Tours to Santorini

Where Is Santorini Located?

Santorini is located in the extreme southeast of Greece, almost 300 km from Athens and 200 km from the port of Heraklion, the capital of Crete. Its territory is part of the Cyclades Islands, notable for its architecture and archaeological history.

The capital of Santorini is Fira and it has a population of 13,500 people. Its main port is Athinios, about a 25-minute drive from the city. This ferry port connects with the rest of the islands through private transport services.

What Towns to Visit in Santorini?

Santorini is a group of islands characterized by its picturesque little towns that thousands of tourists travel in search of film photographs. Here we name some of the most beautiful towns in Santorini you can visit.

First of all, there is Oia, the most famous town in Santorini. Also called “Oya”, it is located in the northwest of the island. It is known worldwide for preserving its typical architecture of white walls, blue doors and windows, and domed roofs. Its houses and churches contrast with the landscape, especially with the sunset sun.

Second, we mention Fira, the capital of Santorini. It has the largest shopping area on the entire island and has a mix of tradition, nightlife, and natural attractions. It is built on the edge of the volcanic caldera (the largest in the world) and at its bottom is the ancient port of Santorini.

To get to Fira it is necessary to take a cable car or take a traditional ride on a donkey, an emblematic animal of the area.

Third, there is Pyrgos, the ancient capital of Santorini. Travelers consider this town one of the most charming on the entire island due to the tranquility that reigns in its small streets. It is located on top of a hill, so it is not an easily accessible place. It has cobbled and labyrinthine streets that will transport you back in time. During the Holy Week celebration, Pyrgos is famous for its torchlight and lantern shows that charge the town with magic.

Also, you can consider Kamari, a town to relax in. It offers one of the most visited seaside resorts on the east coast in high season, it is close to the national airport (only 9 minutes by car). It has a promenade that is famous for having shops, restaurants, and cafes. It also offers the opportunity to visit several archaeological sites, one of them known as “ancient Thera”.

For its part, Imerovigli, the balcony of the Aegean, is located north of Fira (about 2.5 km) and is known as "The balcony of the Aegean" for being 300 meters above sea level. Its location gives a perfect panoramic view of the Santorini volcano, the Aegean Sea, and the incredible sunsets. One of its biggest attractions is the Skaros rock, one of the 5 ancient fortresses on the island and a strategic observation point against piracy of the time.

Finally, we cannot fail to mention Akrotiri, a town steeped in history. It is a small town located in the southwest of the island (11 km from the port of Athinios port). It is one of the most important archaeological sites on the island.

If you visit the Akrotiri sites, you can witness the architecture of a Minoan city. There is also a 13th-century castle, nowadays musical concerts and exhibitions are organized. In addition, it is close to the famous Red Beach (about 6 minutes by car).

This town also stands out for the Akrotiri lighthouse, one of the oldest in all of Greece that is preserved to date (it dates from 1892). It has views of the caldera and the Aegean Sea that shimmer at sunset when its white lights are on.

As you will see, there are many very interesting little towns on the island of Santorini that you cannot miss!

Where to Eat in Santorini?

Restaurants in Santorini are renowned for their excellence in regional cuisine. One of the most popular places is in Amoudi Bay, located at the southern end of Oia. After watching the sunset in the coastal town, many visitors delight in the specialties of Greek cuisine in the bay.

1. Taverna Dimitri: A traditional Greek-style restaurant where you can enjoy the best Mediterranean flavors. There you will have the opportunity to try a shrimp saganaki or seafood linguine, both paired with local wine.
2. Metaxy Mas: If you want to try Cretan-style Greek food, you should definitely visit this restaurant. It is located in the town of Éxo Goniá (only 13 minutes by car from Fira). It offers apáki (cured pork), stamnagáthi vegetables (sweet prickly radicchio), and traditional dishes like bulgur wheat topped with lamb in yogurt sauce.
3. Fanari Villas: It is located in Fari, a few meters from Theotokopulu Square. It has a dining room with views of the cliff. The house specialty is white aubergines cooked on the grill and served with Greek cheeses.

How Much Does the Trip to Santorini Cost?

Santorini has become one of the biggest attractions in Greece, both for its architecture and for the activities to be done there.

Greca offers excursions in Santorini at prices ranging from €50 to €3000, depending on the availability of the tourist and the time of the trip.

As you will see, the island of Santorini has a lot to offer. Now it's your turn to meet her!