Thira
temperatur
22°
tid
23:10
Thira
Rising from the deep blue Aegean Sea, Santorini blends its dramatic volcanic cliffs and black-and-red sand beaches with whitewashed houses and blue domes clinging to the caldera. It feels both ancient and dreamlike—quintessentially Greek, but with a twist.Hitta resa
Oia’s the one you’ve seen in all the photos—white houses, blue domes, and narrow lanes packed with people come sunset. It sits on the edge of the caldera, about 150 metres up, with genuinely great views (if you can find a spot to stand). It’s pricey, often crowded, but still worth a visit, especially early in the morning or just after sunset when things calm down. Good for wandering, photos, and a splurge meal if you’re into that.
Fira’s the main hub of the island—busy, a bit chaotic in peak season, but a good base if you want everything within reach. It’s where you’ll find most of the museums (the Museum of Prehistoric Thera is the one to prioritise), plus loads of shops, cafés, and bars. If you’re using the bus to get around, this is where they all connect. It’s also a decent spot for watching the caldera without Oia’s crowds.
The unique colour of the sand and the breathtaking volcanic landscape make this beach a must-see destination. Its particular rock formations treat travellers to stunning views, and the smooth, mirror-like sea creates a contrast with the bold red of the shore. The beach is pebbly and not ideal for lying, though its rock formations make it perfect for snorkelling.
This cliffside hike is one of the best ways to take in the island, spanning approximately 9 km from Fira to Oia, with Imerovigli and several smaller villages in between. It’s not difficult, but parts of it are steep, rocky, and exposed, so bring water, sturdy shoes, and start early to avoid the midday heat. Expect churches, caldera views, and the occasional detour through quiet paths. It takes around 3–4 hours, depending on pace and photo stops. Ending in Oia means you can reward yourself with dinner and a view—just be ready for the crowds if you hit sunset.
Perissa Beach stretches for 7 km along Santorini's southeastern coast, charming the traveller with its peculiar shades of black. Perfect for snorkelling, the beach also features a volleyball court and numerous options for water-sport activities. The picturesque Perissa village offers an assortment of restaurants and bars, and its close proximity to the ruins of Ancient Thira makes it a magnet for tourists.
Sitting high up on Mesa Vouno, Ancient Thera has the kind of views that make the hike worth it. The ruins stretch along a ridge above Kamari and Perissa, with bits of Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine history still visible—temples, bathhouses, homes, even an old theatre. You can drive most of the way from Kamari (steep road), or hike up from Perissa if you’re up for a long, hot climb (around 2 hours). Bring water, wear shoes with grip, and go early if you want to avoid the heat.
A trip to Santorini wouldn't be complete without a wine-tasting tour. The island's volcanic wine is particularly renowned for its crispy flavour. Santorini Wine Adventure is based in Fira and offers tours to explore local wine, food and culture, as well as the picturesque countryside.
Akrotiri is the island's most important archaeological site, home to Minoan ruins dating to the 4th century BC. When the volcano erupted, the entire population was forced to flee from Akrotiri, which was swept away by the lava flow. However, preserved buildings and utensils remain a freeze-frame of the lifestyle of these Ancient people.
Oia’s the one you’ve seen in all the photos—white houses, blue domes, and narrow lanes packed with people come sunset. It sits on the edge of the caldera, about 150 metres up, with genuinely great views (if you can find a spot to stand). It’s pricey, often crowded, but still worth a visit, especially early in the morning or just after sunset when things calm down. Good for wandering, photos, and a splurge meal if you’re into that.
Fira’s the main hub of the island—busy, a bit chaotic in peak season, but a good base if you want everything within reach. It’s where you’ll find most of the museums (the Museum of Prehistoric Thera is the one to prioritise), plus loads of shops, cafés, and bars. If you’re using the bus to get around, this is where they all connect. It’s also a decent spot for watching the caldera without Oia’s crowds.
Fira’s full of souvenir shops—some generic, some better than others. Along the main streets, you’ll find all the usual stuff: magnets, mugs, postcards, fridge-worthy sunsets, and the odd evil eye charm. Prices vary a lot, so it’s worth having a look around before committing.
Hidden in the hills of Akrotiri, The Good Heart is more than just a restaurant—it’s a genuine taste of Santorini’s culinary soul. Run by a local family, this welcoming spot is known for its heartfelt hospitality and honest Greek food, made with fresh ingredients grown right on the island. After your meal, browse the small shop where they sell their own homemade goods—everything from capers and tomato paste to local cheese, jams, pickles, and honey—all crafted with traditional care and love.
Fabrica is Santorini’s only shopping centre, located just off the caldera path in a converted flour mill in Fira. It boasts a mix of clothing boutiques, jewellery shops, souvenir stores, and a few cafés.
Tucked beneath a mustard-hued façade along Oia’s cliffside, Atlantis Books is no ordinary bookshop—it’s often hailed as one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. Created by a group of literary-minded friends who fell in love with Santorini, this whimsical cave-like space is a haven for readers and dreamers alike. The hand-built shop overflows with fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and rare finds in several languages, from Greek and English to Spanish, French, and even Chinese. Walls and ceilings are lined with hand-painted quotes, ladders, and literary oddities—every corner feels like a chapter from a novel. Beyond books, Atlantis hosts intimate literary events, film screenings, and even residencies. And if that’s not enough, the rooftop offers stunning views over the caldera—a perfect spot to start reading your new favourite find.
LALAoUNIS is a long-running jewellery shop in Fira, known for pieces inspired by ancient Greek art and history. Gold and silver designs here aren’t just decorative—they often reference museum pieces and archaeological finds. It’s on the higher end, but the quality and detail make it stand out.
Epilekton is a shop in Oia that stands out from the usual souvenir spots. They offer a mix of items, including amber jewellery, antiques, nautical instruments, and folk art pieces. It's a place where you might find something different to take home.
Fira’s full of souvenir shops—some generic, some better than others. Along the main streets, you’ll find all the usual stuff: magnets, mugs, postcards, fridge-worthy sunsets, and the odd evil eye charm. Prices vary a lot, so it’s worth having a look around before committing.
Hidden in the hills of Akrotiri, The Good Heart is more than just a restaurant—it’s a genuine taste of Santorini’s culinary soul. Run by a local family, this welcoming spot is known for its heartfelt hospitality and honest Greek food, made with fresh ingredients grown right on the island. After your meal, browse the small shop where they sell their own homemade goods—everything from capers and tomato paste to local cheese, jams, pickles, and honey—all crafted with traditional care and love.
Santorini Airport (JTR) is situated approximately 5–6 km southeast of Fira, the island’s capital, making it a convenient entry point for visitors. The journey to Fira typically takes about 10 minutes by car. Travellers have several options to reach the city centre: a public bus service operated by KTEL Santorini runs hourly between the airport and Fira, with a travel time of approximately 10 minutes. Taxis are available outside the terminal, offering a quicker but more expensive ride. Private transfers and hotel-arranged pickups are also common, providing a more personalised service. While Santorini Airport handles numerous direct flights from major European cities during the summer months, many international travellers may find it more convenient to fly into Athens International Airport (ATH) and then take a short domestic flight (approximately 45 minutes) or a ferry to Santorini, especially during the off-peak season when direct flights are less frequent.
Citizens of the European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) countries do not need a visa to enter Greece, only a valid ID. Many other countries, including the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, the United Arab Emirates, Australia, and New Zealand, benefit from visa-free entry for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Visitors from visa-exempt countries must hold a valid passport and, starting in late 2025, will need to apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) authorisation online before travelling. For those requiring a visa, such as travellers from some Middle Eastern, African or Asian nations, a Schengen visa must be obtained prior to arrival. All travellers should ensure their passport is valid for at least three months beyond their intended stay.
Santorini’s traditional mule rides, where donkeys and mules help carry visitors along the island’s steep paths, particularly between the old port and Fira, remain a visible part of local tourism. However, the practice has drawn criticism from animal welfare groups over the years, raising concerns about the working conditions and overall care of the animals. Travellers are increasingly encouraged to consider alternatives like the cable car or walking, which offer a more ethical and sustainable way to explore the island’s dramatic landscape.
Public transport in Santorini is run exclusively by KTEL, with all routes starting or ending in Fira, the island’s central hub. Buses connect popular destinations like Oia, Kamari, Perissa, and Akrotiri, though routes between other villages usually require a change in Fira. Service is more frequent in high season, and tickets are paid in cash on board. While the network covers most of the island, the need to transfer and the irregular schedule on less-visited routes can be a drawback for those short on time.
Taxis in Santorini are limited, especially during peak season, so finding one on the spot can be challenging. While taxis are metered, flat rates often apply for common routes (e.g., airport to Fira), so it's advisable to agree on the fare before the ride. As of 2025, Uber operates in Santorini, but it works differently than in bigger cities—you’ll be matched with licensed local taxi drivers, not freelance Uber drivers. It’s essentially just a way to book a regular taxi through the app, with a minimum fare that applies no matter the distance. There’s also Uber Boat, which connects some coastal spots by sea. Many hotels also arrange transfers, which are often more reliable than trying to flag down a taxi, especially late at night or in quieter areas.
Santorini’s postal services are operated by ELTA (Hellenic Post), easily recognised by their blue and yellow signage. The main post offices are located in Fira, Emporio, and Oia, offering services such as mailing letters and purchasing stamps and postcards. Additionally, postal agencies can be found in Pyrgos, Kamari, and Perissa. Mailboxes are widespread across the island, typically yellow with a blue ELTA logo, and are available in all major villages and resorts.
Pharmacies are easy to find in most towns, especially in Fira, Oia, Kamari, and Perissa. Fira has the most options, with several open year-round. Most pharmacists speak English and are helpful with basic medical advice. Opening hours can vary: some close for a midday break (roughly 2pm–5pm), and not all are open on Sundays. Pharmacy Argyrou Theodora, located near the main square in Fira, is one of the busiest and best-stocked pharmacies on the island.
Country code: +30 Area code: 22860
Santorini Airport (JTR) is situated approximately 5–6 km southeast of Fira, the island’s capital, making it a convenient entry point for visitors. The journey to Fira typically takes about 10 minutes by car. Travellers have several options to reach the city centre: a public bus service operated by KTEL Santorini runs hourly between the airport and Fira, with a travel time of approximately 10 minutes. Taxis are available outside the terminal, offering a quicker but more expensive ride. Private transfers and hotel-arranged pickups are also common, providing a more personalised service. While Santorini Airport handles numerous direct flights from major European cities during the summer months, many international travellers may find it more convenient to fly into Athens International Airport (ATH) and then take a short domestic flight (approximately 45 minutes) or a ferry to Santorini, especially during the off-peak season when direct flights are less frequent.
Citizens of the European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) countries do not need a visa to enter Greece, only a valid ID. Many other countries, including the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, the United Arab Emirates, Australia, and New Zealand, benefit from visa-free entry for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Visitors from visa-exempt countries must hold a valid passport and, starting in late 2025, will need to apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) authorisation online before travelling. For those requiring a visa, such as travellers from some Middle Eastern, African or Asian nations, a Schengen visa must be obtained prior to arrival. All travellers should ensure their passport is valid for at least three months beyond their intended stay.
