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kosta_karapinotis

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Santorini is inundated with tourists but I am wondering if there is anywhere on the island that may not be as busy but is still nice to visit. Or, that is maybe close to the busy areas but not too close. I love Santorini, and my family has never been. I want them to see it, but I don't want it to be stressful.

I am wondering if I should just forget it. I have heard stories about how expensive and busy it is in the summers.
 
I’m not sure that there is any out-of-the-way place left in Santorini. However I agree with you. It is a very unique and important place to visit. In spite of the fact that Greece is now being heavily promoted as a year-round destination, you should definitely try to avoid Santorini in July and August, unless that interferes too much with (I assume) your children’s school schedule. You could also look for accommodation in a village like Pyrgos or other inland village and rent a car which would give you flexibility to get around and find those quiet spots when the cruise ships arrive and everyone else is on the cliffs! The other secret is to get up early and walk the cliffs (Fira to Oia) before people are awake and people have disembarked from the ships. It can be a blissfully quiet and stunning walk as the morning fog rises out of the Caldera. Unless the cruise ships have changed this, Sunday morning can be a good time to explore Greek towns in general - before the shops are open.
 
I think this travel hack "get up early" to enjoy a popular destination works every time. It's really hard to take a photo if the place is already crowded and somehow disappoints you. So, if I really want to enjoy and appreciate its beauty, then I don't mind waking up early.
 
I agree with Deborah, Santorini is important to visit at least once. It's iconic and very stunning. FootsLog, it is tough for me to wake up early but for Santorini I agree with you. Set the alarm and get out there and really see it before the crowds come in.
 
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There's some great advice here thank you everyone! I am going to try to get my family up early to enjoy some stuff before the crowds kick in. Maybe we can eat a long lunch during the "peak" times to avoid much of the bustle in the main areas.

Meanwhile, I am thinking of staying in Pyrgos or other village inland and slightly away from Oia or Fira to help with that, too. But my wife is still pushing to stay on the Caldera... we'll have to see how this evolves. lol.
 
Unless your wife is thinking of one of the luxury cliffside hotels with cave bedrooms and a horizon pool etc. (and who could blame her?!) a good compromise might be the Aressana Spa and Hotel in Fira. It is located right next to the Cathedral and just a minute’s walk to the cliffside that could be viewed any time. There’s also a pool for the family and parking for your rental car.
 

Budget trip to Santorini?

I'm in the early stages of planning a dream trip to Santorini, but I'm trying to do it on a tighter budget and would love any advice you could share.

Santorini’s stunning views, iconic blue domes, and sunsets have been on my travel list for years, and I'm finally taking the leap to make it happen. Given its reputation as a luxury destination, I'm looking for ways to experience the best of Santorini without breaking the bank.

If you have tips on affordable accommodation (are hostels a good option here, or should I be looking at another type of lodging?), budget-friendly eating spots that don't skimp on the experience, and must-see sights that won’t cost a fortune, I’m all ears.

Also, if there are particular times of the year that are more budget-friendly than others, I'd really appreciate insights on that as well. Plus, any advice on getting around the island affordably would be a huge help.

Last but not least, if there are any lesser-known gems or tips for experiencing Santorini like a local, I’d love to hear about those too.

Advice on galleries to visit in Fira?

I heard that Santorini is a great place for artists and people who admire art. I will be in Santorini for a cruise stop soon, but I will only have time to explore Fira.

I'm planning a trip to the beautiful island of Santorini and, as an enthusiastic art lover, I'm eager to immerse myself in the local art scene. Fira, with its stunning caldera views and charming streets, is on my travel itinerary, and I would love to explore some art galleries while I'm there.

From what I've gathered, Santorini, and Fira in particular, is a hub for vibrant art, showcasing everything from contemporary pieces by local artists to ancient artifacts that narrate the island's rich history. However, with such a plethora of options, it's a bit overwhelming to choose where to start.

Anyone have any advice?

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Worth it to visit Imerovigli?

I am trying to gather information for my next trip to Greece. We are spending a few nights in Santorini. I've stayed in Oia in the past, but I want to do something different. Is Imerovigli a good option?

Here is some information I have gathered about it:

It's a small and peaceful village located on the northwest coast of Santorini, almost halfway between the bustling towns of Fira and Oia. This makes it a perfect spot for those who want to enjoy the island's beauty without the crowds (so I have been told).

When it comes to accommodations, Imerovigli has some of the most luxurious and unique hotels in Santorini. Many of them are built into the cliffs. I drove through this village last time I was on Santorini and thought the hotels looked nice)

There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes in Imerovigli to enjoy authentic Greek cuisine and drinks. Some of the most highly-rated restaurants include Anogi, Avocado, and La Maison. And if you want to relax and unwind, you can head to one of the many spas in Imerovigli that offer massages, Jacuzzis, and other treatments.

Volcanic history on Santorini?

I've always been fascinated by the natural wonders of the world, and recently I have become particularly interested in the volcanic landscape of Santorini. I understand that the island's dramatic cliffs, unique beaches, and overall topography are heavily influenced by its explosive volcanic past.

However, I'm looking to go beyond just the surface and truly understand the evidence of Santorini's volcanic activity. Could any geology enthusiasts, historians, or locals provide more detailed insights into:

  1. Specific Landforms: What are the most apparent geological features on the island that indicate its volcanic nature?
  2. Volcanic Materials: Are there any areas where you can see different layers of ash or pumice stone resulting from various eruptions over time
I'd appreciate pictures, personal stories, or academic resources that could help in understanding the evidence of Santorini's volcanic landscape.

View the natural and unique geography of Santorini

I love visiting Santorini because to me, it's physically beautiful. I find it enchanting because of how unique the landscape is.

About 3,600 years ago, the island experienced a colossal volcanic event, known as the Minoan eruption. This event was so massive that it significantly altered the landscape, creating the caldera—a giant central lagoon surrounded by high cliffs on three sides. The eruption also played a pivotal role in shaping the ancient civilizations of the area.

Santorini's geological wonders don't stop at the caldera. The island boasts unique beaches with varying colors of sand and pebbles—red, black, and white—thanks to its volcanic nature. Visiting these beaches is like stepping onto another planet.

So, I plan to go again this year and check it out. Some of the places I love are Red Beach, Oia (I plan to stay in Oia), and I love doing that hike from Fira to Oia during sunset.What do you love to do in Santorini?

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