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Day Trip To Werfen Ice Caves | World’s Largest Ice Cave

OVERVIEW

The world’s biggest ice cave and the coolest (pun intended) place we visited in Austria!!! Day trip to Werfen ice caves(Eisriesenwelt) is one of the most popular attractions near Salzburg! The term ‘Ice Cave’ fascinated us so much that we had to check it off our bucket list. For curious people looking for the ‘not so mainstream’ things to do/see near Salzburg, this is it.

In this blog you will find almost all-important things you need to know if you plan on or are confused about visiting these caves.

GETTING THERE

We have listed down the ways to reach the entrance of Werfen Ice Cave(Eisriesenwelt) from Salzburg as doing this day trip from Salzburg is the most convenient in comparison to any other city in Austria. From the starting point, you will have to do a 20 min hike. Then take a cable car (optional) or continue trecking. Lastly, another 20 min hike to reach the ice cave

BY CAR

Getting to Werfen is a fairly easy 50 minute drive from Salzburg.

BY PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

Take the train from Salzburg to Werfen Bahnhof (40-50 mins) leaves about every hour (costs € 13 on spot and €9if you book in advance) . From Werfen Bahnhof you can take the shuttle bus that will take you straight to the main entrance of Werfen Ice Caves. Round trip bus fare: Adults: € 7, Kids: € 5.

BY PRIVATE TOUR

You can take a guided private/group tour from Salzburg to explore the largest ice cave in the world. There are plenty of tour providers to choose from. The private tour would cost you around € 650 for a maximum of 8 people and the group tour is more or less €100 per person.You may ask your hotel reception to help you with the provider with the most suitable pick up location from your accommodation.

WHAT TO EXPECT!

1. RIDE UP ON AUSTRIA’S STEEPEST GONDOLA LIFT

As mentioned above, once you buy your ticket, you will have to do a 20 min hike to get to a cable car. This is Austria’s steepest Gondola ride and view’s are to die for. You will have to pay a tad bit extra for the gondola ride, but it’s definitely worth it! You can choose to skip the cable car and hike instead.

2. GUIDED ICE CAVE TOUR

After the hike and gondola ride you will reach the entrance of the Werfen ice cave.

This 75-minute tour, which covers the first kilometre of the cave of a total of 42 kilometres, includes scientific information and historical facts about the cave.

You could choose to take the tour in English or German.

The caves can only be visited as part of guided tours offered from May to October.

On clear days you will be able to stand at the cave entrance and look out at a magnificent mountain panorama in front of you. Lucky for us we got to see this!

Check out the below video to get a look at what you are going to experience:

OTHER NEARBY ATTRACTIONS

If you have traveled all the way you might as well see what this place has to offer. There is a list of other things that you can see.

1. HAVE A MEAL AT OBAUER

One of the best places to eat in Werfen. The menu is designed by renowned chefs, Karl and Rudi Obauer. The food is either served inside this elegant restaurant or out in its garden where most of the fruit and herbs are grown. Signature dishes, such as delicious Werfen lamb and flaky trout strudel, are complemented by the finest Austrian wines, I’m hungry already! For additional information, please visit the official website.

2. BURG HOHENWERFEN CASTLE

This medieval rock castle overlooks the town of Werfen. It is surrounded by stunning mountains and offers breathtaking views. This castle dates back to the 11th century.

3. OEDLHAUS CAFE

This cafe is located next to Eisriesenwelt cable-car top station. The best thing about this cafe is the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. On a misty day, you will feel you are eating over the clouds.

4. GOLLING WATERFALLS

This waterfall is located in the town of Golling an der Salzach, which is just a 20 mins drive from Werfen. The view of this waterfall is just breathtaking. We highly recommend doing this.

You can also check Liechtenstein Gorge which is also very pretty.

TIPS

Start early so by the time you reach the cave it’s all cozy, cold, foggy and pleasant (weather wise) to hike up. Additionally, if you start early and finish your tour in time, you will be just in time for brunch at the cafes on the way and you will be safe from the sun during your trek down.

No photography or filming is allowed inside the cave (helps preserves the ice caves)

Even if you are sly and can manage to click pictures, you might want to carry your low light photography lenses because there is very little light inside the caves

Even when the temperature outside is over 80°F, it is still freezing in the ice cave(0°C/32°F)

Last cable car up the mountain is at 4:20 PM(in July, Aug.) or 3:20 PM (in May, June, Sept., Oct.)

Last Cave tour is 4:45 PM (in July, Aug.) or 3:45 PM (in May, June, Sept., Oct.)

Please remember that to complete a trip of Werfen Ice Cave. Apart from around 40 mins hike up the cliff each way, the cave has 1400 steps (700 steps up and 700 steps down). And once you enter the cave you can’t walk out unless it’s a medical emergency.

Cave Tour duration is approx. 1hr 15 mins. Language options are German and English.

The ticket costs are revised annually so we suggest you check the costs here.

Click here for a complete list of other day trips you may consider from Salzburg.

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The world’s biggest ice cave and the coolest (pun intended) place we visited in Austria!!! Day trip to Werfen ice caves(Eisriesenwelt) is one of the most popular attractions near Salzburg! The term ‘Ice Cave’ fascinated us so much that we had to check it off our bucket list. For curious people looking for the ‘not so mainstream’ things to do/see near Salzburg, this is it.

In this blog you will find almost all-important things you need to know if you plan on or are confused about visiting these caves.

[unwindword22]

The world’s biggest ice cave and the coolest (pun intended) place we visited in Austria!!! Day trip to Werfen ice caves(Eisriesenwelt) is one of the most popular attractions near Salzburg! The term ‘Ice Cave’ fascinated us so much that we had to check it off our bucket list. For curious people looking for the ‘not so mainstream’ things to do/see near Salzburg, this is it.

In this blog you will find almost all-important things you need to know if you plan on or are confused about visiting these caves.

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Best 8 Things To Do In Salzburg | Complete Guide

OVERVIEW

The charming city of Salzburg is one of the most famous not only in Austria, but on Europe. This compact city looks right out of a fairy tale book. This city has beautifully preserved all its historical sights and its culture dating back to the middle ages. The city has so much to offer, and yet you can easily walk from its one end to the other. Following is the list of best things to do in Salzburg.

LIST

1. FORTRESS HOHENSALZBURG(SALZBURG FORTRESS

This majestic fortress dominates the city of Salzburg. Dating back to 1077, this was one of the largest castles in Europe at the time.

For reaching the castle, you can either climb up the steep steps or you can take a convenient cable car.

The castle of consists of some rooms, museum, cafe and stunning viewpoint of Salzburg city. If you are into history, you will love the rooms and the museum. I will highly recommend having a drink or two at the cafe here. The views on offer is one of the best in Salzburg and truly stunning. Also the view of the Salzburg city from the castle is truly breathtaking.

The admission ticket costs around €16 including the furnacular and an audio guide. There are various kinds of tickets that you can choose from like skip the line (€33), fort visit and dinner (€64) and so on.

2. SALZBURG CATHEDRAL

This cathedral in the city center dates back to 776. The charming exterior and beautiful historic interiors of this Cathedral makes it a must do in Salzburg.

Cost: Entrance is free however you will be required to make a small donation as per your wish upon entry.

3. MOZART’S BIRTHPLACE AND MUSEUM

Salzburg is the hometown of Mozart(Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart). The building in Salzburg where he lived for 30 years is now converted into a museum. The museum exhibits things from Mozart’s life and shows how he was raised. It also exhibits the famous clavichord which was used to compose The Magic Flute.

Cost: 11 Euros for adults , 3.50 Euros for children (6 – 14 years)

4. STROLL DOWN GETREIDEGASSE

Getreidegasse is the most famous shopping street of Salzburg. This pretty street is marked with numerous guild signs of big and local brands. Overall the street is very eye pleasing. Apart from shopping it also has plenty of restaurants and cafes where you can sit and watch the crowd go by. If you are a Harry Potter fan, it has the feel of Diagon Alley in some weird way.

5. EXPLORE ST. PETER’S ABBEY AND CEMETERY

St. Peter’s Abbey is a beautiful and one of most important site in Salzburg. The interiors and paintings on the wall of the abbey are a treat to the eyes.

The abbey has catacombs which date back to 15 A.D and are literally carved into the Mönchsberg mountain. Inside this catacombs you will find chapels which date back to 1178.

This abbey is connected to a cemetery which houses some of the most richest and famous persons in Austrian history. The gravestones in this cemetery are so beautifully decorates with flowers that you will forget a moment that you are in a cemetery.

Cost: 2 Euros for Adults , 1.5 Euros for children(6 – 15 years)

6. THE MAIN SQUARES OF SALZBURG

There are several open squares in Salzburg and each of them have their own charm.

Mozartplatz is the smaller one and has a Mozart statue in the center.

Residenzplatz is the largest square and has a large fountain in the center.  This square is bordered by the Panorama Museum, Salzburg Cathedral, and the Residenz Gallery.

Kapitelplatz is also famous square with a huge chessboard in the center

University Square- Oversized pretzels are served in food trucks here.

7. MIRABELL PALACE AND GARDEN

Mirabell Garden is a pretty garden in the heart of Salzburg city. It is not that that great as the hype, but yeah you can definitely take a stroll. The connected Marble Hall is considered one of the best wedding halls in the world.

Cost: free

8. HANGAR 7

Hangar 7 is a beautifully designed building. It offers a museum which exhibits numerous aeronautical artifacts including Fomula 1 artifacts, several motorbike exhibits, amazing displays of aeroplanes and more.

Apart from the museum, this building also has a lot of cafes and restaurants, a Michelin Star restaurant. This place is fun day with the family.

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The charming city of Salzburg is one of the most famous not only in Austria, but on Europe. This compact city looks right out of a fairy tale book. This city has beautifully preserved all its historical sights and its culture dating back to the middle ages. The city has so much to offer, and yet you can easily walk from its one end to the other. Following is the list of best things to do in Salzburg.

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Top 13 Things To Do In And Around Athens

OVERVIEW The city capital city of Greece is dominated by 5th-century BC landmarks and the beautiful coastline on the south. This bustling and modern capital city is home to some of the world’s most relics dating back more than 3000 years. It offers numerous viewpoints an beaches to soak in the scenic beauty.  Moreover the city also serves as a fantastic base to visit the nearby beautiful Greek islands and many other beautiful places.

The following list mentions top things to do in Athens and the top day trips from it.

LIST

1. ACROPOLIS OF ATHENS

This is this most iconic site in Athens, and it is safe to say that it represents Athens. The architecture of this site is considered one the mankind’s greatest achievement. And this dates back 2500 years, simply fascinating! The history of this site is as intriguing as it can get. And then the view of the Athens city from there is simply cherry on the cake! The whole experience will take your breath away.

The site opens at 8 am. You could either buy a ticket just for Acropolis or you can buy a ticket that allows you to see this and the other major archaeological sites like the Theater of Herod Atticus, Theater of Dionysious and the Ancient Agora and even Keramiekos.

2. ACROPOLIS MUSEUM

This museum exhibits all the artifacts related to the huge history of Acropolis and Greece in general. All the artifacts are marked with their corresponding  detailed descriptions. We recommend taking a guided tour to understand the history better.

Being one of the visited spots in Athens, line-ups can be huge in peak seasons. Also the prices and working hours differ as per the summer and winter season. For all the updated details on hours, price and buying the e-ticket, please click here

You can also opt for an all inclusive ticket (turbo pass) which covers a lot of other places too . since the line-ups here can be huge, so we suggest you purchase your ticket ahead of time. Click here to buy the Turbo pass.

3. VOULIAGMENI LAKE

Distance: 25 KM’s, around 30 mins drive from city center

Vouliagmeni Lake is a hidden gem just on the Athenian Riviera. The waters of this thermal pool are rich in salts and minerals and has a temperature between 22 to 29 degrees all year round. The waters are continuously refilled both by the sea and the underground thermal springs which offers a natural and unique thermal spa experience. There is a cafe around the Lake shoreline which provides a great view of the lake. It is free for access. To go further and enter the main lake area you need to pay the entrance which is around  8 Euros on weekdays and 10 on weekends. Goes upto 15 Euros in peak seasonsaround the Lake’s shoreline. Sunbeds and umbrellas are included in the entrance cost.  Lifeguarding/medical services, Parking, Cabins, Lockers, Showers, Accessibility, Wi – Fi, Kids corner, etc. are available.

4. CAPE SOUNIO AND THE TEMPLE OF POSEIDON

The beautiful Cape Sounion is home to the Temple of Poseidon. As soon as you arrive, you will be able to see the ruins of this magnificent temple and the breathtaking view of the Aegean sea from it. The temple of dates back to the 5th Century B.C. If you want to understand the history better than we recommend taking a guided tour. We recommend coming here at sunset. Personally i felt the sunset from here was one of the best i have ever seen! Opening hours of the temple are generally from 9AM to sunset. Entrance fee is 8 Euro for adults. There is also a cafe located at the start of the 5 min hike to reach this place. The cafe offers a view of this Temple.

5. LYCABETTUS HILL

Lycabettus Hill is one of the topmost hills in city of Athens. To get to the top, you can either hike up a forested slope or there’s a convenient cable car to the top. The cable car generally operates from from 9:30 am to 2:30 a.m. and runs every half an hour. The cost for a round trip ticket is 7.5 Euros and 5 Euros for a one way ticket. As the operating hours and prices can change over time and season, please refer to the official website before going. The best offers one of the most magnificent views of the Athens city. Apart from the view, there are many other things to do up there.  There’s a gourmet Greek restaurant with probably the most scenic terrace in Athens, a beautiful whitewashed church called St George and obviously a café. There is also a open-air theater built on other part of the hill. Concerts are held here in summertime.

6. CINE PARIS

I am sure you have heard/experienced wine with a view. But have you ever heard of watching movie on the big screen with a view? Well, Cine Paris is the name. This is basically an open air theater where you can watch movie with the view of Acropolis. To get the best of this unique experience, we recommend going at Sunset. Since the theater is open air, it is open only in Summer time. For reservations, movie list and other details, visit the official website.

7. SHOP IN THE PLAKA

The Plaka is one of the most beautiful and iconic areas in Athens. It is located below the Acropolis. It offers pretty cobblestones streets with chic roadside cafes and shops selling jewelry, local ceramics and clothes. Most of area is a no traffic zone. Thus it is a great place to away from the city bustle and just relax. Cine Paris is also located here if you are in mood for watching a view with the Acropolis view.

8. SMASH THINGS AT LIMBA RAGE ROOM

Well this is not your touristy site. If you are feeling enraged and you want it out, or you are not and just want to do something unique, Limba Rage room is the place. The ticket includes package of plates, bottles, a tube TV and glasses. So you basically buy this stuff and smash them. As i said, it can be stress reliever or just the unique thing you did that day.

9. DRINK AT BRETTOS BAR

This bar is one of oldest distillery in Europe. It’s decoration with numerous colorful-lit bottles sets it apart.  This bar serves classic alcohol – all crafted using old family recipes. The place is an old-fashioned distillery bar with a great vibe. And this is also located in Plaka. I will recommend going here for a drink or two.

10. TAKE A DAY CRUISE TO 3 ISLANDS-HYDRA, POROS AND AEGINA

Athens has many nearby small boutique islands. Out of them, regular cruises are operated to the three picturesque islands of Hydra, Poros and Aegina. Hydra is beautiful island with a vibrant harbor. The harbor has numerous restaurants, cafes and contains the main vibe of the island.There are numerous view points where you can look at the whitewashed and red roof houses and the endless sea. The islands of Poros and Aegina very similar. The island is built around the main harbor which act as the center. Not only for a day tour, but you can also choose to spend a day or two on these islands if you are looking to spend some time on a boutique island. The approximate starting cost of this tour is around 90 Euros.

11. A DAY TRIP TO DELPHI

Delphi was of the most of the important site to the ancient Greeks. This site was the seat of the highest priest or their religious head. The ancient Greeks considered this site as the center of the world. If you are into history, you should definitely take a guided tour of Delphi.

12. DAY TRIP TO METEORA

Meteora is a huge pillar like rock formation housing various monasteries on the top of this rock. This rocks are located near the town of Kalambaka and Pindus Mountains in Greece. The most popular monastery to visit here is the Monastery of Great Meteoron and is known for its stunning red roof.

13. SAILING ALONG THE COAST

Sailing along the coast is Athens is a fantastic idea if love spending in the sea. You can take yacht ride along the coast of Athens and spend the day sunbathing and snorkeling in the Aegean sea. Such yacht rides are arranged by various operators. Generally lunch is also available on the yachts.

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The city capital city of Greece is dominated by 5th-century BC landmarks and the beautiful coastline on the south. This bustling and modern capital city is home to some of the world’s most relics dating back more than 3000 years. It offers numerous viewpoints an beaches to soak in the scenic beauty.  Moreover the city also serves as a fantastic base to visit the nearby beautiful Greek islands and many other beautiful places.

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13 Best Resorts near Mumbai for a Weekend Getaway

overview

Looking to unwind after a grueling week? Here we have listed of Best Resorts near Mumbai for a Weekend Getaway t. Rejuvenate yourself so that you can take life by the horns once again.

Note: There are a lot of ways to reach all these properties but we have mentioned the ones we think will be the most convenient.

List

1. U Tropicana Beach Resort, Alibaug

Why ?

Spread over 12 acres and just three kilometers from picturesque Kihim Beach. Tropically landscaped gardens and greenery allowing guests to forget about the worldly worries and bask in an atmosphere of ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation.

2. Anandvan Resort, Bhandardara

Why ?

High in the hills at 2800 ft., surrounded by wilderness and spectacular mountain scenery where guest can enjoy luxurious private cottages & villas, relish natural food & experience

3. Fort Jadhavgadh

Why ?

High in the hills at 2800 ft., surrounded by wilderness and spectacular mountain scenery where guest can enjoy luxurious private cottages & villas, relish natural food & experience.

- One of the best heritage getaways in Maharashtra Fort Jadhavgadh provides a glimpse into the Shivaji era.

- The resort is equipped with a poolside spa (definitely worth brownie points if you want to destress)

- Accommodation ranging from the Maharaja suite to Royal tents

- Unique activities like bullock cart rides, treks round the fort, martial art show to delight the traveller . Defiantly unmissable to the list of Best Resorts near Mumbai for a Weekend Getaway.

4. Upper Deck, Lonavala

Why ?

Away from the madding crowd, perched atop Lonavala’s highest point level on Tungarli Hills, it is a haven for the routine-weary.

5. Della Resorts and Villas, Lonavala

Why ?

- This one is for the adventure junkies. This one of a kind resort in the area and has amazing adventure sports ranging from bungee jumping, zorbing, dirt biking to horse rides and more and that is why you can’t afford to miss this one.

- We would rate it at #1 for families.

6. Amanzi Resort, Pavana Dam

Why ?

- Overlooking the sparkling waters of Pavana Dam, a luxury resort, AMANZI is a sanctuary of hushed repose.

- Located in Tikona , it’s the best place for trekking, kayaking and paragliding near Mumbai.

7. Dune Barr House – Verandah In The Forest, Matheran

Why ?

- This is one of the best heritage properties in Maharashtra. Everything from the architecture to the tasteful interiors of the rooms reminds us of the vintage era.

- Matheran is a no vehicle zone so it basically a peaceful paradise.

- The famous Charlotte Lake is just some steps away and is perfect for an evening walk.

8. Le Meridien Mahabaleshwar Resort & Spa

Why ?

- Set amidst 27-acres of pristine evergreen forests in Western Ghats, this five-star hotel offers a world of luxury unlike any other resort in Mahabaleshwar.

- This resort has private balconies in every room with incredible views, deep soaking tubs, sumptuous linens and impeccable amenities.

- Infinity pool overlooking the valley had to make it to the list of the Best Resorts near Mumbai for a Weekend Getaway.

9. Amby valley city

Why ?

A fusion of nature and human creation, designed to offer superior living spaces, this gated and secured destination is nestled amidst scenic surroundings of the mighty Sahyadris, and spans over 10,000 acres. A meticulously planned city with world-class infrastructure and facilities, Aamby Valley City offers everything one needs for premium living.

10. Hilton Shillim Estate Retreat & Spa

Why ?

- The best thing about this property is its location! It’s surrounded by mountains and valleys.

- This all villa property only serves organic food and has a variety of wellness indulgences related to spa treatments, yoga naturopathy, Ayurveda classes, Tai Chi, Vedanta and meditation.

- Wellness focused activities ranging from birdwatching, stargazing, pilates,cooking and much more

11. Beyond by Sula Vineyards, Nashik

Why ?

- The best winery in the area. Though there are others wineries in the area I will still suggest Sula because it has the best wine tasting tours and accommodation

- Enjoy the winemaking and tasting experience exclusively arranged just for you which it is complementary with your stay.

- Rooms are wine-themed with infinity pools overlooking the winyards. Imagine sipping wine in your infinity pool which gazing at the sun set over the Vineyards.

12. Atmantan Wellness Retreat, Mulshi

Why ?

- An award winning resort near Mumbai, the Atmantan Wellness Retreat is all about luxury for mind and soul.

- From meditation to yoga to amazing spa treatments, this resort is perfect for all those looking for an escape from the daily hustle.

- They offer lake facing guest rooms for those looking for tranquility.

- Special wellness focused Spa cuisine.

- Wellness focused packages including accommodation, food and treatments for specific concerns.

13. The Machan, Lonavala

Why ?

- A luxury eco-resort, perfect getaway to spend quality time with our loved ones in the purest of surroundings

- A range of unique tree houses, each with a different experience to choose from.

- Special ground based cabins are available for couples

- Plethora of outdoor activities like trekking, bird spotting, stargazing, cycling, visiting historical sites or “just be-ing”

- A great place to get off the grid and unwind in nature’s lap.

- This is my personal favourite, saved the Best Resort near Mumbai for a Weekend Getaway for the last.

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Looking to unwind after a grueling week? Here we have listed of Best Resorts near Mumbai for a Weekend Getaway t. Rejuvenate yourself so that you can take life by the horns once again.

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Famous for its pristine beaches and great nightlife, Mykonos is among the most popular Greek islands. Mykonos is not only for the party goers; it’s an island that offers gourmet food, cultural activities, and romantic holidays. It’s a great destination for solo travellers, gay travellers, couples, and families with many fun things to do.

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Santorini is the dreamy, romantic, drop-dead gorgeous bucket list location that better be on everyone’s list. We visited Santorini for our honeymoon (as cliché as we could be). We saw a few other Greek islands but hands down – Santorini is the winner! There are so many things to do in Santorini that you are bound to have a great time.

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8 Amazing Things To Do In And Around Mykonos

Famous for its pristine beaches and great nightlife, Mykonos is among the most popular Greek islands. Mykonos is not only for the party goers; it’s an island that offers gourmet food, cultural activities, and romantic holidays. It’s a great destination for solo travellers, gay travellers, couples, and families with many fun things to do.

Below are the most amazing things to do in and around Mykonos for you can do to have an unforgettable vacation in Mykonos.

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15 Unmissable Things To Do In Santorini

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https://www.unwind.world/europe/greece/santorini/15-unmissable-things-to-do-in-santorini-greece

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Things to do in santorini

Santorini is the dreamy, romantic, drop-dead gorgeous bucket list location that better be on everyone’s list. We visited Santorini for our honeymoon (as cliché as we could be). We saw a few other Greek islands but hands down – Santorini is the winner! There are so many things to do in Santorini that you are bound to have a great time.

The island is intimately small allowing visitors to easily explore every corner while enjoying the views of the breath-taking Aegean Sea. And by breath-taking, I mean – your jaw will be open in absolute amazement.

In this blog you will find almost all-important things you HAVE to do in Santorini.

Put on your comfy shoes and a photo-op-worthy outfit – we’re going to explore Santorini!

IMAGE CREDITS: ALEKSANDAR PASARIC ON PIXELS

LIST

1. TAKE A YACHT RIDE TO THE VOLCANIC ISLANDS

Sounds fancy, doesn’t it? Taking the yacht ride was one good decision and we highly recommend it.

You can sign up for a tour (there are too many options to choose from) or you can take a private boat and sail by yourself (taking a private boat will mean a deep hole in your pocket)

The tour generally takes you around the volcanic island where you can see an active volcano, swim in a hot spring, watch the Red Beach, Lighthouse,etc

This tour is available through various vendors with a variety of options like duration (4-8 hours), budget (ranging from 80-1400 Euros per person) and mood (romantic, party, adventure, etc). These rides happen in two shifts one is in the morning and one is for the sunset (personally the sunset slot is more romantic). Click here to know more

PHOTO BY PARTH LOHIA

2. WINE NOT?

Wine production in Santorini is an ancient tradition and it’s not a secret that the volcanic soil produces a unique taste of wine.

You can opt for a wine tour or get there yourself.

If you take the tour, your tour operator will take you around a couple of  different wineries and explain the history and the wine making process followed by wine tasting (honestly, most of these places are similar so going to any one or two winerys would suffice).

If you want to explore on your own ,which we recommend, you could go to Santo Wines and/or Venetsanos winery. They not only have great wine and winemaking tour but also breathtaking views. Click here to know more

IMAGE CREDITS: SANTO WINES, SANTORINI.

3. SANTORINI HELICOPTER TOUR

This is pretty close to unforgettable. A wonderful tour above Santorini, the volcano, the caldera, and all the villages perched along the cliff.

If you’re going to Mykonos you can also do a helicopter transfer between Santorini and Mykonos – which is fun, easy, and way faster than the ferry.

PHOTO BY ANDREAS NEXTVOYAGEPL ON UNSPLASH

4. JET SKI TOUR TO THE VOLCANO

An insanely fun and unique way of seeing the caldera.

There are different tours that go different places – all leave from Perivolos in the south of the island.

The shortest tour (“South Tour”) visits nearby Red Beach and White Beach and lasts about 90 minutes.

The medium-length (“Volcano Tour”, 140 minutes) goes all the way into the caldera and stops for a swim in the hot springs by the volcano.

The longest tour (“Extreme Volcano Tour”, 200 minutes) takes the volcano tour and adds Thirassia and Ammoudi Bay.

The tours that go into the caldera are pretty intense and the waves can be big.

There’s a motorboat with the tour the whole way so if someone needs a break they can switch to the boat and one of the staff will ride the jet ski.

IMAGE CREDITS: PIXELS

5. SANTORINI KAYAK TOUR

Wonderfully fun! The Morning Tour and Sunset Tour explore the south coast of Santorini (cool but you don’t get to see the caldera).

The Lighthouse Tour goes into the caldera and provides incredible views of the caldera cliffs.

The tour generally starts at Akrotiri Beach. Most tour operators provide pick up  and drop-off service from your accommodation.

PHOTO BY SERGIO SOUZA FROM PIXELS

6. WALK THE VOLCANO

The island in the middle of the caldera is Nea Kameni and that’s where you’ll find the island’s active volcano and the top point of interest in Santorini.

The crater is 130 meters up and takes about 20 minutes to walk.

Sulfur vents are found along the way.

The only way to get here is by doing a volcano boat tour or hiring a chartered boat.

PHOTO BY JIMMY TEOH FROM PEXELS

7. SWIM AT AMMOUDI BAY

One of the best swimming spots on Santorini is down the cliff from Oia at a spot just south of the Ammoudi port.

Walk or drive to Ammoudi Bay then take the path that leads south from the restaurants in the port (can’t miss it, there’s only one way to go).

It’s a 5 minute walk to a small island (Agios Nikolaos) that you can swim out to. Then jump from the ledge (if you want).

PHOTO BY ELENA ZHURAVLEVA FROM PEXELS

8. SWIM IN THE HOT SPRINGS

Jump from the boat into the cold water of the caldera then swim towards the warm water of the volcanic hot springs, talk about adventure and having fun!

It never gets hot but it’s warm enough to never feel the need to get out. The only way to get to the hot springs is by doing a boat tour.

IMAGE CREDITS: UNKNOWN

9. RED BEACH

Just down the road from the Akrotiri ruins, Red Beach is the most spectacular and picturesque of any Santorini beach.

From the bus stop or car park it’s about a 15 minute walk to the beach. (Sometimes closed due to the risk from falling rock, please check before you go and proceed at your own risk.)

PHOTO BY ZORAN ZONDE STOJANOVSKI ON UNSPLASH

10. DRIVE OR RIDE AROUND THE ISLAND.

We drove around the entire island, from one end to the other TWICE.

We stopped at a few beaches, ate lunch, took a million photos and ended the day in Oia to watch the sunset.

It’s such a liberating feeling to do whatever you want and, in another country, serious double whammy of freedom. No tour guides, no waiting on public transportation. Talk about an amazing moment

If you do nothing else but this while visiting Santorini, you’ll still have the best damn time ever. This is such a must-do, can’t say it enough.

Tips:

Before hunting down a place to rent your car, ask your hotel if they can help. This will save lots of time & trouble.

The average cost is 70 euros for an entire day rental and can go up to 200 euros if you like something fancier. We paid around 90 euros including fuel for a convertible Mini Cooper.

If you plan on riding after sunset, pack a jacket for the ride home.

Bring a camera, what you’re about to see will blow your mind.

PHOTO BY SANTORINI HOTELS ON PINTEREST

11. STAY AT A CAVE HOTEL ON THE CALDERA

Throughout all my travels, budgeting is always necessary. So we generally don’t spend too much on accommodation, because you won’t really be using the hotel facilities if you are roaming around the entire day.  But we must admit, Santorini is such an exception.We agreed that staying in a beautiful hotel with the postcard view of Santorini was a necessity.

We chose Aqua Luxury Suites & couldn’t be happier. The hotel is truly paradise & set the tone for our entire experience. The staff was lovely, the rooms were clean & just enough space, and the VIEW was out of this world! Also, they serve you breakfast just outside your room on a private dining table with a view to die for. For more details about where to stay in Santorini, please click here

IMAGE CREDITS: UNKNOWN

12. STAY IN A WINDMILL

Yes, you heard that right. You can stay on this windmill. It’s the Windmills Suite at Golden Sunset Villas in Oia and it’s pretty incredible.

It sits at the tip of Oia where everyone gathers to watch the sunset – but you have this huge patio with incredible views all to yourself (it can easily fit 20 people if you had friends staying nearby and wanted to host a sunset party).

The bad news: there’s only one true windmill suite in Santorini. – So book early.

IMAGE CREDITS: PIXYBAY

13.WATCH THE SUNSET FROM OIA & FIRA

This is a requirement when traveling to Santorini – no ifs no buts about it.

Both locations are prime time sunset-watching so pick your poison. We preferred Fira over Oia because you can see the amazing caldera on your right and a  beautiful volcano in front of you at the same time also you won’t have to pay for overpriced cocktails or fight for a space to watch the sunset in Fira which is definitely the case in Oia. Grab a drink or have a meal while you enjoy the sun go down.

PHOTO BY YU SIANG TEO ON UNSPLASH

14. GREEK FOOD

This goes without saying, right? No matter where you’re traveling to, make it a high priority to seeking out delicious and authentic food.

Most meals are filled with fresh seafood, fresh vegetables, olives, and homemade hummus. Don’t fear, it’s not all healthy though! There are delicious and not so healthy options – like Saganaki and Moussaka (which I highly recommend ordering at every meal).

Remember most places consider seafood as a vegetarian so please be specific about what you want.

Our top recommendation has to be Lucky’s. Pito Gyros in Oia is also good. Please click here to know more about where to eat in Santorini.

PHOTO BY LOUIS HANSEL ON UNSPLASH

15. EXPLORE ON FOOT!

Last but certainly not least, please relax and disconnect from the day to day.two reasons why you must do this are first, you have paid a considerable amount on your amazing caldera accommodation and secondly, there is no better way of exploring and place than on foot. When on foot, you can explore the tiny lanes, and pick up some cute souvenirs and not forget the beautiful pictures you will be able to click!

Enjoy each and every moment of the trip because it’s so incredibly special and breath-taking.

If you find yourself in Santorini or anywhere for that matter, be so thankful & grateful for that opportunity (some people will never get it).

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Best Budget Travel Destinations For 2020

If you are planning to explore the world in 2020, the good news is that you don’t need to be rich. There are plenty of budget destinations that you can check out in order to have some relaxing time with your loved one. Finding a location is not difficult if you have the right information.

Here are 20 locations where you can travel in 2020 on a low budget!

P.S. Keep in mind the budgets listed here are only suggestions. It always depends on how you travel! The suggested budgets are per person per day and don’t include one-off expenses like flights or travel insurance.

Backpacker Budget: this assumes you’ll stay in hostel dorms or share rooms in cheap guesthouses. You’ll eat mostly local food in cafes/eateries and use local transportation, and you avoid expensive private tours.

Mid-range budget: this assumes you’ll stay in nicer B&Bs, local guesthouses or budget hotels, regularly take day tours and other organized activities, and have sit-down meals in a decent restaurant at least once a day.

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We're glad to exhibit the Best Travel and cheap holiday destinations .The locales we joyfully come back to, team up with, and suggest over and over hallstatt day trip , ice caves and many more.