Santorini Island Hotels

General Information

Even the most perfunctory of Aegean Sea tours would be vastly incomplete without a visit to Santorini. The fortuitous result of a colossal volcanic explosion thousands of years ago, the small archipelago is now one of the most popular summer destinations in Europe.

A relatively short jaunt from mainland Greece, Santorini is often the first port of call for cruise ships within the Cyclades island chain. Many never make it back to the ferry. The allure of sun-soaked, white-washed villas, cobblestone streets, sandy coastlines and a vibrant nightlife is a seductive mélange. Throw in postcard-perfect sunsets and a little Minoan history and you have the recipe for a memorable vacation.

Attractions

The capital city of Fira is where most of the action takes place in Santorini. The streets bustle with life in the busy summer months as restaurants and clubs compete fiercely for tourist cash. If you want to party, Fira is the place to be.

For a less hectic pace, head to the community of Oia. Most people familiar with indelible Greek island iconography will recognize the town from the hillside homes, replete with blue doors and white walls that shimmer in the sunshine. Restaurants may be more expensive here but the thin crowds, in relative comparison to Thira, make dinnertime in Oia more pleasurable. For the best sunsets in Greece, hang around for a special show at dusk.

A volcanic tour of Santorini breathes life into the mythology that shrouds the natural disaster that formed the archipelago some 3,600 years ago. From Atlantis to the Biblical plagues to the annihilation of Minoan civilization on the island of Crete, the massive eruption has been linked to notorious phenomena by scientists and conspiracy theorists alike.

The climb up Mesa Vouno to ancient Thira is a worthwhile ascent, despite the hot, merciless Santorini sun. The classical city dates back to the 9th century BC, though present day ruins hail from the Roman and Hellenic era of occupation.

Events

Much activity in Santorini occurs to the extreme east and south of the main island. There, dual coastlines offer a diverse array of beachfront, with white, red, gray and black sand to choose from. Whatever colour you prefer, Santorini offers seclusion for those who want to swim and sunbathe in private, or on the other end of the spectrum, lively beach areas with restaurants, bars and rooms to rent.

The Ifaisteia Festival in August features traditional dance, music and fireworks.

The International Music Festival, held every September, draws performers from around the globe to the Nomikos Conference Center in Fira.

Climate

Santorini is one place where sunscreen is an absolute must. The average temperature at the peak of the hot, dry summer season is around 30°C, with cloud cover a rare occurrence.

• Winter (December to February) 10-16°C

• Spring (March to April) 10-18°C

• Summer (May to August) 15-28.5°C

• Fall (September to November) 15-25°C