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Santorini is the same Greek island from the postcard. It is considered one of the most beautiful in the world.

Anna Babkina

lives in Santorini

Santorini is surrounded by three active volcanoes - one in the center and two on the outer side of the archipelago. The island offers a view of the world's largest caldera - a depression formed as a result of a volcanic eruption in 1600 BC.

People come to Santorini to see the beaches with colorful sand, walk along the volcano, take pictures against the backdrop of the famous church with three blue domes and watch the sunset over one of the most beautiful villages peace.

I arrived in Santorini in the winter of 2014 and fell in love with the caldera and deserted marble streets. The town of Oia is located at an altitude of 300 meters above sea level, and sometimes clouds run into its streets. In winter, when there are no tourists, Santorini is breathtaking.

History of the island

Santorini as we know it was formed about 3500 years ago after a volcanic eruption. middle big island went under water, forming the famous caldera with the surrounding islands of Aspronsiri, Nea Kameni, Palea Kameni, Firassia and Santorini itself. In fact, Santorini is the volcano, perhaps the largest in the world and still active.

There is a version that Santorini is the legendary sunken Atlantis described by Plato.

The area of ​​the island is 76 square kilometers. From one end to the other can be reached in 2 hours by car. There are areas in Santorini where the sea is visible on both sides of the road - for example, on the way from Fira to Oia:

Two key settlements are the capital of the island of Fira and the snow-white town of Oia, the most replicated symbol of Santorini. There is also a medieval fortress Pirgos, Ancient Fira - these are the ruins of a huge city in the south of the island, and to the south is Akrotiri, according to one version, the city of Atlantes.

Now Santorini is the most popular island in Greece. But the Greeks themselves avoid it because of the high cost and the huge number of tourists. There are a lot of foreigners and expats here, so everyone speaks mostly English. My Greek is still very good basic level, and I still haven't had a good reason to learn it.

Most tourists come to Santorini from China, Australia and the USA. People come here to celebrate a wedding and a honeymoon for the sake of photo shoots against the backdrop of white houses and the blue sea.

How to get to Santorini

You can get to Santorini from Athens by plane or by ferry. Hours and prices vary by season.

It takes only 20 minutes to fly from Athens to the island. In summer, a one-way ticket costs from 100 € (7500 R) and more, but in winter you can fly an average of 50 € (3654 R). In winter, Ryanair and Aegean Airlines organize promotions - sometimes you can catch a ticket for 5 € (365 R).

But the main way of transport communication between the islands of Greece is ferries. In summer, from 3 to 6 ferries come to Santorini every day, in winter less often - 2 ferries three days a week. The main ferry that goes to the island is the Blue Star Ferry. A ticket from Athens costs about 40 € (3000 R), travel time is 9 hours.

Ferries also run between other Greek islands. Most Russian tourists come to Santorini by ferry from Crete or Athens.

Resident card

The Greek migration system is very complex, with a lot of constantly changing rules, so you most likely cannot do without a lawyer. But it is best to choose a specialist through acquaintances, so that it is more or less a proven person.

In Greece, there are a lot of immigrants who want to get a residence permit, and, accordingly, a lot of fraud. Even my “verified” lawyer tried to cheat me for money: she “forgot” that I had paid for her services in advance and tried to take away my new document as soon as we left the immigration office. Fortunately, she quickly changed her mind, because I began to argue with her loudly, attracting the attention of others.

Initially, I came to Santorini with a tourist Schengen for a year. Then I hired a lawyer and got a family visa: in my case, this was the easiest option for processing. The services of a lawyer cost me 200 € (14,616 R). In theory, a month after receiving temporary documents, I should have been issued a European residence permit for 5 years. But I have been in Greece for the fourth year already - and I am still waiting for my residence permit.

I renew my temporary residence permit (veveosi ble) every year at the immigration office in Athens free of charge.

200 €

I paid for the services of a lawyer to get a family visa to Greece

Citizens of Russia and the CIS can obtain a residence permit as follows:

1. to marry a Greek citizen;
2. get a family visa if you have close relatives, a young man or a girl living in Greece;
3. find an employer and get a work visa - but this is very difficult, because the taxes for such workers are high, and few employers will agree to issue this type of visa;
4. an indefinite residence permit will be issued upon purchase of real estate worth from 250,000 € (18,700,000 R).

There is a stereotype that thanks to friendly relations between Russia and Greece, it is easier for Russians to obtain European documents here. But Greece is a buffer between Europe and third world countries. The famous slowness of the Greek bureaucrats here is tacitly encouraged by the state.

All these papers in the corridor are folders with personal files of immigrants like me. On the folders - dust, garbage, someone's unfinished coffee. Someone, standing in line, picks up someone else's dossier - just read out of boredom. It is quite common for Greek officials to lose someone's documents, so rule number 1: always give copies and keep the originals.

Due to the crisis and reductions in this ministry, there are only three people left who must review the dossier and make decisions on the issuance of documents. And these people were very surprised when they saw me on the threshold of their office: “Why did you come at all? Think 4 years! People here have been waiting for 15 years.”

Problem #1

Too many tourists

About 20,000 people live permanently on Santorini, but during the tourist season, up to 2 million tourists usually come here.

In the midst tourist season 3 to 9 huge cruise ships visit the island every day. There are up to 3,000 tourists on board each such liner. Of course, each of these tourists wants to watch the sunset in the legendary Oia.

In 2017, Santorini set a record with 5.5 million tourists visiting the island. And this is on a piece of land with an area of ​​76 square kilometers, where the electricity and water supply systems have not been changed since the time when Jacques Yves Cousteau was looking for Atlantis here, and this was in 1975. Due to the influx of tourists, failures in the supply of electricity and water occurred here every other week.

2 million

tourists visit Santorini every year

The situation became so critical that the mayor of the island set a limit for cruise ships: no more than 8,000 people a day. I can not say that the locals felt the difference. When the streets in the town are two meters wide, several thousand tourists a day are, in any case, too much.

Problem #2

Find accommodation

The flow of tourists to Santorini is only increasing every year. Because of this, large hotels massively bought out all the real estate in Oia and, one might say, ousted local residents who lived there from generation to generation. Hotels are constantly expanding, this greatly changes the appearance of the town: more and more new villas are growing around the hotels.

For this reason, it is very difficult to find long-term accommodation in Santorini. Word of mouth works best: the island is like big village where everyone knows each other.

550 €

I pay the rent of the house per month

I have lived in Santorini in an 18th-century house overlooking the caldera, in a former winery, in a cave with an overhead pool, and even in a bookstore. I can say that because of the unusual climate, it is most comfortable to live here in a cave house: it is cool there in summer, and warm in winter and there are no drafts. Because of the high humidity, every home has a dehumidifier. For half a day of work, he can collect 5 liters of water.

I used to live in Oia, then I moved to Finikya, a neighboring village 20 minutes walk away. It is very picturesque, there are almost no tourists, mostly locals and expats live. Renting a house here costs from 400 € (30,000 R) plus utility bills.

Basically, houses with one room are rented in Finikia for 500-600 € (36 541 -43849.2 R). In Fira, housing is simpler: a small house can be rented from 350 € (25,579 R). Outside of Oia, renting a large house-villa costs from 1,700 € (124,239 R) per month. On east coast islands where there is no view of the volcano, housing is much cheaper.

I am renting a 100 m² recently built house in Finikia for 550 € (41,250 R) per month. This is not typical for Santorini: in general, the spaces here are very small.

Usually in Greece they conclude a real estate lease agreement for at least 6 months and pay two months in advance. In Santorini, I have never entered into such an agreement, because every time I found housing through acquaintances.

If you're looking to buy a property, a medium-sized house on the caldera can cost around 1 million euros. If you cross the road, the same house overlooking the not so picturesque side of the island can be bought for 400,000 € (29,232,680 R).

Communal expenses

Bills for electricity, light and phone come every two months. I pay about 80 € (6000 R) for the phone and the Internet.

200 €

I pay for electricity for two months in summer

In summer, the water bill comes out to about 90 € (6750 R), in winter - 70 € (5250 R). Centralized hot water supply is available only in hotels, in ordinary houses there are boilers - and this is the main item of electricity costs. Moreover, in most houses, boilers are very small, 10-15 liters, clearly designed for summer time. In winter, the water heated by such a device is barely enough for one minute. Putting a new 40 liter boiler together with the work of the master will cost 200 € (14 618 R), but if you are going to spend the winter in Santorini, it's worth it.

Electricity is the most expensive resource on the island. I pay for it from 200 € (15,000 R) for two months in summer and up to 300 € (22,500 R) in winter. In winter, Santorini is cold, at night the temperature can drop to zero. The houses do not have central heating, so you have to turn on electric heaters. The electricity bill for the whole winter can range from 650 € (47,508 R) to 850 € (62,125 R). At the same time, the wiring in the houses is old, and if the boiler and heater are turned on at the same time, the plugs can be knocked out.

Traditional cave houses

The volcanic soil of the island forms natural voids in the rocks. The walls around these voids are very strong and practically do not collapse.

Santorini is surrounded by three active volcanoes, so there is always a risk of a sudden eruption or earthquake. People here have lived in caves since ancient times - this is the safest type of housing. The cave can withstand quite a strong earthquake, while ordinary buildings will collapse like a house of cards. Previously, in every cave house, there was a shovel at the entrance, so that in the event of an earthquake there was something to dig out the way out.

The phenomenon of cave houses is that they have a very strong ceiling and floor. The owners of such a house can artificially expand the space: dig up a couple of additional rooms for themselves. Of course, this is done with the consent of the neighbors and the invited architect, but the process itself is very simple.

Transport

If you are going to live in Santorini you will need a car or scooter. You will save both time and money on food, because groceries in supermarkets are 1.5 times cheaper than in small tourist shops, but it is not so easy to get to supermarkets.

1500 €

worth a used car in Santorini

Renting a car costs from 30 € (2250 R) per day. You can also buy: a used but serviceable car costs from 1,500 € (112,500 R). A liter of gasoline will cost 1.9 € (139 R).

Many residents of the island prefer scooters. Already from March to October there are traffic jams on the roads. Sometimes a route of 20 minutes can take 3 hours, and scooters are indispensable here to get through the next traffic jam. Renting a scooter costs from 15 € (1125 R) per day, you can buy a used one for 350 € (25 581 R).

From public transport There are only buses in Santorini. They run at intervals of 10 minutes to 1.5 hours from 7 am to midnight. Tickets cost 1.9-2.5 € (139-183 R) depending on the route. In winter, the number of routes is reduced, and the bus from Oia to Fira can take two hours. It is better to check the public transport schedule on the website, because it is not posted at the stops themselves.

A taxi from the airport will cost you at least 40 € (3000 R), from one village to another - about 30 € (2193 R). There is no Uber in Santorini.

I travel around the island mostly by buses. I have an old-style driver's license, and in all this time I have not changed it, so I did not buy a car. Used a friend's car a few times. And in all these years in Santorini, I have never seen the traffic police.

Banks

There are three banks on the island - the National Bank of Greece, the local Alfa Bank and Pireos Bank. All of them are located in the vicinity of Fira.

To open a bank account, a foreigner needs to provide a residence permit, income statement and make a minimum deposit of 400-600 € (29,236 -43,854 R), depending on the bank. I opened two bank accounts: in the Greek Alfa Bank and in the National Bank of Greece (Ethniki Trapeza).

All social payments go through the National Bank, so I mainly use its services. I have a debit card and a so-called prepaid card - a wallet card that allows you to pay for purchases within Greece, but you cannot withdraw money from it. I also use internet banking.

In 2015, due to the economic crisis and the conflict with the European Union, all Greek banks stopped their work for a week. After that, all banks set a limit on cash withdrawals. Now you can get no more than 900 € (67,500 R) per day and no more than 5,000 € (365,444 R) per month.

Also in Greece, the service of international money transfers Skrill is banned. Paypal has just started working here. Many banks still do not allow you to transfer money from PayPal to a card. In general, in my experience, money transactions through Greek banks are a headache.

900 €

cash is the maximum amount that can be withdrawn from the bank per day

Until 2005, banks distributed loans to everyone, which, in particular, caused a protracted economic crisis in Greece. Now banks with great difficulty issue loans even to the Greeks. The interest rate ranges from 9 to 12% per year. It is now almost impossible for a foreigner to take a loan or mortgage in Greece.

Job

Almost everyone who lives on the island works in tourism. Locals and many expats have their own business, some work remotely. Santorini is the island with the longest tourist season in Greece. A lot of immigrant workers from Albania and Eastern Europe live here.

The tourist season starts from March and lasts until October. At this time, everyone works seven days a week, 9-12 hours a day. An adequate salary in the tourism sector is approximately 1000-2500 € (75,000 -187,500 R), depending on the position and work schedule.

From November to February there are no tourists, so no one works. At the same time, almost all workers in Santorini are officially employed, have insurance and the opportunity to receive unemployment benefits in winter - about 350 € (26,250 R) per month. As a rule, the allowance is issued for the second year of work on the island. During the tourist season, the tax control and the IKA (social insurance organization) conduct constant checks: they make sure that everything is legal.

350 €

unemployment benefit in winter period

If you work in Santorini, most likely your documents will indicate an 8-hour working day and a rate of 500 € (37,500 R) per month - this is the minimum salary here by law. At the same time, you must be at the workplace exactly at the hours indicated in the official document, otherwise you and your employer will be fined up to € 5,000 (365,444 R). Therefore, as soon as the check arrives on the island, everyone starts calling each other to tell which street the checkers are currently on.

taxes

Every year from June to July, you need to fill out a tax return. If you pay 50 € (3750 R) to an accountant, he will do everything for you. But you can fill it out yourself, although it is difficult and long - only a few do it. If you do not file a declaration on time, you will have to pay a fine - from 100 € (7309 R) to 800 € (58 471 R) depending on your income.

If you do not have a car, boat or property in Greece and your official income does not exceed 5000 € per year, you do not need to pay taxes. Income above 5000 € is subject to 20% tax, provided that you do not have a business.

Small business owners in Santorini pay 40-60% of their profits in taxes. In general, Greece is famous for unfairly high taxes, so registering a business here is not best idea.

Communication and Internet

There is something like a municipal Wi-Fi on the island - there are about 6 networks that you can connect to without a password to use the Internet for free. But all this works intermittently and only on the central streets of Fira and Oia.

The main mobile providers are Cosmote, Vodafone and Wind. You can buy a SIM card only with a passport in your name. You need to replenish your account at least once every 3 months, otherwise the card will be blocked.

You can replenish your account at any kiosk or supermarket by purchasing a card for 10, 20 or 50 €. The main thing is that after replenishing your account, you must immediately select the tariff you need, otherwise the money will evaporate within a few hours. Complaining about this at the office of the telecom operator is useless: they will tell you about some expensive tariff that came into effect “by default”.

The concept of “unlimited mobile internet” does not exist in Greece. A 1 GB package will cost at best 1 € (73 R), the validity period is a month, so it will not work to “accumulate” gigabytes.

Medicine

Santorini has one public hospital and one private clinic. I was both there and there.

In a private clinic, helpful staff and highly qualified doctors, everyone speaks English, you can make an appointment by phone in advance. In addition to the clinic, there are also private offices of individual specialists and biochemical laboratories where you can quickly and without waiting in line to take tests. They will be accepted here instantly, and a visit to the therapist will cost 70 € (5250 R).

70 €

you have to pay to see a therapist

In a free hospital, you can spend from 3 to 5 hours just sitting in line, but they accept everyone here, without being distracted by documents and insurance. And here, many doctors speak good English, but several times I had to use an online translator and speak on my fingers. Of course, it is difficult to sit under the office door for three hours without any certainty that you will eventually be accepted. But every time I still waited for an appointment, I came across good doctors.

If you have insurance and a medical book, you will receive a 30 to 60% discount on your prescribed medicines.

The choice of drugs here is very poor. Pharmacies sell more cosmetics than medicines. Activated charcoal for food poisoning, Panadol for all other ailments - that's all that the pharmacist will offer you.

Antibiotics in any form are issued strictly by prescription. There are no antiviral drugs here at all, and pharmacists are unaware of their existence. But there is a free flu shot, which is actively advertised in schools and on TV.

60 €

it is worth putting a seal on Santorini. On the mainland, the amount is two times lower

All dentistry on the island is only private, a filling costs 60 € (4500 R). For comparison, on the mainland it will cost 30 € (2250 R), so any dental procedures should be carried out in Athens.

Education

Greece has a high quality higher education, but Santorini has only junior and high schools.

The school allows everyone to study for free, but diplomas are issued only to those who have documents. Classes are held only in Greek. There are many children from immigrant families. And if for some bureaucratic reasons they are delayed in issuing documents, such students sometimes receive a certificate of secondary education with a delay of several years.

Everyone goes to Athens for higher education.

Food

Greece is famous for its fruits, vegetables, meat and fish, as well as its simple and delicious cuisine. I moved to Santorini just after Russia announced a ban on the import of European products, which left the shelves in stores half empty. Therefore, at first I went to local shops, like museums, spent 600 € (45,000 R) a month on food and gained 10 kg. Then, however, I pulled myself together and now I spend about 400 € (30,000 R).

Little grows on the volcanic soil of Santorini. However, there are some unique local products here: a special variety of cherry tomatoes, white eggplants and sweet white wine vinsanto. The rest is brought from Athens. In winter, the sea is often stormy, and sometimes ships with food cannot reach the island for weeks. You need to be prepared for this and buy some products with a margin.

400 €

I spend a month on groceries

Mostly the inhabitants of the island buy food in small shops. Of course, everything is more expensive here than on the mainland:

• 1 kg of tomatoes - 1.5-3 € (112-225 R);
• 1 kg of potatoes - 1-1.5 € (75-112 R);
• a bottle of milk - 3 € (225 R);
• 300 g of cheese - 4-6 € (300 -450 R);
• 0.5 l of Greek yogurt - 3.5 € (260 R).

It is better to buy bread in a bakery, on average it costs about 1 € (73 R).

There are 3 or 4 supermarkets in Santorini, two of them within Fira. The rest you need to get on the bus or on your own transport. Separately, it is worth noting the German Lidl supermarket south of Fira, where products are 1.5 times cheaper than anywhere else on the island.

There are no markets here at all. Outside of Fira, in the south of the island, there is a huge vegetable warehouse "Kritikos" where you can buy vegetables, fruits, cheeses and meat from the island of Crete. In general, products from Crete are valued here above others. It is better to go to Kritikos by car.

There are no reservoirs and springs on Santorini fresh water. Water is taken directly from the sea and filtered, so it should never be drunk from the tap. Cooking with tap water is possible only in the north of the island - in Oia and Phoenicia. Therefore, everyone buys water in supermarkets and cooks on it. A pack of 6 bottles costs 2.5 € (190 R).

People

I would formulate the main problem of the island as follows: too much money and too little culture. Greece is a generous and hospitable country, but things are different in Santorini.

To understand the mentality of the locals, you need to know a little about the history of the island. Back in the 1950s, Santorini was culturally and economically isolated. For example, the island of Cyclades, the most remote from Athens, has no greenery and natural resources at all, there is no electricity and running water. Fira and Oia have long been poor fishing villages for several families, whose children have been married to each other for generations.

Then the ancient city of Akrotiri (presumably Atlantis) was found on Santorini, and the island became popular. First, adventurers and bohemians came here, who have now become successful businessmen and owners of the most expensive real estate in Greece. Since the 1980s, when Santorini began to be visited regularly cruise ships, even the illiterate inhabitants of the island became fabulously rich by local standards.

The inhabitants of Santorini can be divided into three "castes":

1. Indigenous people of the island.
2. Former adventurers are Greeks from Athens, English, Australians and Germans who now own successful businesses here.
3. Immigrants from Albania, Romania and the Baltic countries working for the first two categories.

A typical contrast of Santorini is when a person with two higher educations works at the checkout in a restaurant owned by an illiterate Greek. Up to 90% of the locals live here to make money from tourists, and because there are too many tourists, it is very stressful 24/7. There is little soul here.

However, it is also true that Santorini attracts romantics and creative people, so I liked the expat community. I met incredible people here from all over the world and made many friends.

Entertainment

Due to its volcanic origin, Santorini has unique beaches with red, black and white sand. Photos of these places are in any advertising booklet. The beaches can be reached by car or buses from Fira. The fare costs 2.5 € (190 R), buses run every 40 minutes.

I'm not a fan of tourist places. There are much more spectacular beaches on the island - and almost always half empty. My favorite beaches are Ammoudi, Colubo and Vlychada. Ammoudi is located right in Oia, Colubo is a 20 minute drive from Oia in the north of the island and Vlychada is the most remote beach in the south of the island. Colubo and Vlychada can only be reached by car.

2,5 €

is the bus fare from Fira to the beaches

If you are attracted to archaeological sites, there is the museum city of Akrotiri in the south of the island. This is the same legendary city of the Atlanteans, destroyed by an earthquake in 3500 BC. e. Another city - an open-air museum - is Ancient Fira, located on one of the hills near Kamari.

Santorini has many cafes, taverns and restaurants. It is better to go to fish taverns in the old port in Oia. Lobster there costs from 98 € (7350 R) per serving, sea bream - about 50 € (3750 R), a set of meze snacks - from 15 € (1096 R) to 40 € (2924 R). If you say that you live or work on the island, you will most likely be given a discount, because in Santorini everything has two prices: for tourists and for locals.

98 €

stands a lobster in a fish tavern in Oia

Shopping in Santorini is pretty tight. During the summer season, Oia has many art galleries, boutiques with designer clothes and jewelry. Most shops are designed for tourists. Locals travel to Athens for things or buy everything on the Internet. Post in Greece is fast, a parcel from any store on the mainland arrives in a few days.

The only bookstore on the island is Atlantis Books, which is regularly named by glossy magazines as one of the most beautiful in the world. This is a residence, community and bookstore at the same time. Book lovers from all over the world come here to live and work on a volunteer basis - mostly journalists, aspiring writers and artists. During the summer, Atlantis Books hosts celebrity literary readings. I saw live performances by American comedian David Sedaris and poet Billy Collins.

I was lucky to spend the whole winter in Atlantis Books - a childhood dream come true to live in a bookstore. This is an extensive cave house overlooking the caldera, which has everything you need. I literally slept behind a bookshelf: there are three originally equipped beds in the store.

One of my favorite places in Santorini is Firasia, the second largest island in the archipelago. It can be reached in 10 minutes by small ferry from the old port of Ammoudi in Oia. Ferries run four times a day: at 7, 11, 14 and 18 hours. The schedule sometimes changes, and it is better to check it with the ferrymen: there is no schedule either on the Internet or in the port itself. The fare costs 1.5 € (110 R) one way.

Firassia can be called Santorini's looking glass: there is also a caldera, an old port, a village at an altitude of 300 meters above sea level and an underwater volcano in the north of the island. At the same time, Firasya is absolutely deserted. There is only one village where at most 30 people live, two taverns, one hotel and a real ghost town in the west of the island.

1,5 €

there is a one way ferry ticket to Firasia

The entire island of Firasya can be explored on foot in 4 hours. Many locals come here with tents to rest for a few days from the hustle and bustle of Santorini.

On Santorini itself, one should look at the natural and archaeological attractions. There are almost no typical city entertainments here: several nightclubs in Fira, two cinemas in Perissa and Kamari, one bowling alley and one shopping mall. Behind nightlife, shopping and other entertainment is better to go to Athens.

Results

Do life on small island many restrictions. Over time, even Santorini becomes boring. There are no career opportunities, limited community, unfavorable conditions for doing business. There are snow-white marble streets and the blue sea as if from a postcard, but if you live here all the time, then even they will sooner or later start to bother you. This year I decided to move to Athens and return to Santorini from time to time.

Is it worth living in Santorini? Definitely yes. You will not find such exotic beauty and contrasts on any Greek island. It is good to come here alone or with a loved one. You can rent a house in Finikie, Perissa, Kamari or Emborio and enjoy a measured life on the island.

If you have a stable remote job and are not dependent on the Greek economy, you will love it here.

The answer to the question "where to stay in Santorini" depends only on what you need from this island. If you are traveling with children - this is one place, if you are waiting for the most luxurious vacation in your life - another, if you are looking for the best value for money, then the third. Let's analyze the pros and cons of different areas of the island and choose where it is better to stay and rent a hotel in Santorini is right for you.

Where to stay in Santorini: article content

Kamari and Monolithos: the best holidays with children

Kamari and Monolithos are the names of small villages on the island of Santorini, located close to each other near the beaches of the same name. Both beaches boast black volcanic sand, as well as (although not everywhere) a convenient gentle entry into the sea.

Pros:

• Children's playgrounds on the beaches, animation
• Many hotels are geared towards tourists with children.

Minuses:

• Not enough entertainment for adult tourists

Where to stay in Santorini for families with children? Kamari beach has all the necessary infrastructure: umbrellas, sun loungers and children's playgrounds.

Where to stay in Santorini for beach lovers: Perissa

Let's face it: going to Santorini just for the sake of a beach holiday is not worth it, this island is rich primarily in its architecture, history and incredible landscapes. Nevertheless, there are very decent beaches here. The best place among those where lovers of beach holidays should stay in Santorini is the village of Perissa near the beach of the same name. This is a long (about 3 km!) beach, covered with black volcanic sand, where you can find everything for a great holiday. Often tourists highlight Perivolos beach, although in fact it is just the western part of Perissa, a little less developed in terms of infrastructure.

Pros:

• Low prices for hotel accommodation
• Unique black volcanic sand
• From here it is easy to get to Vlychada - the beautiful beach Santorini
• Developed infrastructure: sun loungers and umbrellas, shops, nightclubs, restaurants

Minuses:

• The bottom on the beaches of Perissa and Perivolos is steep and rocky in places
• It takes a long time to get to most of the sights, with a change in Fira

Perissa beach is the longest on the island of Santorini. Its length, together with Perivolos, is about 3 km.

Oia village: for lovers of expensive luxury holidays

Iya (aka Oya or Oya) - business card Santorini and the most picturesque place of the island. Most postcard photographs of the island and all of Greece were taken in this small village. It is here that the most luxurious hotels, the most beautiful views and the most breathtaking sunsets, which the whole island comes to admire in the evenings, turn a small village into a huge beehive. Many hotels here are built on rock ledges and are equipped with pools overlooking the volcano's caldera and surrounding islands, and you can enjoy the sunset right from the jacuzzi. Oia is the place to stay in Santorini for romantics, newlyweds and simply wealthy discerning tourists.

Pros:

• breathtaking views
• The most luxurious hotels in Santorini

Minuses:

• Eternal tourist flea market, especially at sunset
• The highest prices for living on the island

Where is the best place to stay in Santorini for lovers of expensive and luxurious holidays? Of course, in the village of Oia - many hotels here are built right on the slope of the volcano and they offer a beautiful view of the caldera.

The city of Fira (Thira): for those who do not sit still

Fira is the capital of the island. It is located in the very center of Santorini, and it is here that the main transport hub is located - the Fira bus station - from where buses depart throughout the island. To the beaches, to the sunset in Oia, to the port - you can go anywhere from here. And Fira herself is very interesting place, many attractions of Santorini are located here.

Pros:

• Excellent transport accessibility
• Many attractions
• Very beautiful views

Minuses:

• Many tourists
• High prices

The pros of such a holiday in Fira: from the jacuzzi on the terrace of your room, you will have a stunning view of the sunset. Cons of resting in Fira: everyone who comes to enjoy the sunset will have a stunning view of you.

Best value for money: Karterados

The village of Karterados cannot boast of beaches and sights; its charm lies elsewhere. It is only a 15-20 minute walk from Fira and its bus station, while hotels here cost an order of magnitude less. Buses from Fira to the main beaches of Santorini also pass by Karterados. It is here, in an excellent and inexpensive apart-hotel Wisteria Apartments We stayed while traveling in Greece. Karterados is a great place to stay in Santorini for all tourists who do not want to overpay for the location.

Pros:

• Low price of hotels
• There are inexpensive cafes and grocery stores nearby.
• Fira - 20 minutes walk, Fira bus station - 15 minutes, bus stop to the beaches of Kamari and Perissa - 10 minutes walk

Minuses:

• Lack of attractions and places for a walk in the village of Karterados
• Not a large number of hotels (50 in total, all can be busy in high season)

Where to stay in Santorini so as not to overpay for hotel accommodation? We recommend the village of Karterados: it is located near Fira, and the prices here are noticeably lower. We rented such wonderful two-room apartments with a kitchen here at the price for which in Fira we would have an ordinary hotel room with one room.

Other options for where to stay in Santorini

We will briefly talk about some other places where you can stay on the island of Santorini.

Imerovigli village. Located just north of Fira, it is considered a place of elite recreation. Hotels are expensive, many open beautiful view to the caldera of the volcano.

While wealthy tourists watch the sunset from their rooms, sipping expensive wine, supporters budget holiday enjoy the same picture for free, washing it down with a beer for one and a half euros from a local shop.

Akrotiri village. Located in the southwest of the island, close to Red and white beaches as well as the ruins ancient city Akrotiri. Getting from here by bus to other attractions is not very convenient and mostly with a change in Fira. But here it is quiet and calm, and the view of the caldera is no less beautiful than in Imerovigli.

The village of Pyrgos. Located in the interior of the island on a hill, which offers a beautiful panoramic view of the whole of Santorini. Pyrgos is a very beautiful village with many temples and narrow streets, and the main local attraction is the ancient Venetian fortress.

Dear readers, where do you recommend to stay in Santorini? We are waiting for your feedback about the cities and towns of the miracle island and their hotels! And in the next article we will tell you in detail about the hotel where we ourselves stayed during our trip to Santorini.

One of the most beautiful places A picturesque group of islands in the Aegean Sea called Santorini is considered to be a holiday destination in Southern Europe. It consists of five small islands: Aspronisi, Palea Kameni, Thirasia, Nea Kameni and Santorini itself, which the locals call Thira.

For Europe, this place is more associated with the Greek Cyclades than with itself. This is due to the fact that the nature and local climate are very different from those that prevail in the main territory of the country. Here everything seems different and from this a little fabulous, starting with the amazing landscapes and ending with the obvious aristocracy that can be seen in every part of this place. If you have planned a vacation in heavenly Santorini in 2020, find out all the necessary information about attractions, entertainment and prices from the article and go on an unforgettable trip in 2020.

History and current state

The capital of the island is the settlement, which is also called "Thira". This city was founded more than 3,500 years ago, and the traces of other ancient settlements, which you inevitably come across here and there, once again remind of rich history islands and the prosperous life of the local inhabitants of that time. Some scientists put forward the theory that these islands were once an integral part of the long-lost Atlantis. And after what you see, you will most likely understand their point of view.

It is here that you simply stop thinking about time, watching the stunning landscape, absolutely white facades of houses, a well-groomed coastline, a calm sea and colorful beaches. Here you will feel serene when you come on vacation with your family in 2020.

Many choose this picturesque corner of the Earth in order to enjoy stunning sunsets, find inner harmony and completely disconnect from the everyday hustle and bustle that accompanies every person throughout life.

Geography and climate

The climate of Santorini belongs to the Mediterranean type, it is similar to weather conditions Crete. The greatest heat is in the resort in summer, when the season reaches its peak: there is practically no rain, and the average air temperature is around 28 degrees Celsius. Water at this time warms up to 25 degrees. If you do not like extreme heat, you can go to the island in September - you can still swim, and the air temperature averages 22 degrees Celsius.

The capital of the main island of the group and the main resort is Thira, a town that is located on a rock. Other tourists who like a more relaxing holiday choose Imorogvili or Oia, while Kamari is considered an inexpensive option. However, wherever you go in Santorini, know that your holiday will be excellent.

Santorini on the map

Safety in Santorini

Santorini, like Greece itself, is a nice and peaceful place to stay. You can independently move around the city and the island, take a walk in the evenings. The trip is also safe for women, the attitude towards the female sex here is quite calm and there is no certain threat, as in Arab countries. When relaxing in Santorini, you just need to remember the basic rules of tourist safety: keep an eye on your belongings, keep documents and valuables in a safe, and, of course, protect your skin from the hot island sun.

Plan your trip to Santorini: transport and accommodation

How to get there and how to get around?

There are only two ways to get to Santorini: by water or by air. There is an airport of the same name, the transfer takes place, as a rule, through Athens. It will be easier to start your exciting journey from Domodedovo, taking into account the transfer in Thessaloniki, the flight will cost about 12 thousand rubles. Be prepared for a very long journey, which, together with transfers, will take about 19 hours. It is worth paying special attention to various "last-minute" tours and tours, which will significantly save at least on the flight.

From the local airport to the center of the island can be reached by taxi, shuttle or bus. The fare is more than democratic and is approximately 3 euros, while the delivery time of the transport is no more than 15 minutes. When using regular taxis that will take you not to the center, but to a specific address, you will have to pay about 20 euros. For greater confidence in the quality and reliability of transportation, you can use the transfer service provided by the airport. True, the one-time cost of the service in this case will be about 55 euros.

Getting to Santorini via the Aegean Sea is convenient and very comfortable. You can book a speedboat or take a ferry. Depending on the speed and quality of the selected movement, the cost of the trip will be approximately 65-80 euros. The duration of the journey is from one to five hours. The largest selection of ferries and boats is located in the capital of Greece, so it will not be superfluous to plan a short stop in Athens in advance, and then continue on your way to fabulous Santorini.

Getting around the island is not difficult. If you can walk around the resort towns on foot, then it is easy to use buses to see the sights and natural beauties of the entire island. The fare is a couple of euros. If you want to go to other islands of the group, you can use the ferry. Well, a funicular ride to Thira will bring you a lot of impressions.

Where to stay and where is the best place to live?

Almost all accommodation options, regardless of category, are quite decent and worthy - even private owners are trying hard to maintain their reputation and attract more tourists.

Double room in a small locality in a 2 * hotel category it will cost from 3 thousand rubles per day. Accommodation in a three-star establishment, where, as a rule, there is a small pool, will cost two tourists about 6 thousand rubles a day. A luxurious five-star hotel in the capital offers double rooms for an average of 14 thousand rubles per day. Also on the island there is an opportunity to stay in apartments or villas - this will be convenient if you are traveling with a large company or family and have funds.

Travel to Santorini: where to go, where to go, what to see and what to do?

Beach holidays and water sports

The beaches of Santorini will delight absolutely everyone, because there are places to relax for every taste: snow-white, pink and even black volcanic sand, there are also pebble beaches.

Beaches near Kamari are considered good places for families with children. They have excellent infrastructure, including entertainment, and are marked with the prestigious Blue Flag. A calmer option would be the coast near the village of Monolithos - the waters are clear, the beach is sandy, the entrance to the water is gentle. Those who want to retire away from the crowds should head to the beach at Cape Colombo, and for unique photos, go to the coast near Akrotiri.

Particular attention on vacation in 2020 should be given to diving. The local climate made this look water sports most popular among locals and tourists. The purity and transparency of the waters of the Aegean Sea allow you to observe the underwater inhabitants at a decent distance. There are many places for diving, but for one dive, taking into account everything you need, you will have to pay about 70 euros.
On the island you can ride on the most diverse water transport: boat, catamaran, yacht - whatever you like best. Excursion and fishing boat tours are also popular.

Sights of Santorini

If a beach holiday is not enough for you and you want to penetrate the secrets of the history and culture of Santorini, know that the island has a large number of museums.

So, a visit to the Museum of Prehistoric Times in Tire will be very interesting. The island is rich in archaeological finds, and most of them were brought here. The collection includes exhibits that belong to different historical periods: from the Neolithic to the Cycladic.

The ethnographic museum in Tire was established in the 19th century. In it you can get acquainted with the culture, traditions, life of the average inhabitants of the island. In addition, you will learn a lot about folk crafts: blacksmithing, winemaking.

Speaking of the latter, be sure to check out the Wine Museum in Kamari. It is located in a cave, which allows you to save the wonderful properties of local wines. You will get acquainted with the history of making a charming drink, you will be able to taste and buy Santorini wines.

Be sure to pay attention to local religious buildings. Ayiu Mina Church, built in the 17th century, stands right on the rock and attracts the eye with its white and blue color, being a real symbol of the island. The Church of Panagia Episkopi is a Byzantine temple where you can admire icons and frescoes. Do not miss the opportunity to visit the monastery of Elijah the Prophet. Not only is it located on highest point islands, thanks to which a stunning view opens from here, but inside the monastery there is also an interesting museum where you can see religious objects and traditional workshops.

In the city of Oia, it is worth visiting the remains of an ancient Venetian fortress. Previously, it was an observation post, but now it is excellent. observation deck. There are also several windmills in Oia that seem to have come off the page in a fairy tale book.

Those who love antiquities should go to the archaeological zone of Akrotiri. This settlement at one time flourished very much, then it was destroyed by the forces of the elements, but in the last century, archaeologists unearthed the city. Now you can see the remains of ancient buildings with partially preserved frescoes, look at ancient ceramics, figurines, sculptures.

If you have a lot of time and have the opportunity, go to neighboring island, Nea-Kameni. It is interesting for those who love unusual natural beauty, because on the island you can see a real volcano crater.

Entertainment in Santorini

Having saturated the mind, it is necessary to saturate the body! One of the real pleasures in Santorini is getting to know the local cuisine. For those who do not appreciate Greek cuisine, only one thing can be said: what you have tried before in no way related to the dishes that are prepared by the inhabitants of this wonderful island. Each recipe is unique in its own way and local chefs prepare dishes according to ancient traditions that have been passed down from generation to generation. It is also worth noting that all dishes of the local cuisine are prepared exclusively from local products, and the fish menu offered to you will contain only those dishes that can be prepared from freshly caught fish. A tasty and hearty lunch will cost about 25 euros, while a romantic dinner for two in a good restaurant will cost 100 euros or more.

Vegetarians will love the local eggplant with cheese, meat eaters will appreciate the homemade sausages, and be sure to enjoy the seafood and wine!

As for children's entertainment, it cannot be said that there are a lot of them here. The main one will be just a beach holiday, you can organize a trip in such a way as to visit beaches with sand of various colors. However, in Perissa there is a water park for bored children - mostly toddlers and middle-aged children will like it.

It will be interesting for teenagers and adults to visit one of the festivals. So, in July, a jazz festival is held on the island, in August - a holiday dedicated to the volcano, a gastronomic festival. Young people will appreciate nightly entertainment facilities, among which there are mainly bars, but there are also beach discos.

Shopping in Santorini is best done in small shops. What should you take with you as a keepsake and as gifts from the resort? For example, these could be:

• leather products;
• Greek pottery;
• products from volcanic lava;
• guilt;
• jewelry.

Holidays in Santorini will be remembered by all those who appreciate natural beauty, comfort and enjoy a touch of local color. It cannot be said that the island has a huge number of attractions, however, there is definitely a unique, unique atmosphere here. If you want to achieve a sense of harmony, go to Santorini in 2020.

About the sights of Santorini - in the video:

Santorini is a romantic place, a heavenly resort on the Kikland Islands. The uniqueness of the island is in an extinct volcano, which in the 16th century “sent” certain parts of the island under water and led to the formation of a crater. steep coastline with sandy and pebble beaches attracts thousands of tourists from all over the world. On the picturesque streets and quarters it is pleasant to walk, sit in a cafe, take beautiful pictures as a keepsake.

Climate in Santorini

The climate of the island is Mediterranean, in the south and in the center a little hotter. Even in winter, the temperatures do not discourage desire from long walks around the island. The swimming season opens in May, the air temperature rises to +25C, and the water temperature to +22C. The beaches of the island are empty only in November, when the rains begin and it gets a little colder.

Beaches

On the island you can find beaches with multi-colored sand - pink, red, black. They are surrounded by cliffs and picturesque cliffs.

• Colombo. The beach is hidden in a bay near the cape of the same name. This is a quiet secluded place with a long strip of gray and black sand in places. Apart from sun loungers and umbrellas, there are no other amenities on the beach.
• Monolithos. This beach is recommended for family vacation, as there is a long and gentle entry into the sea. Soft fine sand, sun loungers and umbrellas, playgrounds and cafes nearby will allow you to comfortably relax with your children.
• White beach. This beach is incredibly beautiful, located in the bay. It got its name for the white rocks that protect it from prying eyes. It is usually not crowded here, so couples in love often retire on the White Beach.
• Perissa. Nice beach with black volcanic sand. The length of the coast is about 7 km. There is always clear water and almost no winds, as the territory is protected by a rock. The bottom is rocky, so you need to go into the water carefully. There are cafes and restaurants, attractions, diving centers on the beach.
• Perivolos. Beach with black sand and clear water. Perivolos is popular with newlyweds who often hold their wedding celebrations here. Local restaurants offer fresh seafood dishes. There are volleyball and football grounds, water ski rental.
• Kamari. One of the cleanest beaches on the island, marked with the Blue Flag. Black sand is mixed with pebbles. There is a diving club on the beach, you can play mini-football, badminton, beach volleyball. There are attractions for children, animators work.
• red beach. The most famous and popular beach of Santorini. The color of the sand is red-brick, the same color and the rocks around. At the height of the tourist season, there is nowhere for an apple to fall on the beach. Nearby are small islands where you can retire if you do not have enough space on the shore.

Where to stay in Santorini

Most of the island's hotels are small, designed for only a few dozen guests. Even large hotel complexes have compact one- and two-story villas.

The cheapest hotels are located in the center of the island, near the cities messaria And Karterados. These are three star hotels. Slightly more expensive - hotels in the resorts of Pirvivolos, Kamari and Periss. Young people usually settle in them, as there are many nightclubs, bars and restaurants nearby.

The most expensive hotels are located in the northwest. These are four and five star hotels.

The most popular and luxurious include:

1. Aressana. Snow-white, immersed in greenery, a hotel in the center of the city of Fira, not far from the extinct Caldera volcano. Above the interior design works is the famous architect Dimitros Tsitsos. The hotel features a luxurious spa center offering exclusive treatments. The hotel has an outdoor swimming pool, jewelry shop, rental of yachts, boats and cars.
2. Astra Suites. A small but comfortable five-star hotel in the village of Imerovigli. It looks like a small Greek village with snow-white houses. The hotel is built on a hill with great views of the ore and the volcano.
3. Canaves Oia Hotel. The hotel is located high above sea level. The beach is 15 minutes away and the airport is 18 km away. The hotel is built in Mediterranean style, equipped with a veranda with sea views.
4. Chromata(Imerovigli). The hotel is built on a picturesque cliff above Aegean Sea. Stylish design inspired by the modern architecture of the Kickland Islands. Outdoor swimming pool, water sports center, internet room, dry cleaning, parking will allow you to spend your vacation with comfort. The hotel has only 22 rooms, so the territory is always calm and comfortable.
5. Cosmopolitan Suites. Situated on a rock by the sea. The windows of the hotel offer magnificent views of the sea and beautiful sunsets. The hotel's infrastructure is equipped with everything you need - from the outdoor pool and veranda to the hairdresser and massage room.

Attractions

To make your stay on the island memorable for a long time, you should definitely visit local attractions. These include:

• Volcano on Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni. In 1645, its eruption destroyed entire cities in Tire and Crete. There are many craters around the volcano, from which hydrogen sulfide vapor rises. Its last eruption occurred in 1950, and since then it has fallen asleep, but on this moment considered valid.
• Church of Saint Irene. The island on which the temple is located began to be called by the name of the church - Santa Irina, from which the name Santorini came. This church is popular with newlyweds who come here to marry.
• Excavations of the city of Akrotiri. Held in the southern part of Santorini. Started back in 1967 and still not finished. As archaeologists have established, the city appeared three thousand years ago BC. From under the lava, scientists have extracted many works of art from the Bronze Age.
• Fira Museum. Here you can see archaeological finds from all over the island of Santorini, many of which have a history of more than five thousand years. The collections represent the entire history of the life of the island.

How to get there

There are no direct flights to Santorini, so you can get to the island in the following ways:

1. By plane with a change in Athens, the journey will take about 7 hours. Also possible charter flights to Santorini, tickets for which are usually sold from April to October.
2. By ferry from Athens. The cheapest are regular ferries, the journey time is about 9 hours. Blue-Star ferries - they cost a little more, but they move faster. The trip will last approximately 7 hours. Most expensive tickets- on high-speed ferries that will take tourists from Athens to Santorini in 5 hours.
3. By ferry from Thessaloniki. It goes to Crete with a stop in Santorini. At the port you will have to take a taxi or take a bus to Fira.

Tours in Santorini - what to do for vacationers

The main reason why people come to this island is the beautiful clear sea and the hot sun. beach holiday on Santorini will give a lot of pleasure, because most of the beaches are marked with the Blue Flag. A large selection of hotels will allow you to find rooms for tourists with any income - both young people and wealthy vacationers with big requests.

Families with children will also be comfortable in Santorini, because there are special playgrounds for kids in local hotels, separate pools and mini-clubs.

Fans of nightlife will definitely not get bored, because they work on the island for entertainment centers, bars, restaurants. And if you love scuba diving or sailing, Santorini will offer everything for this - from diving centers to the amazing beauty of the sea world.

Various festivals take place on the island, such as Episkop, where guests can taste traditional Greek dishes prepared by the chefs.

You should definitely bring natural cosmetics, olive oil, original souvenirs and handicrafts from Greece.

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Santorini is a well-known group of islands in the Cyclades archipelago, located in the Aegean Sea. Santorini resorts are waiting for you! The wind of change, romance, magical sunsets and the breath of time - this will remain in your memory forever. You will certainly want to come back again, only once having been here.

Peculiarities

Santorini includes the islands of Nea Kameni, Thirassia, Palea Kameni, Aspro, and the largest Santorini (Fira, Thira). The main colors of Santorini are blue (a symbol of the sky, the home of the gods), white (a symbol of faith, justice, beauty, justice) and red ocher (a symbol of the earth, volcano, their natural power). There are three hundred and fifty two churches on the island, each of them has its own bell tower, its patron saints.

general information

Santorini is located in the Aegean Sea in the southeastern part of the country, the most large island occupies an area of ​​76 square kilometers. The population is 13.4 thousand people.

Climate

The season in Santorini starts on April 1st or the day of Greek Easter. The period from December to March is considered the off-season, there are lower temperatures, frequent rains and winds. Although the temperature rarely drops to relatively cold levels - 0 degrees and below. Most hotels may close for the winter. The most favorable period for a holiday in Santorini is April-June and September-October.

How to get there

You can get to Santorini by air from Russia through Athens. Santorini is easily accessible by sea with ferries from Piraeus and Naxos.

• The national airport in Santorini/Thira (National Airport Santorini/Thira IATA: JTR) is located north of the village of Kamari. Regular flights from Athens are carried out here, which is about 30-45 minutes, flights from Thessaloniki also fly in the summer.

Transport

The island has public buses that run every 30 minutes in different directions. Boats ply between the islands of the archipelago. It is easy to rent a car, which will cost 45 euros per day or more, depending on the brand of car. ATVs are also popular transport. And many prefer to rent a bike.

Cities

Nea Kameni formed as a result of an underwater eruption. Its original name is Mikri Kameni because of its small size. Later, as a result of the ongoing activity of the volcano, the island grew and was named Nea Kameni. It is uninhabited, covering an area of ​​over three square kilometers. Its dormant volcano can wake up at any moment and start spewing lava. The mouth of the volcano is located at a depth of one thousand meters. The ground around it is very hot. This place is distinguished by an unpleasant smell of hydrogen sulfide fumes. Around absolutely lifeless landscape.

Palea Kameni was formed much later than Nea Kameni. The island is famous for its hot healing springs. Thirasia with a population of about two hundred and fifty people is located on an area of ​​over 9 square kilometers. Aspro covers an area of ​​about one hundred square kilometers, is an uninhabited territory.

Island Santorini(Thira) covers an area of ​​76 sq. km, with a population of eight thousand people. The island owes its origin to a volcanic eruption in the middle of the 17th century BC. Part of the island is under water, and the other part has formed a sheer cliff of nine hundred meters with a steep cliff. Also, at the site of the eruption, a convenient bay was formed, where merchant ships, liners, and yachts anchor. You can get here on foot, counting seven hundred steps, by funicular, riding on the back of a stubborn donkey.

Attractions of this region: the city and its architectural style, Temple of Pangea Bishops, Church of Agiou Mina, Museum of Archeology, Museum of Prehistoric Thira, beaches.

In the city Fira houses represent different time periods and their architecture: Cycladic vaulted temples, business centers, theaters, Ptolemy's dwelling, sanctuaries, graves of different eras, ruins of early Christian buildings.

Temple of Pangea Bishops famous for various frescoes, the icon of the Mother of God. Church of Agiou Mina, the symbol of the island, is located on the edge of the cliff.

Archaeological Museum, built in 1960, is located in the heart of Santorini. The museum exposition includes exhibits of various eras (prehistory, Mycenaean period, Cycladic period), collections of ceramics and sculptures.

Thira Museum (Museum of Prehistoric Thera) of prehistoric times presents exhibits from the excavations of the ancient settlement of Akrotiri, various frescoes from the life of animals and people.

The most picturesque place will amaze you with traditional architectural buildings of Homeric times. There are many small shops in Oia where there are jewelry and souvenirs. Here you can see an extraordinary sunset, meditate, feel the energy, the power of an active volcano.

Connoisseurs of grape wine will be pleasantly surprised Wine Museum, where red, white, dessert wines have been made for over four hundred years: Vinsanto with various flavors (citrus, figs and coffee), Nikteri, strong wine Tsikoudia. The winery museum will tell you about all stages of the production of this divine drink.

On the beaches of the island you can do almost all extreme forms of entertainment. Many taverns, restaurants, night bars, discos, cafes, spa centers are open to tourists. For children's leisure there are many water parks with attractions and water slides.

Attractions and entertainment

Beaches

The beaches of the resorts of Kamari, Monolithos, Perissa, Akrotiri are amazing. Kamari- enough famous resort, located near Fira, it is distinguished sandy beaches. Here everything is provided for sports on the water, you can buy any accessories and accessories, awnings and awnings. Perissa- quite a quiet resort town. Black sand on the beach. This resort has its own night restaurants and clubs located in eucalyptus groves. Akrotiri is located on the south side of Santorini. The sand on the beach is red. Right in the rock cave there are taverns where you can stop and have a bite to eat. A sea trip on a small caiki boat to the ancient volcano will leave a lasting impression.

Accommodation

The western part of Santorini is considered to be more developed in terms of tourist infrastructure, so hotels in the west of the island are more in demand - Caldera, Fira, Oia. In this part of the island, the hotels have amazing views of the volcano, the sea, the sunset and the Caldera. Some of the hotels do not accept children under 13 due to a rocky cliff, and many are designed for honeymooners. The eastern part of the island is attractive for young people and families with children.

Kitchen

Greek restaurants and Mediterranean cuisine are common in Santorini, where you can also taste dishes typical of these islands: white eggplant, fried tomatoes in batter, fresh grilled fish. In a place near the Caldera with a sunset view, prices can be higher than in similar less picturesque restaurants.

shopping

Santorini is one of the most famous wine regions in Greece, whose wines are popular and have a special status of top quality. The grape growing method is unique due to the dryness of the soil and the winds. You can buy wines everywhere on the island, for example, in the Oia store.

Precautionary measures

Santorini is completely safe with regard to crime, but you should not buy something from your hands without an agreed price. Steep rocky slopes for children can be dangerous.