Exploring the Enchanting Island of Santorini with Friends

Santorini's Embrace: A Day of Discovery

Today was one of those days where everything just clicked. The sun shone, the company was fantastic, and Santorini revealed even more of its breathtaking beauty. It felt like a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and culinary indulgence. I woke up eager to explore, and the day certainly did not disappoint.

Our morning began with a delightful breakfast at Aroma Avlis. Located in Exo Gonia, the restaurant is nestled within the Artemis Karamolegos Winery. I had heard wonderful things about it, and it was just a short taxi ride from Pyrgos. The setting was beautiful, with lush greenery and a serene atmosphere. The menu was full of traditional Greek options, and I decided to try their vegan Skordomakarona, a traditional garlic pasta dish. It was the perfect way to start the day, fueling us for our big adventure.


Discover the essence of Mediterranean cuisine at Aroma Avlis in Santorini - where every dish tells a story.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we set off for Fira to begin our walk to Oia. The Fira to Oia walk is something I had been looking forward to since planning this trip. I’d read countless articles describing the stunning views and charming villages along the way. The hike “officially” starts at the Atlantis Hotel in Fira, and is just over 10 km (about 6 miles). The weather was perfect, with a mild temperature and a gentle breeze. This was a blessing, as I remember reading that the trail offers little shade and can be quite challenging during the hotter months. As we started our walk, I was immediately struck by the panoramic views of the caldera. The deep blue sea contrasted against the whitewashed buildings clinging to the cliffs was simply mesmerizing.


Discover the breathtaking views and stunning landscapes of Santorini on the iconic Fira to Oia Walk, a must-do for every traveler.

Sometimes, the most beautiful discoveries are made when you simply allow yourself to wander.

The path took us through the villages of Firostefani and Imerovigli, each with its own unique charm. Imerovigli, in particular, stood out with its luxury hotels and stunning views. We took our time, stopping frequently to take photos and soak in the scenery. I even managed to capture a few shots of the iconic blue-domed churches that Santorini is famous for. It was along this path that I was reminded so much of my home in Matera, with the way the settlements had been carved into the landscape.

As we continued our trek, the path eventually led us away from the villages and into a more rugged landscape. The views remained spectacular, but the terrain became more challenging. There were a few steep inclines and rocky sections that required careful footing. We eventually reached the Oia Steps, a long set of stairs leading down to Ammoudi Bay. The steps seemed to go on forever, but the thought of reaching the bottom and exploring the bay kept us going. I remember reading about the option to ride donkeys down, but I didn’t personally recommend it as the climb back up is intense, especially in the heat.


Explore the iconic Oia Steps in Santorini for breathtaking views, stunning architecture, and a rich cultural journey through Greece's most picturesque village.

We made it to Oia, and decided to descend the Oia Steps to Ammoudi Bay. The bay was a charming little fishing village with colorful boats bobbing in the water. We decided to have lunch at Theofanis food experience, a restaurant in Akrotiri. The restaurant is known for creative Greek, Mediterranean cuisine, rich in flavors and local recipes. I opted for the fresh seafood pasta, and it was absolutely delicious. It was the perfect spot to relax and recharge after our hike.


Experience authentic Greek flavors at Theofanis Food Experience in Akrotiri, Santorini - where culinary traditions meet stunning views.

After lunch, we explored Oia, wandering through its narrow streets and admiring the whitewashed buildings. Oia is known for its stunning sunsets, so we found a spot along the caldera to watch the sun go down. The sky was ablaze with color as the sun dipped below the horizon. It was a truly magical experience. Rocka wine sunset bar was close by, so we decided to head there to enjoy a glass of local wine as we watched the sky transform. The bar offers panoramic views of the Caldera and the Volcano, a perfect place to enjoy the sunset.


Discover the serene beauty of Santorini at Rocka Wine Sunset Bar, where stunning sunsets and exquisite wines create unforgettable memories.

For our final meal of the day, we ventured to Fly Away Creative Restaurant & Bar in Imerovigli. The restaurant is part of the West East Suites, and the setting alone is worth the visit. The views of the Aegean Sea and the Oia village were simply breathtaking. The menu was a fusion of Mediterranean and international flavors, and I decided to try the chef's special, a grilled fish with seasonal vegetables. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day.


Discover culinary artistry at Fly Away Creative Restaurant & Bar in Imerovigli—where Mediterranean flavors meet breathtaking caldera views.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Santorini Old Harbor and take a ride on the Cable car of Santorini. We'll also be tackling the Karavolades Stairs, which I hear offer some fantastic views. And of course, I'm looking forward to discovering some new culinary gems.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the day, I am filled with a sense of gratitude. Santorini has a way of captivating you with its beauty and charm. I am so grateful to be able to share these experiences with my friends. I am reminded that the best travel experiences are often the ones that are unplanned and unexpected. It is these moments that make travel so rewarding, and I am grateful for every one of them.

Until tomorrow,
Sofia.