Santorini Holiday Villas and Travel Guide
Santorini is geologically and archaeologically one of the most dramatic islands in the world. Also known as Thira, it is shaped like a huge pair of jaws circling a lake filled with crystal clear waters. The lake is actually the core of an ancient volcano and legend has it that this volcano destroyed the lost continent of Atlantis some 3600 years ago and also buried the ancient city of Akrotiri under tons of ash.
Fira and Ia are the two major towns of the island. They both have their share of accommodation options including private holiday villas and cottages for those who want their own privacy and space.
Accommodation in Santorini
Tourists visiting the Greek Islands prefer to stay in private vacation villas and apartments located near the beaches or in idyllic rural settings. These vacation rentals offer great value for money and a slice of the Greek way of life. You can choose from authentic white-washed Greek cottages to the more modern apartments overlooking the beach. These rentals offer great walking and nature-watching opportunities and no matter where you stay, you will never far from the beaches and spectacular sea views.
Attractions
- Beaches: Perissa and Perivolos are two of the most popular beaches on Santorini. The black-sand beaches have a wide selection of taverns and restaurants. The south-eastern beaches of Monolithos, Avis and Kamari are kids-friendly.
- Museum of Pre-historic Thira: The museum displays many archaeological finds from the excavations at Akrotiri, including Neolithic pottery dating as far back as 3300 BC. The exhibits showcase tools, metal workings, pottery, furniture, and other artefacts of prehistoric times.
- Santorini wineries: Santorini is also a famous wine-producing region with a number of wineries in the area including Antoniou, a popular venue for weddings, Boutari, the biggest vineyard in the region and Sigalas, which offer stunning views from their patio.
- Submarine Ride: The tourist submarine is the only one of its kind in Greece. It takes passengers to depths of 100 feet (30m) where they can see the fascinating natural geological sculptures and exotic marine life. There is also a good selection of refreshments and snacks available on board.
- Santorini Water Park: The park is a great place for family picnics, offering great fun under the sun in its three swimming pools, waterslides and playground. The pool bar and restaurant provide refreshments for kids and there is also a gift shop where you can shop for souvenirs.
Wining & Dining
As in the rest of Greece, eating is a way of life in Santorini. The volcanic fertile soil has made the region ideal for cultivation of a variety of fruits and vegetables such as the white aubergine, the little cherry tomatoes, fava etc. Traditional dishes include Fava, a puree made with Fava beans (yellow peas) and served in many different ways according to the time of the year. Santorini is also famous for its wines.
Nightlife
Santorini offers an exciting nightlife with many cafes, bars and nightclubs to while away the hours. Some of the best cafes and bars are found along the caldera, while the most happening nightclubs are in the capital city of Fira. Oia and Kamari also have a number of discos and bars. To enjoy classical music performances, you can head to the Nomikos Centre in Fira.