Situated in the south of the Aegean roughly 200 km of Greece's mainland lies one of the most popular holiday destinations world wide - the magnificent island of Santorini. Santorini is part of the Cyclades Islands and is a 'half-moon' shape in result of the extreme volcanic eruption which transpired in the 17th century. The volcano of Santorini currently remains active and irregular eruptions have still taken place throughout the past centuries. The volcano is one of the islands most iconic must sees therefore daily excursions are departing from the Old port of Fira frequently. Santorini is most definitely unique and stands out from the rest of the Greek islands due to its staggering architecture consisting of villages and towns built directly on the edge of the caldera.

These attractive villages stand out for their golden sugar like houses, narrow cobbled pathways, the pleasant churches and of course the jaw-dropping, unobstructed sea views. The never ending beauty and magic of this island has moved many writers and film producers who frequently pick this island over and over again for featuring in their films. The island is home to some of the worlds best beaches, numerous archaeological sites and exquisite countryside wineries.

"Santorini - A Little Piece of Heaven!"

The capital of Santorini better known as Fira is hands down the largest and most cosmopolitan region of the island. Situated on the west coast and face to face with the volcano, Fira is a mixture of natural elegance and beauty, high-quality shops, atmospheric nightlife and a powerful sense of culture and history. One thing that makes not only Fira but anywhere on the island so mesmerizing is the famous Caldera view which leaves her tourist and locals speechless at any given time of the day. Fira enjoys an array of exquisite restaurants, traditional tavernas, relaxing cafes, buzzy bars and open roof bars where one can dance through the night overlooking the dramatic views of glistening lights scattered across the Calera.

Things To Do and See in Santorini

The active volcano of Santorini has become one of the most popular landmarks to visit. Daily excursions are taking place frequently and consists of taking passengers onto the volcano to explore the hard black lava rock whilst slowly climbing the crater to enjoy the magnificent panoramic views both into the crater and across to Santorini. This is most definitely one to add to the must do list!

Akrotiri Minoan

The ancient archaeological site of Akrotiri is southerly located and draws in hundreds of tourists year after year to get a glimpse of the historic treasures that Santorini holds. After undergoing numerous excavations archaeologists have come to conclusion that the town was originally constructed around 4,500 B.C. but was destroyed by one of the islands dramatic earthquakes in the early 17th century B.C. Soon afterwards a new town was constructed, however this was again demolished but yet another volcanic explosion one century later. Today Akrotiri is protected by a bio-climatic roof and pathways have been suspended above what remains allowing visitors the freedom to walk across the buildings. Akrotiri is considered to be one of the most iconic attractions of the island therefore it is highly recommended to visit.

The ancient city 'Thera' is situated between the well-known beaches of Karmari and Perissa, directly ontop of a jagged hilltop roughly 350 m high on Messa Vouno mountain. This ancient city is believed to have been named after the mythical leader of the island 'Theras' and was inhabited by the Dorians from the 9th century B.C all the way up until 762 AD. All of the buildings were built using limestone of the mountain itself and comprised of long streets full of striking buildings. Today one can take a tour of the ancient city and get an insight of the ancient past times whilst having an unobstructed sea view.

The capital of Santorini 'Fira' is home to a number of museums such as the Museum of Archaeology. The museum represents a variety of exhibits all of which display the islands strong history and tradition. The museum also displays collections of inscriptions and sculptures from the Roman era, along with number of ceramic vessels, vases and impressive marble figurines which date back to the Hellenistic times.

The Church of the Holy Cross is considered to be one of the biggest churches of the island. The Church was originally built back in 1835-1840, but after an extreme earthquake in 1956, the church underwent works to rebuild the church. This reconstruction unraveled the foundations of two three-aisle basilicas, which displayed the fact the original church was formed directly above them. Presently as it stands, the Church of Holy Cross is uniquely defined by its striking, big bell tower, the eminent emerald blue dome and its magnificent size. The church hosts a traditional 'panigiri' every September 14th with a variety of foods such as souvlaki, drinks and a religious ceremony.

The island of Santorini is renowned for its natural grace, mesmerizing views and dramatic sunsets. A special way to experience one of the hundreds of beautiful sunsets of Santorini is to take a sunset cruise excursion on a traditional Santorini boat. Almost all of the harbors of the island arrange frequent sunset cruises and it is a true pleasure to be on board and capture the beauty and enchanting sunset whilst being set out at sea, sipping on a refreshing beverage with someone special.

Popular Resorts of Santorini

The most popular resort of Santorini is known as Oia. It is defined by its beauty, atmospheric sunsets and some of the worlds leading luxury hotels. It is most definitely the most mesmerizing and pretty village of the island. The village is situated north of the island, roughly 12 km from the Capital Fira. Oia sits on the top of an spectacular cliff and provides magnificent views across to the island of Thirassia and Santorinis famous active volcano. The sweet village of Oia is more of a traditional village in comparison to Fira and features small houses clustered along narrow cobbled streets, blue-domed churches, shops, cafes, restaurants, tavernas and restaurants. Oia enjoys numerous cultural attractions such as museums, a fortress and many art galleries.

Fira

The Capital of Santorini best known as Fira is the most important and influence village of the island. Fira is situated on the western coast of the island - approximately 9 km from the Athinios, the main port. Fortunately some of the buildings from the 18th century were saved despite the drastic earth quake in 1956 which is one of Firas charms. The town is a typical Cycladic village consisting of white washed houses with deep blue windows and doors, narrow cobbled streets and numerous blue-domed churches scattered across the town. Fira offers an endless selections of shops, jewelries, tavernas, restaurants, cafes, bars and nightlife which never sleeps.

The village of Imerovigli is located on the northern coast of Santorini, only 4 km from the capital of Fira. The name of Imerovigli originates from the word vigla which means "view spot". The positioning of the village offers an unobstructed view of the caldera and the volcano. Imerovigli is a totally beautiful and is a very popular destination choice for travelers. Imerovigli is home to several churches, chapels, restaurants, cafes all of which enjoy breath-taking views. This village is known as a super romantic destination.

Located on the south eastern coast of Santorini sits the village of Akrotiri. Ampitheatrically built, one will find impresive houses dotted around the village as well as a traditional windmill and the Venetian castle which dominates the settlement of Akrotiri. Today Akrotiri remains unspoiled by mass tourism and considered to be a destination for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle.

Emporio village sits at the foot of Mount Prophet Elias, 12 km from the capital Fira and is known to be the largest settlement of Santorini. The village features two pretty blue-domed churches with grand bell towers which stand at the entrance of the village. Most of the houses have been well-maintained and remain intact. Emporio village has a very strng medieval character and charm - it feels like stepping back in time.