Santorini for senior travelers
Your retirement years are the best time to go see the world, as it’s less likely you have pressing engagements and thus you have more time on your hands to explore your destination. Santorini is a great option for seniors as many of its stunning attractions are easily reachable, which cuts down on travel time while providing an exciting and enriching vacation experience. In this post, we’ve gathered some of the must-visit sights and top activities in Santorini for senior travelers.
Ancient Akrotiri Archeological Site
Also dubbed the ‘Greek Pompeii’, the Akrotiri Archeological Site is one of the most important and best-preserved ancient settlements in the Aegean. The extensive ruins of the Bronze Age port town once gave home to the Minoan civilization, a sea-based nation originating from the island of Crete. It’s a must-visit attraction in Santorini for senior travelers fascinated by history.
Iconic blue-domed churches
These white-washed, blue-crowned churches are probably one of the most recognizable features of Greece. They are classic examples of Cycladic architecture at its best. The two churches that draw the largest number of visitors each year are Agios Spyridon and Anastasi in Oia; both can be easily reached on foot. See our GUIDE on how to find them.
Santorini wine-tasting tour
Enjoy rural Santorini with a knowledgeable wine connoisseur. Over the course of your tour, you will delve into the history of the island’s characteristic vineyards, cultivate an understanding of Greek viticulture and the one-of-a-kind volcanic grapes, explore the endless grape vines – and of course assess the fruits of the winery’s labor by sampling all of their available styles. If you want to read more about the famous Santorini wine, check out our earlier post.
Ancient Thera
Built on the top of a hill called Mesa Vouno, Ancient Thera is the second most important archeological site after Akrotiri in Santorini. Throughout the past centuries, the ancient city went through both glorious and turbulent times; it was inhabited and conquered by various civilizations. Today, it awaits visitors with well-preserved city walls, a rich selection of excavated artifacts as well as magnificent views of the sparkling Aegean Sea.
Megalochori – traditional village
Megalochori is one of the most picturesque villages on the island, dating back to the 17th century. Home to stunning historical mansions, old traditional houses, pirate hideaways, and sweeping wine yards, it tells a rich history of the past centuries and the island’s unique wine-making heritage.
Santorini sunset at a Venetian castle
The Castle of Oia, also known as the Castle of Saint Nicholas was built during the Venetian occupation in the 15th century as a defensive fortress.
Constructed primarily of volcanic lava bricks and stones, the castle is perched on one of the highest spots of the castle, thus it serves as an excellent vantage point to watch the sun slowly setting down the horizon.
Best beaches in Santorini for senior travelers
The island boasts countless wonderful beaches which come in various colors as a result of the rich geological heritage of the island. Depending on your preference, you can enjoy secluded shorelines with dramatic cliff- and seaside settings such as White Beach, laid-back family spots covered with volcanic black sand, like Perissa and Kamari, or the spectacular Red Beach, which is also very popular among tourists.
Santorini boat trip
If you want to get the most out of your Greek island vacation, you should definitely include a Santorini sailing tour! To be able to fully appreciate the uniqueness of this volcanic island, you must see its charmingly diverse coastline from the sea.
A dormant volcano, colorful beaches, therapeutic spring waters, hidden coves, and magnificent cliffs. Exploring each unique side of the island is like unveiling a rare pearl of a sea shell. If you want to book your next adventure today, check out the fascinating offers of Santorini Yachting Club, the number one yacht rental company and sea voyage operator on the island.
Therapeutic Santorini Hot Springs
As part of the Santorini Volcano tour, visitors also have the chance to enjoy a relaxing soak in the natural hot springs. The sulfur-rich waters nourish the skin, ease inflammation, and are also said to be beneficial for joint issues. Besides, you’ll immediately feel their soothing effect once you let the warm waters wash over you
Must-visit Prophet Elias Monastery
The Prophet Elias Monastery was built in 1711 in the shape of a fortress, serving as a fine example of Cycladic architecture. It features an impressive bell tower and is surrounded by four other stunning churches and chapels. The monks of the monastery often lay out stalls on the small square, selling their own wine and various other typical Santorinian goods they produce.
