Savoring Santorini: A Week of Art, Craft & Connection

Wine tasting at Art Space Gallery

Visiting traditional wineries like Domaine Sigalas or Art Space reveals the fascinating kouloura basket vines designed to protect grapes from the salty sea winds. Sipping a crisp, mineral-driven Assyrtiko right where it was grown is the best way to understand the island’s complex geology. Our private guide arranged a surprise visit with owner and artist Antonis Argyros for a tour of the museum and gallery followed by wine tasting. Being artists ourselves, we enjoyed a discussion about art-making, our journeys, our techniques, and our shared inspirations.

Cooking class with a local chef

Spending the afternoon in a chef’s private home offers a rare, intimate look at traditional Aegean flavors. You’ll learn the secrets of the island’s sun-drenched ingredients while sharing stories over a hand-prepared meal.

Caldera day sail

While sunset cruises are popular, a six-hour day sail offers a more secluded look at the volcano’s rugged shoreline and historic sites. You’ll enjoy a fresh grilled lunch and plenty of time to swim in the Aegean with only a handful of other guests.

Guided hike from Oia to Fira

Walking the 3-hour trail along the caldera rim is much more rewarding with a knowledgeable guide who can navigate the confusing spots. Our guide introduced us to his neighbors and shared local lore that you simply won’t find in any guidebook.

Private pottery lesson with Andreas Makaris

Getting your hands dirty at Earth and Water allows you to connect with the island’s physical essence under a master’s guidance. At first I was intimated by this 5-generation master potter, but Andreas and his small coterie immediately put us at ease.

The lesson started with wine and cheese while he asked my partner and me about our artistic practices—our experience with using our hands. After a demo at the wheel, we had a rollicking good time throwing clay and cracking jokes. When the winemaker next door dropped in with a new jug, all action stopped for another round.

Back at the wheel, we created vessels we never thought possible. As we cleaned up, a couple of travelers from Australia wandered into the gallery. Naturally, we invited them to join us for just one more pour. This kind of connection to local culture is exactly what makes travel so transformative.

• Lefkes: On our first island night, we stretched our legs with a walk from Oia to Finikia for dinner on the patio at Lefkes. The multi-leveled setting feels like a sophisticated friend’s home, complete with an incredible wine cellar and a warm atmosphere.

• Lycabettus: For a truly dramatic meal, this restaurant offers one of the most breathtaking balcony views in the world. The iconic pink chairs are at the Sommelier’s Table and are booked only once per night. We had a choice of two menus and drink pairings. Much to our delight, they provided an inventive mocktail pairing for us.

• Amoudi Bay: After a day of sailing, find some of the freshest seafood imaginable right next to the lapping waves. It’s a quintessential Santorini experience to watch the red cliffs glow as you dine on the daily catch.

• Melitini: This charming restaurant specializes in authentic Greek tapas that are perfect for sharing with friends. The rooftop terrace offers a cozy vibe and a great vantage point for the evening sunset.

• Pitogyros Traditional Grill House: For something casual and authentic in Oia, this is the spot for gyros and a Red Donkey beer. It’s unpretentious, delicious, and always hits the spot after a full day of exploring.

• Meteor Cafe: This spot is perfect for a slow morning coffee while watching the village of Oia wake up. The atmosphere is effortlessly cool and provides a front-row seat to the island’s famous light. Confession: It also became my favorite afternoon hide-out. I loved chatting with the owner about the varieties of Sambuca, and tasting strange bottles.

• Pacman at Andronis Arcadia: This “boho-chic” destination is the place to be for sunset views and incredible sea bass served in a golden salt shell. The energy here is vibrant and sophisticated, capturing the modern side of island life.