Messaria

Messaria lies 3.5km south of Fira, in the interior of the island, amidst vineyards and vegetable gardens. It is a beautiful small village since it is characterized by the typical Cycladic charm with picturesque whitewashed houses and tiny winding paths.
The new part of the village is full of life with many shops, whilst a walk through the traditional settlement will take you back in time, when Messaria was the center of the island’s industrial development.
People of Messaria are known for their warm hospitality and the red wine produced here, is one of Santorini’s finest, so do not forget to buy some when you return back home.

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Pyrgos

Pyrgos is a large village, built at the foot of Prophitis Elias, which gives you a sense of medieval times. Probably the only village preserving this medieval features and atmosphere so vividly. Its streets, which follow the contours of the hillside, divide the village into zones. The walls of the outermost houses were an integral part of the village fortifications.There is also a Venetian castle located here named “Pyrgos”, and several Byzantine churches, like Theotaki, the most notable one with interesting frescoes. The Monastery of Prophitis Elias is only 3km away from the village and it is located on the mountain’s peak with altitude 550m, the highest point of the island. The monastery’s museum is full of ecclesiastical articles of unlimited value. There are icons from the 15th and 18th Century, a 20th Century iron cross, silver bound scriptures and patriarch’s Gregory diamond-adorned Mitre.

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Megalochori

Situated to the south of Athinios, Megalochori is the first village we meet when we arrive at Santorini by boat, after climbing Athinios port. It is located among Pyrgos, Emporio and Akrotiri at a distance of less than 5km from Fira. This inland village belies its name (“Big Village”), having only a couple of hundred inhabitants.

Megalochori combines traditional architecture with vaulted houses and “calderimia” (stone-cobbled narrow pathways). It is a lovely choice as a handy base for exploring the island: it is close to Fira, and within easy reach of Akrotiri and the beaches of Perissa, Perivolos, Agios Georgios and Vlyhada of the South coast. It is a tranquil place to enjoy lunch or dinner in the various taverns and restaurants, serving delicious local specialties.
Leave your car and walk through it. Admire the cobbled streets, the yards that are full of flowers, the tiny houses and above all the fine bell towers of the churches that pop up harmoniously in the landscape.For those of you who like adventure, we suggest a visit to the remote beaches of caldera, Plaka and Thermi. There is no access by car and therefore, so be well prepared with sports shoes, hats and plenty of water.Useful links for Megalochori
Hotels Hiking Agios Nikolaos - Megalochori

Kamari

The cosmopolitan Kamari is 10km away from Fira. There is always life, as it accommodates the majority of the charter passengers that inundate the island in summer. It has a well organized that stretches in many kilometers. It has smooth black sand, playground, water sports and diving center.
The town is connected with frequent bus service from Fira. Completely rebuilt after the 1956 earthquake, Kamari was the most important strategic point of the island, and also the port for Ancient Thera, after the decline of Akrotiri in ancient times.
In Kamari, the church of Panagia Episkopi is of great interest. It is an old Byzantine church built in 1100. The best time to visit the church is on August 15th during the feast of Virgin Mary. You will enjoy with all the dancing, singing and the tasty food.
At nights, when the red full moon is rising from the dark waters, a walk in the costal pedestrian precinct is a perfect idea. Enjoy the sight and make a stop for a bite or a drink, since it has restaurants, bars, but also a bank, ATM and cinema.

Useful links for Kamari
Map   Hotels   Kamari beach   Hiking Kamari - Ancient Thera

Imerovigli

Santorini will keep your photo camera operating 24/7 as there are breathtaking views that are worth taking back home with you. Many argue that the most outstanding place is Imerovigli. Maybe they are right if we consider the fact that, its name derives from the words “vigla”=watchtower and “imera”=day and its position, at the center and highest point along the caldera, gave it visual command of the whole sea. It is 20min walking distance away from Fira and it is world famous for its summer sunset view. As the sun sets, the neighboring islands of Ios, Sikinos and Folegandros are being revealed, making it so wonderful.

There lays the medieval castle of Scaros, never been defeated during the 600 years of its existence. From Skaros, follow the path that leads to Theoskepasti church, which is built on a rock with a unique view. Another church of Imerovigli is Panagia Maltesa, taking its name after the icon said to have been found in the sea near Malta.
Because of its location near Fira, it is connected with public road or by the old path, offering tremendous views of the caldera and volcano. You may find here taverns, restaurants, bars and hotels.

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Map Hotels

Firostefani

As you go north along the main road, you will find Firostefani, only 1.5 km away from Fira (approximately 10 minutes walking distance). By now Firostefani is an extension of Fira. You will notice that the view is equally exquisite in both villages, but the atmosphere in Firostefani is quieter. It is a perfect choice for those who want to be close enough to the cosmopolitan life of the capital, but not in the heart of it. Of course there are places for you to eat or have a drink here by the caldera.

Located in Firostefani is Petros Nomikos Conference Centre, where you can find an exhibition with life-size reproductions of wall paintings found in Akrotiri’s ancient settlement. You will be surprised by the Center and the unique view will be an unforgettable memory for you. So visit the Center late in the afternoon to experience another sunset from the top of Firostefani.
No doubt this village should be called the “balcony over the Aegean”, since Palaia and Nea Kammeni lie directly opposite.

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Map Hotels

Oia

The traditional settlement of Oia is located on the highest northern tip of the island and is famous for their spectacular, amazing sunsets, which bathe the hills and buildings in a purple glow when the sun sinks into the Aegean. One distinct characteristic of the place is picturesque road, built just on the rim of the cliff side, which takes you all the way to a village of 79 (!!) churches. Sometimes referred to as Apano Meria, Oia is linked with 10km paved road to Fira.

Oia is built at a lower altitude than Fira, nearer the sea, to which it is connected by two sets of cobbled steps. The one to Ammoudi has 214 steps, the other to Armeni has 286. Definitely the way up is the hard part, but both sights are worth the effort.
Oia’s architecture is typical Santorini-Cycladic with small houses sunk deep into the volcanic rock, white walls and blue domes sparkling in the sunlight.
Oia is considered to be the cultural heart of the island as it hosts a cultural center, a central art gallery and many other popular Greek galleries. Moreover, there are many shops that sell local handcrafts, souvenirs, jewellery and other memorabilia. Taverns and restaurants around Oia have exquisite cuisine with tasty dishes accompanied by the recognized traditional wines of Santorini.
Definitely the ideal place for a peaceful vacation in a setting blessed by unique natural beauty.

Useful links for Oia
Map Hotels Hiking Oia to Fira

Hotels ideal for honeymooners