Enjoy the views of the Caldera all day long, but don’t miss
the Oia sunset which is simply magical!
Santorini (or Thira), the gem of the Aegean sea, is actually a group of islands consisting of Thira, Thirassia, Aspronissi, Palea and Nea Kameni in the southernmost part of Cyclades in Greece.
The whole complex of Santorini islands is still an active volcano and probably the only volcano in the world whose crater is in the sea?
The islands that form Santorini came into existence as a result of intensive volcanic activity; twelve huge eruptions occurred and each violent eruption caused the collapse of the volcano’s central part creating a large crater (caldera).
Top 10 to Do in Santorini
I. Watch the of Santorini by going to the famous caldera in Oia
Santorini is the most well know Greek because for its incredible sunset. To experience it at its best, you must go to Oia at the north tip of Santorini. Standing at the top of a ruined castle at the caldera near the windmill, the most famous spot of Santorini.
You’ll witness a magical sight that will leave you spell-bounded when the sun goes down the horizon. Just a heads-up, if you visit in the high season, you may find yourself jumping over a train of heads to get a glimpse of the sunset.
II. Enjoy a Catamaran Cruise around the island
The Catamaran cruise is another must-try thing in Santorini, especially if you’re on a short trip. don’t miss it going on a short boat trip to the volcanic isles of Thirassia, Palea Kameni and Nea Kameni, to hike up the volcano, swim in the hot springs and watch the romantic sunset towards their end.
III. Visit Volcano and Enjoy Swimming in Hot Springs
A volcano tour is the best way to indulge in the rich volcanic history of the island. It is the perfect activity for thrill-seekers to get the adrenaline rush of hiking up the famous volcano as well as swimming in the healing waters of hot springs.
Several boat tours allow you to swim in the therapeutic waters while enjoying appetizing food and drinks. You’re bound to have the time of your life on a boat tour with your family or friends!
IV. Santorini with its black beaches Swim in one first time seeing Black Beach
Santorini is renowned for its volcanic beaches, due to the volcanic properties of the island. Around the Oia (Ia) village you can explore the beautiful harbors of visitors can swim at the beaches of Armeni and Ammoudi, as well as Katharos, Baxedes, Koloubos and Pori.
Yet Santorini is well known for its endless black beach stretching along the east coast in Kamari, Perissa, Perivolos and Monolithos. Those beaches are very well organized.
Other stunning beaches on Santorini Island are the Red and White Beaches in Akrotiri, the latter approached by boat.
V. Visit one of the orthodox churches on the cliffs of Oia in Santorini
Santorini it has around 750 churches on the island, each of them are unique and beauty .. The area of Oia, including around 70 churches. Some of them have been built and others have been excavated just like the cave houses. The thing is that this large number of churches in such a small region is due to the maritime life of its habitants. The churches and the chapels of Oia are white and blue domed in general. However, most of them hide invaluable treasures inside, as they contain outstanding icons, carved iconostasis, frescoes and altars. Some icons, Episcopal thrones, icons stands, icons and chancels were brought from Russia while others had been carved by locals who had been taught wood carving in Constantinople.
Exceptional art pieces can be seen in churches like Panaghia Platsani (Oia), Saint Georgios (Perivolas), Anastasis (Oia), Saint Spyridon (Oia) etc.
VI. Ammoudi the unique area old port of the Oia.
Ammoudi is a unique spot in Oia famous for its hospitality and delicious food. You’ll find plenty of fish taverns there that serve fresh fish for all those crazy seafood lovers. There’s no dining experience better than enjoying a platter of seafood and local recipes while taking in the majestic beauty of Santorini island.
Make sure you treat your taste buds with the best-tasting food in Santorini while being surrounded by welcoming people. You can even swim in crystalline waters or go diving if you dare!
VII. Go Wine-Tasting in one of the many Wineries of the island
Santorini is now known for producing highly-regarded, complex wines of exceptional quality. While being famous for its white wine varieties – such as Athiri, Aidani and the dominant variety of Assyrtiko – which constitute 80% of the viticultural region of the island, the remaining 20% does produce the red wine varieties Mandilaria and Mavrotragano!
Santorinian wines are robust and have a unique aroma due to the special soil features of the island. We suggest you try all the varieties while vacationing on the island and your best bet would be to tour around the wineries at the inland of Santorini, such as Purgos, Messaria, Megalohori, etc where apart from sampling the amazing Santorini wine, you will also be introduced to the way wine is produced.
VIII. Visit a Charming Monastery
Santorini also brims with magnificent churches, monasteries and Venetian castles you should visit. Several churches are scattered over Santorini Island. You will find everything from small chapels to large monasteries. One major attraction is the Monasteries that resembles a fortress from the outside. it is known for being the highest point from where you can admire an exclusive view of Santorini. The monastery is surrounded by four small chapels and is one of the best places to take photographs.
IX. Akrotiri Excavations
While you are in Santorini, you will regret not taking the opportunity to see the excavations of the prehistoric settlement of Akrotiri. Also you should pay a visit at the ruins of Ancient Thira in Mesa Vouno.You can view some of the island’s historical and archaeological treasures at the Archaeological, Prehistoric and Folklore Museums in Fira, full of magnificent exhibits revealing so much about the history of the island.
