Santorini Places to visit

Santorini, also known as Thira or Thera in classical Greek, is situated at the southernmost end of the Cyclades. The island is famous for the largest recorded volcanic eruption in history that occurred about 3,600 years ago. This eruption caused a massive tsunami that hit Crete and led to the fall of the Minoan civilization. Today, Santorini is a crescent-shaped island with water-filled caldera, formed from the remains of this ancient volcano. Along the rim of the caldera, the towns of Oia, Fira, and Imerovigli are perched and offer spectacular views of the Aegean Sea.

*Be prepared for the windy environment on Santorini. Strong gusts can knock people over, especially during the months of January, February, July, and August, which are known to be the windiest months on the island.

Some of the mostly visit Sites:

• Watch sunset in Oia: One of the top attractions in Santorini is the sunset view from Oia (pronounced ee-uh). It offers a picturesque view with blue-domed churches nestled amidst white-washed buildings, providing the perfect backdrop to watch the sun go down. However, due to its popularity, it can get very crowded at sunset, so visitors should be prepared for large crowds.

There are different ways to approach your exploration for the ideal spot to watch the sunset in Oia. However, if you prefer to receive some guidance, I have two suggestions that might help you make the most of this experience.

• Oia Castle: Oia Castle is a historical castle located in the village of Oia on the Greek island of Santorini. The castle was built in the 15th century and was originally a Byzantine fortress. Over the years, it has undergone several renovations, with the most significant one being in the 19th century when it was turned into a residence for wealthy sea captains. Today, the castle is a popular tourist attraction, offering breathtaking views of the caldera and the Aegean Sea. It is also a popular spot for watching the sunset, especially during the summer months when crowds gather to witness the stunning sunset views from this location.

• Three Blue domes of Oia: The three blue domes of Oia are a famous landmark in the village of Oia, located on the Greek island of Santorini. These domes are part of the Anastasi Church and are an iconic feature of the Santorini skyline. The domes are often photographed by tourists and are a popular spot to watch the sunset. The blue domes stand out against the whitewashed buildings of Oia, adding to the village's charm and beauty.

• Sunset in Imerovigli: Imerovigli is another great spot to watch the sunset in Santorini. The village is located on the highest point of the caldera, providing panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and the surrounding islands. The sunset here is equally stunning, with the sky transforming from shades of blue and orange to deep purples and pinks. While it may not be as crowded as Oia, it is still a popular spot, so it's recommended to arrive early to secure a good spot.

• Take a boat tour for:
• Sunset cruise : 
• boat tour of the volcano: 

• Walking out to Skaros Rock: Walking out to Skaros Rock is one of the best things to do in Santorini for the adventurous traveler. Skaros Rock is located in the village of Imerovigli and offers stunning views of the caldera and the Aegean Sea. The hike can be a bit challenging, with some steep sections and rocky terrain, but the views at the top are well worth it. Along the way, you'll pass by old churches, historic ruins, and unique rock formations. The best time to make the trek is in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat of the day.

• Go for Wine tasting: Wine tasting is a popular activity in Santorini due to the island's unique volcanic soil, which produces some of the most distinct wine varieties in the world. There are several wineries on the island that offer wine tasting tours and experiences. You can sample wines made from native grape varieties like Assyrtiko, Athiri, and Aidani, and learn about the history and culture of winemaking in Santorini.

• Walk from Fira to Oia: is a must-do activity for hikers and adventurous travelers. This walk is approximately 10 km long and offers some of the most breathtaking views of the island. Along the way, you will pass through small villages, see traditional Cycladic architecture, and enjoy panoramic views of the caldera. The trail is well-marked and easy to navigate, but it can be strenuous in some sections. It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes and bring water and sunscreen. The entire walk can take between 2 to 5 hours depending on your pace and how often you stop to take pictures or enjoy the views.

• Visit Red Beach: The Red Beach, located near the ancient village of Akrotiri, is a unique attraction on Santorini. This beach gets its name from the iron-rich red and black volcanic rocks that form its dramatic backdrop. The contrast of the red rocks against the turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea creates a stunning and unforgettable sight.
  Visitors can reach the Red Beach by car, but the best way to experience it is by taking a short hike from the parking area. The trail is rocky and steep in some areas, so it is important to wear sturdy shoes and take care while walking. The hike takes approximately 10 minutes and offers breathtaking views of the beach and surrounding cliffs.

• Visit White Beach: The White Beach is a secluded beach on the south coast of Santorini, accessible only by boat. It is named after its striking white cliffs that form a dramatic backdrop to the clear turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea. The beach is known for its stunning scenery and peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing day trip. Visitors can swim and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters or relax on the beach and soak up the sun. The White Beach is also a popular spot for boat tours and water activities such as kayaking and paddle boarding.

• Visit black sand beache: Santorini is known for its unique black sand beaches, formed by the volcanic activity on the island. Here are some of the most popular black sand beaches to visit:
• Perissa Beach: One of the longest beaches in Santorini, Perissa Beach is known for its black sand and clear blue waters. It's a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
• Kamari Beach: Located on the eastern coast of the island, Kamari Beach is another popular spot for swimming and sunbathing. It's also known for its lively atmosphere and beachfront restaurants and bars.
• Perivolos Beach: Next to Perissa Beach is Perivolos Beach, which also boasts black sand and crystal-clear waters. It's a great spot for water sports like windsurfing and kayaking.
• Vlychada Beach: This beach is known for its unique landscape, featuring cliffs and rock formations that have been sculpted by the wind and sea. The black sand and clear waters make it a great spot for swimming and sunbathing.
• Eros Beach: Located on the southern coast of the island, Eros Beach is a secluded spot with black sand and turquoise waters. It's a great spot for a quiet day at the beach, away from the crowds.

• Visit Pyrgos: Pyrgos is a town located in the western part of the Peloponnese peninsula in Greece. It is the capital of the Elis regional unit and has a population of approximately 25,000 people. Pyrgos is situated at the foot of Mount Minthi and is known for its rich history, traditional architecture, and natural beauty.
  Some of the top attractions in Pyrgos include the Archaeological Museum of Pyrgos, which showcases artifacts from the ancient city of Olympia, the Sanctuary of the Twelve Gods, and the Monastery of Kremasti. Visitors can also enjoy the beautiful beaches in the area, including Katakolo, Skafidia, and Kourouta.
  Pyrgos is also famous for its local cuisine, including dishes such as grilled meats, stuffed vegetables, and fresh seafood. The town is home to many traditional tavernas and restaurants where you can sample these delicious dishes.

• Visit Profitis Ilias: On a clear day, you can see the city of Corinth to the north, the Gulf of Corinth to the east, and the Aegean Sea to the south. You can also see the mountains of Mainalo and Taygetus to the west.
  At the summit of Profitis Ilias, there is a small chapel dedicated to the prophet Elijah. Visitors can climb the stairs to the top of the chapel for an even better view of the surrounding area.
  The area around Profitis Ilias is also home to many hiking trails, which offer visitors the opportunity to explore the beautiful natural scenery of the region. Hiking to the summit of Profitis Ilias is a popular activity for tourists and locals alike.

• Visit Ancient Thira: Ancient Thira was first inhabited in the 9th century BC by Dorian colonists from Sparta. The city was named after its founder, Theras, who was a Spartan prince. Ancient Thira played an important role in the history of Santorini and was inhabited until the early Byzantine period.
  Today, visitors to Ancient Thira can explore the ruins of the ancient city, which include temples, houses, public buildings, and cemeteries. Some of the most notable sites at Ancient Thira include the Agora (the main public square), the Gymnasium (a training ground for athletes), and the Sanctuary of Artemis (a temple dedicated to the goddess of the hunt).
  In addition to its historical significance, Ancient Thira offers visitors breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including the Aegean Sea and the nearby islands of Anafi and Ios. The site is accessible by car or on foot, with a hiking trail leading up from the nearby village of Kamari.
  

Greece's South Aegean Region Leads in Tourism for 2022

According to the recent data released by the Bank of Greece, the South Aegean region of Greece was the most visited region in the country in 2022. The region, which includes popular tourist destinations such as Santorini, Mykonos, and Rhodes.

Here are the key highlights of the Bank of Greece's report:

• The South Aegean region saw 12.4 million tourist arrivals in 2022, up by 10.8% from 2021.
• The region also generated the highest tourism revenues in Greece, with total earnings of €10.3 billion, up by 12.1% from the previous year.
• Tourists stayed in the South Aegean region for an average of 7.3 days, the highest average length of stay in Greece.
• The United Kingdom was the top source of tourists to the region, accounting for 18.7% of total arrivals, followed by Germany (14.5%) and France (9.8%).

The South Aegean region's success can be attributed to its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and excellent tourism infrastructure. The region's tourism industry has also implemented strict health and safety protocols to ensure the safety of both tourists and locals during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

The Bank of Greece's report is good news for Greece's tourism industry, which has been hit hard by the pandemic. The success of the South Aegean region is a testament to the resilience of Greece's tourism industry and its ability to adapt to changing circumstances.

As the world slowly recovers from the pandemic, Greece is well-positioned to continue attracting tourists from around the globe. With its stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and delicious cuisine, Greece is a must-visit destination for any traveler.

About : Santorini