Introduction

Santorini is one of the top tourist destinations in the world. Its unique caldera created by the eruption 3,500 years ago, is a unique geological phenomenon. The rich history, delicious products, wine and a variety of activities make the visit to Santorini an unforgettable experience for visitors. The tourism infrastructure is well Santorini offering a number of suggestions accommodation, dining and entertainment for all tastes, preferences and budgets of people visiting Santorini.

History

The history of the island is lost in legends that connect with the lost Atlantis, but starts recording by the volcanic eruption in 1600 BC From the fury of the volcano rescued all the inhabitants of the first civil society organizations on the island, the prehistoric settlement of Akrotiri, as evidenced by the findings of the excavations in one of the most important archaeological sites in the Mediterranean.

Then arriving in Santorini Spartans settlers who choose the top of Mesa mountains to build their own city. Their king Game gives his name to the island and now a visit to Ancient Thira you to the 7th century BC

The Byzantine domination Santorini has its own Diocese and built by Emperor Comnenus A church of Panagia Episkopi in Mesa Gonia. The years of Venetian built on five strategic points Kastelia island of Santorini. In Imerovigli at Emporio, Akrotiri, Oia and the Tower five strong fortresses are the refuge of the inhabitants from the pirates.

In the 18th century the Santorini acquires great naval power and the ships of the island traveling to Russia and other countries exporting a product, wine Vinsanto, which even today is one of the leading products of the island due to its unique grape varieties gives the ground Santorini and distinct production mode.
However, the history of the island is directly related to the restless territory. The earthquake of 1956 destroyed a large part of the island of Santorini after a few decades back more beautiful than ever gracing the covers of magazines around the world and inviting people from all corners of the earth to visit.

Do Not Miss

Things and activities that should not be missed when visiting the island of Santorini.
Sunset. Famous and unique is an experience that no matter where you live it will be unforgettable.
The caldera. Landscape unique energy and power, the caldera of Santorini is a unique geological phenomenon that gives a unique view on a piece of land and Aegean really beautiful.
Local products. The wine, the tomato, the white eggplant, fava, capers and a range of seasonal products that grow in volcanic soil of Santorini and the special climate of the island is delicious and worth trying.
Cruise the Caldera. With traditional or contemporary craft a catamaran excursion on the waters of the caldera with the unique backdrop of the rocks will stay truly memorable.
Swimming. The beaches of Santorini play with colors that are not at all common. The Red Beach, the White and the beaches of Perissa, Kamari and orchard with black sand and pebbles will impress you.

Sights

Santorini is an island full of beautiful sights and attractions. Visit the villages of the caldera starting from the island's capital Fira. Vibrant and world Fira will find everything you will fill your hours on the island. Visit the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Prehistoric Thera, Concert Gkyzi the Foundation Nomikos the Belloneio, the Cathedral and the Catholic monastery. Fira will also find shops, restaurants and coffee to the markets but also to taste the delights of the island. Firostefani and Imerovigli are also two villages of the caldera with spectacular views of the sea and volcanoes and many suggestions for accommodation and food.
Climb in Oia with its unique architecture and magnificent sunset views, while in the southern part of the island and the lighthouse you can also enjoy the view of the caldera and sunset uncrowded.
From the inland villages do not forget a stop at peaceful Megalochori, atmospheric tower and in Emporio to view and navigate the best preserved castle in the island. Akrotiri will visit the excavation site of the prehistoric settlement of Akrotiri to see closely the composition of a city of the 16th century BC
Finally, the seaside villages of Santorini except their beaches have unique attractions. From Kamari climb at Ancient Thira, while in Perissa you can visit the Byzantine church of Agia Irini said gave his name to the island (Santa Irini).

Beaches

The beaches of Santorini is unique. Both the color and the volcanic origin make Santorini beaches and beautiful. The clear waters and their organization with many suggestions for food, drink, entertainment will introduce you to a beach life full of life and colors.Visit the Red Beach with the rock into the sea and creates a unique landscape. The Vlihada with volcanic scenery will bring you closer to the coastal beauty of Santorini.
The Blue Flag beach of Perissa is a beach with black sand, many proposals for water sports, but also very well organized facilities for dining, drinking and entertainment all day and night. Same scenery and natural then Perivolos beach.
The beach of Kamari is one of the most famous Santorini and has a very good organization and has won awards and is a Blue Flag.
Finally, Monolithos beach with shallow waters, ideal for diving with your family, while a number of other beaches, unorganized, sharing her beauty with their visitors prefer the contact with nature.

Gastronomy

The soil of Santorini and the island's climate have resulted in Santorini to grow some rare and unique products worldwide. The climate and soil of Santorini proved ideal for growing grape varieties producing wines with character and "strong" flavor. The aidani, Assyrtiko, Mandilaria, mavrotragano are just some of the varieties of Santorini. The famous wine vinsanto is a dining experience not to be missed.
The tomato Santorini is also a unique variety grown on the island. Grows without water and the fruit, though smaller has a rich taste that can be enjoyed as a paste or sweet. Other products are split peas, a variety grown on the island for 3,500 years, capers, white eggplant, green cheese.

Activities

In Santorini activities are many and you can choose the ones that suit you. Follow some of our suggestions and select the ones that will bring you closer to the magic of the island.

Rides caldera. Meet this unique landscape from all angles that offers you about 30 km extent.
Visit the archaeological sites. From Akrotiri Ancient Thira and the Archaeological Museum in the Museum of Prehistoric Thera meet throughout the history of Santorini.
Swimming and Water Sports. Other than to swim and enjoy the sun on the beach in Santorini you can indulge in various water sports, such as jet ski, parasailing, and to enjoy the unique Water Park in Perissa.
Visit the wineries. Here you will see a long history, but will try the unique wines of Santorini.
Walking. The journey from Fira to Oia walk, always Caldera is a unique experience.
Boat rides. Apart from the unique backdrop of the Caldera will also visit volcanoes, hot springs and the island of Thirassia.