Greek Orthodox churches are known for their detailed design, distinctive iconography, and beauty. When you enter a house of worship, you will feel as if you have stepped into a world of vibrant colour and light that is accented by icons, art, and stained glass.

The Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral in Thera, also known as the Church of Ypapantis, was originally built in the 19th century by M. Belloni in 1827. The house of worship, that we see today, was rebuilt after the devastating earthquake of 1956.

Beautiful white arches and arcades decorate the building that sits atop a cliff. The pièce de résistance is the white dome that tops the building and the bell tower. The building is a prominent landmark that can be seen by all from many other Santorini landmarks. Among the works of art that one should view are the frescoes by local artist, Christoforos Asimis, the beautiful mosaics added to the building in 1975, as well as the magnificent main chandelier.

Accommodations close to the cathedral include the Santorini Island Hotels, the Panorama Studios and Suites, the Pantelia, the Anemomilos Villa, the Blue Angel, the Reverie Traditional Apartments, the Vallas, the Golden Star, the Pavlina, and the Evgenia.

Tip:
Free to enter, but offerings welcome and there is a requirement that you are modestly dressed. Try to pick a quiet time.

The Museum of Prehistoric Thera allows one to take a step back in time to explore ancient civilizations. The exhibition hall’s collection comes from excavations of ancient Akrotiri and other sites around the Aegean Islands. If you have a strong interest in the prehistoric, this is the place for you. The exhibition hall opened in 2000.

The museum’s collection is organized into four areas, research, geology, the history of the island from the early 17th century BC, and the mature Late Cycladic I period. Although the gallery is very small, it is very well organized and manages to present an interesting mix of artifacts.

Pottery cups, plant fossils, jewelry, jars, marble figures, and plaster casts of furniture, household equipment, tools, and weapons are some of the many items that you will see. Two recommend items to not miss are the frescoes that show Minoans gathering saffron stamens from blooming crocuses and the painted swallows that migrated to the cliffs each year. Other impressive items include wall paintings of the Ladies and Papyri and the Blue Monkeys.

Why You Should Visit:
To enjoy what many experts rated as one of the most important museums in the world since it uniquely shows ordinary everyday life in an Ancient city and civilization buried 3700 years ago, almost 1800 years before Pompei! Everything this museum houses demonstrates how advanced and artistic this ancient civilization was, before being displaced by a major eruption of the island's volcano.

Tip:
Highly recommended in combination with a visit to the archaeological excavations in Akrotiri, where the objects were dug out. You can purchase combination tickets to visit this museum as well as the Akrotiri site.

25 Martiou Street, in Santorini, is a picturesque destination that embodies the distinctive charm of this renowned island. Situated in the bustling neighborhood of Thira, the street is acclaimed for its vibrant shopping scene that ranges from quaint boutiques and artisan workshops to a plethora of souvenir shops offering everything from unique handcrafted items to budget-friendly mementos.

As the main shopping hub of Santorini, 25 Martiou Street is framed by the island's iconic architecture - white-washed buildings with blue-domed roofs that reflect the classic Cycladic style. This aesthetic is complemented by vivid splashes of color from blooming bougainvillea vines, enhancing the street’s visual appeal. The cobblestone pathways invite visitors to leisurely explore the area, which offers not only retail therapy but also a taste of local life through its cozy cafes and traditional Greek tavernas.

The street’s proximity to stunning views of the Aegean Sea and the famous Santorini sunsets add to its allure, making it a perfect backdrop for both relaxation and exploration. Whether you're interested in shopping for unique souvenirs, enjoying the local cuisine, or simply taking in the scenic vistas, 25 Martiou Street provides a captivating experience that highlights the beauty and cultural richness of Santorini.

The Old Harbor was formed by volcanic activity in 1650 BC. It used to serve all of Santorini until the Athinos Port was established. The nautical haven is a harbor for cruise ship travelers, while the other harbor handles ferry and commercial boats. Originally, the only way one could reach the harbor was by travelling the hundreds of steps that lead to it.

The most affordable way to travel to Old Harbor, in first class style, is by the Blue Star Ferry. The trip will take nine hours. Passengers will be picked up from the transport and delivered to their destination by smaller vessels, since cruise ships do not anchor at the harbor.

The waterfront has many shops, restaurants, and taverns that you will enjoy. The best way to travel to the top is by cable car, which takes no more than five minutes and offers a pleasant view of the area. Donkeys, a tradition from the past, are also available for those who are afraid of heights. For the truly fit, a hike up the mountain’s 580 steps is a healthy adventure. During the summer months, tours are offered to the nearby volcano and hot springs. The spot is a popular destination, with as many as 80,000 visitors travelling through the port each day in peak season.

The Santorini Cable Car is a key transportation feature on the Greek island of Santorini, providing a safe and convenient means for visitors to travel from the Old Port to Fira, the island's capital. Established to address the challenges posed by the steep, 600-step climb from the Old Port, the cable car offers an easy and charming ride with breathtaking views of the Caldera, the Aegean Sea, and the Volcano from an altitude of 220 meters.

Historically, prior to the 1970s, visitors could only ascend to Fira by foot or on mule, which was difficult for the elderly, those with mobility issues, and tourists carrying heavy luggage. With the increase in tourist and cruise ship traffic in the 1970s, a more accessible solution became necessary. Evangelos Nomikos, a ship owner and notable benefactor of Santorini, funded the construction of the cable car. The project began in the autumn of 1980 and was completed by the summer of 1982.

Capable of transporting 1200 people per hour, the gondola-style carriages seat six passengers in two rows of three, and the journey between the Old Port and Fira takes just five minutes. This rapid transit system is particularly beneficial for cruise ship passengers and those participating in volcano boat tours departing from the Old Port.

The cable car ride itself offers stunning vistas of the Aegean Sea, the Volcano, and the iconic white-washed houses perched on the Caldera cliffs. Conveniently located near the Archaeological Museum in Fira, the cable car station and ticket office are easy to find, with clear signage guiding visitors from the Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral along the main path towards Firostefani village.

One cannot help but notice the beautiful grand churches and cathedrals that decorate the landscape of the island known as Thera or Fira. They are as much part of the community as are the many lava remnants. Dedicated to Saint John the Baptist, the Catholic Cathedral of Santorini is a handsome and unique place of worship. Its peach exterior contrasts with the many white and blue domed churches that dot the landscape of this quaint, yet beautiful town. It was built in the 17th century by the Jesuit monks, missionaries of the Apostolic Order.

Santorini has experienced a lot of seismic activity throughout its existence. An earthquake in 1956 completely destroyed the previous church. The house of worship that we may enjoy today was restored and opened in 1975.

You will be impressed by the exquisiteness of the structure with its magnificent clock tower and accompanying bells. Once you enter the place of worship, you will find the confessional that is located to the side. The interior is eye-catching and features blue, orange, and cream accents throughout the building. A striking chandelier hangs below a religious painting, which is featured on a domed ceiling, and spectacular arches border the framed portraits of religious figures. Located on an island that the crusaders visited, this cathedral is simply stunning.

Why You Should Visit:
Not only do you experience the architecture of the island, but also, you may find a narrow street where all the souvenir shops are located, and you can eat a typical, local gyro as you look around the shops.

Tip:
You'll probably feel at ease attending a Sunday mass here (10am), as most attendees are usually tourists and there are parts where you may even recite in your own language instead of Greek, as there are many languages represented among the congregation.

The Three Bells of Fira, officially known as The Catholic Church of the Dormition, is a prominent Greek Catholic church situated on the island of Santorini. Renowned for its striking blue dome and three bells, the church offers stunning views from its location in the town of Fira, perched high above the western cliffs of Santorini.

Historically, the site of the Three Bells of Fira has been home to several structures. In the mid-17th century, two modest cave churches were carved into the solid cliff face. These early churches were eventually lost due to the cliff's recession, which was caused by the ongoing expansion of Fira. An infirmary was then built on the site, which later came under the occupancy of Jesuits until the land was transferred to the Diocese of Santorini.

The present-day church was constructed in 1757 and has undergone multiple refurbishments and expansions throughout its history. One of the significant events in its timeline was the 1956 Amorgos earthquake, which caused considerable damage to the structure. Subsequently, the church was restored to its former glory.

The Catholic Church of the Dormition celebrates its feast day on 15 August each year, marking an important event in its religious calendar. The Three Bells of Fira remains a significant landmark and a testament to the rich historical and cultural tapestry of Santorini.

The Folklore Museum of Santorini is a six room exhibition hall that allows visitors to have a glimpse of life as it was in the early twentieth century. It was established in 1974 by journalist Emmauel A. Lignos and is located in Fira at Kontohir in a cave that was built in 1861.

Although the museum is small, it contains a lot of historical data. Visitors will enjoy the traditional winery complete with treading vats, barrels, wine press, linens and utensils. There is a garden with a seating area and a cavern that shows evidence of volcanic activity. The historical archive contains valuable manuscripts, costumes, embroidery, lithographs, marriage contracts, rare photographs, and other items. The front room of the museum is preserved the way the previous owner left it and is complete with furniture, decorations, and other items in use at that time.

The gallery also has an exhibit of traditional workshops for carpenters, barrel makers, shoemakers, and tinsmiths. In addition, the Agios Konstantinos Chapel contains artwork from popular artists, Nikos Hatzikiriakos - Gikas, Panagiotis Gravalos, Paris Prekas, and Valias Semertidis.

Firostefani Central Square in Santorini offers a quaint and charming spot in the picturesque neighborhood of Firostefani, just a short distance from the bustling town of Fira. Although it might not resemble a typical town square, this small area serves as a delightful gathering spot right next to the main road, making it an excellent stop for both locals and visitors.

This central square is surrounded by the quintessential white-washed buildings adorned with vibrant bougainvillea, reflecting the traditional Greek architectural style that Santorini is famous for. Its prime location on the edge of the caldera provides visitors with breathtaking panoramic views of the volcanic landscape and the deep blue Aegean Sea, making it a perfect vantage point for enjoying the island's natural beauty.

The area around Firostefani Central Square is brimming with a variety of eateries, including local cafés and restaurants that offer delicious local cuisine and a great selection of wines and other beverages. It's an ideal spot for those looking to grab a quick bite or enjoy a leisurely meal while soaking in the scenic views.

Tourists can also explore the narrow, cobbled streets lined with boutique shops, local tavernas, and charming cafes, adding to the square's laid-back ambiance. The square often hosts local events and festivals, providing a glimpse into the authentic culture of the island.

Firostefani Central Square's proximity to notable attractions, such as the Old Port of Fira and Skala, as well as cultural landmarks like the Agios Gerasimos Church and the Archaeological Museum of Thera, makes it a convenient and appealing destination for those seeking both relaxation and cultural exploration on the beautiful island of Santorini.

Located in the stunning and blue waters of the Aegean Sea is the Agios Nikolaos Monastery. This female convent is located between the villages of Firostefani and Imerovogli in Santorini. It is dedicated to saints Agios Panteleimon, Agios Nikolaos, and Zoodochos Pigi, and was established by the Gizi family in 1651. Prior to its current use, it was a private family chapel.

The design of the nunnery reflects the clean and simple lines of Cycladic style, while the interior of the edifice features beautiful 17th century artwork and spectacular golden icons. Two museums, folklore and ecclesiastical, are also located on the property.

Each year on August 15th, locals come here to celebrate the religious festival the Feast of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. After church services, locals and visitors celebrate the holiday with food, song, and dance. Visitors will enjoy viewing the handmade textiles that the nuns make, using hand looms.

One of Santorini's symbols, the Chapel of Panagia Theoskepasti, is located near the port of Andres, on Skaros Rock, a rocky peninsula that projects into the sea. It was fashioned by multiple volcanoes that changed the shape of the island from circular to crescent. In addition, many other islands were also formed from these volcanoes. The rock was also the site of a castle until an earthquake destroyed the building in the 19th century.

The white building with a blue dome housing the church is open during the day until 4pm, free for anyone to visit. Moreover, the village of Imerovigli has some of the best views of Santorini because of its high vantage point. Visitors can reach the church via the nearby walking trail that begins at Imerovigli and runs through the cape that connects Skaros to the village. The trail ends at the Chapel of Theoskepasti. There is also a stunning underwater caldera that is worth the wait. Once you have visited the church, make sure to see the Hidden Room. The cave sits to the right of the trail and is one of the few elements that remain from the original castle structure.

Tip:
Weekend morning chanting begins at 7am and is broadcasted via loudspeakers to the entire district for hours.

The Church of Panagia Malteza was originally built in the 19th century. Theodoros Borlis, a ship's captain, found an icon of the Virgin Mary floating in the sea near Malta. He brought the icon back to Santorini and built a church to honor the icon of Panagia Malteza.

The Church of Panagia Malteza features a beautifully carved screen that depicts scenes from the Old Testament. The church's bell tower has four bells. The Church of Panagia Malteza has a celebration festival every year on November 21st.

The church is built on the cliff's edge and provides a beautiful view. It is open to the public, and visitors are welcome to enjoy the beautiful and serene setting. The Church of Panagia Malteza is a popular location for weddings.

Paths from the church lead visitors to the imposing Skaros Rock, the Caldera walkway, and the Chapel of Panagia Theoskepasti.

Armeni Port, nestled below the picturesque village of Oia on the northwest side of Santorini, is a quaint and historic harbor offering stunning views of the caldera, the volcanic islands, and the nearby island of Therasia. Believed to be the oldest port in this region of the island, Armeni once thrived as the main harbor of Oia, supporting wine trade and fishing activities. Large ships would anchor offshore, with sailors using small boats, known as "Lantzes," to reach the port.

Accessing Armeni can be somewhat challenging, particularly in the summer months. Visitors have three main options: a boat ride from Ammoudi Bay, a walk down 291 steep steps, or a mule ride to navigate the descent from Oia. Despite the effort required to reach Armeni, the serene environment is well worth the journey.

Today, Armeni is a peaceful retreat featuring a few whitewashed houses, a traditional tavern, and a concrete pier where small yachts and boats can moor. The harbor, although no longer bustling with trade, provides an idyllic setting for relaxation. The Tavern by the Sea offers savory local dishes, enhancing the experience with its serene ambiance and spectacular views.

The small beach at Armeni is ideal for swimming and wall diving, boasting deep, crystalline waters and volcanic pebbles. Though unorganized and lacking facilities, its unspoiled nature adds to the charm and natural beauty of the landscape. A diving center is also available for those interested in exploring the underwater scenery. As swimmers enjoy the clear waters, they are treated to awe-inspiring views of the caldera cliffs and the captivating settlement of Oia above, creating a thrilling and overwhelming experience.

The Church of Panagia Platsani was originally constructed inside the walls of the Castle of Oia. The church was moved to its current location, the village center, and was rebuilt on higher and more stable ground following the earthquake of 1956. The place of worship is dedicated to the Akathist Hymn of the Most Holy Theotokos. The building is white-washed and features a blue-dome and arched windows.

The place of worship came into existence when the townspeople decided to build the cathedral at its previous location to honor the icon of the Virgin Mary that was found in the sea by a fisherman. After much struggle, the fisherman, along with the priest and fellow parishioners brought the icon to the church.

The icon was moved the following day, by phenomenon, from the church to the castle. Each time, the citizens returned the symbol to the church, it allegedly moved back to the castle miraculously. It was then that the townspeople decided to build a place of worship where the Virgin Mary had placed the icon. Today, the Virgin Mary overlooks the sea where her spirit can bless all vessels and its passengers. The church contains many tributes to sailors and other residents of the town.

Tip:
You can either walk up the steps, take a donkey ride or the cable car. Walking takes about 35-40mins. The cost for the cable car is €5 one way.
Try visiting during the Greek Easter when lanterns are placed all around town, including around churches and various buildings.

The Windmill of Oia is one of Oia's most iconic photography spots. This picture-perfect windmill is also available as a unique villa rental. If you want to capture the best sunset-watching spot and make memories to last a lifetime, look into renting the Windmill of Oia.

The Windmill of Oia features two bedrooms, a bathroom, and a small kitchen. A winding stone staircase takes guests to each room in the windmill villa. An enormous deck provides breathtaking views and a great spot to relax and watch the world go by.

Santorini is a windy island and is home to about 70 historic windmills. The original windmills might have been built as early as the 14th century. Traditional Santorini windmills were used to grind flour and housed bakeries as well. Most of the windmills you see today were built during the 17th century or later.

This ancient castle dates back to the late 15th century. The castle's ruins remain one of Oia's most visited attractions and are a popular spot to watch the sunset from.

Oia Castle was built to protect the island and its residents against pirates. Pirates would steal property, kidnap men and women, and sell the kidnapped people at slave markets.

Because of the constant threat, residents built their houses close together in hard-to-reach cliffs. Then, when residents saw pirates approaching, they fled to the castle and hid their valuables in pits under the castle.

The castle's high location made it an excellent lookout station. Venetian rules had residences in the middle of the castle. Its defensive structure made it hard to conquer, but Turkish invaders did succeed in capturing the castle in 1577.

A 1956 earthquake heavily damaged the castle, and most structures fell into the sea. The castle's tower and wall fragments are all that remain. From the castle's ruins, visitors can enjoy beautiful views of the Santorini islands, the volcanic islands of Nea Kameni, Palea Kameni. Visitors can also see Thira and Thirassia from this vantage point.

Today, tourists and locals come to the castle to watch the sunset each night. If you want to participate in this special nightly celebration, come early and grab your spot.