Welcome to Santorini

The world famous island of Santorini is along with Mykonos and Crete the most visited Greek Island. Santorini is part of the Cyclades and is a small group of volcanic islands and its name refers to Saint Irene. The island was the site of one of the largest volcanic eruptions in the world but what remain today are a submerged volcano and a caldera. It is a barren, rocky island with black and red beaches and towns situated on high cliffs offering breathtaking views and stunning sunsets.

The island's official name is Thira and its main town, Fira, is the capital of the Cyclades islands. It is a cosmopolitan island and is therefore quite expensive.
Stay in Fira, Imerovigli or Oia, the towns on the cliffs, which are very beautiful and full of little cafes, shops and places of interest. Akrotiri; an ancient town that was buried when the volcano erupted 3500 years ago, Ancient Thira (Roman Headquarters); situated on top of high cliff just above Kamari, with an old church dating back to 1100, the folklore museum, a citadel from the Middle Ages, two Mitropolis - Christian centres - a Catholic and an Orthodox, the church of Ag. Mina (which is the church that most postcards of Santorini portray), are just a few of the places worth a visit.

At Oia you get the most beautiful and amazing sunsets, and both Oia and Fira are excellent towns for just strolling around and shopping. It is quite expensive on the Island but as many artists live here you can buy a lot of original things such as ceramics, jewellery, art etc. In Fira, Oia and Imerovigli there are numerous café’s, grill taverns and restaurants. You can get almost everything from traditional Greeks food to international dishes. Santorini nightlife is very varied. Most bars and discos are in Fira, Kamari and Perissa. Fira is probably the most popular place so be sure to have a drink in one of the little cafes, bar or restaurants on the steep side.

The beaches are wide with mainly black sand. Be aware of currents and the waves which can get very high especially at the north east side of the island. Kamari and Perissa are popular beaches with their beautiful surroundings and black sand but for calmer beaches, you should visit Monolithos, Vlichada or Agios Georgios.

The island is quite small and it is very easy to get around. Local buses take you to most places, but you can also rent a car or a bike or take a taxi.

SkyMap wishes you a pleasant stay...