Santorini

Whitewashed villages spill down volcanic cliffs above one of the most dramatic seascapes in the world. Days are for swimming coves and tasting crisp Assyrtiko at clifftop wineries; evenings are for watching the sun sink into the caldera.

I choose between Oia, Imerovigli and quieter Pyrgos depending on how lively you like it, book a private catamaran day around the caldera, and time dinners for the best light. Santorini pairs beautifully with Milos, Paros or a few days in Athens.

May, June and September