Santorini: Slowing Down Above the Volcano

Santorini may be one of the Mediterranean's most visited islands, but its enduring appeal lies beyond the crowds. From the dramatic caldera and cliffside walks to volcanic wines and unhurried moments overlooking the sea, the island continues to reward those willing to slow down.

Santorini is the diva of the Greek islands. It’s quite remarkable how, over the past 30 years, it has evolved into a top destination for every kind of traveler — across styles, budgets, and interests. Of course, with that came overtourism, driven largely by cruise arrivals.

As someone who seeks authenticity and tends to avoid crowded places, I’m often asked if Santorini is still worth it. I always pause… and then I say yes.

Why? Because of the caldera.

The caldera is essentially what makes Santorini, Santorini. Thousands of years ago, one of the largest volcanic eruptions in history caused the center of the island to collapse, creating a vast crater that filled with the sea. What you see today is the rim of that crater — dramatic cliffs rising from the water, with villages like Fira and Oia perched right on top. It’s this combination of raw geology and human settlement that creates such a striking, almost unreal landscape.

And no matter how many times you sit on a balcony overlooking it, coffee or drink in hand, there is always that moment of awe.

For me, about 70% of Santorini experience is exactly this: the caldera and its views. So I always recommend staying in a hotel with a balcony facing it. Yes, it comes at a cost — but the longer you stay, the more you understand its value. It’s not just accommodation; it’s an experience you live throughout the day.

Another way to truly understand the caldera is to walk it.

The caldera hike from Fira to Oia is one of my favorite experiences on the island. It’s about 10 kilometers along the rim of the cliffs, with constantly changing views over the volcanic basin. You pass through Imerovigli and quieter stretches where you can actually feel the scale of the landscape. It’s not a difficult hike, but the sun and lack of shade mean timing is key — early morning or late afternoon is ideal. In those hours, it feels almost meditative, far from the crowds you associate with Santorini.

And then there is the wine.

Santorini’s volcanic soil gives its wines a distinct minerality and character. Visiting a winery is, in my view, essential. Sigalas and Argyros are among my top choices, and I always enjoy discovering something different like a pét-nat from Vassaltis — fresh, vibrant, and expressive of the island.

Santorini may be busy, but if you approach it the right way, it still has the power to feel unforgettable.