The islands that are geographically closer to Santorini are Ios, Sikinos, Folegandros and Anafi island. The ancient city of Acrotiri is another of the main Attractions of the island. Now, Crete is my favourite place in the world. In my experience, few places in Greece are as magical, and Ive been to many! Here is my list of the best places to stay inMykonos(spoiler alert: wow! If you make it to this small island with the crystal clear emerald waters,try to spend at least 2 or 3 days. I. I loved hiking to the lighthouse, on the Koumpara peninsula, where we went for sunset. Fira's old port is for cruise boats, the port further south (shown on the map) is used for ferries and cruise ships. Home Greece Santorini Best Greek Islands Near Santorini. It worked for us! C.H. Choose from several map styles. "text": "You can easily visit the tiny Thirassia island on a day trip from Santorini. You will see the pretty coastline, explore the secret coves, and have a blast. Water from the Aegean Sea rushed in to fill the void, forming the central, 12 kilometer-long (7.5 mile) lagoon. If Kithnos was a person: she'd be quiet and traditional, keen to stay off any tourist trail and find secluded beaches. So, if you are island hopping you dont really need to spend 2-3 days in Anafi. Santorini Map Santorini Map Also Read These Posts Discover World Famous Greek Island: Santorini Santorini Travel Guide - Holiday Budget Where is Santorini You can find out more about our use, change your default settings, and withdraw your consent at any time with effect for the future by visiting Cookies Settings, which can also be found in the footer of the site. Wherever you decide to go, you will need to book ferry tickets. You can actually do some awesome greek island hopping from Santorini! Im literally in love with Apeiranthos village (here it is onGoogle Maps) Naxos hasamazing long sandy beaches(like Agia Anna beach) andits an amazing destination for foodies. }] It literally melts in your mouth! km. Booking.comis the website with the most available rooms and Private Villas in Athens, Santorini , Mykonos & Crete(more than Airbnb! I knowexpensive. Greece's Ionian islands include Corfu, Ithaca, Kefalonia, Kythira, Lefkada, Paxi and Zakynthos. "mainEntity": [{ by Santorini Dave Updated: August 29, 2022, Oia Hotels: Katikies Canaves Suites Perivolas Remote, untouched and precious, Katergo beach is in the south-eastern part of Folegandros and it is only accessible by boat. I actually enjoyed this location more than some of the crowded sunset spots in Santorini. I dare to say Hotels in Mykonos are slightly more luxurious than the ones in Santorini and in many cases the villas you would find on the island are much bigger and more impressive. Some of the most famous beaches in Crete include Balos, Elafonisi, Preveli, Vai and Falassarna, but there are hundreds more. Alternatively, you can always book everythingonline at theLets Ferry websitewhich will also give you all the available ferries for the routeSantorini-Folegandros-Santorini. It might be time to re-discover this beautiful island. As an example, Sarakiniko beach looks like the moon. Your view is a big rock islet opposite, where you can go snorkeling or simply swim to explore. Cretan food is unique, partly because most of the produce is local. Beware of this when researching ferry tickets. Located in the southeastern part of the island is Mount Proftis Ilas which rises to an elevation of 566 m and is the islands highest point. I know the ins and outs of my country and hopefully my travel blog will help you make the most of your holidays. . Here is a longer article with things to do in Naxos. Santorini and the Cyclades in general are connected to the ports of Piraeus and Rafina. Here are a few questions about the islands in Greece that visitors ask: Island hopping is a great way to see more Greek islands near Santorini. In addition to that, you will see signs of the Venetian and Ottoman rule all around Crete. The North Aegean Islands. My number one thing to do in Sikinos was visiting Manaliswinery for sunset. Its distance from Piraeus is 128 miles, from Iraklion Crete 68 miles and from Rhodes 147 miles! The best one is by far the famousFar Out Beach Clubat Mylopotas in Ios that also has the greatFar Out Camping Ios. When it comes to the iconicblue-domed, white-washed housesandchurches, Ios has literally hundreds. Its really not easy, as you either have to go through Athens and take a flight or another ferry boat. Many of the Cyclades islands are directly connected with Santorini." Feel Good Studio/Shutterstock. Sikinos has become one of my favourites hope to be able to explore more islands in summer 2021 , Hi there The principal island of Santorini covers an area of about 76 km 2 and is well known for its sea-filled volcanic caldera that is surrounded by high colorful cliffs on its three sides. The ferry leaves from Athinios port in Santorini. As a result of the volcanic eruption, a large caldera was formed which was surrounded by deposits of white pumice and volcanic ash. You can shave a couple of hours off by taking a catamaran or hydrofoil. And to be honest there are more things to do and see in Folegandros than there are in Anafi (but definitely less than the tings you can do and see in Mykonos and Naxos for example). The other best villages to visit in Santorini 10. There Is Wine Tasting In Santorini, Greece. It is atrue gemso go there before things change! Many people think thatPerissahas the best beach on the island, a 7-kilometer long black sand beach with lots of facilities for beach bums. Ioshas some really good hotels. If you want a more relaxing and quiet 1-2 days trip (especially if you are with family and kids) then you should visit Naxos or Ios. Public Holidays in Greece and What to Expect. The tomatoes of Santorini are famous as well. Santorini. Sometimes you just have to follow the crowds that will hop on to those boats. Many Hollywood films have been filmed here ,that helped more the global advertisement of Santorini and its beauties! Thera didn't just blow a massive hole into the island of Santorini - it set the entire ancient Mediterranean onto a different course, like a train that switched tracks to head off in a brand new . & fax. South East Greece, in the Aegean Sea; one of the Cyclades islands. Ancient Akrotiri is sometimes called the "Minoan Pompeii" because of the huge volcanic eruption of 1450 bc. Some of thebeachesyou will see on the volcanic island are really other-worldly. In English, the island is still usually referred to as Santorini. You'll then ferry over to the smaller volcanic island of Santorini and have three days to explore its whitewashed . nformation about Greek ferry, destinations and transportation by AthensTransports.eu upon your arrival in Athens. However, there are plenty of other islands near Santorini that you could consider. "@type": "Question", These are some of the best Greek islands for me, but everyone is different! Akrotiri 9. Allow plenty of time for this wonderful island, especially if you like exploring by land. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. The first thing you will notice in Naxos is the stunningChora or Naxos Town, which is also the islands port. From Rhodes, you can take a ferry to Turkey. It is very easy to island hop in Greece you only need to know the ferry routes. You can easily have the time of your life inMykonos(and in Santorini) no matter if you are with your other half, with your crazy girlfriends who take Instagram selfies 24/7, with your buddies or even alone! By Lynn Roulo. The creation of Santorini in an amazing video. However, to be totally honest with you, Naxos townisnot an extremely picturesque greek island townand youd better head off to the amazing beaches and the awesome mainland villages (like Apeiranthos villageone of the most picturesque and different greek cycladic villages). The red sand beach of Akrotiri is near the ancient site and there you can catch boats to other beaches. Visit the Medieval Kastro in that part of the town and the Church of Panagia. An ancient and traditional fishing village, the small town is a . Fira Hotels: Cosmopolitan Suites Athina Luxury Suites Aria Suites Check out our map of santorini greece selection for the very best in unique or custom, handmade pieces from our shops. It is very easy to island hop in Greece - you only need to know the ferry routes." Need a room with 2 doubles or 2 singles, as we are having a girls holiday for our 50th Birthdays. South East Greece, in the Aegean Sea; one of the Cyclades islands. "@type": "FAQPage", How To Order Food In Greece A Locals Guide, Food in Greece Everything you should know about Greek Food, Greek Drinks To Try During Your Vacation In Greece, March 2021 ravel Advice for Greece (Quarantine and testing), The Delphic Maxims Ancient Greek Wisdom, Horta The Tasty Leafy Greens You Order At A Greek Taverna. The principal island of Santorini covers an area of about 76 km2 and is well known for its sea-filled volcanic caldera that is surrounded by high colorful cliffs on its three sides. Along with other Greek territories, the island was then ruled by the erstwhile Roman Empire. The combinations Santorini Crete, Santorini Mykonos and Santorini Milos are increasingly popular, and you dont want to risk not finding a seat at your ferry of choice. It is a gorgeous island with fantastic beaches and great food, one of my favourites! I loved visiting Santoriniduring the off-seasonwhen temperatures werent too high. Vegetables, meat, cheese, rusks, olive oil, raki, you name it. Santorini's capital isFira, which sits on the caldera side of the island perched on a cliff 260 meters above the sea. The only island you can actually do a daytrip from Santorini is Anafi. These were great to spend several hours on and relax without the crowds. ): Naxosis one of the largest greek islands and definitely the largest in Cyclades island complex. Santorini, the famous island of the Aegean Sea took its name from Santa Irene, from the cathedral built in Perissa dedicated to her. Once on Santorini, you can get frequent ferry connections to other Cyclades islands as well as Rhodes, Crete, and Thessaloniki. Maps of Santorini Map of Where to Stay on Santorini Santorini Hotel Map ( Best Hotels) Oia Hotels: Katikies Canaves Suites Perivolas Imerovigli Hotels: Grace Astra Suites Cavo Tagoo Firostefani Hotels: Tsitouras Collection Homeric Poems Belvedere Fira Hotels: Cosmopolitan Suites Athina Luxury Suites Aria Suites Awarded with the Blue Flag, Mylopotas beach in the western part of Ios is one of the most popular and crowded beaches on the island. Also check out Santorini island on satellite map. International Living's Guide to the Greek Islands . You will definitely not findthe luxury of Santorini, but these are theBest Hotels in Anafi: Iosis a really unique and underrated island in my opinion. The sovereign nation of Greece comprises several islands that are further organized into different island clusters depending upon their location. Get free map for your website. If you want you can definitely spend 1 night but even so, I wouldnt spend one of my precious nights in Anfi to be honest. It takes about 20 minutes to go from the airport to Fira. It is one of the most popular destinations in Greece for weddings and honeymoon trips. The beauty of Santorini town is the Cliff or Santorini caldera, with fantastic views of the Volcano, the traditional cave houses hotels, the streets, and the unforgettable Santorini sunset. Heres a complete guide on what to do in Sikinos. My favourite wild beaches in Ios include Kalamos, Psathi and Lorentzena. Relax on the comfortable deck and admire the grandeur of the Aegean Sea as your yacht sails below Caldera. Santorinis population last measured in 2002 was 11.000 people. Oia is the second-largest town in Santorini. "@type": "Answer", Kwak is Berlin resident and translator who covers budget travel in Europe and contributes to Berlin's official tourism website. I also liked Manganari on the south, a group of sandy coves around a shallow lagoon with a few loungers here and there. Good! Tip: Dont forget to see the old school from the 20th century with vintage elements and a rich tradition. If you want something very different to Santorini, consider Naxos, Ios, Sikinos or even Tinos. In Akrotiri, the people seemed to have escaped; no human remains have been discovered by archaeologists. The myth actually says that Anafi is the home island of the famousArgonauts. An area of about 35 square miles, the narrow, crescent-shaped island of Thira is home to several towns, historic sites and the archipelago's famous beaches. 500 km. The size of the islands can vary a lot. Ideal from perfect getaways from Santorini, or from Ios and Folegandros, Sikinos is a must destination for those willing to explore the untouched beauty of the Aegean without the crowds and the spotlights. Perissa has religious festivals on the 29th of August and 14th of September. Whether you like natural beaches or you prefer to have loungers and umbrellas, Naxos has it all. Most of the beaches were really quiet, and I had a blast! The journey to Naxos can take between 1 hour and 25minutes to 3 hours depending on the type of ferry and company. It is 80 sq. The other two big towns in Crete, Rethymno and Agios Nikolaos, are also worth visiting. Crazy nightlife, amazing bars and clubs, DJs from all over the world, some of the most luxurious hotels and restaurants on the planet, celebrities hotspot, amazing fully-organised golden sandy beaches andhundreds of parties every day (especially in the summer). Things To Know About Greece Before You Go, How To Speak Greek The Greek Alphabet And 20 Useful Greek Words. Its not for people who want to fill their time with activities, or for people who are after luxurious hotels. Black sand beaches, extraterrestrial beauty, and traditional architecture do not conflict with its vibrant nightlife and cosmopolitan character. Its actually super simple:you pop in at a travel agent in Fira (there are hundreds of them so you wont miss them), you ask the timetables for the ferries to Folegandros and thats it. 85% of the island structures were destroyed, there was a large decrease in local population and Santorini did not start to revive itself until the end of the 1970's with the introduction of the tourist industry. Another option is to rent a villa on the island. Thirassia 12. It is close to the port of Agios Nikolaos and you can even walk there. With more than10 direct flights per day(especially between April-November) from all over Europe, Santorinigives you the ultimate opportunity to visit some less touristy but probably equally beautiful Greek islands. Their awarded potatoes, locally grown vegetables, delicious cheeses and local meat dishes are well-known all over Greece. You can easily visit the tiny Thirassia island on a day trip from Santorini. Santorini Greece Map Bracelet Oia Thira Greek Island Unique Traveler Vacation Gift for Men or Women decembermoondesign (3,125) $31.50 Santorini Greece Illustrated Map with Main Roads Landmarks and Highlights Fine Art Print artshop77 (532) $15.00 Illustrated Santorini, Greece Travel Map Print - Various Landmarks included, open to alterations You might also be able to do a day trip from Santorini to Ios, but check ferry timetables as they are not always convenient." Stroll and enjoy the local specialties in ouzeries and taverns. A daytrip or 2-3 nights are not worth it because you would spend too much money and you wont even see 5% of these amazing big greek islands. Discover its virgin nature and remote beaches, including Korfos, Riva, and Agia Eirini! Ancient Athens Combined Ticket For The Archaeological Sites Of Athens, Ancient Athens for free A walking route through the historic centre, Street art in Athens Bright colours and political opinions, Tips For Staying Cool In The Summer In Athens, Top 10 Tips For Visiting Greece In Summer 2023, Our favourite beaches in Greece Popular beaches and hidden gems, Religion in Greece Churches, Greek Easter and Christian names, Greek Easter Traditions Greek Orthodox Easter Food and Customs. From the map, you can see the volcanic structure that, before exploding, formed a single island. Here are five of the best islands you can visit near Santorini, plus one bonus Greek island outside the Cyclades which youre sure to love. It is the largest island of a small circular archipelago, which bears the same name and is the remnant of a caldera. "@type": "Answer", This is what I believe aboutMykonos: If Santorini is a little romantic angel, then Mykonos is a sexy dressed little devil! The town was occupied by the Dorians in the 9th-century bc. You can definitely visit Milos and Paros also, though it might be more challenging as they are slightly further away with the ferry and the times usually dont allow that (check the timetables onLets Ferry). In my opinion though, give it a few days and you wont regret it. All rights reserved. Ios is one of the islands close to Santorini, located only 21 nautical miles away! } Milos was created after a volcanic eruption, which happened about 90,000 years ago. Rocabella 2. Translated in Greek, the village Apeiranthos means countless flowers and it is indeed one of the most beautiful inland villages of the island, which is mountainous and very rich in tradition and folk elements. I meanwhy not?? Im the first to admit that Mykonos is not my style at all. Strong winds blow throughout the island during the summer season. This active island-hopping itinerary visits two gems in the Aegean Seaboth world-famous for different reasons. Although it seems to be always crowded, it is fun and a great place to enjoy the sun and meet new people. Some of the cliff is thought to be a caldera wall associated with an eruption 21,000 year ago. You can check all the timetables and prices for ferries onLets Ferry Website. In the summer time between the months of May to September the population of Santorini can go up to 30 thousand people. The church of the village named Panagia Gremiotissa has by far the greatest breath-taking view and is worth a visit! Nowadays it is the ultimate destination for sailing day-trips and for panoramic views of Santorini. Semeli 13. Carbonaki 12. One of the top-rated places to stay in Fira. I havent been recently myself, so I have no opinion unfortunately. The fact that you can sit in front of the caldera, enjoy local dishes, a drink or a coffee while gazing at the remarkable beauty of an active volcano is priceless! There are several archaeological and historical sites in Crete. 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