Santorini was actually an ancient volcano and boasts some incredibly dramatic scenery and stunning architecture. The capital Thira sits on the lip of the submerged crater or caldera that dominates Santorini and is reached from the harbour below by a steep, winding path that visitors usually climb on foot or by donkey.

Oia is usually the spot all holidaymakers head to for the stunning sunsets, but why not pop next door to Thira, where the view is equally spectacular but the streets and bars a little less crowded.

The ruins of an ancient Minoan settlement at Akrotiri offer an interesting cultural aspect to Santorini holidays and the Museum of Prehistoric Thira houses some of the best archaeological finds from around the island.

The beaches at Kamari and Perissa both feature the black sand characteristic of many volcanic islands but the inviting turquoise water around Santorini is warm and inviting, perfect for swimmers of all ages. Kamari also offers plenty of good bars and tavernas and during the day there are all the usual water sports facilities to keep you entertained.

Nightlife on the island is far from crazy, but there’s more than enough to keep couples and families entertained every evening, and if the adults in your party enjoy the occasional glass of wine, organised tours are available to the wineries in Pyrgos, Megalochori and Mesa Gonia.

Did you know? Santorini used to be a round island until the volcano violently erupted in 1500 BC and the central part sunk into the sea!