Destination 

History & Sights

The island of Santorini was one of the centres where the Cycladic civilization was developed. The prehistoric settlement of Akrotiri is one of the most important archaeological sites in the Mediterranean. Visit the archaeological site of Akrotiri to admire a city annihilated by the great volcanic eruption in 1600 BC. The findings from the archaeological site are displayed in the Museum of Prehistoric Thera. Visit also Ancient Thira on the top of Mesa Vouno in Kamari and the Archaeological Museum of Thera to witness the culture that developed in the 4th century BC in Santorini. In the Kastelia and Goulades of Santorini (Akrotiri, Skaros/ Imerovigli, Pyrgos, Oia, Emporio) you will see how the Santorinians protected themselves from pirate raids in the 15th century through walks in these castle cities of the island. The wealth and power of the island in the 18th century is etched in the mansions of the island, mainly located in Oia and Messaria. In a series of private institutions and museums in Fira like the Belloneio Foundation, the Foundation of P. Nomikos, the Santozeum and the Maritime and Folklore Museum, in Oia and Kontochori respectively you can see many aspects of the history and the importance of Santorini through time.

Villages

In Santorini, there are many villages that are worth visiting in order to see the beauty and listen to the stories narrated in the narrow streets, in the shadow of the steeples and the beautiful courtyards of the houses. Visit the medieval village of Pyrgos with the evocative atmosphere, the churches and climb up to the Monastery of Prophet Elias to enjoy the view. At Akrotiri, apart from the Archaeological area, you can visit the emblematic lighthouse and admire all of Santorini from the south side of the island. Do not miss a stop at the Castle of Emporio, the most well preserved Castle of the island and its neighbouring Megalochori with its alluring rustic atmosphere. In the village of Oia, the unique architecture and awe-inspiring views to the caldera and the sunset completes your visits to the villages of Santorini in the best way possible.

Beaches

The beaches of Santorini are each one of a kind. The volcanic origin of the beaches results in various colours of sand and unique, savage sceneries that fill you with images never seen before. Do not miss the opportunity to visit the Red Beach with the red rock that unites the land and the sea and creates a unique coastal landscape. Volcanic setting with other colours, black sand - white rocks, you will find at the beach of Vlychada. For walks and shopping before or after swimming visit the two Blue Flag awarded beaches of Kamari with the excellent organization. Equally well organized are the beaches of Perivolos and Perissa (also Blue Flag awarded) with many proposals for food, drinks and water sports. In Santorini you will also find a series of beaches that are not organized where you can enjoy your swim in privacy surrounded by the rough volcanic wilderness.

Gastronomy

In the volcanic soil of Santorini grows a range of products that are unique world widely. The wines of Santorini, the most famous of which is Vinsanto, with the "explosive" character and unique flavours are the best accompaniment for enjoying the sunset in Santorini. Do not miss the Santorini cherry tomatoes, the white eggplant, capers and fava growing on the island for 3,500 years. At the restaurants on the island you will enjoy unique flavours and mouth-watering combinations of local ingredients in creative dishes that draw their inspiration from the rich culinary tradition of Santorini.

Must live Santorini experience

To experience the magic of the island do not miss a cruise in the waters of the caldera on a traditional boat or on the deck of a luxurious catamaran. Ask the people of Villa Antelmi to advise you on all the details, and also arrange for you an unforgettable cruise in the Aegean Sea.