Must-See in Santorini and Mykonos?
 

My wife and I are heading to Santorini and Mykonos in August, and we are seeking feedback on the must-see places or things to do on both islands? Also, are there any off-the-beaten-path sights you would recommend? Any and all recommendations are welcome!

Just got back from a visit which included both islands, and would recommend a day trip to Delos, from Mykonos. Its best to take an early boat and bring plenty of water - there is very little shade, except for a few benches in the sacred lake area.

In Santorini, I enjoyed Oia, but would skip dinner to view the sunset in the fishing village below it. There is a walk from Oia to Fira - you could try a part of that, again, it doesn't have much shade and in August it will be hot!

I vacationed in Mykonos a couple of years ago and it was amazing. We stayed at Petasos Beach Hotel in Platys Yialos and I highly recommend it. I loved the neighborhood there and it's only a 10 minute us ride into town. Even if you are not planning to stay in the area, I recommend a visit. Nico's Taverna is a must-visit spot - it's right on the beach and has the best baked feta I've ever had. We also tried octopus there just for the sake of trying it but it was actually pretty good. We attended a "Greek Night" at Hotel Petinos across the road and had an absolute blast. Be prepared to get up and dance yourselves! My hotel was having one a few days later but we were leaving that day and missed it. A lot of hotels might do it, but I'm not sure.

As for Santorini, it was unfortunately a brief port stop for us on our weekend cruise. I agree with katina - the Oia sunset is nothing short of amazing. We're planning a trip back to Greece in fall 2008 and we can't wait to explore Santorini!

Enjoy your travels - my Greece trip was my favorite vacation.

oops - make that a 10 minute BUS ride.

In Santorini I enjoyed doing the hike from Perissia up to Ancient Thira, there is some beautiful views and you can also hike over to the church that's built on the side of the mountain. I would also recomend getting your own transportation for a day or two and explore some of the inland villages as well as some of the islands wineries. I would also check out the red beach even though it's super busy I thought it was unique and worth the visit. I don't have any thoughts for Mykonos, I've been to Greece 6 times but have yet to make it there. Have fun in Greece!

DH and I were in Santorini in October. We enjoyed visiting the volcano, which isn't really off the beaten path but is certainly unusual! Wear good hiking shoes for that one because there's a bit of a walk from the boat to the caldera itself.

We also really enjoyed hiking out to the Skaros, which is a ruined castle on a cliff that juts out from the island. You get there from a path in Imerovigli, which is the highest village on the island, between Oia and Fira. The path begins at a church and then there are many stairs to the path. There are a couple of paths around the cliff, and one goes down some stairs to a church on the face of the cliff. If you Google, you can find pictures of Skaros.

Have a great time!

I just got back from both islands last week. I'd recommend the Santo winery in Santorini (kind of touristy but it has an absolutely beautiful view); just try to go when there are not too many ships in port. And make the drive down to Red Beach, which is pretty beautiful ... it's at the end of the road that goes by the (still closed) Akrotiri archaeological site. The museum of wall paintings just outside Fira is also nice. The restaurant 1800 in Ia was the best food (and most expensive) I've had in any of the islands.

In Mykonos, the aforementioned Delos is great but hot with absolutely no shade, but well worth the trip. And in Mykonos, you should just rent a scooter/car/ATV and ride out into the island. Ano Mera has some decent tavernas in the main square, and then make sure you go down the little lanes around the big water reservoir to a lovely, secluded beach where there's a full-fledged taverna; I'm sorry, but I can't remember the name, but when I was there on a weekday there were exactly 6 people. Mykonos has a lot of lovely secluded beaches if you just go out and explore; there's not much traffic, and it's nice to get out onto the little roads. Don't hesitate to get lost; it's the best part. We spend 2 blissful days doing just that.

Thanks for all of the feedback- one more question: should we rent a car on both islands, or is public transport adequate?

Yes. The rentals are inexpensive and, if you have the time, can really expand your experience of the islands. Your hotel will be happy to arrange it. I'm sure they get some 'favors' for doing this but the positive side is that shold you have a problem, they will go to bat for you.