Where is the best place to stay in santorini? Santorini: useful tips before traveling to Thira

Among the waves of the Aegean Sea is one of the most mysterious islands world history - Santorini. His name is shrouded in secrets, because some argue that Fira (the second name of the island) is the lost Atlantis, according to others, it is Pompeii of the Aegean Sea.

The appearance of the island is due to a volcanic eruption in the distant past. Such a bright appearance of Santorini made it the most famous of the islands of the Cyclades archipelago. It is located near Crete, while strikingly different from all territories - again, thanks to geological morphology. It was formed due to the volcanic eruption, which is now dormant.

According to an old legend, the island arose from a lump of earth, which was dropped by one of the thieves of the Golden Fleece, the Argonaut. This land was presented to the hero Euphem by Triton himself. In the third millennium BC, the descendants of the Argonaut, the Phoenicians, inhabited the island. They created a great civilization here. The island got its name Fira because of the rounded shape that it had at that time.

One and a half millennia later, an incredibly powerful volcanic eruption occurred. Lava devastated Fira, most of the territories went under water. The shape of the island changed into a crescent because of this event.

For many years the territory was empty, however, a new culture began to develop. A new awakening of the volcano in the 15th century led to an earthquake that wiped out the Minoan civilization, and with it all life. Archaeologists managed to find evidence of the existence of a great culture. However, there are still disputes that, quite possibly, it was the famous Atlantis described by Plato.

Scientists claim that it was the finds from the island of Santorini that helped solve the mystery. The Greek Sp. Marinatos. The excavations carried out by him made it possible to discover palaces, frescoes and vases, in their style reminiscent of the features Minoan civilization. The items found were hidden by a massive layer of ash from the eruption. This makes it possible to say that the culture died due to volcanic lava, which was covered from above by a powerful tsunami. A huge wave subsequently spread to many islands, destroying everything that came across on the way.

The excavations suggest to scientists that the volcano erupted here about 12 times. This event happened about once every 20 thousand years, as evidenced by the layers of the soil of Santorini.

Such volcanic activity has led to the formation of underwater Caldera. This cauldron-shaped depression appeared when the top of the volcano collapsed. The following eruptions were already of much lesser strength, they occurred in the 3rd century BC (at the same time Firasya separated), and also in the 2nd century BC (this eruption led to the appearance of Palya Kameni).

Later than all the Mediterranean islands, Nea Kameni appeared, it arose from lava. All territories are united in the Cyclades archipelago. The islands have survived a lot: after each new volcanic layer and complete destruction, they were restored, culture developed anew, houses were rebuilt. The last eruption occurred in 1956, when Santorini again experienced terrible events. And again the island came to life, the inhabitants restored the destruction, the villages again began to make noise - life went on as usual.

Santorini - the most romantic island in the world

Santorini occupies a special place among the most romantic places in the world. This island is one of the most beautiful Greek lands, it is popular with travelers who choose Mediterranean resorts. Population tourist island- a little over 15 thousand people. The main occupation of the locals is winemaking. They grow vines, which is facilitated by fertile soils and a favorable climate. An important role was played by volcanic ash, which is a natural fertilizer. Main city islands - Fira, about one and a half thousand people live here. At Santorini, whose area is 76 square kilometers, coastline is 70 kilometers.

Fira is a picturesque town. Cape Akrotiri located here will forever be remembered by everyone who visits this place. History buffs will appreciate a walk through the ancient settlement of Oia. You can get to the capital from the coastal town of Skala, the path will not be easy: several hundred steps on foot or a walk on a cute donkey. However, you can significantly simplify your road: a rail funicular runs along the route.

The narrow streets of Fira, numerous arches, cozy houses of local residents - the tourist will definitely remain under the pleasant impression of the walk. The view that opens from here deserves special attention: the endless sea stretching far beyond the horizon, the black rocky islands (Kamenes), which can be reached by boat – the landscape seems to have been painted by a generous artist.

The western territories of Santorini will surprise even an experienced tourist. Sheer cliffs, as if grown out of darkness, are completely covered with snow-white houses. The steep bluffs of the west coast contrast sharply with the eastern beaches that stretch along the entire coast. The dark sand of some beaches sometimes reaches a rich black color, while others are covered with pebbles. Already at the entrances, a variety of soils of all colors and textures becomes noticeable: red, brown, almost black. Thanks to this feature, the island is a favorite place for volcanologists. Scientists come here to study volcanic processes, the composition of lava, the reasons for the formation of volcanoes. Tourists can also join the topic by visiting the geological and volcanic museum, where even specialists will not be bored.

The extraordinary beauty of the island is made up of bright details: the wonderful sea, the unusual color of the sand, the wild landscape, unique historical monuments. On a moonlit night, Santorini, strewn with lights, is breathtakingly beautiful. The 300 steps of the staircase are illuminated by lanterns, creating a path that leads down the hill straight to the sea.

The island makes it possible to feel the peace and, at the same time, the powerful force hiding in the depths of the sea. Danger lurks here, but the air is saturated with a certain threat that gives the island a unique charm. The history of destruction and rebirth of Santorini is a true miracle for every tourist who comes here.

The most beautiful island in the world

Santorini is one of the five most picturesque islands in the world, moreover, he leads it. The famous Bali from Indonesia, the beautiful Canadian Cape Breton, Boracay and the incredible Big barrier reef follow, yielding to the Greek resort.

Per Lately the island has received many prestigious awards from various travel magazines, tourist organizations, popular media, entering the ratings of the best vacation spots. The recognition of Santorini as the pearl of Greece is well deserved. This is the place chosen by the newlyweds, going to Honeymoon or people who want to spend time on a cruise. The ideal vacation period starts from the end of March and lasts until the end of November, while all locations are loaded with tourists.

The explosion of the Santorini volcano in 1627 BC led to the formation of three islands: Thirasia, Fira and Aspro. Fira is the largest of them. The second largest is Thirassia. Its population is 268 and its capital is the city of Manolas. The smallest island, Aspro, is uninhabited.

Of interest to travelers is the island of Palea Kameni. It also arose as a result of volcanic activity in 46-47 BC. The incessant volcano changed the outlines of the territory and its dimensions many times. No one lives here until now, but it is worth coming here for the sake of the beautiful church of St. Nicholas. volcanic island gives the possibility of healing: there are many hot springs.

Nea Kameni appeared already in our era (1570), which was facilitated by the volcanic eruption, however, already underwater. Its close proximity to Palea Kameni and its small size gave the name to the island of Mikri Kameni (meaning "small"). The continued activity of the volcano has increased the size and shape of the island.

Santorini beaches

Local beaches are the perfect place to get away from the madness of the rhythm of life, relax under the hot Greek sun, relax with children, company or even alone. Once here at sunset, the traveler will see a unique picture that can make everyone fall in love with this place. The most famous beaches are Red and Kamari.

The coastline of Santorini is colorful and indented. Here, dark volcanic sand is interspersed with red cinders, as well as black pebbles. The waters of the sea are full of no less variety: blue, green, turquoise, azure, almost black.

Perissa beach is located at the Messa Vouno mountain. You can get here by bus, car or water taxi. 7 kilometers of coastline covered with black sand attracts tourists with beautiful views. Here are located various taverns, attractions, nightclubs, diving centers, allowing you to relax to the fullest.

Winds on Perissa are rare. The cleanest sea is always calm, but there are some drawbacks. There are slabs of solidified lava hiding under the water, so it is important to be careful when entering the sea. It is dangerous to run in, you should carefully feel the bottom so as not to slip. The beach is equipped with showers, toilets, sunbeds, umbrellas.

Kamari Beach is a traveller's favorite, and for good reason. Extensive territory, clean beach, clear sea - everything is created for have a great holiday. The surface consists of black sand and pebbles. Kamari is a unique Greek beach where you need to come for the whole day. Children and adults will find something to do here: younger tourists will try out various attractions, and animators are waiting for them. Adults have access to active beach games, restaurants and taverns serving delicious local cuisine, souvenir shops. The black beach of Kamari is worth a visit once, then to wait for new meetings with this place.

The southern coast of Santorini is famous for the beach of Perivolos. It is located near Perissa. The advantages of Perissa are added by a convenient entrance to the sea, which is suitable for families with children. The wide area fit the necessary amenities: sun loungers, umbrellas, changing rooms, showers, toilets. Outdoor enthusiasts can rent equipment for classes water sports and kids will love the playgrounds. Eateries are located around the beach, where everyone will taste traditional dishes prepared from fresh ingredients. The hot summer of Santorini is softened here by the cool waters of the Aegean Sea. In the evenings, discos are held on Perivolos, where you can have fun all night long.

The Martian landscape awaits tourists on the Vlychada beach, which occupies southern lands Santorini. Sharp rocks, black coating (pebbles and volcanic sand), turquoise waves of the sea rising high above the surface - everyone will find something for themselves. Vlychada will appeal to lovers of secluded relaxation, romantics, even nudists (they live on the right side of the 2.5-kilometer beach). A smooth entrance and a well-organized territory are undoubted advantages, however, private yachts that moor nearby interfere with calmness.

Among the most famous is the Red Beach, also called Kokkini Paralia. Archaeological excavations and museums are nearby, which is convenient for versatile recreation. It is easier to get here by car, but you have to walk a short distance. From the rocky descent, there is a beautiful view of the beach that deserves photos. The greenery of the sea contrasts sharply with the brick outlines of the rocks; such a landscape is not to be found anywhere else. During the tourist season, the beach is equipped with the necessary equipment. It is covered with porous pebbles. It is important to note that you should not wear light-colored clothes here, because it can be stained.

Eros Beach is a place of unity with nature. More than 6.5 kilometers of the southern lands of Santorini are considered a glamorous location. Silence reigns here, peace, there is no wind, so you can completely relax in the arms of nature. There are no noisy establishments on the beach itself; you can have a bite to eat by climbing up to the taverns serving the gifts of the Mediterranean. The clear blue water would be ideal for swimming, but the atmosphere is spoiled by sharp stones near the water. The only way to get here is by car.

The White Beach is hidden in a bay, so only those who have chosen the sea route to travel will be able to discover this place. Boats and boats depart from the Red Beach, disembark tourists into the water, because there is no equipped pier. The depth near the beach is shallow, volcanic slabs are scattered right off the coast. It is possible to rent sun loungers, umbrellas, as well as a bite to eat from a local shop. A secluded and very romantic place suitable for newlyweds. It will be interesting to walk along the local caves or along the territory of the White Beach, covered with sand and large pebbles.

Caldera is the name of a funnel formed after a powerful eruption with the collapse of a crater filled with water. The beach got its name from its proximity to this funnel. Also nearby is the village of Akrotiri, where archaeologists are excavating nearby. Despite the seeming modesty of the infrastructure, there is everything you need here: taverns where you can dine, sunbeds, umbrellas, which is important - a convenient entry into the water, as well as pleasant black sand mixed with pebbles.

Another place for a secluded holiday nearby is Mesa Pigadia. The beach is surrounded by white cliffs, and the territory is divided into two parts: sandy and pebbly. Few tourists come here, although the water at Mesa Pigadia is clear. Winter is the best time for a gastronomic journey: fishermen stop by the shore, bringing the freshest seafood to local restaurants and taverns.

Kataros does not boast of amenities, except that it is convenient to enter the sea here. Suitable for those who stopped in the north-west of Santorini and do not plan to go far. This beach is famous for Katharos Lounge, a local restaurant for which guests from different countries peace. The dishes served at Katharos Lounge are considered to be the best in Greece.

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sights

Capital

Fira certainly deserves special attention. The first thing that every tourist who arrives here by cruise ship sees is the old port. He warmly welcomes his guests. From here, hundreds of travelers are transported daily by small boats wishing to visit the neighboring islets. There are two ways to get to the old port: by funicular and donkeys. We advise you to use the first option - it's much faster and safer. In addition, the funicular offers a gorgeous view that you can enjoy during the descent.

Fira is diverse with its colorful churches, which you can easily visit and admire all the beauty of the sacred monastery. Here is the Catholic Cathedral in the Baroque style, erected in 1823. The earthquake of 1956 completely destroyed many buildings. The cathedral also suffered from a terrible natural phenomenon. After 14 years, it was restored. The Orthodox Cathedral of Fira, built in 1827, is a masterpiece of local architecture. The square in front of the temple allows you to enjoy all the beauties of the volcano's Caldera. The cathedral is a very popular tourist attraction. It can often be found on postcards and pictures. For lovers of historical exhibits, there are two museums - Prehistoric and Archaeological. There are various antiquities found during excavations (ceramic dishes, jewelry, etc.). Art connoisseurs should take a stroll through the Frankomahala Medieval District, which is full of 17th-century buildings, the most famous of which is Gizi Palace. The palace holds various art exhibitions and master classes. And every August, a popular folk art festival is held here. Even just walking the streets you can meet a large number of ancient ruins, curious and interesting fragments, burials of various times.

Ancient Fira

The modern capital of the lost Atlantis is located on the west coast. But it was not always so. In ancient times, Fira was called the ancient Southern City. It was a lively settlement with numerous buildings, flourishing in the VIII-IX centuries BC. Unfortunately from ancient capital only ruins remain. A walk through the ruins takes tourists to the distant past. An ancient amphitheater, a sports stadium, temples, baths, market Square, residential buildings. Column of Artemis, temple of Dionysus, sanctuaries of Egyptian gods, caves of Hermes and Hercules - ancient monuments architecture. Fragments and foundations of these buildings can still be seen. The town is located on a mountain with incredible views beautiful view. Of course, this place fascinates with its history.

Venetian fortress in Oia

Fans of stunning sunsets flock to the village of Oiyu. The Venetian fortress is an ideal location for a photo shoot. Couples in love constantly admire the rays of the setting sun here. The fortress, dating from the 14th-15th centuries, is dedicated to St. Nicholas. Its main purpose was to protect the settlement from enemy attacks. She did an excellent job of defending herself. Despite the fact that the fortress was captured, it has been perfectly preserved to this day. Do not forget to visit this extraordinary place, enjoy the scenery of the Aegean Sea.

Wine Museum

The unparalleled wine museum is the pride of Santorini. It was created by the Koutzoiannopoulos family on the territory of a private winery in 1870. It took the family 21 years to build this unique place. Bottles of wine are kept ideal conditions thanks to its unique location: underground, in a 300-meter labyrinth natural cave at a depth of 8 meters. Here you will touch the art of winemaking, plunge into the history and life of Santorini winemakers. Grapes have always been and remain the most important agricultural crop of the island. Archaeologists have found traces of grapes dating back to the 15th century BC. e. The museum presents rare authentic exhibits, equipment of winemakers that take the tourist to another era. Visitors are imbued with all stages of wine production, learn its features, secrets. The tour, accompanied by an audio guide available in 14 languages, costs 10 euros. At the end of the tour, visitors are invited to taste the best wines that can be purchased as a souvenir or a gift for loved ones.

Maritime Museum

In the northern town of Oia, there is the fascinating Maritime Museum, founded by the captain of the Greek merchant fleet Antonias Dakaronias in 1956. Today, its exhibits are housed in an old mansion restored after the earthquake. Thanks to developed trade relations and its own fleet, by the 20th century. Santorini was at the peak of economic development and prosperity. The museum fully presents the history of the Greek fleet. The exposition is varied and interesting. It represents models of both ancient and modern ships, antique nautical equipment, ship fragments, nautical gear, crew uniforms, compasses, blueprints, maps, sailors' chests and more. Of particular interest are personal items and portraits of prominent sailors. The surviving photographs of ship teams, ceremonies for the launch of new ships, the construction of shipyards, and schoolchildren in naval uniforms stand out from the collection. The own library stores historically important documents, special literature, ship's logs.

Akrotiri Archaeological Reserve

The archaeological reserve is the remains ancient settlement Bronze Age, which were discovered by archaeologists a couple of decades ago. The original name of the settlement is unknown, so it is named after the nearest village. Due to the fatal volcanic eruption, the city was destroyed, being under a pile of ash. During the excavations, the remains of the inhabitants were not found. This indicates that the inhabitants managed to leave the area before the start of a terrible event. In the last century, archaeologists have unearthed buildings, furniture, dishes, frescoes and other ancient artifacts. During the excavations, a precious golden product was found - a figurine of a mountain goat. The found artifacts are exhibited in Greek museums. Some of them can be seen in the Museum of Prehistoric Fira. Excavations near Akrotiri are still ongoing.

Faros Lighthouse

Beautiful views of the Aegean Sea, the caldera of the volcano, the Cyclades archipelago open from the Faros lighthouse. During the day, it is deserted near it, which makes it possible to fully enjoy all the beauties of the surroundings. In the evenings people go up to the lighthouse to watch the sunset. You can get to it through the village of Akrotiri, passing along the road through the olive grove. The lighthouse itself is not particularly beautiful. But once you see its views once, enjoy the silence of nature, you will want to come back here again. The lighthouse was built in 1892 in the shape of a pyramid. Initially, it ran on kerosene, later on electricity, today it is automated. Every 10 minutes, the lighthouse gives a white signal to sailors, which is visible from a distance of 24 nautical miles.

George Emmanuel Argyros Mansion

The mansion of George Emmanuel Argyros is the most important monument of neoclassical architecture. The mansion was significantly damaged in the 1956 earthquake and was abandoned for 3 decades. Now the building has been restored and is open to tourists. The first floor of the mansion is occupied by an incomparable hotel. The top floor has been turned into a museum. It displays paintings, furniture, kitchen appliances, icons, decorative ornaments and other handicrafts produced in the 19th century.

Church of Panagia Episkopi

The church of Panagia Episkopi was built at the end of the 11th century near the village of Ekso Gonya by order of Emperor Alexios I Komneos. The Orthodox Church is dedicated to the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. In the 20th century, the holy monastery was classified as a protected cultural monument. History preserves the memory of terrible escapes to the Sanctuary, fires, earthquakes. According to legend, sacred place protected by the Virgin Mary herself. The church is small, but very beautiful. Inside, it resembles a labyrinth. The floor shimmers with various marble slabs. The atmosphere of Panagia Episkopi is saturated with antiquity. Its interior consists of historical items. The walls are hung with old icons. The most valuable is the Panagia Glykophilusa "Sweet Kiss of the Virgin", which depicts the Virgin and Child. The icon was painted in the 12th century. The marble iconostasis consists of fragments from the same period. The church is decorated with various ornaments and frescoes. It offers an unusually beautiful panorama of the eastern part of the island. Tourists feel peace and tranquility here. A dizzying landscape, a combination of mint and basil aromas create complete spiritual harmony. Panagia Episkopi celebrates the Feast of the Dormition in summer Holy Mother of God. In the evenings, folk festivals take place here.

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Santorini is a well-known group of islands in the Cyclades archipelago, located in the Aegean Sea. Santorini resorts are waiting for you! The wind of change, romance, magical sunsets and the breath of time - this will remain in your memory forever. You will certainly want to come back again, only once having been here.

Peculiarities

Santorini includes the islands of Nea Kameni, Thirassia, Palea Kameni, Aspro, and the largest Santorini (Fira, Thira). The main colors of Santorini are blue (a symbol of the sky, the home of the gods), white (a symbol of faith, justice, beauty, justice) and red ocher (a symbol of the earth, volcano, their natural power). There are three hundred and fifty two churches on the island, each of them has its own bell tower, its patron saints.

general information

Santorini is located in the Aegean Sea in the southeastern part of the country, the most large island occupies an area of ​​76 square kilometers. The population is 13.4 thousand people.

Climate

The season in Santorini starts on April 1st or the day of Greek Easter. The period from December to March is considered the off-season, there are lower temperatures, frequent rains and winds. Although the temperature rarely drops to relatively cold levels - 0 degrees and below. Most hotels may close for the winter. The most favorable period for a holiday in Santorini is April-June and September-October.

How to get there

You can get to Santorini by air from Russia through Athens. Santorini is easily accessible by sea with ferries from Piraeus and Naxos.

• The national airport in Santorini/Thira (National Airport Santorini/Thira IATA: JTR) is located north of the village of Kamari. Regular flights from Athens are carried out here, which is about 30-45 minutes, flights from Thessaloniki also fly in the summer.

Transport

The island has public buses that run every 30 minutes different directions. Boats ply between the islands of the archipelago. It is easy to rent a car, which will cost 45 euros per day or more, depending on the brand of car. ATVs are also popular transport. And many prefer to rent a bike.

Cities

Nea Kameni formed as a result of an underwater eruption. Its original name is Mikri Kameni because of its small size. Later, as a result of the ongoing activity of the volcano, the island grew and was named Nea Kameni. It is uninhabited, covering an area of ​​over three square kilometers. Its dormant volcano can wake up at any moment and start spewing lava. The mouth of the volcano is located at a depth of one thousand meters. The ground around it is very hot. This place is distinguished by an unpleasant smell of hydrogen sulfide fumes. Around absolutely lifeless landscape.

Palea Kameni was formed much later than Nea Kameni. The island is famous for its hot healing springs. Thirasia with a population of about two hundred and fifty people is located on an area of ​​over 9 square kilometers. Aspro covers an area of ​​about one hundred square kilometers, is an uninhabited territory.

Island Santorini(Thira) covers an area of ​​76 sq. km, with a population of eight thousand people. The island owes its origin to a volcanic eruption in the middle of the 17th century BC. Part of the island is under water, and the other part has formed a sheer cliff of nine hundred meters with a steep cliff. Also, at the site of the eruption, a convenient bay was formed, where merchant ships, liners, and yachts anchor. You can get here on foot, counting seven hundred steps, by funicular, riding on the back of a stubborn donkey.

The sights of this region: the city and its architectural style, the temple of Pangea Bishops, the church of Agiou Mina, the Museum of Archeology, the Museum of Prehistoric Thira, the beaches.

In the town Fira houses represent different time periods and their architecture: Cycladic vaulted temples, business centers, theaters, Ptolemy's dwelling, sanctuaries, graves of different eras, ruins of early Christian buildings.

Temple of Pangea Bishops famous for various frescoes, the icon of the Mother of God. Church of Agiou Mina, the symbol of the island, is located on the edge of the cliff.

Archaeological Museum, built in 1960, is located in the heart of Santorini. The museum exposition includes exhibits of various eras (prehistory, Mycenaean period, Cycladic period), collections of ceramics and sculptures.

Thira Museum (Museum of Prehistoric Thera) of prehistoric times presents exhibits from the excavations of the ancient settlement of Akrotiri, various frescoes from the life of animals and people.

The most picturesque place will amaze you with traditional architectural buildings of Homeric times. There are many small shops in Oia where there are jewelry and souvenirs. Here you can see an extraordinary sunset, meditate, feel the energy, the power of an active volcano.

Connoisseurs of grape wine will be pleasantly surprised Wine Museum, where red, white, dessert wines have been made for over four hundred years: Vinsanto with various flavors (citrus, figs and coffee), Nikteri, strong wine Tsikoudia. The winery museum will tell you about all stages of the production of this divine drink.

On the beaches of the island you can do almost everything extreme views entertainment. Many taverns, restaurants, night bars, discos, cafes, spa centers are open to tourists. For children's leisure there are many water parks with attractions and water slides.

Attractions and entertainment

Beaches

The beaches of the resorts of Kamari, Monolithos, Perissa, Akrotiri are amazing. Kamari- a fairly well-known resort located near Fira, it is distinguished sandy beaches. Here everything is provided for sports on the water, you can buy any accessories and accessories, awnings and awnings. Perissa- quite a quiet resort town. Black sand on the beach. This resort has its own night restaurants and clubs located in eucalyptus groves. Akrotiri is located on the south side of Santorini. The sand on the beach is red. Right in the rock cave there are taverns where you can stop and have a bite to eat. Cruise on a small kaiki boat to the ancient volcano will leave a lasting impression.

Accommodation

The western part of Santorini is considered to be more developed in terms of tourist infrastructure, so hotels in the west of the island are more in demand - Caldera, Fira, Oia. In this part of the island, the hotels have amazing views of the volcano, the sea, the sunset and the Caldera. Some of the hotels do not accept children under 13 due to a rocky cliff, and many are designed for honeymooners. East End the island is attractive for young people and families with children.

Kitchen

Greek restaurants and Mediterranean cuisine are common in Santorini, where you can also taste dishes typical of these islands: white eggplant, fried tomatoes in batter, fresh grilled fish. In a place near the Caldera with a sunset view, prices can be higher than in similar less picturesque restaurants.

shopping

Santorini is one of the most famous wine regions Greece, whose wines are popular and have a special status highest quality. The grape growing method is unique due to the dryness of the soil and the winds. You can buy wines everywhere on the island, for example, in the Oia store.

Precautionary measures

Santorini is completely safe with regard to crime, but you should not buy something from your hands without an agreed price. Steep rocky slopes for children can be dangerous.

The answer to the question "where to stay in Santorini" depends only on what you need from this island. If you are traveling with children, this is one place, if you are waiting for yourself luxurious holiday in your life - another, if you are looking for the best value for money, then the third. Let's analyze the pros and cons of different areas of the island and choose where it is better to stay and rent a hotel in Santorini is right for you.

Where to stay in Santorini: article content

Kamari and Monolithos: the best holidays with children

Kamari and Monolithos are the names of small villages on the island of Santorini, located close to each other near the beaches of the same name. Both beaches boast black volcanic sand, as well as (although not everywhere) a convenient gentle entry into the sea.

Pros:

• Children's playgrounds on the beaches, animation
• Many hotels are geared towards tourists with children.

Minuses:

• Not enough entertainment for adult tourists

Where to stay in Santorini for families with children? Kamari beach has all the necessary infrastructure: umbrellas, sun loungers and children's playgrounds.

Where to stay in Santorini for beach lovers: Perissa

Let's face it: going to Santorini just for the sake of a beach holiday is not worth it, this island is rich primarily in its architecture, history and incredible landscapes. Nevertheless, there are very decent beaches here. The best place among those where to stay in Santorini is for lovers of a beach holiday - the village of Perissa near the beach of the same name. This is a long (about 3 km!) beach covered with black volcanic sand, where there is everything for have a great holiday. Often tourists highlight Perivolos beach, although in fact it is just the western part of Perissa, a little less developed in terms of infrastructure.

Pros:

• Not high prices for hotel stays
• Unique black volcanic sand
• From here it is easy to get to Vlychada - the beautiful beach Santorini
• Developed infrastructure: sun loungers and umbrellas, shops, nightclubs, restaurants

Minuses:

• The bottom on the beaches of Perissa and Perivolos is steep and rocky in places
• It takes a long time to get to most of the sights, with a change in Fira

Perissa beach is the longest on the island of Santorini. Its length, together with Perivolos, is about 3 km.

Oia village: for lovers of expensive luxury holidays

Oia (aka Oya or Oya) is the hallmark of Santorini and the most picturesque place on the island. Most postcard photographs of the island and all of Greece were taken in this small village. It is here that the most luxurious hotels, the most beautiful views and the most breathtaking sunsets, which the whole island comes to admire in the evenings, turn a small village into a huge beehive. Many hotels here are built on rock ledges and are equipped with pools overlooking the volcano's caldera and surrounding islands, and you can enjoy the sunset right from the jacuzzi. Oia is the place to stay in Santorini for romantics, newlyweds and simply wealthy discerning tourists.

Pros:

• breathtaking views
• The most luxurious hotels in Santorini

Minuses:

• Eternal tourist flea market, especially at sunset
• The highest prices for living on the island

Where is the best place to stay in Santorini for lovers of expensive and luxurious holidays? Of course, in the village of Oia - many hotels here are built right on the slope of the volcano and they offer a beautiful view of the caldera.

The city of Fira (Thira): for those who do not sit still

Fira is the capital of the island. It is located in the very center of Santorini, and it is here that the main transport hub is located - the Fira bus station - from where buses depart throughout the island. To the beaches, to the sunset in Oia, to the port - you can go anywhere from here. And Fira herself is very interesting place, many attractions of Santorini are located here.

Pros:

• Excellent transport accessibility
• Many attractions
• Very beautiful views

Minuses:

• Many tourists
• High prices

The pros of such a holiday in Fira: from the jacuzzi on the terrace of your room, you will have a stunning view of the sunset. Cons of resting in Fira: everyone who comes to enjoy the sunset will have a stunning view of you.

Best value for money: Karterados

The village of Karterados cannot boast of beaches and sights; its charm lies elsewhere. It is only a 15-20 minute walk from Fira and its bus station, while hotels here cost an order of magnitude less. Buses from Fira to the main beaches of Santorini also pass by Karterados. It is here, in an excellent and inexpensive apart-hotel Wisteria Apartments We stayed while traveling in Greece. Karterados - perfect place, where to stay in Santorini is worth all the tourists who do not want to overpay for the location.

Pros:

• Low price of hotels
• There are inexpensive cafes and grocery stores nearby.
• Fira - 20 minutes walk, Fira bus station - 15 minutes, bus stop to the beaches of Kamari and Perissa - 10 minutes walk

Minuses:

• Lack of attractions and places for a walk in the village of Karterados
• A small number of hotels (only 50, all can be busy during the high season)

Where to stay in Santorini so as not to overpay for hotel accommodation? We recommend the village of Karterados: it is located near Fira, and the prices here are noticeably lower. We rented such wonderful two-room apartments with a kitchen here at a price for which we would have had an ordinary apartment in Fira. hotel room with one room.

Other options for where to stay in Santorini

We will briefly talk about some other places where you can stay on the island of Santorini.

Imerovigli village. Located just north of Fira, considered a place elite vacation. Hotels are expensive, many offer beautiful views of the volcano's caldera.

While wealthy tourists watch the sunset from their rooms, sipping expensive wine, supporters budget holiday enjoy the same picture for free, washing it down with a beer for one and a half euros from a local shop.

Akrotiri village. Located in the southwest of the island, nearby are the Red and White beaches, as well as the ruins of the ancient city of Akrotiri. Getting from here by bus to other attractions is not very convenient and mostly with a change in Fira. But here it is quiet and calm, and the view of the caldera is no less beautiful than in Imerovigli.

The village of Pyrgos. Located in the interior of the island on a hill, which offers a beautiful panoramic view of the whole of Santorini. Pyrgos is a very beautiful village with many temples and narrow streets, and the main local attraction is the ancient Venetian fortress.

Dear readers, where do you recommend to stay in Santorini? We are waiting for your feedback about the cities and towns of the miracle island and their hotels! And in the next article we will tell you in detail about the hotel where we ourselves stayed during our trip to Santorini.

Santorini is a romantic place, a heavenly resort on the Kikland Islands. The uniqueness of the island is in an extinct volcano, which in the 16th century “sent” certain parts of the island under water and led to the formation of a crater. A steep coastline with sand and pebble beaches attracts thousands of tourists from all over the world. On the picturesque streets and quarters it is pleasant to walk, sit in a cafe, take beautiful pictures as a keepsake.

Climate in Santorini

The climate of the island is Mediterranean, in the south and in the center a little hotter. Even in winter, temperatures do not discourage long walks around the island. The swimming season opens in May, the air temperature rises to +25C, and the water temperature to +22C. The beaches of the island are empty only in November, when the rains begin and it gets a little colder.

Beaches

On the island you can find beaches with multi-colored sand - pink, red, black. They are surrounded by cliffs and picturesque cliffs.

• Colombo. The beach is hidden in a bay near the cape of the same name. This is a quiet secluded place with a long strip of gray and black sand in places. Apart from sun loungers and umbrellas, there are no other amenities on the beach.
• Monolithos. This beach is recommended for family vacation, as there is a long and gentle entry into the sea. Soft fine sand, sun loungers and umbrellas, playgrounds and cafes nearby will allow you to comfortably relax with your children.
• White beach. This beach is incredibly beautiful, located in the bay. It got its name for the white rocks that protect it from prying eyes. It is usually not crowded here, so couples in love often retire on the White Beach.
• Perissa. nice beach with black volcanic sand. The length of the coast is about 7 km. There is always clear water and almost no winds, as the territory is protected by a rock. The bottom is rocky, so you need to go into the water carefully. There are cafes and restaurants, attractions, diving centers on the beach.
• Perivolos. black sand beach and clean water. Perivolos is popular with newlyweds who often hold their wedding celebrations here. Local restaurants offer fresh seafood dishes. There are volleyball and football grounds, water ski rental.
• Kamari. One of the most clean beaches islands marked blue flag. Black sand is mixed with pebbles. There is a diving club on the beach, you can play mini-football, badminton, beach volleyball. There are attractions for children, animators work.
• red beach. The most famous and popular beach of Santorini. The color of the sand is red-brick, the same color and the rocks around. At the height of the tourist season, there is nowhere for an apple to fall on the beach. Nearby are small islands where you can retire if you do not have enough space on the shore.

Where to stay in Santorini

Most of the island's hotels are small, designed for only a few dozen guests. Even big hotel complexes have compact one- and two-story villas.

The cheapest hotels are located in the center of the island, near the cities messaria and Karterados. These are three star hotels. Slightly more expensive - hotels in the resorts of Pirvivolos, Kamari and Periss. Young people usually settle in them, as there are many nightclubs, bars and restaurants nearby.

The most expensive hotels are located in the northwest. These are four and five star hotels.

The most popular and luxurious include:

1. Aressana. Snow-white, immersed in greenery, a hotel in the center of the city of Fira, not far from extinct volcano Caldera. Above the interior design works is the famous architect Dimitros Tsitsos. The hotel features a luxurious spa center offering exclusive treatments. On the territory of the hotel there is an outdoor swimming pool, a jewelry store, rental of yachts, boats and cars.
2. Astra Suites. A small but comfortable five-star hotel in the village of Imerovigli. It looks like a small Greek village with snow-white houses. The hotel is built on a hill with great views of the ore and the volcano.
3. Canaves Oia Hotel. The hotel is located high above sea level. The beach is 15 minutes away and the airport is 18 km away. The hotel is built in Mediterranean style, equipped with a veranda with sea views.
4. Chromata(Imerovigli). The hotel is built on picturesque rock over the Aegean. Stylish design inspired by the modern architecture of the Kickland Islands. Outdoor pool, center aquatic species sports, internet room, dry cleaning, parking will allow you to comfortably spend your vacation. The hotel has only 22 rooms, so the territory is always calm and comfortable.
5. Cosmopolitan Suites. Situated on a rock by the sea. The windows of the hotel offer magnificent views of the sea and beautiful sunsets. The hotel's infrastructure is equipped with everything you need - from the outdoor pool and veranda to the hairdresser and massage room.

sights

To make your stay on the island memorable for a long time, you should definitely visit local attractions. These include:

• Volcano on Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni. In 1645, its eruption destroyed entire cities in Tire and Crete. There are many craters around the volcano, from which hydrogen sulfide vapor rises. Its last eruption occurred in 1950, and since then it has fallen asleep, but on this moment considered valid.
• Church of Saint Irene. The island on which the temple is located began to be called by the name of the church - Santa Irina, from which the name Santorini came. This church is popular with newlyweds who come here to marry.
• Excavations of the city of Akrotiri. Held in the southern part of Santorini. Started back in 1967 and still not finished. As archaeologists have established, the city appeared three thousand years ago BC. From under the lava, scientists have extracted many works of art from the Bronze Age.
• Fira Museum. Here you can see archaeological finds from all over the island of Santorini, many of which have a history of more than five thousand years. The collections represent the entire history of the life of the island.

How to get there

There are no direct flights to Santorini, so you can get to the island in the following ways:

1. By plane with a change in Athens, the journey will take about 7 hours. Charter flights to Santorini are also possible, tickets for which are usually sold from April to October.
2. By ferry from Athens. The cheapest are regular ferries, the journey time is about 9 hours. Blue-Star ferries - they cost a little more, but they move faster. The trip will last approximately 7 hours. The most expensive tickets are for high-speed ferries that will take tourists from Athens to Santorini in 5 hours.
3. By ferry from Thessaloniki. It goes to Crete with a stop in Santorini. At the port you will have to take a taxi or take a bus to Fira.

Tours in Santorini - what to do for vacationers

The main reason why people come to this island is the beautiful clear sea and the hot sun. beach holiday on Santorini will give a lot of pleasure, because most of the beaches are marked with the Blue Flag. A large selection of hotels will allow you to find rooms for tourists with any income - both young people and wealthy vacationers with big requests.

Families with children will also be comfortable in Santorini, because for kids in local hotels there are special playgrounds, separate pools and mini-clubs.

Fans of nightlife will definitely not get bored, because entertainment centers, bars, and restaurants operate on the island for them. And if you love scuba diving or sailing, Santorini will offer everything for this - from diving centers to amazing beauty sea ​​world.

Various festivals take place on the island, such as Episkop, where guests can taste traditional Greek dishes prepared by the chefs.

You should definitely bring natural cosmetics, olive oil, original souvenirs and handicrafts from Greece.

26.10.18 57 211 47

Santorini is the same Greek island from the postcard. It is considered one of the most beautiful in the world.

Anna Babkina

lives in Santorini

Santorini is surrounded by three active volcanoes - one in the center and two on the outer side of the archipelago. The island offers a view of the world's largest caldera - a depression formed as a result of a volcanic eruption in 1600 BC.

People come to Santorini to see the beaches with colorful sand, walk along the volcano, take pictures against the backdrop of the famous church with three blue domes and watch the sunset over one of the most beautiful villages in the world.

I arrived in Santorini in the winter of 2014 and fell in love with the caldera and deserted marble streets. The town of Oia is located at an altitude of 300 meters above sea level, and sometimes clouds run into its streets. In winter, when there are no tourists, Santorini is breathtaking.

History of the island

Santorini as we know it was formed about 3500 years ago after a volcanic eruption. middle big island went under water, forming the famous caldera with the surrounding islands of Aspronsiri, Nea Kameni, Palea Kameni, Firassia and Santorini itself. In fact, Santorini is the volcano, perhaps the largest in the world and still active.

There is a version that Santorini is the legendary sunken Atlantis described by Plato.

The area of ​​the island is 76 square kilometers. From one end to the other can be reached in 2 hours by car. There are areas in Santorini where the sea is visible on both sides of the road - for example, on the way from Fira to Oia:

Two key settlements is the capital of the island of Fira and the snow-white town of Oia, the most replicated symbol of Santorini. There is also a medieval fortress Pirgos, Ancient Fira - these are the ruins of a huge city in the south of the island, and to the south is Akrotiri, according to one version, the city of Atlantes.

Now Santorini is the most popular island Greece. But the Greeks themselves avoid it because of the high cost and the huge number of tourists. There are a lot of foreigners and expats here, so everyone speaks mostly English. My Greek is still at a very basic level and I still haven't had a good reason to learn it.

Most tourists come to Santorini from China, Australia and the USA. People come here to celebrate a wedding and a honeymoon for the sake of photo shoots against the backdrop of white houses and the blue sea.

How to get to Santorini

You can get to Santorini from Athens by plane or by ferry. Hours and prices vary by season.

It takes only 20 minutes to fly from Athens to the island. In summer, a one-way ticket costs from 100 € (7500 R) and more, but in winter you can fly an average of 50 € (3654 R). In winter, Ryanair and Aegean Airlines organize promotions - sometimes you can catch a ticket for 5 € (365 R).

But the main way transport communication between the islands of Greece - ferries. In summer, from 3 to 6 ferries come to Santorini every day, in winter less often - 2 ferries three days a week. The main ferry that goes to the island is the Blue Star Ferry. A ticket from Athens costs about 40 € (3000 R), travel time is 9 hours.

Ferries also run between other Greek islands. Majority Russian tourists to Santorini sail by ferry from the island of Crete or from Athens.

Resident card

The Greek migration system is very complex, with a lot of constantly changing rules, so you most likely cannot do without a lawyer. But it is best to choose a specialist through acquaintances, so that it is more or less a proven person.

In Greece, there are a lot of immigrants who want to get a residence permit, and, accordingly, a lot of fraud. Even my “verified” lawyer tried to cheat me for money: she “forgot” that I had paid for her services in advance and tried to take away my new document as soon as we left the immigration office. Fortunately, she quickly changed her mind, because I began to argue with her loudly, attracting the attention of others.

Initially, I came to Santorini with a tourist Schengen for a year. Then I hired a lawyer and got a family visa: in my case, this was the easiest option for processing. The services of a lawyer cost me 200 € (14,616 R). In theory, a month after receiving temporary documents, I should have been issued a European residence permit for 5 years. But I have been in Greece for the fourth year already - and I am still waiting for my residence permit.

I renew my temporary residence permit (veveosi ble) every year at the immigration office in Athens free of charge.

200 €

I paid for the services of a lawyer to get a family visa to Greece

Citizens of Russia and the CIS can obtain a residence permit as follows:

1. to marry a Greek citizen;
2. get a family visa if you have close relatives, a young man or a girl living in Greece;
3. find an employer and get a work visa - but this is very difficult, because the taxes for such workers are high, and few employers will agree to issue this type of visa;
4. an indefinite residence permit will be issued upon purchase of real estate worth from 250,000 € (18,700,000 R).

There is a stereotype that thanks to friendly relations between Russia and Greece, it is easier for Russians to obtain European documents here. But Greece is a buffer between Europe and third world countries. The famous slowness of the Greek bureaucrats here is tacitly encouraged by the state.

All these papers in the corridor are folders with personal files of immigrants like me. On the folders - dust, garbage, someone's unfinished coffee. Someone, standing in line, picks up someone else's dossier - just read out of boredom. It is quite common for Greek officials to lose someone's documents, so rule number 1: always give copies and keep the originals.

Due to the crisis and reductions in this ministry, there are only three people left who must review the dossier and make decisions on the issuance of documents. And these people were very surprised when they saw me on the threshold of their office: “Why did you come at all? Think 4 years! People here have been waiting for 15 years.”

Problem #1

Too many tourists

About 20,000 people live permanently on Santorini, but during the tourist season, up to 2 million tourists usually come here.

At the height of the tourist season, from 3 to 9 huge cruise ships enter the island every day. There are up to 3,000 tourists on board each such liner. Of course, each of these tourists wants to watch the sunset in the legendary Oia.

In 2017, Santorini set a record with 5.5 million tourists visiting the island. And this is on a piece of land with an area of ​​76 square kilometers, where the electricity and water supply systems have not been changed since the time when Jacques Yves Cousteau was looking for Atlantis here, and this was in 1975. Due to the influx of tourists, failures in the supply of electricity and water occurred here every other week.

2 million

tourists visit Santorini every year

The situation became so critical that the mayor of the island set a limit for cruise ships: no more than 8,000 people a day. I can not say that the locals felt the difference. When the streets in the town are two meters wide, several thousand tourists a day are, in any case, too much.

Problem #2

Find accommodation

The flow of tourists to Santorini is only increasing every year. Because of this, large hotels massively bought out all the real estate in Oia and, one might say, ousted the local residents who lived there from generation to generation. Hotels are constantly expanding, this greatly changes the appearance of the town: more and more new villas are growing around the hotels.

For this reason, it is very difficult to find long-term accommodation in Santorini. Word of mouth works best: the island is like a big village where everyone knows each other.

550 €

I pay the rent of the house per month

I have lived in Santorini in an 18th-century house overlooking the caldera, in a former winery, in a cave with an overhead pool, and even in a bookstore. I can say that because of the unusual climate, it is most comfortable to live here in a cave house: it is cool there in summer, and warm in winter and there are no drafts. Because of the high humidity, every home has a dehumidifier. For half a day of work, he can collect 5 liters of water.

I used to live in Oia, then I moved to Finikya, a neighboring village 20 minutes walk away. It is very picturesque, there are almost no tourists, mostly locals and expats live. Renting a house here costs from 400 € (30,000 R) plus utility bills.

Basically, houses with one room are rented in Finikia for 500-600 € (36 541 -43849.2 R). In Fira, housing is simpler: a small house can be rented from 350 € (25,579 R). Outside of Oia, renting a large house-villa costs from 1,700 € (124,239 R) per month. On the east coast islands where there is no view of the volcano, housing is much cheaper.

I am renting a 100 m² recently built house in Finikia for 550 € (41,250 R) per month. This is not typical for Santorini: in general, the spaces here are very small.

Usually in Greece they conclude a real estate lease agreement for at least 6 months and pay two months in advance. In Santorini, I have never entered into such an agreement, because every time I found housing through acquaintances.

If you want to buy real estate, then a house medium area on the caldera can cost about 1 million euros. If you cross the road, the same house overlooking the not so picturesque side of the island can be bought for 400,000 € (29,232,680 R).

Communal expenses

Bills for electricity, light and phone come every two months. I pay about 80 € (6000 R) for the phone and the Internet.

200 €

I pay for electricity for two months in summer

In summer, the water bill comes out to about 90 € (6750 R), in winter - 70 € (5250 R). Centralized hot water supply is available only in hotels, in ordinary houses there are boilers - and this is the main item of electricity costs. Moreover, in most houses, boilers are very small, 10-15 liters, clearly designed for summer time. In winter, the water heated by such a device is barely enough for one minute. Putting a new 40 liter boiler together with the work of the master will cost 200 € (14 618 R), but if you are going to spend the winter in Santorini, it's worth it.

Electricity is the most expensive resource on the island. I pay for it from 200 € (15,000 R) for two months in summer and up to 300 € (22,500 R) in winter. In winter, Santorini is cold, at night the temperature can drop to zero. The houses do not have central heating, so you have to turn on electric heaters. The electricity bill for the whole winter can range from 650 € (47,508 R) to 850 € (62,125 R). At the same time, the wiring in the houses is old, and if the boiler and heater are turned on at the same time, the plugs can be knocked out.

Traditional cave houses

The volcanic soil of the island forms natural voids in the rocks. The walls around these voids are very strong and practically do not collapse.

Santorini is surrounded by three active volcanoes, so there is always a risk of a sudden eruption or earthquake. People here have lived in caves since ancient times - this is the safest type of housing. The cave can withstand quite a strong earthquake, while ordinary buildings will collapse like a house of cards. Previously, in every cave house, there was a shovel at the entrance, so that in the event of an earthquake there was something to dig out the way out.

The phenomenon of cave houses is that they have a very strong ceiling and floor. The owners of such a house can artificially expand the space: dig up a couple of additional rooms for themselves. Of course, this is done with the consent of the neighbors and the invited architect, but the process itself is very simple.

Transport

If you are going to live in Santorini you will need a car or scooter. You will save both time and money on food, because groceries in supermarkets are 1.5 times cheaper than in small tourist shops, but it is not so easy to get to supermarkets.

1500 €

worth a used car in Santorini

Renting a car costs from 30 € (2250 R) per day. You can also buy: a used but serviceable car costs from 1,500 € (112,500 R). A liter of gasoline will cost 1.9 € (139 R).

Many residents of the island prefer scooters. Already from March to October there are traffic jams on the roads. Sometimes a route of 20 minutes can take 3 hours, and scooters are indispensable here to get through the next traffic jam. Renting a scooter costs from 15 € (1125 R) per day, you can buy a used one for 350 € (25 581 R).

From public transport There are only buses in Santorini. They run at intervals of 10 minutes to 1.5 hours from 7 am to midnight. Tickets cost 1.9-2.5 € (139-183 R) depending on the route. In winter, the number of routes is reduced, and the bus from Oia to Fira can take two hours. It is better to check the public transport schedule on the website, because it is not posted at the stops themselves.

A taxi from the airport will cost you at least 40 € (3000 R), from one village to another - about 30 € (2193 R). There is no Uber in Santorini.

I travel around the island mostly by buses. I have driver's license the old model, and for all this time I have not changed them, so I did not buy a car. Used a friend's car a few times. And in all these years in Santorini, I have never seen the traffic police.

Banks

There are three banks on the island - the National Bank of Greece, the local Alfa Bank and Pireos Bank. All of them are located in the vicinity of Fira.

To open a bank account, a foreigner needs to provide a residence permit, income statement and make a minimum deposit of 400-600 € (29,236 -43,854 R), depending on the bank. I opened two bank accounts: in the Greek Alfa Bank and in the National Bank of Greece (Ethniki Trapeza).

All social payments go through the National Bank, so I mainly use its services. I have debit card and the so-called prepaid card - a wallet card that allows you to pay for purchases within Greece, but you cannot withdraw money from it. I also use internet banking.

In 2015, due to the economic crisis and the conflict with the European Union, all Greek banks stopped their work for a week. After that, all banks set a limit on cash withdrawals. Now you can get no more than 900 € (67,500 R) per day and no more than 5,000 € (365,444 R) per month.

Also in Greece, the service of international money transfers Skrill is banned. Paypal has just started working here. Many banks still do not allow you to transfer money from PayPal to a card. In general, in my experience, money transactions through Greek banks are a headache.

900 €

cash is the maximum amount that can be withdrawn from the bank per day

Until 2005, banks distributed loans to everyone in a row, which, in particular, caused a protracted economic crisis in Greece. Now banks with great difficulty issue loans even to the Greeks. The interest rate ranges from 9 to 12% per year. It is now almost impossible for a foreigner to take a loan or mortgage in Greece.

Work

Almost everyone who lives on the island works in tourism. Locals and many expats have their own business, some work remotely. Santorini is the island with the longest tourist season in Greece. A lot of immigrant workers from Albania and Eastern Europe live here.

The tourist season starts from March and lasts until October. At this time, everyone works seven days a week, 9-12 hours a day. An adequate salary in the tourism sector is approximately 1000-2500 € (75,000 -187,500 R), depending on the position and work schedule.

From November to February there are no tourists, so no one works. At the same time, almost all workers in Santorini are officially employed, have insurance and the opportunity to receive unemployment benefits in winter - about 350 € (26,250 R) per month. As a rule, the allowance is issued for the second year of work on the island. During the tourist season, the tax control and the IKA (social insurance organization) conduct constant checks: they make sure that everything is legal.

350 €

winter unemployment benefit

If you work in Santorini, most likely your documents will indicate an 8-hour working day and a rate of 500 € (37,500 R) per month - this is the minimum salary here by law. At the same time, you must be at the workplace exactly at the hours indicated in the official document, otherwise you and your employer will be fined up to € 5,000 (365,444 R). Therefore, as soon as the check arrives on the island, everyone starts calling each other to tell which street the checkers are currently on.

taxes

Every year from June to July, you need to fill out a tax return. If you pay 50 € (3750 R) to an accountant, he will do everything for you. But you can fill it out yourself, although it is difficult and long - only a few do it. If you do not file a declaration on time, you will have to pay a fine - from 100 € (7309 R) to 800 € (58 471 R) depending on your income.

If you do not have a car, boat or property in Greece and your official income does not exceed 5000 € per year, you do not need to pay taxes. Income above 5000 € is subject to 20% tax, provided that you do not have a business.

Small business owners in Santorini pay 40-60% of their profits in taxes. In general, Greece is famous for unfairly high taxes, so registering a business here is not a good idea.

Communication and Internet

There is something like a municipal Wi-Fi on the island - there are about 6 networks that you can connect to without a password to use the Internet for free. But all this works intermittently and only on the central streets of Fira and Oia.

Main providers mobile communications- Cosmote, Vodafone and Wind. You can buy a SIM card only with a passport in your name. You need to replenish your account at least once every 3 months, otherwise the card will be blocked.

You can replenish your account at any kiosk or supermarket by purchasing a card for 10, 20 or 50 €. The main thing is that after replenishing your account, you must immediately select the tariff you need, otherwise the money will evaporate within a few hours. Complaining about this at the office of the telecom operator is useless: they will tell you about some expensive tariff that came into effect “by default”.

The concept of “unlimited mobile internet” does not exist in Greece. A 1 GB package will cost at best 1 € (73 R), the validity period is a month, so it will not work to “accumulate” gigabytes.

The medicine

Santorini has one public hospital and one private clinic. I was both there and there.

In a private clinic, helpful staff and highly qualified doctors, everyone speaks English, you can make an appointment by phone in advance. In addition to the clinic, there are also private offices of individual specialists and biochemical laboratories where you can quickly and without waiting in line to take tests. They will be accepted here instantly, and a visit to the therapist will cost 70 € (5250 R).

70 €

you have to pay to see a therapist

In a free hospital, you can spend from 3 to 5 hours just sitting in line, but they accept everyone here, without being distracted by documents and insurance. And here, many doctors speak good English, but several times I had to use an online translator and speak on my fingers. Of course, it is difficult to sit under the office door for three hours without any certainty that you will eventually be accepted. But every time I still waited for an appointment, I came across good doctors.

If you have insurance and a medical book, you will receive a 30 to 60% discount on your prescribed medicines.

The choice of drugs here is very poor. Pharmacies sell more cosmetics than medicines. Activated charcoal for food poisoning, Panadol for all other ailments - that's all that the pharmacist will offer you.

Antibiotics in any form are issued strictly by prescription. There are no antiviral drugs here at all, and pharmacists are unaware of their existence. But there is a free flu shot, which is actively advertised in schools and on TV.

60 €

it is worth putting a seal on Santorini. On the mainland, the amount is two times lower

All dentistry on the island is only private, a filling costs 60 € (4500 R). For comparison, on the mainland it will cost 30 € (2250 R), so any dental procedures should be carried out in Athens.

Education

Greece has a high quality higher education, but Santorini has only junior and high schools.

The school allows everyone to study for free, but diplomas are issued only to those who have documents. Classes are held only in Greek. There are many children from immigrant families. And if for some bureaucratic reasons they are delayed in issuing documents, such students sometimes receive a certificate of secondary education with a delay of several years.

Everyone goes to Athens for higher education.

Food

Greece is famous for its fruits, vegetables, meat and fish, as well as its simple and delicious cuisine. I moved to Santorini just after Russia announced a ban on the import of European products, which left the shelves in stores half empty. Therefore, at first I went to local shops, like museums, spent 600 € (45,000 R) a month on food and gained 10 kg. Then, however, I pulled myself together and now I spend about 400 € (30,000 R).

Little grows on the volcanic soil of Santorini. However, there are some unique local products here: a special variety of cherry tomatoes, white eggplants and sweet white wine vinsanto. The rest is brought from Athens. In winter, the sea is often stormy, and sometimes ships with food cannot reach the island for weeks. You need to be prepared for this and buy some products with a margin.

400 €

I spend a month on groceries

Mostly the inhabitants of the island buy food in small shops. Of course, everything is more expensive here than on the mainland:

• 1 kg of tomatoes - 1.5-3 € (112-225 R);
• 1 kg of potatoes - 1-1.5 € (75-112 R);
• a bottle of milk - 3 € (225 R);
• 300 g of cheese - 4-6 € (300 -450 R);
• 0.5 l of Greek yogurt - 3.5 € (260 R).

It is better to buy bread in a bakery, on average it costs about 1 € (73 R).

There are 3 or 4 supermarkets in Santorini, two of them within Fira. The rest you need to get on the bus or on your own transport. Separately, it is worth noting the German Lidl supermarket south of Fira, where products are 1.5 times cheaper than anywhere else on the island.

There are no markets here at all. Outside of Fira, in the south of the island, there is a huge vegetable warehouse "Kritikos" where you can buy vegetables, fruits, cheeses and meat from the island of Crete. In general, products from Crete are valued here above others. It is better to go to Kritikos by car.

There are no reservoirs and sources of fresh water on Santorini. Water is taken directly from the sea and filtered, so it should never be drunk from the tap. Cooking with tap water is possible only in the north of the island - in Oia and Phoenicia. Therefore, everyone buys water in supermarkets and cooks on it. A pack of 6 bottles costs 2.5 € (190 R).

People

I would formulate the main problem of the island as follows: too much money and too little culture. Greece is a generous and hospitable country, but things are different in Santorini.

To understand the mentality of the locals, you need to know a little about the history of the island. Back in the 1950s, Santorini was culturally and economically isolated. For example, the island of the Cyclades, the furthest from Athens, has no greenery at all and natural resources there is no electricity or running water. Fira and Oia have long been poor fishing villages for several families, whose children have been married to each other for generations.

Then on Santorini they found ancient city Akrotiri (presumably Atlantis) and the island became popular. First, adventurers and bohemians came here, who have now become successful businessmen and owners of the most expensive real estate in Greece. Since the 1980s, when Santorini began to be visited regularly cruise ships, even the illiterate inhabitants of the island became fabulously rich by local standards.

The inhabitants of Santorini can be divided into three "castes":

1. Indigenous people of the island.
2. Former adventurers are Greeks from Athens, English, Australians and Germans who now own successful businesses here.
3. Immigrants from Albania, Romania and the Baltic countries working for the first two categories.

A typical contrast of Santorini is when a person with two higher educations works at the checkout in a restaurant owned by an illiterate Greek. Up to 90% of the locals live here to make money from tourists, and because there are too many tourists, it is very stressful 24/7. There is little soul here.

However, it is also true that Santorini attracts romantics and creative people, so I liked the expat community. I met incredible people here from all over the world and made many friends.

Entertainment

Due to its volcanic origin, Santorini has unique beaches with red, black and white sand. Photos of these places are in any advertising booklet. The beaches can be reached by car or buses from Fira. The fare costs 2.5 € (190 R), buses run every 40 minutes.

I am not a fan tourist places. There are much more spectacular beaches on the island - and almost always half empty. My favorite beaches are Ammoudi, Colubo and Vlychada. Ammoudi is located right in Oia, Colubo is a 20 minute drive from Oia in the north of the island and Vlychada is the most remote beach in the south of the island. Colubo and Vlychada can only be reached by car.

2,5 €

is the bus fare from Fira to the beaches

If you are attracted to archaeological sites, there is the museum city of Akrotiri in the south of the island. This is the same legendary city of the Atlanteans, destroyed by an earthquake in 3500 BC. e. Another city is a museum under open sky- This is Ancient Fira, located on one of the hills near Kamari.

Santorini has many cafes, taverns and restaurants. It is better to go to fish taverns in the old port in Oia. Lobster there costs from 98 € (7350 R) per serving, sea bream - about 50 € (3750 R), a set of meze snacks - from 15 € (1096 R) to 40 € (2924 R). If you say that you live or work on the island, you will most likely be given a discount, because in Santorini everything has two prices: for tourists and for locals.

98 €

stands a lobster in a fish tavern in Oia

Shopping in Santorini is pretty tight. During the summer season, Oia has many art galleries, boutiques with designer clothes and jewelry. Most shops are designed for tourists. locals go to Athens for things or buy everything on the Internet. Post in Greece is fast, a parcel from any store on the mainland arrives in a few days.

The island has the only book store- Atlantis Books, which glossy magazines regularly call one of the most beautiful in the world. This is a residence, community and bookstore at the same time. Book lovers from all over the world come here to live and work on a volunteer basis - mostly journalists, aspiring writers and artists. During the summer, Atlantis Books hosts celebrity literary readings. I saw live performances by American comedian David Sedaris and poet Billy Collins.

I was lucky to spend the whole winter in Atlantis Books - a childhood dream come true to live in a bookstore. This is an extensive cave house overlooking the caldera, which has everything you need. I literally slept behind a bookshelf: there are three originally equipped beds in the store.

One of my favorite places in Santorini is Firasia, the second largest island in the archipelago. It can be reached in 10 minutes by small ferry from the old port of Ammoudi in Oia. Ferries run four times a day: at 7, 11, 14 and 18 hours. The schedule sometimes changes, and it is better to check it with the ferrymen: there is no schedule either on the Internet or in the port itself. The fare costs 1.5 € (110 R) one way.

Firassia can be called Santorini's looking glass: there is also a caldera, an old port, a village at an altitude of 300 meters above sea level and an underwater volcano in the north of the island. At the same time, Firasya is absolutely deserted. There is only one village where at most 30 people live, two taverns, one hotel and a real ghost town in the west of the island.

1,5 €

there is a one way ferry ticket to Firasia

The entire island of Firasya can be explored on foot in 4 hours. Many locals come here with tents to rest for a few days from the hustle and bustle of Santorini.

On Santorini itself, one should look at the natural and archaeological attractions. There are almost no typical city entertainments here: several nightclubs in Fira, two cinemas in Perissa and Kamari, one bowling alley and one shopping center. Per nightlife, shopping and other entertainment is better to go to Athens.

Results

Life on a small island has many limitations. Over time, even Santorini becomes boring. There are no career opportunities, limited community, unfavorable conditions for doing business. There are snow-white marble streets and the blue sea as if from a postcard, but if you live here all the time, then even they will sooner or later start to bother you. This year I decided to move to Athens and return to Santorini from time to time.

Is it worth living in Santorini? Definitely yes. You will not find such exotic beauty and contrasts on any Greek island. It is good to come here alone or with a loved one. You can rent a house in Finikie, Perissa, Kamari or Emborio and enjoy a measured life on the island.

If you have a stable remote job and are not dependent on the Greek economy, you will love it here.