Did you know the 2003 action film Tomb Raider – The Cradle of Life was shoot in Santorini? While I was in Athens I had an extra day to explore and flew to Santorini.
And to be honest, 1 day there was more than enough for me.
It is an island to relax
Santorini (officially known as Thira) is actually a group of vulcanic islands in the southern Aegean Sea roughly halfway between Athens and Crete. As many greek island it is also famous for its white houses, which create a beautiful contrast against the light blue sky and the Sea.
Thousands of years ago there was a huge vulcano which erupted and almost totally disappeared. Only carter (caldera) remained, which is now called Santorini.
This island attracts nearly 2 million tourists every year, nearly half of them are day visitors who come on cruise ships and stay on the island an average of seven hours.
The western side houses luxury hotels with amazing sunset views, but if you want to go to Santorini make sure you have access to a pool. The towns are located high on a black vulcanic rocks and the island has only a handful of beaches. But they are not like the great, white sand beaches Greece is known for. They are black or red.
Two places to be: Fira and Oia
Fira is the capital of Santorini, which has a beautiful walking trail through narrow alley to reach the nerby village Firostefani. Where you will find one of the landmark churches.
Oai, located at the top end of the island is said to be the best place to enjoy the sunset in Santorini and a popular instagram spot with the world famous church.
Why you should skip Santorini?
If you are looking for an active holiday, Santorini might not be the perfect choice to do. I recommend the island for private getaway where you and your partner can relax, dine at restaurants while watching the sunset. However there are some things which will help you spice up your holiday.
- Riding donkeys
If you are an animal lover this might not be an activity for you. Donkeys have been used for centuries to get people and suff from the islands port to the main cities climbing up to 600 steps through zigzag paths.
- Wine tastings
Wine has been produced in Santorini since ancient times, but after the Venetian influence became famouse through the Mediterranean and Europe.
- Sail on a catamaran
As there are only a few sights ont he island, some of the most popular attraction is sailing to the volcanic islands of Santorini’s caldera region.
Getting around the island is easy because it is quite small. The cheapest option is the local public bus. They usually depart in every 30 or 45 mins from the Airport or Towns, but the main bus hub is in Fira. You can rent a car, but its is expensive. And FYI UBER and Lyft do not exist in Santorini.
