A Romantic Escape to Santorini

Chasing the Oia Sunset

Today was everything I imagined Santorini to be – whitewashed buildings clinging to cliffs, the endless blue of the Aegean Sea, and the kind of light that makes you feel like you’re living in a postcard. Hans and I set out to explore Oia, the jewel of Santorini, and it truly took my breath away.


Our day began, not in Oia itself, but with a delightful breakfast at Metaxi Mas. Tucked away in a small village, this taverna was recommended by several locals as a must-visit. And they were right! The food was divine, a true taste of authentic Greek cuisine. I savored the fresh tomatoes and creamy feta, reminding me of the simple, hearty meals I used to prepare back home in Ukraine. Hans, ever the adventurous one, tried a local sausage dish and declared it the best breakfast he’d had in ages. Fuelled up, we were ready to tackle Oia.


Driving into Oia was an experience in itself. The narrow, winding roads offered glimpses of the caldera, each turn revealing a more stunning view than the last. Parking was, as expected, a bit of a challenge, but eventually, we found a spot and plunged into the heart of the village. The streets were bustling with tourists, a mix of languages filling the air, but the energy was infectious. Every corner we turned presented a new photo opportunity – vibrant bougainvillea cascading down whitewashed walls, blue-domed churches gleaming in the sunlight, and the ever-present, mesmerizing view of the Aegean.


We wandered through the maze of shops, each one more tempting than the last. I was on the lookout for a special piece of jewelry, something to remind me of this magical trip. We popped into Epilekton, a charming shop filled with local crafts and souvenirs. I found a beautiful hand-painted ceramic plate with a traditional Greek design. It will look perfect in our dining room in Leipzig, a little piece of Santorini to brighten up our everyday life. Hans, meanwhile, was captivated by a display of local wines. Ever the engineer, he quizzed the shop owner about the volcanic soil and its impact on the grapes. We ended up buying a bottle of Assyrtiko, eager to taste the unique flavors of Santorini.


Lunch was at Karma Greek Restaurant, a delightful spot with a terrace overlooking the caldera. We shared a selection of meze, small plates of delicious Greek specialties. The tzatziki was creamy and refreshing, the dolmades were flavorful, and the grilled octopus was cooked to perfection. As we ate, we watched the boats bobbing in the turquoise water below, imagining ourselves sailing off into the sunset. It was a moment of pure bliss, a perfect combination of good food, stunning views, and the warmth of the Greek sun.


After lunch, we made our way to the Castle of Oia, Agios Nikolaos Castle. The walk up was a bit steep, but the views from the top were more than worth the effort. The castle itself is mostly ruins, but the location is simply spectacular. From here, you can see the entire village of Oia spread out before you, with the caldera stretching out to the horizon. We found a spot on the wall and simply sat, soaking in the beauty of the surroundings. I couldn’t help but reflect on how lucky I am to be sharing this experience with Hans. After all these years, we still find new ways to connect and create memories together.


As the afternoon wore on, the anticipation for the famous Oia sunset began to build. People started gathering along the caldera edge, staking out their spots for the best view. We found a cozy little corner and waited patiently, watching as the sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors. The sun dipped slowly below the horizon, painting the clouds with hues of orange, pink, and purple. The whitewashed buildings of Oia glowed in the fading light, creating a scene of unparalleled beauty. It was a truly magical moment, one that I will cherish forever.

Sometimes, the most beautiful moments are the ones we share with those we love, watching the sun set on a perfect day.

For dinner, we had a reservation at Ambrosia Restaurant, known for its romantic ambiance and exquisite cuisine. The restaurant is perched on the edge of the caldera, offering breathtaking views of the sunset. We were seated at a table overlooking the sea, the gentle breeze carrying the scent of jasmine and salt. The food was exceptional, each dish a work of art. I ordered the grilled sea bass, which was fresh and flavorful, while Hans opted for the lamb shank, slow-cooked to perfection. The service was impeccable, the staff attentive and friendly, making us feel like honored guests. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day.


As we walked back to our car, hand in hand, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of gratitude. Santorini had exceeded all my expectations, and Oia had stolen my heart. The beauty of the landscape, the warmth of the people, and the deliciousness of the food had created an unforgettable experience. I felt a deep connection to this place, a sense of belonging that I hadn’t expected. Perhaps it was the echoes of my Ukrainian heritage, the resilience and strength of a people who have faced adversity and emerged stronger. Or perhaps it was simply the magic of Santorini, a place that has the power to touch your soul.


Tomorrow, we plan to explore Skaros Rock and Imerovigli. I’ve heard that Skaros Rock offers incredible hiking and breathtaking views, and Imerovigli is known as the “Balcony to the Aegean.” We also have reservations at Kokkalo for breakfast, Lycabettus Restaurant for lunch, and The Athenian House for dinner. And, if we have time, we might even stop by Kira Thira Jazz Bar for a nightcap. I’m excited to see what tomorrow brings, but I know that it will be hard to top the magic of today.


Back at Serapias Suites, I sit on our balcony, the gentle breeze rustling through the olive trees. The stars are out in full force, twinkling like diamonds in the dark sky. I can still hear the faint sounds of music and laughter drifting up from the village below. I close my eyes and take a deep breath, savoring the moment. Santorini, you have captured my heart. Tonight, I will dream of sunsets and Aegean delights.


Before drifting off to sleep, I realize I forgot to pack a power adapter! It’s a small thing, but it’s always the little things that can throw you off. And I could really use a light jacket for these cooler evenings. Note to self: always double-check the packing list!


Goodnight from Santorini!



Discover the enchanting beauty of Oia, Santorini, filled with stunning sunsets, charming architecture, and vibrant local culture.


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


Explore Epilekton in Oia, Greece, for unique antiques, art, and souvenirs that encapsulate the spirit of Greek culture.


Experience authentic Greek flavors at Karma Greek Restaurant in Oia - a perfect blend of stunning views and delicious cuisine.


Discover the enchanting Castle of Oia, a historic landmark in Santorini offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into the island's rich heritage.


Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Ambrosia Restaurant with breathtaking views over the Aegean Sea in Oia.


Discover the charm of Santorini at Serapias Suites, where comfort meets convenience just minutes from stunning attractions and local culture.