Getting Out And About

There is so much to see and do in Santorini. We can tell you what's on, where to go and how to get there. The team at Casa Grande can arrange a car or bike rental and reserve seats for any excursion on the island.

On The Water
If you love being on the water, Santorini has a comprehensive list of sea outings by yacht, boat and catamaran. Morning, afternoon and full-day programmes are available: Caldera Sailings, Sunset Sailings, Boat Tours to the Volcano, Hot Springs, and across the bay to the island of Thirassia. Additionally, there is a Jet Ski Tour to the Volcano and a Fishing Tour.

If you are a diver or want to try, Santorini has diving schools offering underwater experiences at every level of proficiency.

For those who prefer not to drive, Private Guided Tours around the island and a Photography Tour are available. See Santorini from the air and soar with a Helicopter Flight.

Wineries & Wine Tasting
Santorini's wines are famous. For our guests in Megalochori, Alisachni Art & Wine Gallery is a few metres from Casa Grande Houses. Alisachni is a delicious combination of Art, Wine and Greek cuisine. Also in the village, Gavalas Winery offers tours and wine tasting.

Further afield, there are several wineries offering tours with wine tasting and a Wine Museum in Vothonas village. Art Space Winery in Exo Gonia displays contemporary art exhibitions in a old Canava and has a small winery with vineyards.

Romantic Santorini
As the sun goes down, romantic souls will love a meal on the Caldera watching twinkling lights over the bay at nightfall. Evening shopping, sunset watching in Oia, or merely a stroll until you discover the perfect cafe are all part of Santorini's magic.

Sunset cocktails to the sounds of opera at Franco's Bar in Pyrgos are unmissable. Pyrgos village is high up and chilly in the evening. Take a jacket just in case and wear flat non-slip walking shoes.

In Exo Gonia, Metaxi Mas Tavern is a place loved by locals and visitors alike. An old converted "stani" (stable), it has a small indoor area and spacious outdoor terraces. The menu is a mix of Santorinian and Cretan delicacies. Due to popularity, reservations are a must.

Island History
Santorini is steeped in centuries of history. From the Minoan Bronze Age excavations in Akrotiri to the five Venetian castles and fortified settlements around the island, every step in Santorini is a discovery. The city of Ancient Thira, built and colonised by the Spartans, is high up on Mesa Vouno. It was named after the island's ruler, King Thiras. From him, Santorini received her official title. The Archaeological Museum and the Museum of Prehistoric Thira are in Fira.

Hiking
The Caldera path from Fira to Oia is a favourite with nature lovers. The view is magnificent, but the route can be challenging. Sturdy walking shoes, water and hat are recommended. It can take two to five hours, depending on how fast you walk or if you stop for coffee. The distance is just under 10.5 km (6.5 miles). Early morning or late afternoon is best to avoid the midday sun. If you don't want to go alone, a guided walking tour is available.

Something Different
Kamari's Outdoor Summer Cinema is a great way to spend an evening. The atmosphere is informal, a bar sells the usual snacks, and they even serve wine. For a fun evening, The White Door Theatro in Fira hosts a Greek Family Wedding Show where guests feel part of the wedding. There is singing, dancing, breaking of plates, unlimited wine and Greek tapas.