Santorini (Thira) continues to be one of the most popular destinations and has made it onto peoples bucket list worldwide. We have been privileged enough to enjoy this magical location from its rugged terrain, to mysterious volcanic geological formations, to quaint villages and traditions with their unique architecture and the mesmerizing Aegean views!
You just arrived in Santorini and only have few days to explore this magnificent Greek Island! Where to go? What to do in just few days? Ayoba Santorini has developed a quick guide for you.
You just arrived in Santorini and only have few days to explore this magnificent Greek Island! Where to go? What to do in just few days? Ayoba Santorini has developed a quick guide for you.
1. The villages built on the Caldera rim
All the villages of the Caldera are impressive and each one has its own "personality". Fira is the largest settlement and the capital of Thera. Hotels, rooms to let, clothing and accessories shops, jewelry stores, galleries, gift shops, super markets, groceries, banks and ATMs, pharmacies, bars, clubs, restaurants, travel agencies, are located in the capital. Here you will also find some of the most important museums of the island.
The walk from Fira to Firostefani through the old cobblestone path is the best way to visit this picturesque settlement, enjoying the magnificent view.
Imerovigli (or Merovigli) is a linear settlement which was developed on the edge of the cliff along the Caldera, at its highest point, so it offers really impressive view to the volcano. Contrary to the popular belief, Imerovigli has one of the greatest sunset views throughtout the whole year as it is positioned at the highest point of the Caldera. Ayoba Santorini is also based in Imerovigli. In Imerovigli you can have views of the whole island (especially from where we are located) and specifically towards Caldera, Oia, and Kamari.
Oia is the most romantic destination. It is famous all over the world for the sunset which visitors enjoy from the Goulas (watch tower) of Aghios (St) Nikolaos castle. Walking around you will admire the carved-in buildings and the so called captains' houses ("kapetanospita"). In recent years the buildings of the picturesque village have become hotels, restaurants, cafes, galleries, stores.
2. Hiking from Fira to Oia via Imerovigli.
Read here our previous post with loads of information and details.
3. The Prehistoric settlement of Akrotiri
Akrotiri is one of the most important prehistoric settlements of the Aegean. This fascinating site has been dubbed as the “Minoan Pompeii”. The first inhabitants arrived around 3000 BC thus making Santorin a haven for archaeologists and history lovers. Bring your swim suites along so that you can continue to the incredible “Red Beach” which is a few kilometers from the site.
4. Discover the ancient Thera
The view from up there is amazing. Ancient Thera stands on Mesa Vouno, at an altitude of 396 m. It was founded in the 9th century BC by Dorian settlers, led by Theras. Building remnants belong to the Hellenistic era, which is the last period of the city's prosperity. The residential development is amphitheatrical due to the inclination of the terrain.
5. Attend a Panigiri (Religious Festival)
Every Greek church has their own patron saint which they celebrate on a specific date with a festival, meaning that besides the church service, food and wine is served and sometimes there is music and dancing. Visitors on the island are welcome to attend. For more information on the dates and churches please refer to the following website: https://www.santorini.com/churches/religious_festivals.htm
6. Wine Tours
The indigenous white Assyrtiko grape is the most popular variety in Santorini. Wine production on the island dates back to Roman times but flourished under Venetian control during the Middle Ages. An exquisite range of superb wineries can be visited boasting some of the finest wines in the country – Wine Tasting is a must especially the famous Visanto. Ask Ayoba Santorini team to advice you on your arrival.
7. Donkey Ride
Donkeys are synonymous with Santorini! They’ve become somewhat of a mascot and play an integral part for the locals as well as tourism. One can enjoy a ride from the port to Fira or along the winding caldera path from Imerovigli to Oia.
8. Sailing Tour
The sculptured landscape of Santorini can be appreciated best from the water. There are various sailing tours on offer, but the one we suggest is a private tour on a catamaran. The tour will reveal private beaches, unique views of the whitewashed towns and the grandeur of the caldera itself. One can enjoy a swim and then fest in the meal prepared by the crew on board. Though rather an expensive outing, its one while looking into.
9. Volcano Tour
It’s a once in a life time experience to walk on an active volcano. This beautiful terrain is captivating to say the least as you take a leisurely hike to the Nea Kameni crater. Finish off your tour with a dip in the hot springs that are said to have healing powers before getting back on to the boat.
10. Drink Donkey Beer
This exquisite brewery has caught the attention of local and international beer enthusiasts with their unique branding, bottling and brews. Enjoy either a Yellow, Red or Crazy Donkey and add to your Santorini experience.
All the villages of the Caldera are impressive and each one has its own "personality". Fira is the largest settlement and the capital of Thera. Hotels, rooms to let, clothing and accessories shops, jewelry stores, galleries, gift shops, super markets, groceries, banks and ATMs, pharmacies, bars, clubs, restaurants, travel agencies, are located in the capital. Here you will also find some of the most important museums of the island.
The walk from Fira to Firostefani through the old cobblestone path is the best way to visit this picturesque settlement, enjoying the magnificent view.
Imerovigli (or Merovigli) is a linear settlement which was developed on the edge of the cliff along the Caldera, at its highest point, so it offers really impressive view to the volcano. Contrary to the popular belief, Imerovigli has one of the greatest sunset views throughtout the whole year as it is positioned at the highest point of the Caldera. Ayoba Santorini is also based in Imerovigli. In Imerovigli you can have views of the whole island (especially from where we are located) and specifically towards Caldera, Oia, and Kamari.
Oia is the most romantic destination. It is famous all over the world for the sunset which visitors enjoy from the Goulas (watch tower) of Aghios (St) Nikolaos castle. Walking around you will admire the carved-in buildings and the so called captains' houses ("kapetanospita"). In recent years the buildings of the picturesque village have become hotels, restaurants, cafes, galleries, stores.
2. Hiking from Fira to Oia via Imerovigli.
Read here our previous post with loads of information and details.
3. The Prehistoric settlement of Akrotiri
Akrotiri is one of the most important prehistoric settlements of the Aegean. This fascinating site has been dubbed as the “Minoan Pompeii”. The first inhabitants arrived around 3000 BC thus making Santorin a haven for archaeologists and history lovers. Bring your swim suites along so that you can continue to the incredible “Red Beach” which is a few kilometers from the site.
4. Discover the ancient Thera
The view from up there is amazing. Ancient Thera stands on Mesa Vouno, at an altitude of 396 m. It was founded in the 9th century BC by Dorian settlers, led by Theras. Building remnants belong to the Hellenistic era, which is the last period of the city's prosperity. The residential development is amphitheatrical due to the inclination of the terrain.
5. Attend a Panigiri (Religious Festival)
Every Greek church has their own patron saint which they celebrate on a specific date with a festival, meaning that besides the church service, food and wine is served and sometimes there is music and dancing. Visitors on the island are welcome to attend. For more information on the dates and churches please refer to the following website: https://www.santorini.com/churches/religious_festivals.htm
6. Wine Tours
The indigenous white Assyrtiko grape is the most popular variety in Santorini. Wine production on the island dates back to Roman times but flourished under Venetian control during the Middle Ages. An exquisite range of superb wineries can be visited boasting some of the finest wines in the country – Wine Tasting is a must especially the famous Visanto. Ask Ayoba Santorini team to advice you on your arrival.
7. Donkey Ride
Donkeys are synonymous with Santorini! They’ve become somewhat of a mascot and play an integral part for the locals as well as tourism. One can enjoy a ride from the port to Fira or along the winding caldera path from Imerovigli to Oia.
8. Sailing Tour
The sculptured landscape of Santorini can be appreciated best from the water. There are various sailing tours on offer, but the one we suggest is a private tour on a catamaran. The tour will reveal private beaches, unique views of the whitewashed towns and the grandeur of the caldera itself. One can enjoy a swim and then fest in the meal prepared by the crew on board. Though rather an expensive outing, its one while looking into.
9. Volcano Tour
It’s a once in a life time experience to walk on an active volcano. This beautiful terrain is captivating to say the least as you take a leisurely hike to the Nea Kameni crater. Finish off your tour with a dip in the hot springs that are said to have healing powers before getting back on to the boat.
10. Drink Donkey Beer
This exquisite brewery has caught the attention of local and international beer enthusiasts with their unique branding, bottling and brews. Enjoy either a Yellow, Red or Crazy Donkey and add to your Santorini experience.
RSS Feed
