Under $100: Santorini, Greece

Santorini, Greece, one of the Cyclades islands in the Aegean Sea, is a magical Greek island enveloped in mystery and charm. The town is often referred to as the crown jewel. Santorini is one of the most popular destinations in the country and has quickly become one of the top honeymoon spots. Offering some of the most unique geographical characteristics, the island was formed by a series of catastrophic volcanic explosions over thousands of years.

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Explore Oia — more than likely what you imagine Greece to look like thanks to the Sisterhood of Traveling Pants. This beautiful village is perched on the northwest edge of the caldera. Oia is a maze of narrow streets with renovated cave houses and small squares. These whitewashed homes with blue shutters house thousands of tourists each year. Oia offers breathtaking views of one of the most iconic landscapes in all of Greece.
Plan for a beach day at Kamari Beach. The black-pebble beach is framed by the jagged cliffs of Mesa Vouno and Profitis Ilias Mountains and the crystalline waters of the Aegean. The seafront promenade features a plethora of dining and shopping options. Grab a bite to eat at Nichteri Restaurant for a sampling of authentic local cuisine in a charming setting steps from the beach. Order the vine leaves risotto with smoked salmon tartare, fennel and lime or the fried tomato balls, a Santorini specialty.

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Donkeys and Santorini go together like peanut butter and jelly. They are an integral part of the tourism scene, providing tourists rides up and down the steps leading down to the old harbor of Fira. There are hundreds of donkeys and mules lined up along the way for $5.25 per person one way.

With the beautiful weather Santorini offers, attending an outdoor movie screening is perfect in the evening. Kamari Village boasts one of the oldest open-air cinemas in the world with director’s chairs, cocktails and popcorn. Tickets to Open Air Cinema Kamari are $8.40.