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Greece, a land where ancient mythology meets stunning landscapes and azure waters, beckons travelers from across the globe. From iconic historical sites to picturesque islands, Greece offers a myriad of destinations to explore. Whether you're seeking ancient ruins, vibrant culture, or pristine beaches, here are some top destinations to add to your Greek itinerary: Athens Begin your Greek odyssey in the capital city of Athens, where history comes alive amidst ancient landmarks. Marvel at the majestic Acropolis, crowned by the iconic Parthenon, and wander through the Agora, once the heart of ancient Athenian life. Dive into the city's vibrant culture by exploring charming neighborhoods like Plaka, and don't miss the fascinating museums, such as the Acropolis Museum and the National Archaeological Museum. Santorini Renowned for its breathtaking sunsets and cliffside villages, Santorini is a must-visit destination in the Aegean Sea. Explore the enchanting towns of Oia, Fira, and Imerovigli, adorned with whitewashed buildings and blue-domed churches. Relax on volcanic beaches with distinctive black or red sands, and indulge in delectable Greek cuisine at seaside tavernas. For an unforgettable experience, embark on a boat tour to explore the island's volcanic caldera. Crete The largest Greek island, Crete boasts a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. Discover ancient Minoan civilization at the Palace of Knossos, wander through charming Venetian towns like Chania and Rethymno, and hike the breathtaking Samaria Gorge. With its rugged mountains, verdant valleys, and pristine beaches, Crete offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventures, from trekking and cycling to snorkeling and diving. Meteora A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Meteora is a mesmerizing complex of monasteries perched atop towering rock pillars in central Greece. Explore these awe-inspiring religious sanctuaries, which date back to the 14th century, and marvel at the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or a photography enthusiast, Meteora promises an unforgettable experience. Rhodes Steeped in history and surrounded by crystal-clear waters, Rhodes is a captivating island in the Dodecanese archipelago. Explore the medieval Old Town of Rhodes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site encircled by imposing fortifications, and visit the Palace of the Grand Master and the Street of the Knights. Relax on pristine beaches, discover ancient ruins, and immerse yourself in the island's vibrant nightlife and culinary scene. Corfu Known for its lush landscapes, Venetian architecture, and azure bays, Corfu is a verdant paradise in the Ionian Sea. Wander through the charming streets of Corfu Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore historic landmarks like the Old Fortress and the Liston promenade. Discover picturesque villages, verdant olive groves, and idyllic beaches, and savor local specialties like pastitsada and sofrito. Delphi Nestled amidst the rugged slopes of Mount Parnassus, Delphi is an ancient sanctuary steeped in myth and legend. Explore the archaeological site of Delphi, home to the legendary Oracle of Apollo, and marvel at the Temple of Apollo, the Theater, and the Stadium. Hike the scenic trails of the surrounding mountains and soak in the mystical atmosphere of this sacred place. From the ancient wonders of Athens to the idyllic islands of Santorini and Crete, Greece offers a treasure trove of experiences for every traveler. Whether you're drawn to history, culture, nature, or simply seeking relaxation, these top destinations promise an unforgettable journey through the timeless beauty of Greece. So pack your bags, set sail for the Aegean, and let Greece's enchanting allure captivate your soul. Note: The article is based on content generated by AI models like Bard and Chatgpt.

Unveiling the splendor: top destinations to visit in Greece

<ul class="summary-list"><li>I'm a <keyword id="11896628" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="travel" source="Orion">travel</keyword> writer who has been visiting <keyword id="13888538" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="santorini" source="Orion">Santorini</keyword> every year for the past 15 years.</li><li>I spend up to three months at a time each year reviewing hotels and these are the 10 best places to stay.</li></ul>In my work as a travel writer, I've been visiting Santorini every year for the past 15 years. And while most people might come here for just a few days before hopping to another island, I often spend two to three months at a time each year reviewing hotels.As such, I've gleaned major intel on the local lodging scene that I use to help friends and family choose the right place to stay. To help them decide, I first ask a set of key questions.Do you want to pay extra for a small room overlooking the famous caldera? Or would you prefer a cheaper, larger suite inland? Do you envision an iconic carved-out-of-the-cliff cave room with a private hot tub or private plunge pool (and staggering prices to match), or does it make more sense to pick a resort with shared, but equally impressive amenities? Do you want somewhere romantic, or are you seeking a family-friendly vibe? And, of course, the all-important question in Santorini: If you want spectacular vistas from your room, are you willing to contend with countless slippery steps?Only you can answer these questions, but based on the answer, I can help guide you to the best hotels, from swoon-worthy suites to celebrity-loved resorts and cheaper out-of-the-way hotels. These are the best hotels I've stayed in on Santorini, for every type of traveler. <div type="image" title="Pool areas with palm trees and Greek architecture at hotel" height="1365" width="1820" msid="91472027" hostid="261"></div>NOBU Santorini One of my favorite caldera hideaways for couples, the recently revamped <a href="https://santorini.nobuhotels.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">NOBU Santorini</a> sits off a peaceful side road between Oia and Fira with breathtaking views over both sides of the caldera.The 30 rooms of this Cycladic-style boutique hotel are like cozy, dome-roofed caves with large bathrooms and king-size beds, and there's also a womb-like spa. For me, the absolute highlight is the stunning infinity pool — a sunset dip with a cocktail in hand and endless views is guaranteed to take your breath away.<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/reviews/out?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Fgr%2Fomma-santorini.html" rel="nofollow sponsored nofollow sponsored">Book NOBU Santorini</a><div type="image" title="In-ground pool and white hotel building with stone archway and gray lounge chairs" height="3000" width="3999" msid="91472029" hostid="261"></div>Canvas Oia Epitome<a href="https://magazine.canaves.com/tag/celebrities-in-greece/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">This celebrity-loved</a> gourmet bolthole within strolling distance of Oia's shops and the famed castle is the epitome of luxury on an island where there are plenty of high-end hotels to consider. All of <a href="https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/destinations/europe/greece/cyclades/santorini/hotels/canaves-oia-epitome-hotel/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Canavas Oia Epitome's</a> 24 suites and villas are spacious, with stand-alone bathtubs and large, heated private pools, while award-winning chef Tasos Stefatos heads Elements restaurant, offering a sumptuous spin on modern Greek cuisine. But my favorite part about staying here is, because it's away from the main caldera area, there are no steps to navigate and you can park right outside the hotel.<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/reviews/out?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Fgr%2Fcanaves-oia-epitome.html" rel="nofollow sponsored">Book Canvas Oia Epitome</a>Villa MichalisWith just a scattering of low-key tavernas and a small black-sand beach, Vlychada (where the catamarans leave for sunset cruises), is one of the island's more remote spots. That's where you'll find <a href="http://villa-michalis.hotels-santorini-greece.com/en/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Villa Michalis</a>, with its good-sized pool and cheerfully painted comfortable (but not luxurious) rooms. It's one of my favorite options when I want to stay away from the crowded areas of Santorini and it's an excellent budget option, too. Rooms are cheap and a continental breakfast is included in the price.<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/reviews/out?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Fgr%2Fvilla-michalis.html" rel="nofollow sponsored">Book Villa Michalis</a><div type="image" title="Black chairs and table by a rug with a black and white floral print in front of bed with black headboard and white sheets and a chandelier above" height="3000" width="3999" msid="91472031" hostid="261"></div>Opera Mansion For wow factor and strong romantic appeal, I don't think you can do better than <a href="https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/destinations/europe/greece/cyclades/santorini/hotels/opera-mansion-hotel/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Opera Mansion</a>. This spectacularly distinctive villa is perched along the cobbled backstreets of Fira town, and housed in what was once (some 200 years ago) Santorini's opera house. Photogenic features include a blood-red indoor heated pool, a large "his and hers" steam room, and a private wine cellar where you can order a romantic dinner cooked to your specifications.<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/reviews/out?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Fgr%2Fopera-mansion.html" rel="nofollow sponsored">Book Opera Mansion</a>Santorini SkyPrivacy is just about impossible near the caldera, where hotels are crammed against one another, and your seemingly private plunge pool or terrace is often overlooked by the neighboring hot tubs and restaurants of about a dozen different hotels.But standing well away from the crowds on the island's highest hill, and within strolling distance of shops and taverns in the traditional village of Pyrgos, <a href="https://santorinisky.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Santorini Sky's</a> six hip villas are real hidden gems. Each includes a large infinity pool and a full kitchen, and there is also a geodesic dome where you can enjoy a pre-booked romantic meal beneath the stars.<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/reviews/out?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Fgr%2Fsantorini-sky-pyrgos.html" rel="nofollow sponsored">Book Santorini Sky</a><div type="image" title="A blue infinity pool and white hotel building with lounge chairs overlooking sea" height="3000" width="3999" msid="91472032" hostid="261"></div>Astra Suites It's a long hike along a slippery cobbled mule path to reach this lovely family-friendly spa hotel, but I promise it's worth it, not only for the views over the caldera and Skaros Rock (among the best you can get) but also because of the fantastic service. <a href="https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/destinations/europe/greece/cyclades/santorini/hotels/astra-suites-hotel/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Astra Suites</a> was actually one of the island's first cave hotels (created back in 1985), but the 22 recently renovated rooms and suites are large and comfortable (some have heated plunge pools) with cute terraces where you can sit and enjoy those stunning views.<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/reviews/out?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Fgr%2Fastra-suites.html" rel="nofollow sponsored">Book Astra Suites</a>Chez SophieClose to some of the island's best beaches and with ample comfort for a short stay, this family-friendly beach beauty is a great choice if you're on a budget. <a href="http://www.chezsophie.gr/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Chez Sophie's</a> 12 rooms are grouped around a kidney-shaped pool and are fairly spartan, but I found the beds to be supremely comfortable, and if you're like me, you don't come to Santorini to stay in your room. There's no restaurant (although a generous breakfast is included), but it's steps away from hip cafés and seafood taverns lining the black-sand beach of Kamari, and there are regular buses to Fira and Oia.<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/reviews/out?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Fgr%2Fchez-sophie.html" rel="nofollow sponsored">Book Chez Sophie</a><div type="image" title="Bird's eye view of pool and lounge area of hotel with umbrellas and chairs and a beach below" height="3000" width="3999" msid="91472033" hostid="261"></div>IkiesOn an island where cave rooms are two-a-penny, <a href="https://ikies.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Ikies</a>' sumptuous grotto suites that cling to the edge of the caldera really stand out, not only because they are incredibly stylish, but also because of the gourmet in-room dining menu, which I found to be quite convenient after returning from a long day of sightseeing.Just a 15-minute stroll from the center of Oia, the 13 rooms (10 with whirlpool baths) have domed ceilings, tiny windows, pretty caldera-view terraces, and some have antique furnishings. <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/reviews/out?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Fgr%2Fikies-traditional-houses.html" rel="nofollow sponsored">Book Ikies</a>Youth Hostel Anna On an island where very cheap accommodations are fairly rare, <a href="http://hostelannasantorini.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Youth Hostel Anna</a> is a reliable choice that's only a 20-minute bus ride from Fira and just across from a black-sand beach and Perissa's funky bars and laid-back tavernas. There are brightly painted dorms with bunk beds (up to 14 beds) but they also have private rooms facing a small swimming pool. But the thing I like best about this no-frills hostel, which has been a backpacker HQ for several decades, is the fact that it's also a great place to meet fellow travelers.<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/reviews/out?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Fgr%2Fyouth-hostel-anna.html" rel="nofollow sponsored">Book Youth Hostel Anna</a><div type="image" title="In-ground pool with two tan cushioned chairs in front of wall with two windows and stone wall" height="3000" width="3999" msid="91472035" hostid="261"></div>Carpe Diem A far cry from Oia's surging crowds, but within easy reach when you want to mingle with them, this bijou adults-only boutique retreat on the edge of a traditional hilltop makes an ideal base for sight-seeing. Unlike many hotels on the caldera, <a href="http://www.carpediemsantorini.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Carpe Diem's</a> cave-style rooms and suites are spacious, and bathrooms have huge bespoke cement tubs. There's also a glittering infinity pool overlooking fields and vineyards, and the restaurant serves tasty dishes, including my favorite, the meltingly tender chicken cooked in the local <a href="https://santowines.gr/wines/vinsanto" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Vinsanto wine</a>.<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/reviews/out?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Fgr%2Fcarpe-diem.html" rel="nofollow sponsored">Book Carpe Diem Santorini</a><a href="https://www.insider.com/everything-you-need-to-know-about-traveling-to-santorini-greece" target="_blank" rel="noopener">View Insider's comprehensive guide to visiting Santorini.</a>

10 swoon-worthy hotels in Santorini with cliffside cave rooms and infinity pools that are also affordable, according to a professional hotel reviewer

<ul class="summary-list"><li>I'm a Greece-based professional <keyword id="11896628" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="travel" source="Orion">travel</keyword> writer and hotel reviewer who visits <keyword id="13888538" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="santorini" source="Orion">Santorini</keyword> every year.</li><li>Here's my ultimate guide for every step of planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Santorini, <keyword id="6357856" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="greece" source="Orion">Greece</keyword>.</li></ul>As a travel writer and professional hotel reviewer based in Greece for the past 15 years, I spend most of my summers in Santorini. I also head back there with my camper van for long, lazy winters.Even Greeks I know who have all of Greece's 1,000-plus islands to choose from regularly flock to Santorini for its breathtaking views, gourmet restaurants, and spectacular boutique hotels carved out of stone that was once used to store wine.As for me, I'm still dazzled every time I arrive on the ferry (which is the best way to get here, in my opinion). It docks at the heart of the caldera, which is the huge volcanic crater set beneath towering red-and-black lava-lined cliffs that are dotted with tiny villages. I love those stunning views and adore the island's hip hotels with their infinity pools, chic restaurants, and resident DJs. But the Santorini I'm really mad about is the one that few tourists see.My secret Santorini is comprised of the in-the-know sunset spots or the warren of cobbled mule paths that take you far from the crowds to hike through fields where local sweet cherry tomatoes grow. The real Santorini, the one that I love, is in tiny hamlets where life goes on as it did 50 years ago. Locals say hello and bakeries still serve my favorite homemade treats — a creamy custard pie called bougatsa and the raisin-and-sesame treat, kopania. To sample this slice of true Santorini for yourself, follow my guide to the best places to go and see on this lovely island, just like a local. <h3>→ <a href="https://www.insider.com/how-to-get-to-santorini-greece" target="_blank" rel="noopener">I travel to Santorini several times a year — here are my top tips for getting to and around the island</a></h3><h3>→ <a href="https://www.insider.com/where-to-stay-in-santorini-greece-best-hotels" target="_blank" rel="noopener">10 swoon-worthy hotels in Santorini with cliffside cave rooms and infinity pools that are also affordable</a></h3><h3>→<a href="https://www.insider.com/best-restaurants-where-to-eat-santorini-greece" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> I've been visiting Santorini for 15 years — here are 9 restaurants where you'll find the most authentic food</a></h3><h3>→ <a href="https://www.insider.com/things-to-do-in-santorini-greece" target="_blank" rel="noopener">I spend every summer in Santorini. Here are 10 things I like to do when I want a tourist-free, under-the-radar vacation.</a></h3><h3>→<a href="https://www.insider.com/santorini-greece-safety-covid-advisories" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Answers to 3 common questions for anyone planning a trip to Santorini this year</a></h3>

A local travel writer's ultimate guide to going off-the-beaten-path in Santorini

<ul class="summary-list"><li>After you see the main sights in <keyword id="13888538" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="santorini" source="Orion">Santorini</keyword>, save time for a lesser-known side of the island, too.</li><li>From castles to a crater and cliffside villages, here are must-visit places in Santorini, <keyword id="6357856" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="greece" source="Orion">Greece</keyword>.</li></ul>Santorini is a magnet for travelers from all over the world looking for incredible things to do and see.On this beautiful island, there are all sorts of things you'll only find in Santorini. Climb to the town's high-flung castle to watch famous sunsets, head out on a boat to see the volcano's crater from the water, or explore a tiny village clinging to the side of the cliff with a labyrinth of winding alleys.I've been spending time here for years and always suggest first-time visitors see the main sights, but make sure to save time for a lesser-known, more authentic side of the island, too.I recommend poking into tiny shops selling komboloi worry beads, stopping for buckets of brine-fresh feta cheese, and visiting one of the island's world-class archeological museums. Here are my favorite places off the beaten path. <div type="image" title="Champagne, glasses, and a bowl of grapes on a table with a white tablecloth on a ship with gray seating and view of the water" height="3000" width="3999" msid="91472045" hostid="261"></div>Catamaran trip from VlychadaAfter several years of watching catamarans sail across the caldera every night at sunset, I finally booked a tour with the local company, <a href="http://www.santorinisailing.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Santorini Sailing</a>. A friend who lives on the island recommended them because they've been offering tours here for several decades. I was expecting the trip to be comprised of crowds of tourists and rowdy kids getting drunk, but this catamaran trip was simply a place to relax, get a tan, and see the sights. Leaving from Vlychada, we crossed the caldera to visit Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni islands. We leaped into the sea and swam in hot springs before enjoying a picnic of Greek salads, cold cuts, and plenty of wine. We finished the day with that famous sunset shimmering across the bay, and I had a brilliant time that I'd gladly repeat.<div type="image" title="Hill with grass and flowers and four people looking out at sea with island. One of the people is pointing toward ocean" height="3000" width="3999" msid="91472046" hostid="261"></div>Santorini Walking ToursMost people explore Oia, Imerovigli, or another town lining the caldera rim when they come to Santorini. But it's well-worth discovering another side of the island with Nikos Botsinis, a hiking guide who spent nearly a decade mapping out the island's best, lesser-known trails.On several sunny spring afternoons, Nikos, the owner of <a href="https://santoriniwalkingtours.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Santorini Walking Tours</a>, took me on hikes along old mule paths leading through the center of the island to discover half-abandoned churches, lost-in-the-past towns, colorful rock formations, and the occasional hidden cove where I swam without another soul in sight. It was a real revelation, and one I heartily recommend.<div type="image" title="Two people on tour of factory with white walls and archways overhead. A wagon of canned tomatoes is in front of one archway and machinery surrounds areas of factory" height="3000" width="3999" msid="91472162" hostid="261"></div>Tomato factorySantorini's tomatoes are <a href="https://www.tomatomuseum.gr/about/our-history/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">famed worldwide</a> and the Nomikos family opened its factory producing tomato paste in Vlychada in 1945.Until the late 1950s, there were nine tomato factories on the island, but as tourism grew, tomato production fell and the Nomikos factory closed down in 1981. Luckily, a few years ago, this industrial space was renovated to create a fascinating <a href="https://www.tomatomuseum.gr/the-museum/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">tomato museum </a>with a café in the courtyard and a hip gallery showing regular art exhibitions.<div type="image" title="Visitors looking at exhibit and taking pictures at museum area with Grecian ruins" height="3000" width="3999" msid="91472166" hostid="261"></div>Akrotiri<a href="http://odysseus.culture.gr/h/3/eh351.jsp?obj_id=2410" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Akrotiri</a> is the Minoan site known as Greece's Pompeii because it was buried under rubble and lava during an earthquake in 1500 BC. Unearthed in 1901, visiting Akrotiri shows how the little-known Minoan people once lived in two- and three-story houses, with underfloor heating and running water, that are still standing. There are also colorful frescoes, huge clay pots and pithoi where they kept food, and excellent videos providing insight into the life of Santorini's ancient inhabitants.<div type="image" title="Blue and white fishing boats with orange detailing rocky cliffs in background" height="3000" width="3999" msid="91472169" hostid="261"></div>Sunset trip with local fishermenAs shown in ancient frescoes on the walls of Akrotiri, fishing has been a way of life for Santorini islanders for centuries.Now, only a handful of locals survive from fishing and selling their catch to the local restaurants, and I highly suggest going out with them at sunset when they pull up their nets or reel in lobster pots. I had a fantastic trip with <a href="https://www.santorini-fishing-tours.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Giorgaros Fishing Tours</a>. The ride in owner Giorgaros' brightly-painted traditional kaiki fishing boat was like a cruise, with great opportunities to fill my Instagram feed with scenic views of the black-lava-strewn center of the volcano at Palea Kameni, below villages perched high up on the rim of the caldera. I helped Giogaros reel in several large pots full of flapping fish and later ate the fresh catch that was grilled and drizzled with a squeeze of lemon and served with a glass of local wine as the boat bumbled back to port.<div type="image" title="Uphill view of grass and purple flowers and staircase with view of ocean and other hill and sunset" height="3000" width="3999" msid="91472171" hostid="261"></div>Hike to the top of Skaros RockYou'll need to be fairly fit, but it's well worth doing this picturesque hike out to the odd, chimney-shaped Skaros headland opposite the clifftop village of Imerovigli. Just be warned that you won't be up there on your own. It's a popular activity, especially with honeymooning couples and Instagrammers.Incredibly, this rock, which was once topped by a majestic medieval castle, was the island's capital until the 18th century. An earthquake destroyed the castle, and while there's little left to remind you of those times, the views over Oia, the Kameni Islands, and distant Thirasia Island make the long hike worthwhile.<div type="image" title="Couple sitting at table eating meal with view of coastline and sea with white chairs in foreground" height="3000" width="3999" msid="91472172" hostid="261"></div>Sunset wine tasting at Santo WinesLike all visitors who come to Santorini, I enjoy those spectacular sunsets over the caldera. But instead of joining the crowds up by Oia's castle, I prefer to sit, sip, and see it in style from <a href="http://www.santowines.gr/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Santo Wines'</a> glass-walled café and tasting room.Book a visit at the end of the afternoon to see the vines that grow coiled like birds' nests, and then sip crisp Assyrtiko whites, Santo's sparkling rosés, or their fruity Mavrotragano reds as you watch the sun slip down.<div type="image" title="View of whitewashed Greek buildings on hill and coastline and a view of the ocean" height="3000" width="3999" msid="91472173" hostid="261"></div>Hike from Fira to OiaIn summer, the main road between Oia and Fira is often jam-packed with cars, tourist buses, and long lines of mules. But if you're relatively fit, there's a far more peaceful and breathtaking way to get between these two points.Best done in the early morning or evening, the fairly flat 10-kilometer hike along ancient cobbled trails via Imerovigli and Firostefani takes around four hours, but the views are so magnificent, you'll hardly notice the distance. There's often a pleasant breeze, but come armed with a hat, water, and plenty of high-SPF sunscreen.<div type="image" title="Brown rocky cliffs overlooking sea on a gloomy day. In the distance, a white lighthouse with silhouettes of people" height="3000" width="3999" msid="91472174" hostid="261"></div>Sunset picnic at AkrotiriOia's sunsets are breathtaking and you'll want to see them at least once, but when you're tired of battling the crowds, you can have a unique and possibly more romantic experience by doing as I do. Stop at <a href="http://www.santorini-wedding-cakes.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">the Petranart bakery</a> in Megalochori to buy wedges of kolokithopita courgette pie and spanakopita (moist egg-and-spinach pie) and enjoy them with a glass of local wine during a sunset picnic at Akrotiri Lighthouse.Built in 1892, this remote watchtower on the island's southwestern tip is reached via a nerve-rackingly narrow road that runs right along the cliff's edge, but once you make it to this high-flung spot, the views are the best I've seen and you'll have that famous sunset (almost) all to yourself.<div type="image" title="Four people with dogs, goats, and a donkey walking in front of coastline" height="3000" width="3999" msid="91472175" hostid="261"></div>Volunteer with animals at SAWAGiving back while you <keyword id="11896628" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="travel" source="Orion">travel</keyword> is a responsible thing to do and also introduces you to another side of local life. I usually go to <a href="https://www.sawasantorini.com/">Santorini's Animal Welfare Association (SAWA)</a>, which was founded in 1992 by a group of animal-loving volunteers to care for stray dogs and cats who can't fend for themselves at the end of the tourist season when cafés and restaurants close down. They also take in donkeys and mules that are often abandoned when they become too old to work.There are generally around 100 cats and dogs and more than a dozen mules in the shelter at any time. I often pop in when I'm on the island and bring carrots for the mules and treats for the dogs, or I'll take them out for a walk on one of the nice paths nearby. Whether you want to stay for a few days and help run the shelter or just drop in for an hour, you'll be warmly welcomed.<a href="https://www.insider.com/everything-you-need-to-know-about-traveling-to-santorini-greece" target="_blank" rel="noopener">View Insider's comprehensive guide to visiting Santorini.</a>

I spend every summer in Santorini, Greece. Here are 10 things I like to do when I want a tourist-free, under-the-radar vacation.

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Lee Abbamonte is a banker turned travel blogger who has visited every country in Europe. </li><li>He calls Spain, Italy, France, and Greece Europe's "Big Four" because of how popular they are.</li></ul><a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/solo-travel-surprising-things-american-in-europe-2023-3">Traveling to Europe</a> this summer? If so, we'll take a wild guess that you're visiting either Spain, Italy, France, or Greece.These countries, nearly all of which are in the southern or Mediterranean regions, are what <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/visited-all-50-states-ranked-best-and-worst-2024-3">travel blogger</a> <a target="_blank" href="https://www.instagram.com/leeabbamonte/?hl=en">Lee Abbamonte</a> dubs Europe's "Big Four" because of their popularity among <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/american-tourist-disliked-europe-vacation-2023-11">American tourists</a>.Abbamonte, 45, knows a thing or two about travel. He's not only visited every state in the US but every country in the world, as well as the North and South Poles.Across the pond, Abbamonte prefers exploring <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/underrated-european-countries-for-summer-travel-better-than-tourist-favorites-2024-5">underrated European countries</a>, but he gets why people gravitate to the "Big Four.""If you don't like it, you're the problem," he said. "They're all good."Still, he's a fan of venturing off the beaten path.Here, Abbamonte shares a few alternatives to popular tourist hot spots that anyone visiting Spain, Italy, France, and Greece should check out.<h2 id="90a6cf5e-3c99-418a-8ef4-f8cce3580ab7">In Spain, forget Barcelona or Madrid and explore the cliffside city of Ronda</h2><div type="image" title="A still photo of the cliffside city of Ronda from above." height="959" width="1280" msid="110709387" hostid="261"></div>"Everyone knows Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, Ibiza, Majorca," Abbamonte said. But not many Americans are familiar with the historic city of Ronda, perched atop a deep rocky gorge covered in lush greenery in the Andalucia region."If you're in Marbella, or if you're in Sevilla or Gibraltar, you can go out there and check out this awesome little town," Abbamonte said.He also can't speak highly enough of northern Spain/Spain's northern coast. One highlight is the seaside town of A Coruña, which is close to the Camino de Santiago, a network of pilgrimage routes leading to a holy site in the city of Santiago de Compostela."I've done a lot of road trips around the north of Spain," Abbamonte said. "It's just an awesome little slice of Europe that nobody ever goes to."<h2 id="e2cf8df7-42a4-4621-af81-95239fcc94b9">If you're planning to island-hop in Greece, Abbamonte has recommendations that aren't Mykonos or Santorini</h2><div type="image" title="A port in Hydra, Greece." height="900" width="1272" msid="110709389" hostid="261"></div>Mykonos and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/greece-underrated-island-crete-better-than-santorini-frequent-traveler-2024-3">Santorini</a> are two of the most well-known islands in Greece. Naturally, they're also two of the most overcrowded.People familiar with Greece, like Abbamonte, often advise <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/ibiza-vs-mykonos-party-islands-2018-9">against visiting Mykonos </a>and Santorini in favor of smaller islands that are quieter but just as beautiful, such as Aegina, Poros, and Hydra.Abbamonte said Hydra, in particular, is worth seeing."There are no cars, and it's just goats and donkeys and walking. It's a very cool place to go."On the mainland, he'd also advise stopping by Meteora in Thessaly, known for its "otherworldly" monasteries built atop towering rock formations.<h2 id="3573afea-fe6c-45ec-a7a2-2544b50f46e7">In Italy, there are places just as beautiful as Lake Como and Florence that are far less crowded</h2><div type="image" title="San Gimignano in Tuscany." height="853" width="1280" msid="110709391" hostid="261"></div>According to Abbamonte, "With Italy, you can just throw a dart at a map, and you're in the coolest place you've ever been to."Even so, some of Abbamonte's favorite spots in Italy don't get the love he believes they deserve. In the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/tuscany-americans-moving-italy-cost-of-living-slow-pace-2024-3">region of Tuscany</a> for example, he says people tend to prioritize Florence, Pisa, or Siena.All three are definitely worth seeing at least once, Abbamonte said, but he'd also recommend exploring smaller villages nestled between Tuscany's rolling hills, such as San Gimignano, Montalcino, and Montepulciano — all known for their endless vineyards and wines."Those are actually really awesome little villages and well worth checking out," he said.Up in the north, Abbamonte said he'd skip <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/private-villa-lake-como-italy-taylor-swift-travis-kelce-dinner-2024-5">Lake Como</a> for any of the other <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/teachers-buy-house-in-italy-instead-of-more-expensive-usa-2024-5">Italian lakes</a> close to the Dolomite mountains."It's my favorite place to road trip, probably, in all of Europe," he said.<h2 id="0508857f-862b-4b21-87ab-857b09757f98">Vacation like a local in France and visit Biarritz instead of Paris or Nice</h2><div type="image" title="The beach of Port Vieux from above in Biarritz, France." height="853" width="1280" msid="110709392" hostid="261"></div>Abbamonte cited <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" class="c-link" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-things-to-do-in-paris-what-to-skip-american-2024-1">Paris</a> and Nice as examples of some of France's best-known vacation spots.However, he said they are mostly hot spots for tourists rather than French locals, who tend to vacation in places "completely overlooked" by outsiders.One of his favorites is Biarritz, a seaside hub known for its surfing culture in the Basque region of France. It's north of San Sebastian, a coastal Spanish city popular with tourists that is about a half-hour drive from the French border."Everyone knows San Sebastian now. Not a lot of people know Biarritz except for French people," he said. "But that's why I like it because it has a real, local kind of old money, Grace Kelly feel."Other spots in France that he recommends checking out are the medieval town of Saint Paul De Vence <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/billionaires-peninsula-french-riviera-vacation-saint-jean-cap-ferrat-2019-3">on the French Riviera</a>, beloved by generations of artists and poets, and the riverside city of Avignon in the southeast, one of his "favorite towns in all of Europe."Correction: June 4, 2024 — An earlier version of this story misstated the location of A Coruña. It's in northwestern Spain, not in Spain's Basque region. The story also misstated the location of Monte Carlo, which is in Monaco, not France.

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