to find some unique souvenirs at Koukla Art. It promises to be another day of adventure and discovery.


Discover the beauty of Santorini at Victoria Caves, a charming hotel in Fira, offering comfort and convenience just minutes from top attractions.

Before drifting off to sleep, I thought about how lucky I am to be sharing this experience with Priya. Our travels together have always been a source of joy and connection, and I cherish the memories we're creating on this trip. As I closed my eyes, I could still see the colors of the sunset, taste the flavors of the local cuisine, and feel the warmth of the Aegean sun on my skin. Santorini, you have truly cast your spell on me.

Tomorrow, we venture to Imerovigli and Panagia Episkopi, eager to uncover more of Santorini's hidden gems. The allure of this island is endless, and I'm excited to see what new adventures await us.