Overview of Regions

Despite its small size, Santorini can be divided into three distinctly different zones — each with its own character:

Oia & the North

For whom: Romantics, photographers, luxury travelers
The postcard image of Santorini: The village of Oia (pronounced "Ia") with its iconic blue domes, white cave houses, windmills, and the world-famous sunset. Here, the most exclusive hotels and restaurants line up. Also, the quiet village of Finikia, the lighthouse at the northern cape, and the hiking trail to Ammoudi harbor with its fish taverns right by the water.

Fira & the Center

For whom: Culture enthusiasts, nightlife, explorers
Fira is the lively island capital with the best nightlife, the Archaeological Museum, the cable car to the old port, and the spectacular Caldera hiking trail to Imerovigli — the highest point of the Caldera. Most boat tours to the volcano start from here. In Karterados and Messaria, you will find authentic villages away from the hustle and bustle.

The South

For whom: Beachgoers, history fans, budget travelers
Santorini's beaches are concentrated in the south and east: the black Perissa Beach and Perivolos (party beach), the Red Beach near Akrotiri, the quiet Vlychada with its moon landscape cliffs. Also, the archaeological sensation Akrotiri, the wine road with its wineries, and the traditional village of Megalochori. Accommodations here are significantly cheaper than on the Caldera.