Santorini sunrise

10 HOURS IN: SANTORINI, GREECE

10 Hours In: Santorini

As travelers from far and wide can attest, the legendary hospitality found on Santorini is far from Greek mythology. The sun-bathed island rises out of the shimmering Aegean with a welcoming warmth that instantly makes new and familiar faces alike feel entirely at home.

There are many ways to see the delights of Santorini, but to experience the perfect day, ask a local to share their favorite secrets, haunts, and hidden treasures. You never know where a winding road might take you, but in Santorini, it’s always guaranteed to be delicious and beautifully memorable.

Kalia Konstantinidou, the owner of both Opens in a new windowMystique, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Santorini and Opens in a new windowVedema, a Luxury Collection Resort, Santorini, is the ultimate guide for those looking to uncover the rare and authentic tastes, sights, adventures that make the island so special. Follow her guidance for the ideal day spent exploring some of the best Santorini has to offer.

8 AM:

Sunrise is one of the most magical hours on Santorini. “There is no better start to the day than with morning yoga on the roof of a cave suite at Mystique, overlooking a volcano that wakes up together with you,” Kalia shares. The volcano, called Nea Kameni, is still active (the last major activity was in 1950), has played an essential role in the formation of the ancient island.

Private dining with a view.

10 AM:

Traditional Greek breakfast is equal parts healthful and hardy, and the spread at Mystique does not disappoint. Kalia notes that “breakfast at the hotel is by far a must-do as the menu is highly selective and highly nutritional, including both traditional and vegan options.” Menu standouts include Greek yogurt with berries, gluten-free pancakes with local honey, and eggs with a mix of herbs and feta. Dine on your suite’s open balcony, or at the hotel’s Opens in a new windowCharisma restaurant.

Explore the fishing village of Oia

Explore the fishing village of Oia

11 AM:

To begin the day in earnest, set out to explore Megalohori, an unspoiled, traditional village where the pace of life has changed very little throughout the years. Nestled at the heart of the village lies Vedema, Kalia’s other property. “Megalohori is a carefree place where children can play in the streets and every neighbor is a friend,” says Kalia. After wandering the picturesque lanes lined with charming white stucco houses and shops, make your way over to Perivolos Beach, famous for its striking black volcanic sand and pleasant waves.

Boats on the caldera

Discovering Santorini’s iconic architecture

1 PM:

After enjoying the sand and surf, Opens in a new windowMr. E is the destination for a sublime lunchtime experience. The restaurant is set right on the beach and is led by Noma alum Alexandros Tsiotinis, who serves contemporary Mediterranean fare in an airy, artful environment just steps from the water’s edge. Mr. E is a character, a metaphor for the worldly and epicurean nature of so many of the island’s residents and visitors. “He embodies the culture of the island as a concept. He connects with Santorinian cuisine and pays tribute to family recipes and local produce, anchoring the past to the present,” Kalia notes.

Some of her favorites on the menu are the Santorinian Salad with caper leaves, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, oregano pesto, carob rusk, and chloro cheese. Or, try the Santorinian Fava Tart, with poached egg, sausage, chutney, and Greek Truffle. The Grilled Octopus, simply prepared with olive oil and spices, is an eternal favorite.

Fresh-caught octopus drying in the sun

Kalia Konstantinidou

6 PM:

After an active afternoon, a drink is certainly in order. Stop by Mystique’s Opens in a new windowAura Bar for a glass of famous Santorini Assyrtiko wine while you enjoy a breathtaking vista out over the Aegean.

Seaside dining—a Santorini signature

7 PM:

For a distinctly local dinner experience, venture out to Kalia’s personal favorite restaurant, Opens in a new windowPsaraki Taverna, in the Vlychada port. “It is very simple and local, but here you can find the freshest, mouthwatering, well-cooked fish and seafood on the whole island!” she enthuses. “Not only this, but Thanassis, the owner and Chef, cooks Greek recipes with a twist, always gets first catch of the day from fishermen as they return to port, and his wife Angeliki serves all of their masterpieces with a big smile and warm heart.” Kalia family’s order always includes carpaccio and ceviche from the day’s catch, crab salad, dolmadakia, mussels in Assyrtiko wine sauce, and taramosalata, just to name a few.

“There is no better place to relax, enjoy food, and be thankful for life,” she says.