For more information and to book please visit www.mrandmrssmith.com or let us arrange your whole trip, by calling +44 (0)20 8987 4312 or from the USA dial 1 866 610 3867.
From its terrifying birth in the apocalyptic volcanic explosion of 1450 BC to the snow-white cubist villas hugging its sheer cliffs, Santorini (also known as Thira) is arguably the most dramatic of all the Greek islands. Barhoppers and gourmets will love its lively tavernas and outstanding restaurants, where just-landed fish is always on the menu. Shopping urges can be similarly sated in the glamorous little town of Oia, with its smart jewellery boutiques and cute narrow streets. Take a hotel room facing the vast volcanic bay (the caldera) and, as you watch ships criss-cross below, you’ll realise that you’re looking at one of the most awe-inspiring, and romantic, views on the planet.
Santorini has the oldest vineyards in Europe, producing mostly white wine – and surprisingly good it is, too. They are scattered all over the island. One of the most welcoming is the Santo winery, close to Pirigas, where for a few euros you get a tour and a tasting of some choice bottles.
Our round-up of the hippest hideaways and romantic boutique hotels in Santorini
Characterful Santorini hotel The Sea Captain’s House has a higgledy-piggledy layout with gently creaking, waxed floorboards, the glow of lamplight glow and the crisp smell of the sea.
A Santorini boutique hotel with heart-stopping views over the caldera, Astra's cool white rooms perched on the clifftop are the perfect Greek island hideaway. Book well in advance to stay in high season, to avoid disappointment.
If uninterrupted views of endless azure water, blue skies and blindingly whitewashed buildings are what you hanker after, then the stylish Santorini hotel, Homeric Poems, is the place to be.
All of the comfortable rooms at Santorini hotel Sun Rocks are of the traditional whitewashed cave variety, providing the perfect perch for awe-inspiring sunset views over the caldera.
This cliff-top boutique hotel on the elegant island of Santorini offers a pocket of modern luxury and natural serenity in a sublime, primeval landscape.
The soft, sensual curves and crisp whites of the rooms at Perivolas boutique hotel are complemented by the drama and romance of the views over the caldera of Santorini.
Planes, trains, automobiles, or maybe even helicopter – we tell you the best way to go.
Sitting above the caldera, this restaurant has stunning sea views looking out to the surrounding islands. It is one of Fira’s best options, serving up tasty Greek/Mediterranean food (top tables: 1–6 have a sea view on the upper level; 1–3 on the lower).
Caldera cliffs, Fira town
A Mr & Mrs Smith romantic favourite is this place, located opposite the old church high on the cliff in Firostefani. Choose a table downstairs for intimacy, and upstairs for a view of the ocean. Do try a local wine from the carefully put-together lists (Nikteri was our favourite).
Firostefani
A highly respected restaurant on the island, located in a traditional sea captain’s house on one of Oia’s quieter streets.
Oia
This excellent beachside restaurant in Perivolos sits at the very end of the right-hand side of the beach; it’s a great choice for lunch or dinner.
Perivolos
This traditional, family-run restaurant is tucked down one of Fira’s back streets, just next to the Enigma nightclub. It serves fantastic home-cooked food, but be prepared to queue for the privilege of eating with the locals.
Just up from the main square in Fira
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