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Santorini

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About Santorini

Santorini is an island in the Aegean Sea, which is a part of Greece. It lies 200 Km southeast of Athens and 140 Km north of Crete. Covering an area of 96 square km, Santorini is a part of the Cyclades group of islands, where all the islands have similar characteristics.

Everything in Santorini is photogenic, from the churches with their multiple bells to the picturesque whitewashed houses, from the flowers adorning the balconies to the churches with their blue domes. The island features a spectacular volcanic landscape, pristine black sand beaches, charming hidden coves, and stunning sunsets, presenting an otherworldly atmosphere.

As you ascend the 587 steps leading to the capital of Thira from Skala, the little old port, you can see the remnants of an ancient volcanic eruption that led to the collapse of the island centre into the sea. The beautiful town of Thira has several shops and restaurants where you can get some refreshments. To know more about the history of the place, head to the archaeological museum or visit the Catholic and Greek Orthodox cathedrals.

While the natural beauty and architecture of Santorini are unmatched, there are some great water sports activities available as well. Since the waters around the island are teeming with marine life, you can try out snorkelling and scuba diving activities around here. If diving underwater is not for you, there are jet boats and jet skis for hire. For adrenaline junkies who wish to catch a spectacular view of Santorini, there are kitesurfing and windsurfing activities available.

Santorini has a Mediterranean climate, with warm, sunny summers and mild, rainy winters. The heaviest rainfall can be seen during autumn and winter, particularly between October and March.

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Santorini FAQ's

What are the famous tourist attractions in Santorini?

1. Fira Archaeological Museum: Lying close to the cable car station in Fira, this is a small museum displaying artefacts from the Byzantine, Roman, Hellenistic, and Dorian periods. Here you can see old ceramic pottery and fascinating clay animal figurines.

2. Ancient Thira:
At ancient Thira, you can find the ruins of Hellenistic temples as well as building foundations from the early-Byzantine and Roman era. These include administrative buildings, gym for the military, and religious sites.

3. Red Beach: Close to the historic site of Akrotiri lies the Red Beach, famous for its contrasting view of the aquamarine water against the red rocky cliffs. It is quite crowded during the summer, being a popular spot for photography.

4. Pyrgos:
This old capital of Santorini consists of picturesque whitewashed cottages built around a medieval hilltop castle that now lies in ruins. There are several boutique hotels and small restaurants in this village.

5. Profitis Ilias: Mt. Profitis Ilias is the highest point in Santorini, from where you can catch a stunning view of the sea and the entire island. At the summit, you will find the Profitis Ilias Monastery, dating back to the 18th century. The church inside the monastery features an intricately carved iconostasis.

What are the different activities one can do in Santorini?

1. Watch the Sunset: Santorini is famous for its spectacular sunsets and they are best experienced from the village of Oia. As you witness the sun going down the horizon from a viewpoint near the ruins of the castle, it will leave you spellbound.

2. Take a Catamaran Cruise:
If you are short on time, you may choose to take a cruise around the island to catch a glimpse of all the top attractions here. Taste the amazing local cuisine while gazing at the volcanic island with its caldera cliffs.

3. Volcano Tour: The island of Santorini has a rich volcanic history, and the volcano tour is a fine way to indulge in it. Adrenaline junkies will enjoy hiking up the challenging trail and taking a dip in the warm water of the hot springs.

4. Wine-Tasting: The wine in Santorini reflects the atmosphere of the island, pleasant and dreamlike. You can visit Pyrgos village to taste some wine in an outdoor space, accompanied by live music.

5. Therapeutic Walk: Walking down the cobblestone streets of Fira and Oia while admiring the Caldera can be a therapeutic experience. At every little turn, you will find whitewashed houses with blue domes where you can click some great pictures.

How to reach Santorini?

While travelling to Santorini, the most convenient choice is to take a flight to Athens, from where you can reach Santorini via ferry. You can get connecting flights to Athens from all the major countries. After reaching Athens, you should buy the ferry tickets from the ferry port or from a travel agent.

From the airport, you can catch a cab to reach the Piraeus ferry port, which will take you 30 to 40 minutes. You can reach the port sooner, however, if you take the metro. The ferries to Santorini leave in the morning and take about 5 to 8 hours to reach the island.

What is Santorini famous for?

The island of Santorini is famous for its rugged volcanic landscape, its whitewashed houses, and pristine beaches. You can catch one of the most amazing views here from the village of Oia, particularly during dusk when the setting sun paints the houses in a golden hue. The ruins of the ancient Minoan town of Akrotiri is also worth exploring, with the furniture, pottery, frescoes, and buildings still kept in good condition.

Another fine attraction on this Island is the Red Beach, consisting of a narrow strip of sandy stretch backed by rust-coloured rocky cliffs. The deep turquoise colour of the sea contrasts well with the red cliffs.

When is the best time to visit Santorini?

The summer months, running from June to mid-September is considered the best time to visit Santorini for a holiday. Although the midsummer is typically warm, a cool wind is not that uncommon in the evening. The pleasant temperature prevails throughout autumn and spring, with sunny normally sunny weather often disturbed by short periods of rain.

Is Santorini expensive?

More than two million tourists visit Santorini every year to witness its sheer beauty, but it is not exactly a cheap place to go to. It is quite expensive compared to the Greek capital of Athens, and especially in the summer, the prices can reach sky-high, with hotel prices rising to more than 18,500 Rupees per night.

How many days do you need in Santorini?

The number of days you need to spend in Santorini depends on what you'll be doing and when you are visiting. If you wish to experience all that this island has to offer, you would need at least 5 days. During the high season, it is advisable to keep more time on hand as you will be spending most of your time at the beaches as they offer a splendid atmosphere.

What is the best public transport to commute around Santorini?

If you wish to travel from Fira to the main island, you can catch a bus run by the KTEL transportation company. In the peak season, you will find buses running frequently, although the schedules are subject to change. For travelling to Trissasia, you can catch a ferry from Ammoudi in Oia village or from the main port of Athinios.

Travelling in Santorini by bus is convenient but they get awfully crowded during the summer so you can catch a taxi if you wish to travel around Thirassia and Thira. The taxis generally have fixed rates but if you are travelling to an offbeat area you should agree to a price first.

Which are the best shopping places in Santorini and what are they famous for?

1. Imerovigli: While exploring the Imerovigli cliffs, you will find several stores selling clothing and accessories. This area is famous for its collection of jewellery, sandals, and bags for women.

2. Pyrgos:
The labyrinthine streets of Pyrgos are ideal for buying food items and wine. Here, you can find local stores selling Canava ouzo, canned goods, Santorini Raki, tomato seeds, and tomato seeds. The Art Space winery is a great place to taste the local wine.

3. Fira: Fira is one of the famous shopping spots around here, with small boutique shops selling accessories and clothing. You will also find handmade and handcrafted items you can take back home.

4. Oia: Oia is filled with activities and shopping areas and here you can find designer clothes in several boutiques. The gift shops here sell original art pieces, some of them being locally made. Stardust is a famous lifestyle shopping store here, where you can buy leather footwear, jewellery, and clothing accessories.

What are the best places to enjoy outdoor activities in Santorini?

1. Horse riding on Eros beach: This exciting excursion begins from the beautiful sand dunes of Caldera Beach. You will ride on horseback to the Santorini mountains created by a volcanic eruption a few millennia ago. From there, you can catch a panoramic view of the Aegean Sea.

2. Fishing: The fishing tour in Santorini starts from Vlichada, at the Giorgaros fishing tours where you meet the crew and get to see the traditional wooden boat which is 48 feet long. You will be provided with fishing rods, bait, fishing traps, handline, and long line.

3. Ebike Adventures: You can rent an electric bike from Agios Georgios to explore the hilly island of Santorini on our own. The biking trail will take you to the beautiful coastline and past ancient monuments and seaside villages.

4. Jet Ski Safari: If you are bored of lying on the beach, you can take a high-speed jet ski from Perissa beach and explore the southern coast of Santorini.

Which are the famous cafes to try in Santorini?

1. Franco’s: Franco’s cafe is located on top of the charming Pyrgos town and offers a stunning view at dusk. You will get to taste simple local food at this cafe, accompanied by classical music. The chocolate fondues and tarts here are freshly prepared and are quite delicious.

2. Irini’s Cafe: This picturesque cafe in Fira preserves the local traditions, serving Greek coffee and other drinks, including Santorinian wine. Traditional Greek music plays at this cafe and the scenery surrounding it is truly magnificent.

3. Galini Cafe: This cafe is located on the Hotel Galini terrace and it features a warm atmosphere with great decoration and an amazing view of the sea and the volcano. The breakfast here consists of fresh juice, fruits, cereals, local bread, marmalade, and aromatic tea.

4. Mylos: Mylos care is built around a windmill and offers a spectacular view of the caldera, especially at night. Here you can taste some exotic cocktails, breakfast, and local snacks while enjoying the soulful music.

5. Lioyerma Cafe: This cafeteria in Oia village features a pool with wicker chairs and sunbeds where you can relax. The place is known for serving Santorinian wines, snacks, and fresh cocktails.

Which are the best romantic experiences in Santorini for couples?

1. Watch the Sunset at Oia: A romantic trip to Santorini is incomplete without visiting Oia, the picturesque village from where you and your partner can watch a spectacular sunset. The blue-domed churches and narrow walkways of this village present a dreamlike atmosphere.

2. Visit Akrotiri: The old world charm is still quite alive in Akrotiri, which is an archaeological site dating back to 3000 BC. This place is not too crowded and you can spend some peaceful time with your loved one here, immersing yourselves in the local culture.

3. Wine tasting at Imerovigli: Imerovigli is famously known as the Balcony to the Aegean Sea and consists of romantic spots like Skaros, Monastery of Saint Nikolaos, and Ai-Stratis. There are several places here where you can taste Santorinian wines while witnessing a stunning sunset.

4. Witness the black sand in Perissa: The black sand beach in Perissa touched by the waves of the azure sea present a romantic atmosphere. Here, you can explore the ancient ruins of Thera with your partner.

5. Explore the streets of Pyrgos: With its fortified walls, hidden passageways, and labyrinthine streets, Pyrgos presents a stunning picture. This is a quiet place where you soak in the local charm with your special one.

Which are the famous places to go for a wine tour in Santorini?

1. Santo Wines: This is a modern winery in Pyrgos presenting stunning views of the cliffs and the caldera. Santo manufactures and sells unoaked, oak-aged, sparkling, red, and white wine. The Vinsanto dessert wine is a speciality here that you must try.

2. Venetsanos Winery: This winery is located in the charming village of Megalochori, offering stunning views of the volcanic cliffs and the calderas. Here you can taste a variety of wines, made using Mandilaria and Assyrtiko grapes.

3. Gavalas Winery: This is an old winery in Megalochori that has been run by a family for five generations. Wine tours here take about an hour where you can witness up close what goes into the winemaking process.

4. Domaine Sigalas: This winery in Oia offers a spectacular sunset view and award-winning wines. The wines are made using Assyrtiko white grapes, often blended with Mandilaria, Aidani, and Athiri. The two-hour winery tour here is worth undertaking.

Which are some of the famous private boat and cruise tours in Santorini?

1. Private Motor Yacht Cruise: This tailor-made tour is a great way to spend some special moments with your loved ones. It starts from Vlychada port at 10:30 in the morning and continues for nearly five hours. On the way, you can see the volcano with its hot springs, along with White Beach and Red Beach.

2. Private Sailing Cruise: Sail off from the main port in Santorini aboard a sailing yacht and explore the different areas of the island while sunbathing on the deck. You can also enjoy lunch on board and learn a few things about sailing from the captain.

3. Private Luxury Catamaran Cruise: Board a private catamaran from Vlychada and cruise to White Beach and Red Beach. The cruise also takes you to the villages Oia, Imerovigli, and Fira and to the hot springs where you can take a healing mud bath. Finally, arrive at a private bay on the Palea Kameni island.

What language is spoken in Santorini?

Greek is the main language spoken by the locals in Santorini, but the dialect is different from the Greek spoken in the mainland. Since it is a popular tourist spot, you will find many people who speak English, especially near tourist spots and hotels. The locals may also understand other European languages like Italian and Spanish.

Which volcano tours in Santorini are popular?

1. Volcanic Islands Cruise: Take this cruise to explore the volcanic islands and swim in the hot springs. From the active volcano, you can catch a breathtaking view of the cliffs and the ocean. The tour starts from 8-9 AM in the morning and is best experienced during the summer months.

2. Santorini Volcano Boat Tour: Visit the islands of Thirasia and Nea Kameni while sailing across the picturesque caldera in Santorini. Take a walk around the crater and take a dip in the warm springs. The tour begins from 10:30 AM and is best undertaken when the weather is clear during the summer.

3. Santorini Volcano and Hot Springs Trip: This is a half-day trip that lets you explore the majestic volcano that created this crescent-shaped island. A guide will take you to the volcano's ridge explaining everything about its geology and history. The skies are clear during the summer months when it is the ideal time to take this tour.

Which are the best places to have candlelight dinners in Santorini?

1. Lycabettus Restaurant: Santorini draws honeymoon couples from all across the world and they often visit this pretty cliff-top hotel in Oia village. The menu is quite creative and the view of the sunset from the terrace makes for a classic candlelight dinner experience.

2. Candouni: The village of Oia is filled with romantic restaurants like Candouni. Here, you can have a candlelight dinner featuring Greek food accompanied by live music. The pretty interiors present a romantic and warm vibe.

3. Yalos: This is a trendy restaurant located in the Exo Gialos Beach with modern seating arrangements. The idyllic surroundings and fresh Santorini flavours make for a romantic candlelight dinner experience.

4. La Maison: If you wish to add a French touch to your candlelight dinner experience, then La Maison in southern Imerovigli is the place to go to. This restaurant is especially famous for its desserts and local delicacies.

Which water sports can be done in Santorini?

1. Parasailing: This activity involves soaring high over the sea while taking in the stunning beauty of Santorini island. You can take part in this activity near Perivolos Beach. You will rise up to 300 feet and feel exhilaration like never before.

2. Jet Skiing: This tour begins from Perivolos beach and takes you south-west towards Kampia, Red beach, and Vlychada beach. There will be a safety boat accompanying you with a photographer taking pictures.

3. Kayaking: On the south coast of Santorini lies Mesa Pigadia where you can undertake a sea kayak tour. Admire the majestic rock formations along the coastlines as you paddle your boat towards the Akrotiri lighthouse and he Black Mountain.

4. Flyboarding: This is an adrenaline-fueled water sports activity you can find at the Perivolos Beach. Enjoy hovering over the azure sea and gaze at Santorini from a different perspective. This requires no special skills and you just need to trust your instinct and balance.

Which are the best places to try local cuisines in Santorini?

1. Selini Restaurant: Visit this restaurant for an authentic Greek experience dining under the stars. The marvellous local cuisine paired with the restaurant's lovely terrace makes for a romantic experience.

2. Metaxy Mas:
This is one of the most popular restaurants in Santorini serving amazing food and a breathtaking view of Kamari Beach. The oven-baked asparagus with tarragon and graviera is a special dish at this place.

3. Tavern Tzanakis:
An offbeat place free from the clamour of the crowd, this restaurant offers some of the classic local dishes like tomato keftedes, fava, and grilled white eggplant.

4. Geromanolis: Geromanolis in Megalochori is famous for its seafood platter consisting of grilled cuttlefish, grilled octopus, and grilled sardines. Drenched in olive oil and drizzled with herbs, these seafood delicacies are a delight for your taste buds.

5. Lucky’s Souvlakis: Souvlaki is a popular Greek street food consisting of pita bread and grilled meat that you can find at this restaurant.

Where should I stay in Santorini?

1. Istoria: Consisting of 12 suites, Istoria is a picturesque retreat well-decorated by handcrafted textiles, wooden furniture, coloured plaster, and volcanic stones. It has pools and hot tubs and offers delicious seafood cuisine.

2. Andronis Luxury Suites: From every suite of this boutique hotel you can catch stunning views of the deep blue Aegean sea. The heated jacuzzis, cave pools, and infinity pools offer great relaxation spots.

3. Vedema: The enchanting resort of Vedema features a picturesque property designed in the Cycladic style. It is encircled by a stone wall and presents a quaint atmosphere. The subterranean cave restaurant here makes for a unique dining experience.

Santorini Reviews

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Bhaumik Pandey
Reviewed: 20 Jul 2020
5.0/5
Booked this tour based upon this itinerary, as we too wanted a long vacation. And everything was worth it, being it the quality, services, support!. Just loved the whole experience we got.
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Bhardwaj Dhawan
Reviewed: 16 Feb 2020
5.0/5
We had a great experience from the planning of our trip through Thrillophilia the planning process was easy, simple and quick shared the voucher and all-important information for the perfect trip we are going to have... 9-unforgettable days we had at Greece as the trip goes exactly the perfect plann... Read More
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Satish Kakkar
Reviewed: 06 Feb 2020
5.0/5
We are the party of 6 adults, we all very glad that we booked this trip it was really the biggest and great decision we had made for our perfect vacation, The whole place we visited is absolutely loveable... The entire trip is professionally run and well-coordinated. The staff was always available a... Read More
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Chandani Achari
Reviewed: 29 Jan 2020
4.0/5
Our experience with Thrillophilia and the whole team since the planning of our trip was very professional, all the logistics were perfect in regards to response time, the company has the verified operators who were looking of our trip and always there to helps us during the trip... Accommodations, f... Read More
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Bhagvan Varman
Reviewed: 21 Sep 2017
5.0/5
I and my wife went on this amazing trip to Greece on our honeymoon in August 2017 and it was the best. Very well organized tour and you will find everything like they have mentioned. Great service and very well managed. We were escorted from the Athens airport with garlands and then transferred to ... Read More
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Anjushri Mehrotra
Reviewed: 21 Sep 2017
5.0/5
Just couldn’t stop talking about my honeymoon trip. It was one of the best with all the arrangements done so well. Food was awesome and so was our accommodation. A good package I would say for the honeymooners.

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