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How to make a short trip to Santorini amazing?

How-to-make-a-short-trip-to-Santorini-amazing

For those of you who have limited vacation days, we have prepared a small and very useful guide with what you should not miss while visiting the most beautiful island in the world, Santorini!

The distances are short, so you can see a lot, even if your vacation does not exceed 3-4 days. Besides, as you will see, the sights are so many and interesting, that you will definitely want to go again! The island is ideal for newlyweds and tourists visiting Greece for the first time. The view over the Santorini caldera is a romantic, enchanting , breathtaking point.

Beaches of Santorini

The most famous volcanic beaches of the island are Kamari, Perivolos and Perissa, Vlyhada with its sculpted volcanic rocks, Kokkini and Aspri beach, in Akrotiri. Of course there are others, less famous, but very impressive. Such as Kouloumpos and Pori, Monolithos, Baxedes-Paradisos, Kantharos in Oia, Almyra, Exo Gialos, Gialos, Balos, Kampia, Mesa Pigadia in Akrotiri.

Enjoy your lounger by the pool with a view of the volcano, then plan your excursions to the beaches. Most of them are easily accessible and have sunbeds, beach bars, restaurants, etc.

Excursion to the volcano

The boats depart from Gialos (old port of Fira), the port of Athens and Ammoudi below Oia. The visit to the volcanoes Nea Kameni and Palaia Kameni with the thermal springs will bring you closer to the myth of the Lost Atlantis and the beginning of the creation of today’s Santorini.

Museums in Santorini

The most important museum of the island is that of Prehistoric Thira, in Fira. In Fira it is also worth seeing the Archaeological museum and the Santozeum, with its copies of the frescoes of Akrotiri. In Oia there is the Naval Museum, in Pyrgos the Ecclesiastical Collection and the Cultural Village “Santorini that is gone”. In Kontohori  is the Folklore Museum of Emm. Lignou.

Santorini’s vineyard and wineries to visit

The Santorini vineyard is ancient, with authentic varieties. The finds in the excavations of the prehistoric city of Akrotiri suggest that there was vine cultivation on the island at least since the 17th century BC. The volcanic land did its miracle and the island’s wineries did theirs, offering better and better quality wines every year. Top among others, Vinsanto, the award-winning “wine of the sun.” All wineries can be visited and you can do tastings.

Food in Santorini

Dehydrated tomatoes, fava beans, capers, katsouni, white eggplant are the products that stand out in Santorini. In Santorini’s homes and restaurants you will taste the delicious products of the volcanic land and try traditional cuisine recipes such as tomato meatballs, fava beans, white eggplants, tomatoes and others.

In the prehistoric settlement of Akrotiri

It holds the scepter among the attractions of Santorini and is one of the most important archaeological sites in the Aegean. From the first moment you enter the archaeological site of Akrotiri, which is now housed in a new and innovative bioclimatic canopy, you will feel emotion just thinking that in this area, in the Middle and Early Late Bronze Age (20th-17th century BC) was one of the most important urban centers of the Aegean. It is located at the southwestern end of the island and is 15 km from Fira.

In ancient Thera

Climbing Mesa Vounos, which rises above Kamari and Perissa, you will find yourself in ancient Thira. It was founded in the 9th century BC. by Dorian settlers, led by Thera and was inhabited until the early Byzantine times. The Hellenistic and Roman phases of the city have mainly been revealed. The view from up there is breathtaking.

Walking on the rim of the Caldera

The old path that connects Fira with Firostefani and Imerovigli and from there continues to Oia, it is the most beautiful on the island. Even if you don’t have much time, it is worth walking even a small part of it (Fira-Firostefani, or Firostefani-Imerovigli and vice versa). It is a unique experience and you will remember it for a long time. You can come early in the morning, or at sunset.

Santorini’s unique and rugged landscape was shaped by a catastrophic volcanic eruption some 3,500 years ago. There are much to do in Santorini but trust us it is worth lying all day on one of the island’s impressive beaches if it is what you want.

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What you can see in Santorini in August 2023?

What-you-can-see-in-Santorini-in-August-2023
What you can see in Santorini in August 2023 with Santorini Tours?

From the first moment you set foot on this unique and special island in every way, you will feel the need to visit Santorini again and again. What makes it unique and special among others is its volcanic terrain, intense color changes, its history, its distinct beaches and the view that literally takes your “breath away” from whichever side of the island you are.

It is the southernmost island of the Cyclades. The terrain of the island is volcanic and from the side of the volcano the island is extremely rocky. An extremely important archaeological wealth contributes to the special physiognomy of Santorini: the Ancient City in Mesa Vounos and the Prehistoric settlement of Akrotiri.

Santorini also has a unique heritage of folk traditional architecture, in the settlements of Vothona, Messaria, Finikia and Megalochori, and sophisticated fortified settlements at Pyrgos, Emporio and Akrotiri

The climate of the island is cool due to the north-easterly winds and the winter is sweet and mild with an average temperature of 10oC. Rains are frequent in winter and almost non-existent in summer. The soil is fertile and favors the cultivation of vines and tomatoes. The island is almost arid with little spring water

Today Santorini has 7000 permanent residents scattered in its 10 or so villages. Fira is the capital of the island and Oia, one of its most beautiful villages known throughout the world for its impressive and enchanting sunset. Its “black” beaches, with their steep cliffs and volcanic rocks give the island a special character.

The history of the island

Santorini in ancient times was called Strogyli because of its circular shape which changed with the eruption of the volcano in 1650 BC. and the central part of the island sank thus forming the Caldera. The Phoenicians called her Callisti and the Dorians Thera.

The name Santorini was taken in the 12th century by the Franks who actually called it “Santa Irene”, meaning Saint Peace. The eruption of the volcano was also the important reason  for cutting off the large development of the island since until 2000 BC.

Santorini’s events in August 2023

At the end of August, the Municipality of Thira organizes the reenactment of the eruption of the volcano. Thousands of sparklers and flares, accompanied by muffled noises, evoke memories of the volcano’s eruption, fear and awe both for local residents and visitors to the island. At the end of the evening there is a concert by well-known Greek artists.

In the village of Akrotiri, the process of performing the traditional Santorini wedding is presented once during the summer, accompanied by various funny events and customs.

Fira: the base village of Santorini

Fira is the largest center and capital of Santorini. This is where you will arrive and probably stay. Its cobbled streets are full of restaurants, cafes, hotels and souvenir shops.

Oia: the most famous village of Santorini

Oia is the most photographed and advertised village of Santorini. Yes, the one you saw in thousands of Instagram photos and travel agency offers

The sunsets from here, overlooking Ammoudi Bay and the perfect lodges built into the volcanic rock, are widely considered to be among the best in the world, attracting thousands of tourists every afternoon

The most famous view is from the Castle of Oia, but you can imagine how many people there are. If you want to get a good spot, be sure to arrive early

Mesa Gonia: vines at the foot of the mountain

Also called Episkopi Gonias, it is a village in the interior of the island, surrounded by vineyards and at the foot of Mount Prophet Elias, the highest point of the island and which has a monastery at the top that you can visit

It is a quiet place famous for its wine production. If you are interested in doing a tasting, at the entrance of the town is the Canava Roussos winery, the oldest in Santorini (1836)

The church of Panagia tis Episkopi is its great symbol, built in the 11th century and surviving the great earthquake of 1956 that destroyed a large part of the city.

Emporio: a classic Santorinian village

Although not many, there are still a few places in Santorini that are not overrun with tourists, especially if you are outside of the high season months.

Emporio, the second most populous settlement of Thira, is an inland town with a small fortified historic area of narrow cobbled streets, traditional whitewashed houses and churches with blue domes, built during the Venetian rule in the 15th century, as well as the Tower. of Nibori. It’s a beautiful place to walk at sunset, when the walls are painted re

Much less photographed than Oia, on the outskirts of the city there are some windmills, structures that, although found in many parts of Greece, have become a representative image of Santorini

Nea Kameni: climbing the volcano in August 2023

From Thira you can take a boat that in 20 minutes will drop you in the heart of Santorini: the island of Nea Kameni, located right in the center of the flooded caldera

Climbing the smoking crater at the top of the volcano is an unforgettable experience, passing chimneys that release sulphurous steam along the way. But to make it a happy memory, put on a good sunscreen, hat, sunglasses and bring plenty of water, because there is no vegetation to protect you from the rays. It’s clearly not a good idea to get too close to the crater either.

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How to spend your time in Santorini in July 2023

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How to spend your time in Santorini in July 2023

Santorini is a unique island and it is one destination everyone should visit, even for one time in their lives. See how to spend your time in Santorini in July 2023 with Santorini tours.

To better enjoy the legendary landscape, you should stay on the northwest side of the island in one of the four villages built on the edge of the caldera: Fira, Firostefani, romantic Imerovigli or luxurious Oia. Each has its own peculiarities and beauties. Most choose to stay in the first villages. It’s easy to walk between Fira, Firostefani and Imerovigli, but Oia is a two-hour hike north of Imerovigli and feels like an isolated part of the island. Walking between these four villages is one of the highlights for someone visiting Santorini.

Santorini’s villages

The incredible sea view and the enchanting scenery make Santorini’s villages located in the caldera area special. These places get crowded, especially in the summer months when the cruise ships arrive with loads of travelers. To avoid the crowds and enjoy the view of the caldera in peace, stay in the area between Imerovigli and Oia or head further south to the cliffside hotels near Akrotiri, Megalochori or Mesaria.

Hotels along the southern rim of the caldera tend to be more secluded with minimal walking distance (which is good if you just want to spend most of your time by a pool enjoying the view). The traditional mountain village of Pyrgos is another great choice for romantic atmosphere and sunsets, as it has panoramic views of the whole island and is one of the highest points in Santorini. Another traditional village, Megalochori is located in the heart of Santorini’s wine region. There you will have the opportunity to taste some of the finest wines in the world.

The main villages, such as Fira, Firostefani, Imerovigli and Oia, are located at the western end of the island, perched on the caldera rock and facing the volcano. The caldera cities are more modern, the restaurants better, the clubs more sophisticated and the hotels more luxurious. Beach towns are more relaxed, less expensive and have a feel closer to that of the other Greek islands.

It is better to stay in a beach hotel behind the caldera. Fira and the caldera are only 20 to 30 minutes away by car, while Oia is an additional 20 minutes away. If you are a couple you can rent a motorbike for easy movement, since parking is difficult near the caldera villages.

The island is small, so it’s easy to stay in one area and explore another. Many families with children in order to have better control and comfort, prefer to stay in the coastal areas for hotels, restaurants and activities, because the flat landscape is easier and safer for walks with children or those with strollers as opposed to the steep cliffs of caldera and the endless rows of stairs.

Santorini’s beaches

Kamari, Perissa and Perivolos are the most popular beach areas of the island, with many restaurants, beach clubs, water sports centers, outdoor cinema. There are even small boats that connect the beaches. However, with Santorini tours, you can organize your own boat trip. Most of Santorini’s beaches are black sand and shingle and are located along the eastern and southeastern coasts of the island.

Try local flavors in Santorini in July 2023

Don’t make the mistake on your trip to Santorini and not try its wonderful local dishes. It is one of the top culinary destinations in Greece both for its special dishes, as well as for its wonderful restaurants and taverns with their special decoration and unique view. Try the island’s famous fava and tomato meatballs, salted cod, garlic pasta and the so-called poor man’s meatballs or pseudokeftedes (meatballs made from various greens and legumes).

Excursion to Akrotiri

Akrotiri is a top destination if you are a history buff. Although it is not so advertised, it is one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece, at a distance of 15 km from Fira. Cobbled streets, exquisite wall paintings and findings of an ancient civilization that remained in obscurity for more than 3,500 years will captivate you.

Visit the Museum of Prehistoric Thera in Santorini in July 2023

The Museum of Prehistoric Thera is definitely one of the must-visit museums.It is easily accessible, with great exhibits and very important finds from excavations. Often those who have visited it mention that it looks like diving into the depths of Aegean history. It can be easily combined with the visit to Akrotiri, completing it.

Watch the sunset in Santorini in July 2023

The magical sunset of Santorini is itself a major attraction for thousands of tourists every year because of the amazing color palette it creates during its duration. The castle of Oia is the top choice for sunset, but it is not the only place from where you can admire the special feeling that the sunset offers in Santorini.

At the Lighthouse in Akrotiri, the sun seems to literally dive into the sea, while the world is much less than in Oia. On the beach of Vrychada, the volcanic setting creates a very special atmosphere, while the view from Imerovigli, Prophet Ilias or Firostefani is just as captivating.

Go diving in Santorini in July 2023

Perhaps only diving enthusiasts can appreciate the uniqueness of such an experience. The seabed in Santorini is anything but ordinary. In addition to its rich underwater treasures, such as redfish, colorful sponges or sea slugs with their wonderful colors, you will have the opportunity to admire volcanic rocks, unique in the Mediterranean.

Taste wine from a winery in Santorini in July 2023

In addition to the fantastic sunsets and the archaeological interest of the area, the volcanic vineyards of more than 3200 years of age, attract a large number of wine-loving tourists every year. Visit some of the region’s award-winning wineries and travel the world of the senses in a different way. You can take a private wine tour with Santorini Tours.

Visit Emporio in Santorini in July 2023

Emporio or Niborios is 12 km away. from Fira and is the largest village of Santorini. It was the point of sale and production of products during the 17th century, while the local residents often visit the village for supplies. The medieval Kastelli and the Tower of Goula located in the village are a masterpiece of architecture and are definitely worth a visit.

Santorini is definitely one of the top destinations for couples and more. The picturesqueness and uniqueness of the landscape evokes incredible emotions, while the various activities that one can do during their trip, allows the combination of romantic and at the same time active and educational activities.

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Discover the secret spots of Santorini in summer 2023

Discover-the-secret-spots-of-Santorini-in-summer-2023
Discover the secret spots of Santorini in summer 2023

Santorini is not only the sunsets in Oia, the nights in Fira and those photos with the infinity pools you see on social media. You can discover the secret spots of Santorini in summer 2023 with Santorini tours. The most beautiful of the Cyclades is much, much more. Leave the others to flock to the sunset on the rooftops of Oia, and you go to discover the true heart of Santorini. You can see the secret beaches, and wander in villages that are not Fira and Oia, because Santorini does not only consists of sunsets.

Foinikia

A secret village-jewel, two and a half kilometers outside of Oia, full of colorful cave houses and stone-built cobblestones. If you can’t stand the crowds of Oia, here you will come for the famous sunset. You can also stay here if your budget doesn’t allow for a Caldera view, but you also don’t want to go to the “back” side of the island. A kilometer and a half outside of Finikia, the Sigala Winery is definitely worth a visit

Akrotiri

The archaeological site of Santorini which, according to legend, may be all that remains of the mythical Atlantis, is definitely worth a visit, if nothing else to wander the courtyards and streets of a state whose inhabitants built two-story houses in 4500 BC For those who find it difficult to grasp how old 4500 BC is, let’s simply say that fewer years separate Socrates from us than they separate him from them

Karterados

Two kilometers outside of Fira, the cave village of Karterados is perfect for afternoon walks on its picturesque cobblestone streets, with a view of the endless vineyards that stretch out at your feet. However, it is worth passing by here in the morning, on your way to the beach.

Vothonas

Right next to Mesaria, and just outside Fira, Vothonas is one of Santorini’s most architecturally interesting villages – and that’s a great distinction on an island with so much competition. Built on both sides of a ravine that stretches for 5 kilometers, Vothonas is almost completely caved in and has a fantastic hiking route for sports enthusiasts, which starts from the large church of Panagia in the center of the village and ends to Panagia Sergena, or Hole, carved into the rock above a plateau.

The secret beaches of Santorini

The pebbly Mesa Pigadia with its imposing rocks that resemble those of Vlychada and the cave through which you can pass and find yourself at Aspri Paralia.

Kantharos, accessible only by a path starting from Ammoudi, with its black sand contrasting perfectly with the white rocks behind it Also there is the favorite of the locals, tiny Pori, with its quietness and its fish tavern that always serves fresh fish.

The deserted Kouloumpos, Santorini’s bastion of nudists, with its giant rock providing the much-desired shade during summer afternoons. Fun fact: Kouloumpos is the name of the active crater of the Santorini volcano, located about 500 meters below sea level, a short distance from the beach.

Thermi beach, in which you will also descend from a path, which starts from Megalochori, to find your peace and to dive into the waters of the caldera with a background of black pebbles, red volcanic rocks, geothermal springs (there once were the thermal baths of the island) and the rock-hewn little church of Christ the Thermi. You can take a personalized private tour with us.

Red Beach

Next stop is Red Beach. The landscape at Red Beach is magical and so unique and attractive that I promise when I go to Santorini again to swim in its waters. The beach is not organized and you enter the area at your own risk because of the landslides and because the road is not a well paved dirt road.

Thirasia

If you want to get a taste of what Santorini was like several decades ago, you don’t need to refer to a photo album from the 50s, but simply take the boat and cross over to the small island of Thirasia and its traditional settlement of Manolas which also stands above the steep volcanic rocks of ancient Thira, Strogyli.

Thirasia is located at a short distance (1.4 nautical miles) from the port of Oia, the beautiful Amoudi. From there, boats start that will take you to the small seaside village ofAgia Irini in Thirasia.

After arriving in Riva, you will get on the bus to take you to the village of Manolas, while if you have time and appetite, you can also get off at the village of Potamos, which is an intermediate stop for the bus.

Enjoy the imposing view of Manolas

When you arrive at Manolas we would suggest that you immediately start walking through its narrow streets and initially head to the right of the settlement (as you look towards Santorini) towards its edge from where you will find points with the best views of the unique landscapes of this place.

Where to stay in Santorini

It is better to stay in a beach hotel behind the caldera. Fira and the caldera are only 20 to 30 minutes away by car, while Oia is an additional 20 minutes away. If you are a couple you can rent a motorbike for easy movement, since parking is difficult near the caldera villages.

The island is small, so it’s easy to stay in one area and explore another. Many families with children in order to have better control and comfort, prefer to stay in the coastal areas for hotels, restaurants and activities, because the flat landscape is easier and safer for walks with children or those with strollers as opposed to the steep cliffs of caldera and the endless rows of stairs.

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