The most stunning of Greece's Cycladic islands, Santorini gained its present appearance when a volcanic explosion blew out the island's centre some 3,600 years ago. This produced the caldera (sea-filled crater), now overlooked by the whitewashed, cliff-top settlements of Thira (the capital, also known as Fira, Thera and Phira) and Oia. Featured on countless picture postcards, Thira and Oia cater primarily for couples on romantic escapes, and therefore popular wedding and honeymoon destinations.

Cruise ships put down anchor in the caldera and passengers are taken ashore on tender boats to Skala, below Thira. They then ride up to town by cable car or mule - athletic types can choose to climb the 580-step footpath.

Thira's winding, cobbled streets are packed with small hotels, restaurants and cafes, the most memorable (and most expensive) affording caldera views. There are also a couple of museums.

Cruise companies offer a range of excursions including up-market Oia, noted for its typical Cycladic architecture and unforgettable sunsets, and the tiny charred islands of the caldera, known for their therapeutic volcanic muds. Connoisseurs might also visit the Boutari winery for a guided tour and wine-tasting session - Santorini makes some of the Greek islands' best white wines and Boutari is the island's largest producer. One of Santorini's top attractions, Akrotiri archaeological site, is unfortunately closed for restoration, and looks unlikely to reopen before 2010 or 2011.

Highlights
• Museum of Prehistoric Thira
• Folklore Museum (Thira)
• Naval Museum (Oia)
• Boutari winery (Pyrgos)
• Perissa beach (south coast)
• Palea Kameni and Nea Kameni: Two uninhabited black volcanic islets in the caldera
• Therasia (Thirassia): The second largest island of the Santorini group

Santorini Tourism Office
84700 Thira, Santorini, Greece
Tel: +30 228 602 7199.
Website: www.gnto.gr

In Thira, shop for gold and silver jewellery, hand-blown glass, painted ceramics, leather goods, replicas of ancient Greek artworks, and contemporary paintings depicting the island. Buy local white wine and Vin Santo (dessert wine) direct from the wineries, tasting first before you make your choice. A cheap and cheerful memento for the bathroom is a pumice stone.

Greek cuisine is based on fresh, seasonal, Mediterranean ingredients, with the abundant use of olive oil. Popular main courses include simply prepared fresh seafood, plus charcoal-grilled meat and hearty stews.

The Mediterranean cruise season runs from late April to late October. Peak season in Greece is July to August, when all the main destinations are very hot and very crowded. Try to visit in May/June or September/October to avoid the crowds and enjoy milder weather.

Greece

GMT + 2.

Euro (€) = 100 cents.

Greek.

Cycladic islands, Greece.

13,400 (Santorini island).

Republic.

Greek Orthodox, with Muslim, Roman Catholic and Jewish minorities.

The Greeks are justly proud of their cultural heritage. The Greek Orthodox Church has a strong influence on society, especially in rural areas. Visitors are advised to dress modestly to enter churches - shoulders and legs should be covered. The throwing back of the head is a negative gesture. Dress is generally casual. Smoking is prohibited on public transport and in public buildings.

Tipping: 12 to 15% is usual.