Santorini Beyond the Postcard: Where Iconic Views Meet Real Greek Soul
Santorini with Emma
Emma experienced Santorini firsthand, bringing her personal insights to this guide.
Destination:
Santorini, Greece
Best time to travel:
late May - early June
Trip Style:
Honeymooners
Santorini, Greek Islands, Greece
Breathtaking. Picturesque. Iconic. Yes — it really is that good.
Santorini delivers the kind of scenery you expect to see on postcards… and then somehow exceeds it in real life. It’s dramatic, romantic, and unapologetically beautiful — the sort of destination that earns its reputation.
Who Is This Trip Perfect For?
Santorini shines brightest for honeymooners, couples, celebration travellers, and first-time visitors to Greece who want the full experience — iconic views paired with depth, culture and unforgettable moments.
If you’ve got Santorini on your bucket list and want to experience it properly (not rushed, not compromised), this is exactly the kind of trip that delivers.
What Most People Miss About Santorini
It’s easy to think Santorini is all about the caldera views — and yes, they are spectacular. But there’s more beneath the surface.
Beyond the cliff edges, you’ll find historic villages, wineries producing exceptional volcanic wines, local traditions, and quieter pockets where island life moves at a gentler pace. With the right timing and guidance, Santorini reveals layers that most visitors never see.
When’s the Best Time to Go?
May is a standout month. The island feels lively and sun-soaked, with warm temperatures and a relaxed rhythm before the height of summer.
It’s an ideal balance — long days, open restaurants, and a sense of ease that allows you to explore, linger and truly enjoy the island.
Where We Stayed
Canaves Epitome
An elegant sanctuary just outside Oia, Canaves Epitome offers refined luxury without formality. Think calm, space, and uninterrupted sea views — all delivered with warmth and ease.
Our Room
Deluxe Pool Suite with Plunge Pool
Private, peaceful and beautifully designed, this suite is everything you want after a day of exploring — whether that means floating in your plunge pool or doing absolutely nothing at all (highly recommended).
Best Value Room Category
With excellent stay–pay offers outside peak season, Canaves Epitome makes higher-category rooms surprisingly attainable for this level of luxury.
This is where thoughtful planning makes a real difference — and where working with a travel advisor truly pays off.
The Vibe
Luxurious yet relaxed. Polished without pretension. Calm, elegant and effortlessly comfortable.
It feels indulgent, but never stiff — the kind of place where you can truly unwind.
Best Spot for a Drink
The Sunset Lounge Bar
Golden hour here is something special. The light, the views, the atmosphere — it’s one of those moments that makes you pause and think, yes, this is exactly where I’m meant to be.
Bathroom & Amenities
Designer toiletries, rainfall showers, plush robes and slippers — all the little details you expect at this level, delivered beautifully.
Accessibility
Canaves Epitome is one of the more accessible properties on the island, with ground-level suites available on a single level. It’s a thoughtful option for guests seeking ease, while still enjoying Santorini’s iconic scenery.
The Standout Feature
The sunsets and uninterrupted sea views. They never get old. Not even close.
Dining Highlights
Best Meal
Giouvetsi Langoustine. Unforgettable — and still very much top of mind.
Where
Omnia Restaurant. Refined dining that stays true to Greek flavours, elevating tradition without losing its soul.
Dietary Needs
The resort caters confidently to vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free and nut-free requirements. Simply flag dietary needs in advance for a seamless experience.
Experiences
Best Tour
Half-Day Private Santorini Village Tour including Megalochori, Profitis Ilias Monastery and Perivolos Beach.
Why It Stood Out
This tour reveals a different side of Santorini — quieter, more local and deeply authentic. Wandering through Megalochori, meeting locals and seeing how the island truly lives was a highlight and a welcome contrast to the famous viewpoints.
Dining Strategy Tip
A mix of clifftop dining and village restaurants offers the best of both worlds — iconic views paired with memorable, soulful meals.
Connectivity
Fast, reliable WiFi throughout the resort — ideal for staying connected or switching off completely.
Getting Around
Private transfers or a private driver make exploring effortless and stress-free, especially on a busy island like Santorini.
Money Matters
Credit cards are widely accepted, with cash handy for smaller venues and local spots.
Safety & Practicalities
Santorini feels very safe, including in the evenings. Comfortable shoes are your best friend for exploring cobblestone paths.
A European power adapter is required.
Final Word
Santorini in May delivers the magic — the views, the romance, the culture — without feeling rushed or overwhelming. With the right hotel, timing and local insight, it’s not just beautiful… it’s meaningful.
And yes, it really is that good.
