Santorini embodies all that has made the Greek Islands legendary-splendid beaches, unparalleled architecture, dramatic cliffs and quaint villages. The archipelago, perched on the edge of an active volcano's caldera, is one of Greece's Aegean gems. Blue-domed churches cap white-washed streets and white-, red- and black-sand shores are lapped by azure waters. Sunsets paint the bluffs in an array of oranges, pinks and plums-prime camera fodder for that perfect photo. Visitors can stroll cobblestone streets to browse shops and chow down on authentic dolmades and moussaka; tour local vineyards for sips of wine sourced from grapes grown in the rich, volcanic soil; or go on an excursion to the island's highest point, the 1,860-foot Mount Profitis Ilias, for panoramic views and a look at an 18th-century monastery.

Language: Greek

Currency: Euro (EUR)