Greece: Why Santorini Is Just the Beginning

My client Judy Turner called me from Greece once and said, "Erin, I need you to plan our next trip to Greece before I even get home from this one." That's the effect Greece has on people. It gets under your skin in the best possible way.

I've helped dozens of clients plan Greek vacations, and I've visited myself. Here's my honest, comprehensive guide to making the most of this extraordinary country.

Santorini: The Dream Made Real

Let's start with the obvious: Santorini is as beautiful as the photos suggest. The white-washed buildings with blue domes perched on the caldera rim, the sunsets over the Aegean, the volcanic beaches — it's genuinely one of the most visually stunning places on earth.

Oia is the most famous village, and the sunset here is legendary. Arrive at least an hour before sunset to claim a good spot — the crowds are real but the experience is worth it.

Fira is the capital and has more restaurants, shops, and nightlife than Oia. It's also where the cable car connects the port to the clifftop.

Imerovigli is my personal favorite village — quieter than Oia and Fira, with arguably the best caldera views on the island.

The beaches are unlike any you've seen. Perissa and Perivolos have dramatic black sand. Red Beach has striking red volcanic cliffs. Vlychada has white pumice formations that look like the surface of the moon.

My honest Santorini tips:

• Stay at least 3 nights — 2 nights is not enough
• Book your sunset dinner reservation weeks in advance
• Rent an ATV to explore the island independently
• Visit the ancient ruins of Akrotiri — a Minoan city preserved under volcanic ash, often called the "Greek Pompeii"

Athens: More Than Just a Stopover

Most people treat Athens as a one-night stopover before the islands. This is a mistake. Athens is a fascinating, vibrant city that deserves at least two to three days.

The Acropolis is one of the most important archaeological sites in the world. Go early morning to beat the heat and crowds. Hire a guide — the history is extraordinary and context makes everything richer.

The Acropolis Museum is world-class and houses artifacts from the Acropolis in a stunning modern building. Don't skip it.

Monastiraki is the neighborhood I always recommend for food, shopping, and atmosphere. The flea market, the street food, the rooftop bars with Acropolis views — it's the heart of Athens.

Plaka is the old neighborhood at the foot of the Acropolis, with charming streets, tavernas, and neoclassical architecture.

Mykonos: Party Island With a Softer Side

Mykonos has a reputation as a party destination, and that reputation is earned — but there's more to it than that. The iconic windmills, the charming Little Venice neighborhood, the beautiful beaches, and the excellent restaurants make Mykonos worth visiting even if you're not there for the nightlife.

Little Venice — Colorful buildings hanging over the water, with bars and cafes that are perfect for watching the sunset.

Paradise and Super Paradise beaches — The famous party beaches. Loud, fun, and not for everyone.

Agios Ioannis — A quieter beach with a beautiful taverna. Perfect for a lazy afternoon.

The Hidden Gems: Islands Worth Discovering

Naxos — The largest of the Cyclades islands, with beautiful beaches, a charming old town, and excellent local food. Much less crowded than Santorini or Mykonos.

Paros — A perfect blend of beauty and authenticity. The village of Naoussa is one of the most charming in all of Greece.

Crete — Greece's largest island is practically a country unto itself. Ancient Minoan ruins, dramatic gorges (the Samaria Gorge is one of Europe's great hikes), beautiful beaches, and exceptional food.

Rhodes — A medieval walled city, beautiful beaches, and a fascinating history as a Knights Hospitaller stronghold.

Greek Food: An Education in Pleasure

Greek food is simple, fresh, and extraordinary. Some essentials:

• Spanakopita — Spinach and feta in flaky phyllo pastry
• Saganaki — Pan-fried cheese, often flambéed tableside
• Grilled octopus — Tender, smoky, and perfect with a glass of ouzo
• Fresh fish — Order by weight at a harborside taverna
• Loukoumades — Honey-soaked doughnuts. Get them from a street vendor.
• Greek salad — The real thing, with a thick slab of feta on top, is revelatory

Practical Tips

Island hopping — The Greek ferry system is excellent and affordable. I always help clients plan multi-island itineraries that maximize their time.

When to go — May, June, and September are ideal. July and August are beautiful but very hot and very crowded.

Getting around — Rent a car or ATV on larger islands. Use ferries between islands. Taxis and buses work well in Athens.

Language — English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Learning a few Greek words (efcharistó = thank you, yassas = hello/cheers) will earn you warm smiles.

Greece is waiting for you. Let me help you plan the trip of a lifetime.