The center of the mysterious legends, Santorini is a unique island from the very moment of its appearance. It was born because of the eruption of the volcano, which became one of the main reasons, why Santorini is considered the prototype of the myths about Atlantis. Now it is the direction of the dream for 2 million travelers annually.
Although the Cycladic archipelago of Greece includes many worthy islands, it was Santorini that became the visiting card of Cyclades and the whole country. Santorini is the trademark of Greece, its pride and magnet for millions wanderers, fancying the famous sunsets, curious about unraveling the secrets of Atlantis and touching the history of ancient Akrotiri.
The history of Santorini is closely interwoven with the history of the Minoan city of Akrotiri. This is the oldest settlement of the island, which was found almost untouched. Akrotiri rested for many centuries under a layer of volcanic ash - scientists believe that it was destroyed by the eruption of the volcano of Santorini. Akrotiri was opened for visiting a few years ago. Today, on the territory of his excavations, you can see the carefully planned layout of the buildings, frescoes, cobbled streets, ancient squares and warehouses. In addition, all the finds from Akrotiri are kept in the Museum of Ancient Firá, located in the city of Fira. In its collection are all sorts of vases, magnificent frescoes, ancient household items and the only golden figurine, which was found during excavations in Akrotiri. Here are the finds from Ancient Thira, the city-state that flourished during the Hellenistic period. The archaeological zone is not far from modern Fira.
In addition to the museum, Fira is famous for its many other interesting sights. The Catholic Cathedral of Santorini is worth visiting for, a Dominican monastery with Cycladic and Baroque architecture, an Orthodox cathedral with frescoes, archaeological and folklore museums, as well as the cultural center of Megaro Gizi. Something interesting always happens there, whether it be exhibitions or music festivals.
Among the most impressive places on Santorini there is also Scaros cliff in Imerovigli, which in itself is an amazing natural attraction. Moreover, the ruins of a Venetian fortress and many fragments of ancient buildings are situated there. Scaros is interesting for fanciers of history, and for those who "hunt" for beautiful views.
On Santorini, no one will pass by the most picturesque city of the island, Oia. Despite the earthquake of 1956, Oia quickly blossomed and turned into one of the most attractive destinations of the Mediterranean. Here you should visit the ruins of the once powerful Venetian fortress, the Maritime Museum and the Museum of Musical Instruments. You can go on an exciting sea tour to the island of Firassia, which lies directly opposite Oia.
The expression “Sleep on a volcano“ is the best description of Santorini. Today this volcano is a place that cannot be missed. The caldera of the volcano is a huge crater filled with seawater. In the middle of the caldera is an island of Nea Kameni, once it was one with Santorini. Excursions to the island are guaranteed to give an unforgettable experience.
Santorini is an island of charming beaches that are never empty. It's all about volcanic sand that makes the coast of the island really exotic. A red beach stands out, surrounded by red rocks and a transparent calm sea. White beach is famous for its white rocks and bizarre shape. Many beaches of Santorini are covered with black sand that makes it especially popular with guests of the island. You cannot miss Kamari, magnificent and developed in terms of infrastructure, the beach of Perissa and Agios Georgios, which offers a lot of water activities. By the way, some beaches of Santorini are firmly established in the ratings of the best beaches in the world.
Wines of Santorini deserve a special attention! Local winemaking brings to the island thousands of tourists, and all because of the unique taste of drinks made from grapes grown on volcanic soil. You can try Santorini wine in any restaurant. In addition, you can go straight to the winery to look at the production process, be acquainted with a variety of types of drinks, taste and buy what you like.
Many wineries of the island work more than half a century, without changing quality and traditions. The most popular and worthy visits are Santo Wines, Venetsanos, Estate Argyros, Canava Roussos, Boutari and, of course, the Koutsoyannopoulos wine museum, located underground. The museum will allow you to learn the history of winemaking on the island, since the XVII century.
Santorini is good from any point, whatever one may say. According to travelers, when you look upon it from the sea, it reminds “a cake with cream”. That is because of charming white houses, as if climbing to the tops. However, no less impressive views are opened even from the island. Santorini is known throughout the world for its sunsets. It is believed that the most beautiful views open from the city of Oia. Closer to the moment of sunset, crowds of people, wishing to enjoy the spectacle, gather on favorable viewing platforms. If you want a more convenient fling, you better should book a table in a restaurant near the sea in advance.
Excellent panoramic views are open from Imerovigli. It is much calmer, and you can choose a place without crowds. In addition, from the height of Imerovigli, not only the sunset, but also the entire western part of the coast is clearly visible. Beautiful views are also open from around the Faros lighthouse.
And yet the highest spot of Santorini is in Pyrgos. The best views of the whole island and the sea are open from it. In clear weather, you can see even the mountain peaks of Crete, located at a decent distance from Santorini. The hill is crowned by the monastery of the Prophet Elijah, which in itself is interesting and of historical value. Enjoying the views, you can be acquainted with the ancient relics of the monastery museum.
Even after visiting the iconic places of Santorini, there will be a lot of unexplored things that will make you return to this charming Cycladic island. You can go back for a rest in a luxury hotel or stay in a secluded place of Columbus, located away from the noisy resorts. You can do trekking, exploring Santorini on foot, or succumb to the charm of the traditional and atmospheric village of Emporio. There is no better place in the island for photo sessions and leisurely walks.
Santorini is a paradise for shoppers. You can find antique shops, jewelry boutiques, clothing stores and interior items on the island.
The best restaurants of the island offer gourmets to taste dishes with tomatoes or fava beans.
There is an airport on the island that accepts flights from Crete, Mykonos, Rhodes, Athens.
Port of Santorini is one of the most popular in Europe. In addition to large cruise liners, it takes regular ferries from Crete, the islands of the archipelago Cyclades and Athens.
