The Towns on Santorini:
Fira (Thira):
Fira, the capital of Santorini, is a vibrant and bustling town located on the western edge of the island. Perched on the caldera cliffs, Fira offers breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea and the volcanic caldera. It's a hub of activity with narrow streets, boutique shops, art galleries, cafes, restaurants, and nightlife. Fira is also home to cultural attractions like the Archaeological Museum and the Megaro Gyzi Cultural Center.
Oia (Ia):
Oia, situated on the northern tip of Santorini, is famous for its iconic blue-domed churches, charming narrow pathways, and incredible sunset views. This picturesque town is a haven for artists, photographers, and romantics. It boasts luxurious accommodations, boutique shops, art galleries, and some of the island's finest restaurants. Oia's captivating ambiance and breathtaking views make it a must-visit destination.
Imerovigli:
Perched between Fira and Oia, Imerovigli is often referred to as the "balcony to the Aegean." This peaceful town offers stunning caldera views and a more relaxed atmosphere compared to its neighboring towns. Imerovigli is known for its luxury hotels, spa resorts, and quieter surroundings. The Skaros Rock, a historic site and a hiking destination, is a notable attraction in the area.
Kamari:
On the southeastern coast of the island, Kamari boasts a unique black sand beach. It's a lively resort town with a long promenade lined with tavernas, restaurants, bars, and shops. Kamari offers a more affordable beachfront experience compared to the caldera towns. The ancient site of Ancient Thira, located nearby on a hilltop, is a popular attraction for history enthusiasts.
Perissa and Perivolos:
Neighboring Kamari, Perissa and Perivolos also feature black sand beaches and a more relaxed beachfront atmosphere. These towns offer a range of accommodations, watersports activities, beach bars, and restaurants. Water lovers and beachgoers will find plenty to enjoy in these areas.
Pyrgos:
Nestled inland, Pyrgos is a charming village that provides a glimpse into traditional Santorinian life. It features narrow winding streets, white-washed buildings, and a Venetian castle at its summit. Pyrgos offers panoramic views of the island and the caldera and is known for its tranquility and authenticity.
Each of these main towns on Santorini has its own unique charm and attractions, contributing to the diverse experiences the island has to offer. Whether you're seeking romance, stunning views, vibrant nightlife, or a peaceful escape, Santorini's towns cater to a variety of preferences.
SANTORINI LODGING
Lodging options on Santorini offer a diverse range of experiences, catering to different preferences, budgets, and travel styles. From luxurious hotels with stunning caldera views to charming guesthouses in traditional villages, Santorini provides accommodations that complement the island's beauty and unique ambiance. Here are some types of lodging you can find on Santorini:
Luxury Resorts:
Santorini is renowned for its luxurious resorts perched on the caldera cliffs, offering breathtaking views of the sea and the volcano. These high-end accommodations often include private pools, spa facilities, gourmet restaurants, and personalized services, creating a lavish and unforgettable stay.
Grace Santorini (Imerovigli) Grace Hotel Santorini is a luxurious oasis perched on the iconic caldera cliffs, offering unparalleled views of the Aegean Sea and the volcanic landscape. With its minimalist Cycladic architecture, infinity pools, and elegant suites, Grace Hotel embodies the essence of sophistication and relaxation.
Katikies Santorini (Oia) With its whitewashed elegance, infinity pools, and impeccable attention to detail, Katikies offers an enchanting blend of timeless charm and modern indulgence for a truly exceptional Santorini experience. This 5 star property is considered the best hotel in Oia.
Andronis Luxury Suites (Oia) Andronis Luxury Suites epitomizes opulence and serenity, a collection of lavish accommodations carved into the cliffs of Oia, Santorini. Balancing minimalist design with top-tier amenities, including private pools and jacuzzis, the resort is a sanctuary of exclusivity, offering breathtaking caldera views and an impeccable blend of luxury and tranquility.
Boutique Hotels:
Boutique hotels on the island combine comfort, style, and personalized attention. They often feature unique designs, intimate atmospheres, and stunning locations. Many boutique hotels provide direct access to the caldera views, making them perfect for a romantic getaway.
Cosmopolitan Suites Located in the heart of Fira, the Cosmopolitan Suites features ten elegant suites and an infinity pool perched above the Caldera.
Aria Suites and Villas is a captivating haven nestled in the heart of Fira, Santorini, offering six suites that are a blend of elegance and comfort.
Athina Luxury Suites presents a haven of luxury and tranquility poised on the caldera cliffs of Santorini. Featuring a collection of opulent suites, each with its own unique design and breathtaking sea views.
Traditional Villas:
Traditional villas offer a taste of authentic Santorinian living. These charming accommodations are typically designed with Cycladic architecture, white-washed walls, and blue domes. Villas often come equipped with kitchens, making them suitable for families or travelers who prefer a more independent experience.
Chelidonia Traditional Villas (Oia)- Chelidonia Traditional Villas exude Cycladic charm and offer traditional Santorini style villas with a stunning view of the Caldera.
Santorini Villas is located in the quiet village of Vourvoulos on the north east part of Santorini. Nestled within this collection are ten enchanting traditional houses.
Ventus Paradiso Villa (Imerovigli) is an exquisite sanctuary perched atop the cliffs of Santorini, offering a secluded escape with stunning caldera views. With its elegant design, private infinity pool, and personalized service, these villas provide a luxurious haven where guests can unwind amidst the beauty of the Aegean landscape.
Cave Houses:
Some accommodations on Santorini are carved into the volcanic cliffs, creating cozy cave houses that blend seamlessly with the natural landscape. These cave dwellings offer a unique and atmospheric stay, providing a sense of history and tranquility.
Santorini Paradise Cave Houses - Located near the castle of Oia, Santorini Paradise Cave Houses is a captivating retreat tucked into the volcanic cliffs of Santorini, offering a unique stay in cave-like accommodations.
Cocoon Suites - Carved out of the spectacular volcanic landscape of Santorini, these nine exclusive chic cave suites are a sanctuary for the senses. Enjoy stunning and panoramic views of the Caldera, private hot tubs or plunge pools, in room candle light dinners and a luxurious break with pampering.
Divine Cave Experience, Located in Imerovigli, offers a whimsical adults only cave resort. A cocooning sanctuary made up of underground caves that will captivate your senses.
Beachfront Hotels:
If you prefer staying close to the sea, Santorini also offers a variety of beachfront hotels. Areas like Kamari and Perissa have accommodations that provide easy access to the island's famous black sand beaches.
Istoria Hotel is located on Perivolos Beach and features twelve architecturally unique suites. Each Suite boasts a private terrace and many have outdoor hot tubs and private pools.
Niki Beach Resort and Spa is a lavish oasis nestled on Monolithos Beach. This upscale resort exudes contemporary luxury, offering elegant suites, world-class dining, and a vibrant beach club atmosphere.
Aqua Blue Hotel is set right on Perissa Beach. It features three outdoor pools, and a private beach with sun beds and umbrellas.
Cavo Bianco located in Kamari, on Santorini's eastern coast. It's a two-minute walk to the town's main shops and restaurants. The Cycladic-style Cavo Bianco Boutique Hotel & Spa features a swimming pool, a sun terrace with sun loungers and a traditional restaurant.
Budget-Friendly Options:
While Santorini is known for its luxurious offerings, there are budget-friendly lodging options available as well. Hostels, guesthouses, and budget hotels can be found in different parts of the island, providing a more economical way to experience Santorini's beauty.
Costa Marina Villas is a charming family run guest house located 200 meters from the central square of Fira. They offer double, triple and quadruple rooms that are comfortable and traditionally decorated.
Aspa Villas are located in the picturesque village of Oia. This seven room family run hotel is cozy with a mix of studios and traditional cave style apartments. They offer a seasonal outdoor pools and sun terrace with sunset views of the Caldera,
Kiklamino Sunset Studios is a charming boutique style accommodation located 2650 feet from the center of Oia. Each suite features, individually controlled air conditioning, a kitchenette, and a private balcony with a stunning sunset view.
Stelio’s Place is located in Perissa and about a 5 minute walk to the famous Perrisa black sand beach. A family run business, it features comfortable and modern rooms with air conditioning, private terraces, and an outdoor pool with sun beds.
Private Rentals:
With the rise of platforms like Airbnb, private rentals, including apartments and houses, have become popular lodging choices. These options can offer a more local experience and the flexibility of self-catering.
Regardless of your lodging choice, keep in mind that Santorini is a highly sought-after destination, especially during the peak tourist seasons. Booking your accommodation well in advance is advisable to secure your preferred choice and ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay on this breathtaking Greek island. A great site to find accommodations is booking.com
Things To Do on Santorini
A boat tour of the caldera is an absolute must-do experience when visiting Santorini. The Caldera, a volcanic crater formed by a massive volcanic eruption, is the defining geological feature of the island.
There are various types of boat tours available, catering to different preferences and budgets. You can opt for a group tour on a larger vessel or a more intimate experience on a smaller sailing yacht or catamaran. Sunset boat tours are particularly popular, allowing you to witness the sun setting behind the Santorini Caldera, painting the sky with hues of orange, pink, and purple. This is a magical experience and a great way to capture stunning photographs.
Many boat tours include stops at the volcanic island of Thirassia, where you can explore, swim, and enjoy a meal at local tavernas. Another highlight is the chance to visit the hot springs near the volcano, where you can take a dip in the warm mineral-rich waters believed to have therapeutic properties.
Walk from Fira to Oia - The hike from Fira to Oia offers a captivating journey through the picturesque landscapes and iconic towns of Santorini. This approximately 10-kilometer trail winds along the Caldera cliffs, treating hikers to breathtaking panoramic views of the Aegean Sea, the volcanic islands, and the charming villages perched on the edge. Passing through Firostefani and Imerovigli, the route unveils the island's architectural beauty and cultural charm.
The hike combines moments of tranquility with bursts of awe as you walk amidst the unique white-washed buildings and blue-domed churches that define Santorini's allure. The reward of reaching Oia, renowned for its unparalleled sunsets and romantic ambiance, makes this hike a memorable adventure filled with both natural wonders and cultural discovery. The trail is under 10 km and takes 2-4 hours. Start at the square beside Hotel Atlantis in Fira.
The Three Bells of Fira, is an iconic and picturesque spot located on the island of Santorini, Greece. This popular landmark is situated in the village of Firostefani, which is just a short walk from the main town of Fira. The Three Bells are a symbol of Santorini's unique charm and captivating beauty.
The Three Bells of Fira have become an emblematic symbol of Santorini, often featured in travel brochures, postcards, and social media. The combination of the blue domes against the backdrop of the Caldera creates an incredibly photogenic scene that draws visitors and photographers from around the world.
As one can imagine, due to its exceptional sunset views and iconic appeal, the area around the Three Bells of Fira can become quite crowded during peak tourist seasons. It's recommended to arrive early to secure a good spot for sunset viewing and to enjoy the atmosphere before it gets too busy.
Wine tasting in Santorini is a sensory journey that immerses you in the island's rich viticultural heritage and distinct terroir. Renowned for its unique vineyards cultivated in volcanic soil, the island produces exquisite wines with character and depth. As you explore the local wineries, you'll savor the delightful nuances of Assyrtiko, Athiri, and Aidani grapes, among others, in white, red, and rosé varieties. A tour can easily be booked through Tripadvisor or Viator. This is a great one that includes a cooking class. https://santorinitours.com/wine-food-lovers.html. Santo Winery is the most popular winery and is easily accessed by bus. Direct busses from Fira will drop you off just outside the winery.
Visit a beach - Santorini is known for its unique beaches that stand out due to their dramatic landscapes and volcanic origins. While you won't find long stretches of sandy shores like in some other destinations, the island's beaches offer a different kind of beauty. They are mostly composed of dark grainy sand and can be extremely hot mid-day. It is recommend that you wear water shoes or. sandals on the beaches. Besides the beaches located at Perissa, Perivolas, and Kamari here are some notable beaches you can explore on Santorini:
Agios Georgios Beach: Situated near the charming village of Perivolos, this beach boasts a mix of black sand and pebbles. It’s relatively quieter compared to the more bustling Perissa and Kamari beaches, making it a good choice for those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere.
Monolithos Beach: Is located a few kilometer north of Kamari. This family-friendly beach is characterized by its dark sand and shallow waters. It's a great option for families with children due to its calm sea and the playground area located nearby.
Red Beach (Kokkini Paralia): Famous for its rust-red cliffs and unique landscape, Red Beach is one of the most iconic spots on Santorini. Accessible mainly by boat, the beach's red volcanic sands and crystal-clear waters create a truly mesmerizing scene. There is a trail from the parking lot that you can take to the beach. There are signs stating that the trail is closed due to falling rocks and possible landslides. Nevertheless, many people take the path daily. You will have to make the decision if you want to take the path.
White Beach: Located near the Red Beach, White Beach is another distinctive spot. It is named after the striking white cliffs that surround it. While the beach itself is pebbly and relatively small, it can be reached by boat, and the snorkeling opportunities in the crystal-clear waters are exceptional.
Vlychada Beach: Vlychada is known for its lunar-like landscape, with unique rock formations , coarse black sand, and cliffs that have been shaped by volcanic activity. The beach has a tranquil atmosphere and offers sunbeds and umbrellas, as well as a few beachfront restaurants.
Ammoudi Bay boasts a small pebble beach and a rocky coastline. The clear turquoise waters are perfect for swimming and cooling off during hot summer days. Adventurous visitors can also find spots to cliff jump into the sea. Snorkeling enthusiasts will appreciate the underwater beauty and marine life around the bay. Located just below the town of Oia, you can either take a scenic walk down a steep flight of stairs from Oia or choose to drive down the winding road that leads to the bay.
The seafood tavernas lining the bay are a major highlight of Ammoudi. These waterfront restaurants offer a selection of freshly caught fish, seafood dishes, and local cuisine. Dining at one of these tavernas is a culinary experience that pairs delicious food with the serene ambiance of the bay. Tables are often situated right by the water's edge, allowing you to enjoy your meal with views of the sea
One of the most popular fish tavernas in this area is the Amoudi Fish Tavern. Offering a delightful dining experience by the water's edge, the tavern's menu boasts a fresh and delectable array of seafood dishes that perfectly complement the tranquil ambiance of the bay. To go Cliff Jumping walk along the waterfront promenade where the seafood tavernas are located. Continue along the path bordering the water. After 5 - 10 minutes you will come to a rocky bay just across from a small island with a chapel on it. This is where you swim out to the island and find a stone ledge to jump from.
Go Shopping! Shopping in Santorini is a delightful experience that blends traditional craftsmanship with modern fashion and art. From the iconic caldera towns to the charming village boutiques, you'll find a variety of shopping opportunities to explore. The island is known for its handcrafted jewelry, including intricate gold and silver pieces adorned with gemstones. Local artisans create beautiful ceramics, pottery, and hand-painted items inspired by the Aegean landscapes. Fashion boutiques offer a mix of elegant resort wear, beachwear, and accessories that capture the island's relaxed chic vibe. Art galleries showcase local artists' works, and souvenir shops offer unique Santorini mementos, from wine to skincare products made with local ingredients. Whether you're seeking authentic handicrafts, stylish finds, or artistic treasures, Santorini's shopping scene offers a diverse range of treasures to discover and bring back home.
One of our favorite shops was a glass art shop called "Santorini Art Glass. " Here we were fortunate to meet Margaret , the artist. and Jordan her husband. Margarets artwork was lovely and Jordan was so much fun helping us decide on the perfect piece of glass art for our home. They wrapped our piece carefully and shipped it back to the states for us. We were delighted when it arrived! If you are looking for art, I highly recommend visiting Margaret and Jordans shop. You will enter as a guest and leave as family!
Ancient Thira is an archaeological site that holds historical significance. The site contains ruins dating back to various civilizations, including the Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine periods. The site features various well-preserved ruins, including houses, temples, a theater, and a gymnasium. These ruins offer a glimpse into daily life, architecture, and cultural practices of the people who once inhabited the area. Ancient Thira is open every day 8:30 AM - 2:30 PM every day EXCEPT Monday. Allow a couple hours. Best way to get there is the bus from Kamari
Akrotiri is a captivating archaelogical site that provides a fascinating glimpse into the prehistoric past and the rich history of the Aegean regions an ancient Minoan settlement. Akrotiri was a thriving Bronze Age settlement that existed during the Minoan civilization, which was one of the most advanced and influential cultures of its time. The settlement flourished from approximately the 17th century BCE until a volcanic eruption occurred around 1620 BCE. This eruption is believed to be one of the largest volcanic events in recorded history and led to the collapse of the Minoan civilization on Santorini.
The remarkable aspect of Akrotiri is its exceptional preservation. The volcanic eruption covered the settlement in ash and pumice, effectively protecting it from the elements and preserving structures, frescoes, artifacts, and even perishable items like furniture. The site was buried under several meters of volcanic material until its rediscovery in the late 1960’s.
The volcanic explosion that ultimately led to the abandonment of Akrotiri is believed to have contributed to the legend of Atlantis, a mythical island civilization often referenced in ancient texts. While there's no concrete evidence connecting Akrotiri to the Atlantis legend, the catastrophic eruption and its aftermath likely had a profound impact on the local culture and surrounding regions.
A few restaurants we enjoyed...
Cacio e Pepe: A unique Santorini experience. Cacio e Pepe is an Italian restaurant, based on original recipes of traditional Italian cuisine. It is considered to be the best Italian on the Island. https://cacioepepe.gr/
Metaxi Mas: Metaxi Mas is a Greek restaurant (Cretan and Santorinian) in Exo Gonia, a small village in south central Santorini. Unlike many villages on the island, Exo Gonia remains largely untouched by tourism. With fewer restaurants and limited accommodations, the village maintains its traditional feel. Many call it the best restaurant on the island. As this is a very small restaurant most of the seating is outside. You will want to make reservations and preferrably on a warm day or sunny day. https://www.santorini-metaximas.gr/
Candouni: Located Oia, Candouni offers a quintessential dining experience. With a jasmine shaded garden and tables that are candle-lit at night, Candouni offers a charming and romantic atmosphere. https://www.candounirestaurantbar.gr/
Parea Tavern: Situated in the centermost part of Fira Town, against a backdrop of dazzling whitewashed structures and exhilarating views of the Aegean Sea. Parea Tavern offers mouthwatering greek and mediterarrean cuisine. This is a very popular restaurant and you will want to make reservations. This was one of our favorites!! https://parearestaurant.gr/
Mama Thira Tavern is a Greek restaurant in the small town of Firostefani. While we did not eat here, we wandered upon while walking from Fira to Oia. It is a quaint little restaurant specializing in greek and seafood cuisine. Carved on a cliffside above the caldera, the restaurant offers great view to the sunset. https://www.mamathira.com/
Kaliya Reimagined Food and Drinks is absolutely beautiful with stunning pink bougainvillea against the white washed walls. The views over the caldera are breathtaking and the food is just as wonderful. Kayliya is a wonderful place to have a romantic dinner or a drink. Reservations for the balcony are recommended. https://www.sevenrooms.com/reservations/kaliyasantorini
Boasting the most spectacular panoramic caldera view, Francos is one of the oldest music bars in Fira. It is fun to stop here have a drink and listen to the music as the sun sets over the caldera. Or finish your evening here! https://francosbar.gr/
If you are looking for a great place to have a late night drink we loved Kira Thira Jazz Bar! Located in the heart of Fira we enjoyed a couple evening here!
For some amazing pastries and coffee we loved Zotos Cafe...
Lucky's Souvlakis is known for the best Gyros in Fira. Located just around the corner from the main bus station, Lucky's extremely popular for its cheap and delicous gyros. There will usually be a line, but it is worth the wait!! https://www.facebook.com/pages/Lucky's%20Souvlaki/218527231508121/
Whatever you decide to do or wherever you eat, I am sure you will have a wonderfu time exploring Santorini!!
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