Santorini

The famous island of Santorini

In the southernmost island of the Cycladic group in the Aegean Sea, located 63 nautical miles north of Crete, with a surface area of 73 sq. km. and a population — distributed among thirteen villages — that just exceeds 13,600 souls.

The present-day crescent shape of the island is a consequence of the activity of the volcano in prehistoric times. The island itself owes its very existence to the volcano. The last huge eruption dates back 3,600 years, in the late Bronze age.

How to reach Santorini

By air: Santorini can be reached from most international airports via Athens. Flying time from Athens is approximately 40 minutes. Numerous charter flights from European cities fly directly to the island during the summer.

By ferry: Regular ferry service from Piraeus, Thessaloniki, Crete and almost all the Cycladic islands. The trip takes 7–9 hours depending on the boat. Daily high-speed boats operate in summer.

Where to stay

• Oia — the most famous village, white cubist houses on the caldera edge, the iconic sunset.
• Fira — the lively capital, with caldera views, shops and nightlife.
• Imerovigli — quieter, the highest point on the caldera, the best sunsets.
• Pyrgos & Megalochori — traditional inland villages, quieter, more authentic.
• Perissa & Kamari — black-sand beaches on the eastern coast, cheaper and more relaxed.

What to do

• Watch the sunset from Oia castle.
• Hike the 10km caldera-edge trail from Fira to Oia.
• Sail around the caldera and swim in the hot springs.
• Visit ancient Akrotiri — the "Greek Pompeii" buried by the eruption.
• Eat fresh tomatoes, white aubergines and fava (yellow split pea purée) — Santorini's volcanic soil produces unbelievable produce.
• Taste Assyrtiko, the island's signature crisp white wine.