Highlights of the Day
The ferry from Athens to Santorini takes over seven hours, so I opted for a one-hour flight. Our friendly taxi driver shared local culture and explained that many island houses were once blue and white but now feature other colors. Our hotel had no pick-up service due to the off-season, so we navigated narrow, winding stairs with our luggage and got lost. After checking in early, we explored the island. Despite rain and closed attractions, we enjoyed quiet walks, stunning views, and fresh seafood. I bought a necklace and observed a dog recycling a plastic bottle, highlighting the island’s environmental care.
Logistics
Accommodation: ANGEL CAVE HOUSES (highly recommended)
Transportation: Public transportation or rideshare
The ferry from Athens to Santorini takes over seven hours, while a flight takes just over an hour. Since I get seasick, I chose the flight.
Our taxi driver was very friendly, introducing us to local culture along the way. He explained that island residents used to paint their houses blue and white, but now more colors appear as people break tradition. He also said our hotel should send someone to pick us up, but after calling them, he found out that, due to the off-season, no one was available.
We got out of the taxi and walked down with our luggage. The stairs were long and had many branches. We got lost, which matched online reviews saying this place was hard to find. Light rain started, so I left my family with the luggage while I searched for the way. After many turns, I finally found it. The hotel faced the sea with a breathtaking view. The staff was polite and told us our room was ready, so we could check in early instead of waiting until 4 p.m. They also mentioned it would rain for the next few days, which was disappointing.
I took some photos outside our room.
The first thing we did after checking in was buy essentials like water, milk, and fruit. Many shops were closed, but we finally found a small grocery store, which became our go-to place since it was the only one nearby.
Our room had a private hot tub at the entrance. Though I wouldn’t use it, it added a cozy touch.
Once settled, we went to a small restaurant recommended by the hotel staff. It was empty, and the staff sat outside chatting. Seeing us, they happily started cooking. The seafood was fresh and delicious, making for a satisfying lunch.
We planned two full days and two half-days on Santorini. Originally, we wanted to take a boat trip to the nearby volcano island and visit a winery. However, due to strong winds, the boats were canceled, and the winery was closed for the off-season. This meant embracing a slow-paced vacation.
When the rain stopped, we took the chance to explore.
Santorini is famous for its blue and white colors. Endless white walls, dotted with blue, reflect the deep blue sea, creating a stunning view.
I was amazed when I first saw the “floating doors” seemingly hanging in the air. They gave the illusion of stepping into another world. These “doors to nowhere” in Oia feel more like “doors to heaven,” opening to breathtaking views of sky and sea. Framing the caldera, they blend the horizon into an infinite blue canvas, inviting visitors into a dreamlike realm.
Walking along the coastal path, we found ourselves alone. The off-season had emptied the streets, making us feel like the town’s only residents, accompanied only by stray cats and dogs.
We saw a dog pick up an empty plastic bottle with its mouth. At first, I thought it was starving and trying to eat the plastic. But then, it walked to a trash bin and dropped the bottle inside. Even the dogs here are environmentally conscious! The moment passed so quickly that I didn’t have time to take a picture.
We passed the only open jewelry shop and went inside. I liked a necklace but found it too expensive. My family started helping the shopkeeper convince me, and, being easily swayed, I gave in and bought it.
Twice, we saw donkeys. In peak season, they carry tourists, but online reviews say the ride is uncomfortable and dangerous, especially on steep staircases. So, I skipped the experience without regret.
Blue sky, white clouds, a blue dress, a white shirt, and an aged wooden door.
A touch of red among blue and white.
The perfect blend of blue and white.
A photo in front of the “door to heaven.”
After the rain, a rainbow appeared. I quickly snapped a photo. Later, I saw many more rainbows. It seems they are a signature of this island.
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