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Not all volcanic eruptions are disastrous. If it wasn't for one eruption 3600+ years ago, Santorini wouldn't be the rocky paradise it is today. Crescent in shape, Santorini, also called Thira, is an oasis in the Aegean. Experts say the volcano is still active but since its crater is underwater, who knows when it will erupt again! In the meantime, Santorini is the most romantic island in Greece and the Cyclades, a perfect place to spend a holiday for two.

Essentials in Santorini

Discover the islands small towns, starting in the capital of Firá. Some villages are more famed for their archaeological ruins while others for their views of the sunset and other still for their vineyards. The island prides itself on its cuisine and especially its wine. Soak up the sun by day and relish in the flavours of Santorini by night. Fava, white egg plant, cherry tomatoes, capers and goat cheeses... kalí óreksi!

Ancient Akrotiri: An ancient city was discovered after excavations began in the 1960s underneath a layer of volcanic ash. The uncovered buildings date to the 16th century BC. This site is best discovered with a guide to interpret the excavation for you. Most of the relics and mosaics from the site are now on display at the Museum of Prehistoric Thera.

Museum of Prehistoric Thera: The museum houses the artefacts and relics found from the excavation in Akrotiri. Only a small percentage of the site has actually been excavated. The most interesting piece in the museum's collection with without a doubt the gold ibex figure, 10cm long from the 17th century BC.

Ancient Thira: Santorini was first inhabited by the Dorians in the 9th century BC. In the old part of Thira you can find ruins from the Roman, Byzantine and even the Hellenic eras. From temples, houses to the agora (the island's ancient market place) and theatre. There ar great views from here as well.

Oia: One of the biggest draws for Santorini are its magnificent sunsets. The best viewing stop is the small village of Oia on the northern tip of the island. The view on the horizon is like none other. That being said, you can watch the sunset from just about anywhere along the caldera, with less people.

Beaches: Being a holiday destination you can bet this island has some great beaches. The type of beach depends entirely on which volcanic layer is exposed. There are black beaches, white ones, red ones, pebbly ones from solidified lava. As you may have guessed, the water off the black beaches is by far the warmest.

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Accommodations in Santorini

The hotels in Santorini, and generally all across the Cyclades, are higher in quality than those you'll generally find on land. From tiny and cosy pensions to entire private houses and luxury villas, the rooms are clean ad the owners take pride in their customer service. The best rooms are located in Santorini but they're also some of the most expensive on the islands.

Reservations ahead of time aren't entirely necessary unless you're planning to arrive at the height of tourist season from mid-July to the end of August. One thing to note is that few hotels in Santorini have elevators and often no porters.