Where is Santorini - 2023 Guide

Where is Santorini? Everything You Need To Know

With its breathtaking views, charming natural beauty, and spellbinding landscapes, Santorini has evolved into one of the world’s top destinations for romantic getaways.

Not only does this blessed island offer picturesque beaches with a crystal-clear ocean to explore, but it also welcomes you with the famed Greek hospitality and lifestyle. Read on to know everything you need to about this beautiful island.

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What is Santorini?

Santorini, also known as Thera, is a beautiful and magical little island in the southern Aegean Sea. It occupies an area of 96 km2 and belongs to the Cyclades archipelago.

Boasting breathtaking views, Santorini lies between Ios to its northwest and Anafi towards its east-south region. It is nestled 130 nautical miles east of Piraeus in Athens and 70 nautical miles south of Crete, the largest Greek island.

How Santorini came into being?

Santorini is nestled within an archipelago that includes the islands of Therasia, Aspronisi (uninhabited), Palaia Kammeni, and Nea Kammeni. But before a major eruption occurred 3,500 years ago, these four were amalgamated into one round island known as Strogili – meaning “circular” in Greek.

The momentous volcanic eruption split Santorini, creating its picturesque crescent shape and inspiring beaches that are situated on the caldera. This incredible transformation manifested in the formation of several individual islands. 

What distinguishes Santorini from other islands?

Santorini stands out among the rest due to its remarkable volcanic formation, which has produced an unparalleled landscape unmatched by any other in the world. The volcano that created this unique terrain still remains active – with its crater hidden beneath the waters.

By taking a boat tour, you can explore the archipelago and experience all of what it has to offer firsthand – from pristine beaches to majestic cliffs, there is something for everyone here at Santorini!

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How to go to Santorini?

Visiting Santorini from Athens can be a breeze when taking the domestic flight that lands at the National Airport of Santorini, just 8 kilometers (5 miles) away from Fira. In mere minutes you could be in the city center by car or bus. If price is an issue and time isn’t as much of a concern, there are also ferries with lower fares during summer months compared to other seasons (7-9 hours).

Upon arriving in Santorini, you can conveniently travel to a variety of Cyclades islands, as well as Rhodes, Crete and Thessaloniki with the help of frequent ferry services.