Best of Santorini

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

Transfer from ship to shore via tender and board your motorcoach to begin your comprehensive tour of beautiful Santorini. Your knowledgeable guide will point out the local sights en route to the picturesque village of Oia.

Pronounced "Eee-ah," the village is perched high atop the cliffs of Santorini's northern terminus. Known for its quiet beauty and spectacular sunsets, this spot boasts superlative views of neighboring volcanoes. Stroll through the narrow, cobblestone lanes, view the brilliantly whitewashed buildings, shops, sun-bathed cafés and blue-domed churches. The natural beauty and tranquility of Oia's landscape has inspired artists from around the world, and numerous galleries can be found in the area.

Continue to a neighboring winery for an opportunity to sample the fruit of the local vine. Tour the unique vineyards and learn the history of wine production on the island, which dates back as far as 1700 B.C. Assyrtiko grapes are the leading variety grown, as they thrive in the rich, volcanic soil and microclimate. White wines produced here have an appealing citrus aroma and the dessert wines are barrel-aged for a minimum of two years, and are celebrated for their smooth palate and honey color.

Your next stop is dramatic Mt. Prophet Elijah, with panoramic views as far as the eye can see. The highest point on the island, 2,000 feet above sea level, Mt. Prophet Elijah is located between the villages of Pyrgo and Kamari and shares its peak with a monastery of the same name. Built in 1712, the "Profitis Ilias" has played a long and important role in Santorini's history. Today, it contains a collection of artifacts and religions icons from the Greek Orthodox religion.

A traditional Greek lunch awaits in the small village of Pyrgo. Sample delicacies from the region, including excellent local wines and delicious pastries.

Refreshed, you'll visit the beautiful, Byzantine church, "Panagia Episkopi," a local, historical treasure, dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin. Travel up a bumpy road to this monument that has survived both invasion and earthquakes. The orange-tiled roof contrasts with the more typically seen blue-domed churches of the area, and is an excellent example of Byzantine architecture. The interior of the church is decorated with wall paintings and houses one of the most prized portable icons in the world.

A short drive to the cosmopolitan resort area of Kamari Village introduces you to the famed black sand beaches of Santorini. You'll have a brief opportunity to put your toes in the sand (careful, it can be hot!) and to capture this stunning phenomenon in photographs.

Your last stop on the tour is Fira, the capital of Santorini, known for its striking mix of Cycladic and Venetian architecture. The main square of Fira is "Plateia Theotokopoulou," a colorful meeting place. From here, one can easily walk to shops, jewelry stores and tavernas. A steep walk to the upper portion of town leads you to the aerial cable car ride (ticket provided), your transportation to port to meet your tender.

Special Notes:

The tour of Fira and Oia involves walking through narrow cobblestone streets with numerous flat steps, so low-heeled, comfortable shoes are recommended. Passengers with physical limitations should take this into consideration.

The return to the ship will be by using the cable car in Fira Town to reach the port and then a tender. The cable car is reached by a long walk across Fira upper town along narrow cobble-stoned streets with an incline and steps. Low heeled shoes are recommended and passengers with physical limitations are requested to take this into consideration. Passengers should also expect lines at the cable car; the wait can be in excess of 60 minutes if multiple ships are in port.

Some shops, tavernas and cafés in Fira and Oia close during November.
Use of an audio headset (included) will enhance your tour experience.