Special, romantic, unique. No matter how many adjectives you put next to the island of Santorini, they are not enough to describe it to the absolute extent. Full of contrasts, but also with an unparalleled style, it welcomes millions of visitors from all over the world every summer. See why you can’t help falling in love with Santorini in 2023.
What not to miss in Santorini in 2023
The sunset in Oia
Did we say that Santorini is not only about the sunset, but how can you go there and not enjoy it at least once? It can not be done! Even if you are not among the romantics of this world, it is impossible not to be seduced by this mysterious force that almost hypnotizes the crowd in the alleys of Oia, when the clock approaches sunset time. Then, a huge demonstration with hats, cameras and the smell of sunscreen moves to the edge of Oia at the Kastelli of Agios Georgios, where you just stare with your mouth open as the sun dips into the Caldera and the people applaud it. If you are looking for a similar spectacle with fewer spectators, other amazing spots on the island to watch the sun set are the peak of the prophet Ilias, the height of ancient Thira, the Lighthouse, the castle of Pyrgos and the beach of Vlyhada.
The evenings in Fira
The day belongs to the beaches, the sunset time belongs to Oia, and the evening rightfully belongs to Fira, the lively capital of the island that not only has beautiful cave houses on the side of the Caldera, but also a multitude of bars, restaurants, taverns, fast food and squares, which “buzz” pleasantly all night long.
Firostefani
You can reach Firostefani from Fira, following the eyebrow of the caldera and covering a distance of about 10 minutes on foot. Firostefani, which has always been the favorite stop of every visitor to the island, owes its name to the fact that it crowns Fira.
The view of the caldera is simply unbeatable, with the cliff so steep that many times your heart will beat faster. In Firostefani you will find several worthwhile suggestions for food, in restaurants and taverns whose main characteristic is the relaxing atmosphere.
Imerovigli
Undoubtedly, Imerovigli occupies the most privileged position and has the most breathtaking view of the caldera and Thirasia. It is famous for the most luxurious hotels that offer their guests a natural balcony on the caldera, calm atmosphere and super relaxing scenery.
The volcano
Parts of the active volcano of Santorini, the islets of Palaia and Nea Kameni that emerge on the other side of the Caldera, remind us that they were once part of the same island, which was then called Strongili because of its shape. Every day from the small port of Fira, boats depart for the volcano and the neighboring island of Thirasia, which are worth boarding if you are fascinated by the idea of being on top of a volcano.
Do not expect picturesque landscapes, but wild hills that you will have to climb under the hot sun. And yet, it is worth it, as you will find yourself as close as possible to the heart of the legend of Atlantis, signs of which are the smoke and hot air in the small openings of Kammeni from where the volcano breathes.
Note that the mini excursion is not suitable for those who cannot stand long exposure to the sun or climbing. Also note that on the way back you will also pass by the point of the hot springs, where the water turns red and hot, to the small cove of an island that has only one inhabitant: the mysterious man with a weakness for the color red, who does not you are unlikely to find him meditating on the shore!
Emporio
During the Venetian rule it was the commercial and financial center of Santorini. Today it is one of the most interesting villages of the island, especially from an architectural point of view. Emporio is located in the southern part of Thira, very close to Perivolo and Perissa beaches. Here you will be impressed by the characteristic, stone-hewn houses. You will be enchanted by the exploration of the Castle, while you will feel intense immersion in Panagia Kali, located inside the castle.
The summer cinema in Kamari
It has been voted one of the ten most beautiful summer cinemas on the planet and not without reason, as it is located on the beach promenade of the Kamari coast and is still an oasis of coolness and nostalgia with comfortable director’s chairs, a bar with stools to watch the film sipping your drink and green background that accompanies the movies.
Akrotiri
It is the greatest archaeological discovery of the Eastern Mediterranean. Akrotiri is a picturesque village in the southwestern part of the island, at a distance of about 10 km from Fira. The most important attraction in Akrotiri is the prehistoric settlement, which was first inhabited around 4500 BC. and came to light after the systematic excavations that began in 1967.
Now the visited archaeological site has been upgraded and has acquired a new bioclimatic shelter, attracting thousands of visitors. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit one of the most important “historical relics” of Greece (and not only Santorini), walking in a city of yesterday that remains alive.
The wine
The special soil and climate of Santorini was fertile ground for the Cycladic winegrowers, who endowed the island with a heavy tradition in winemaking. White Assyrtiko is the “ruler” of production, while Athiri and Aidani follow. The famous local wine Vinsanto is an experience for the taste buds in itself – you can try it in the small local canavas (traditional wineries) or in larger establishments. Of course, you will find local wine in every restaurant on the island.
