Santorini is the famous crescent shape because of the volcano that erupted around 1600 BC. We recommend taking a boat tour to the volcano across from Santorini for a small hike / tour of the active volcano.

The Santorini hot springs are just off the volcanic islands, and a visit to the hot springs can be combined with the volcano hike – many tour companies offer a visit to both destinations in one trip. The water is warm, filled with “healing minerals” and lots of red clay. When else will you have the opportunity for a warm mud bath with a crowd of tourists?! Note that the water is rust-coloured from the high iron content, and can stain light-coloured clothes or swim suits.

Santorini is famous for its sunsets, which can be viewed almost anywhere along the caldera side of the island. People will gather at popular lookouts, on restaurant patios, boats, or on their private balconies to soak in the views. If travelling without a tripod, consider how you’ll set up your phone to get that perfect shot.

A fun way to explore the island is by ATV. There are plenty of shops to rent ATVs for hours to a full day. In 2016 we took an ATV to ride from Fira to Oia, and then to the beach for the afternoon to make a perfect Santorini day!

Santorini has amazing restaurants all over the island, and cuisine ranging from fine dining to super casual. Keep in mind that you'll pay a premium for caldera views, and these places are sometimes - but definitely not always - tourist traps.

Aktaion is a small Greek Taverna in Fira that was so great we went two nights in a row!

It might seem unusual for such a hot climate like Santorini to produce world-renowned wine, but Santorini produces excellent crisp and structured white wines from the native Assyrtiko grape. The very old vines, strong winds and low-nutrient volcanic soils create perfect conditions for the grape. We haven’t had a chance to do this in Santorini, but we plan on checking out at least one winery this time around! We’ve heard good things about Venetsanos or Santos winery for the best views, or Domaine Sigalas, Vassaltis, or Hatzidakis for the best wines.

Santorini’s volcanic-sand beaches are on the opposite side of the caldera. We recommend Perissa beach or Kamari beach if you’re staying near Fira, both have chairs for rent and plenty of bars and restaurants. Choose your route wisely or you might stumble upon a nude beach – that would be an awkward way to meet the other wedding guests!

The famous Santorini sunset, but from the water.

Plenty of tour companies offer sunset sails. This isn’t something we have done before, but it’s a popular choice among travellers to the island.