Santorini, Greece
Santorini is arguably Greece’s most beautiful island and also the most photographed of all the Greek islands. The views and above all, the stunning sunsets at Oia (pronounced “Ia”) attracts thousands of tourists every year.
The town Oia is the most beautiful town on Santorini.
The island is also one of the most popular destination for people travelling on a honeymoon. The nightlife on the island is moderately busy in high summer and if you want to rub shoulders with the jet-set, you should certainly set off to Oia on the northwest coast.
Off to Santorini? Rub shoulders with the jet-set.
Santorini is a volcanic island and its dramatic scenery make the island ideal for groups of friends, couples and those who do not have great demands on golden beaches. The east coast is lined with black volcanic sand that stands in beautiful contrast to all the traditional sugar cube houses. The north of the island is a paradise for those who snorkel or dive, there is much to look at.
Southern Santorini offers a lot of small beaches with sandy bottom. The large beaches of Santorini offer all different kinds of water sports and many excursion boats. The Glass Bottom Boat is to recommend on Santorini, and the boats that travel to the tiny neighbouring island of Thirassia in the west.
Fira, the capital of Santorini
You will find Fira the capital of Santorini on the terraces towards the sea, here you are presented with wonderful views. This is where you will find the port of Skala Firon, which is easily accessed by steep stairs (600 steps) or by cable car. Fira is a pleasant town with cobblestone streets, pedestrian streets and narrow alleyways. You will also find a large square lined with cafés and many interesting shops to browse in. Fira is also known for all the jewellery shops and you are guaranteed to find something here.
<The sunset at Oia is amazing, something you will remember forever.
Oia
One of the most photographed Greek resorts is located up on the north west coast. There are not many residents remaining in the heart of the resort; it has mostly been transformed into boutiques, trendy cafés and restaurants. Many artists have chosen to settle here and in the narrow streets you will find lots of art galleries and shops selling beautiful art.
It is also here in Oia you should sit down to watch the sunset, the cafés are usually crowded until it’s time for the sun to slowly sink into the sea. Spontaneous applause is not uncommon and you get goose bumps from the spectacle. There is an interesting naval museum in Oia, which is worth a visit.
Facts about Santorini
Inhabitants: 10.000
Capital: Fira
Airport: Santorini Thira National Airport
Getting to Santorini
From Athinios port on the west coast you can take a boat to Piraeus. There are also ferries and boats from Santorini to all islands in the Cyclades, Crete and Skiathos.
Santorini - is waiting for you to be discovered.
Where to stay in Santorini
Oia
Oia offers you some of Greece’s top boutique hotels and Spa hotels. In Oia you will have everything you need within walking distance, there are plenty of fine restaurants and cafés in Oia. The shopping in Oia is certainly outstanding. The is definitely the place to be in Santorini.
Kamari
On the east coast of Santorini, you will find the island’s most popular tourist destination, Kamari with its long lava beaches with black sand and shingle. The resort has everything you need for an enjoyable holiday. There is a wide choice of cafés, restaurants and bars and in the evening, the promenade is filled with people who are out and stroll in the balmy night. It is also in Kamari you will find the best nightlife on the island.
Perivolos / Perissa
On the south east coast of Santorini, you will find these popular resorts. Here, you’ll find a long black lava beach with a nice board walk lined with restaurants. There is also a rich variety of shops and bars. Nightlife is not as hectic as in Kamari, but in high season expect great crowds and loud music.
Vlychada
To the south lies Vlychada which is a quiet place perfect if you are looking for solitude, and plan to read all those books you have not had time for yet. At the local fishing port you will find a lava beach and a few taverns. In Vlychada you will not find much nightlife, this place is for sun, sea and relaxation. Want to see more of the island? Take the local bus, rent a scooter or a car.
Sights in Santorini
One of the most photographed Greek villages is Oia up on the north west coast of Santorini. There are not many residents remaining in the heart of the resort, it has mostly been transformed into boutiques, trendy cafés and restaurants. Many artists have chosen to settle here and in the narrow streets you’ll find lots of art galleries and shops selling art.
This is also where you should sit down to watch the sunset, the cafés are usually crowded enough until it’s time for the sun to slowly sink into the sea. Spontaneous applause is not uncommon and you get goose bumps of the spectacle. There is an interesting naval museum in Oia, which is worth a visit.
Red beach in Santorini, well worth a visit.
Best beaches in Santorini
The most famous beaches of Santorini are Perissa, Kamari, Monolithos and Red Beach.
Perissa is located 15 km south east of Fira, and here you will find a lovely lava beach with many facilities and water sports.
Red Beach, this beach is a tourist attraction, many people come here just to look at the beach. A rock wall behind the beach consists of black and red volcanic rocks. The beach is not as soft as it looks, so I recommend to rent a deck chair. Red Beach is located 8 km south west of Fira.
Monolithos beach near Kamari is about 10 km south east of Fira. This is a nice beach and the beach is usually quiet.
Nightlife in Santorini
Kamari is the islands busiest tourist area, and it’s here you will find the best nightlife with plenty of pubs and clubs to keep you amused until sunrise. Perissa also offers hectic nightlife and of course the capital Fira. If you are looking for long nights in trendy cafés and wine bars, then Oia is the place to spend your evenings.
Shopping in Santorini
There are plenty of shops in Santorini, offering great gifts and souvenirs. Wherever you go in Santorini you will find plenty of opportunities for shopping. The traditional miniature Cycladic houses and windmills are a must to bring home as a souvenir. With so many art galleries, a painting or two will fit easily in the suitcase. And do not miss the wonderful jewellery shops that will tempt you. Remember, diamonds are a girls best friend.
You will find the best shopping in Oia.
Do not miss this when you visit Santorini
Near Fira lies the villages of Firostefani and Imerovigli high on a hill with spectacular views. Stop by and enjoy the view and eat lunch at one of the local taverns. Both villages have narrow winding streets where you can take many beautiful holiday photos.
Santorini’s archaeological museum is located in the capital, Fira.
Visit Oia, drink coffee in a trendy café and watch the sunset.
Did you know?
In the village Mess Aria near Kamari, you will find the island’s wine museum, a tour and wine tasting included in the admission ticket.
