On the volcanic island Santorini, holidaymakers pay a premium for a room with a breathtaking view of the sea-covered volcano crater and Nea Kameni islet (above). The islet emerged after a volcanic eruption about 300 years ago. It is still volcanically active today but is open to visitors for day tours by boat.
Famous five
Buildings on Greek islands are mainly painted in white because it keeps the interior cooler during the hot summers.
This "melted marshmallow" structure at Mykonos is the Paraportiani Church, which comprises a group of five small churches moulded together. Four of them form the base for the fifth one, which sits on top with the
domed roof. Its construction is said to have spanned from the 15th to the 17th century.
Blowing in the wind
The thatched-roof windmill is an icon on windy Mykonos. Looking like giant crayons with different "hairdos", the windmills were used in the past for grinding grain for export. No longer operational today, some have been restored and converted into homes and museums.
Change alley
The cubic houses and narrow stone pavements in Mykonos Town were originally designed to protect the residents from strong winds and pirates.
These buildings are now a favourite for shutterbugs and a shopping haven for tourists. It is fun to get "lost" here because there is always something quaint around the corner of the alleys.
Though all the buildings have whitewashed walls, the Greeks have an artistic flair in their choice of colours for doors, windows and balconies - as well as their laundry.
On the edge
Oia (pronounced "Ee-ah"), at the northern tip of Santorini, is the must-visit for those who love to watch the sunset.
The delightful maze of cliffhugging buildings resemble a fairy tale wonderland.
Many of the cliff-side homes here have part of their interiors burrowed into the rock. Today, most of these cave houses have been converted into villas or hotels.
