Santorini Island
★ 4.8🇬🇷 SantoriniSuggested visit 2-3 daysBest season May to June or September to October, avoiding the extreme heat and crowds of July and August
AegeanRomantic honeymoonVolcanic islandMediterranean scenery
A whitewashed dream on the Aegean, where blue-domed churches and cliff-top sunsets form one of the world's most romantic scenes.
Overview
Santorini is known for its blue-and-white architecture, dramatic sunsets and volcanic landscape, making it one of the most romantic islands in the Aegean.
History
Santorini was formed by the Minoan eruption about 3,600 years ago, a blast that may have contributed to the decline of Minoan civilisation. The island passed through Greek, Byzantine and Venetian rule. Tomato cultivation and pumice mining developed in the 19th century. With the rise of tourism after the war, its cave houses became one of the world's most recognisable travel images.
Highlights
- •The legendary sunset over Oia
- •Whitewashed cave houses against blue-domed churches
- •Infinity pools along the caldera edge
- •Volcanic pebbles and deep blue water at Amoudi Bay
- •Prehistoric Minoan civilisation revealed by the Akrotiri excavations
Practical tips
- •Stay in Oia for the sunset
- •Summer is peak season, so book accommodation early
Practical information
- Best time
- May to October
- Tickets
- Most island sights are free; museums around EUR 12
- Opening hours
- Open all day; sunset is the main event
- Local food
- Greek salad, tomato fritters, seafood and white wine
- Getting around
- Buses and rental cars are the main options; the Fira to Oia buses are crowded at sunset
- Visa
- Greece is in the Schengen area and requires a short-stay Schengen visa. Apply early for the island season from June to September and check ferry connections.
Traveller reviews
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