There is no denying that Santorini is the most intriguing island in Greece and a top holiday destination worldwide. The impressive caldera with the whitewashed houses perched on the cliffs, the famous Santorini volcano, the stunning colourful beaches and, above all, the mesmerizing sunset are only some of the reasons why Santorini is one of the most magical places on Earth. Whether you are a couple, a newlywed or an adventure lover, you will certainly fall in love with this unique island. So, let the exploration begin! Here are some interesting places and tourist attractions you can visit during your stay in Santorini!
The archaeological site of majestic Ancient Thera lies at the top of a high rocky cliff called Mesa Vouno and is certainly a place not to be missed as it unravels the rich history of the island. Settled by the Dorians in the 9th century BC, Thera was the capital of the island thanks to its naturally fortified location and had commercial ties with all the important urban centres of the time. It was also one of the first places to adopt the Phoenician alphabet, which played a major role in the evolution of the Greek alphabet. Today, a large part of this ancient settlement has been brought to light, featuring ruins from the Archaic, Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine period. People visiting Ancient Thera have the opportunity to learn about the history of the island, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views and feel the pulse of this remarkable civilization.
Located on the top of a caldera cliff, Fira is the beautiful capital of Santorini and the main commercial and cultural centre of the island. It boasts a vast selection of interesting sites, museums and galleries to visit, such as the Archaeological Museum of Thera, the Museum of Prehistoric Thera and the Megaro Gyzi Cultural Center. The majestic Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral sitting prominently on the caldera edge and the Catholic Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist are also worth a visit. In Fira, there are various entertainment facilities, including fancy restaurants, bars, cafes and traditional taverns catering for all tastes and budgets. Finally, the scenic 10km hike from Fira to Oia is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Santorini as it enables you to visit some of the most picturesque villages on the island and enjoy gorgeous views to the famous volcano and the Aegean Sea.