Fira
Instantly recognisable, Santorini’s stunning capital, Fira, cascades over the striking caldera edge. A multi-coloured hub of activity with a sophisticated and cosmopolitan atmosphere, Fira’s narrow streets boast an eclectic selection of restaurants and shops - including many that sell artisan crafts, high-end jewellery, local wines and, of course, plenty of souvenirs. For the ultimate thrill and breathtaking views, take the fabulous cable car ride down three-hundred metres of solidified volcanic rock face to the old port.
Culture and History
Giving a true taste of traditional Santorini, the pretty village of Oia is characterised by converted peasant houses that sit on the very edge of the crater and traditional cave houses set into the cliffs, whilst the inland town of Pyrgos, boasts winding streets that lead up to a fascinating Venetian Castle, from which you can enjoy dazzling panoramic views. Don't miss Akrotiri, arguably the most important archaeological site in the Cyclades; after a volcanic eruption, the ancient Minoan city was buried beneath lava in 1600 BC - luckily the volcanic material preserved the buildings and their contents.
Romance
Synonymous with romance, nowhere is quite like Santorini for a couple’s getaway. Stroll along the unique volcanic beaches hand-in-hand, or explore the quaint towns and traditional villages, before stopping for a chilled glass of crisp Greek wine as you gaze together over the iconic Santorini sunset. Taste delicious, local cuisine in a taverna beside the sea, before heading back to your luxury hotel for a cocktail beneath the stars. For the ultimate show of romance, say “I do” on the island; wedding services are available at a number of our luxury Santorini hotels.
Boat Trips
Take a scenic boat trip from the old port at Fira, around the deep-blue caldera, to the tiny uninhabited black volcanic islet of Palea Kameni, where strong swimmers can leave the boat and swim, over hot springs, to the therapeutic mud. Meanwhile, why not tackle the volcanic crater at Nea Kameni, a mesmerizing national park, for views of Santorini that will truly take your breath away? On the opposite side of the caldera, the traditional island of Thirassia has several seafood tavernas also affording fine views, whilst east of Santorini, the unspoilt island of Anafi can be easily reached by ferry.
Cuisine
When in beautiful Greece, be sure to sample the country’s mouthwatering and flavoursome cuisine. From traditional tavernas, inimitably fresh seafood restaurants and fine dining spots, the quantity of choice in Santorini is matched by the food’s exceptional quality. The island also produces some of Greece's best white wines, and several vineyards, including Santo Wines and Boutari, both near Pyrgos, are open to the public for wine-tasting sessions and tours.
Travel Planning
Our Travel Consultants can advise on, arrange and pre-book many things to enhance your holiday. This includes everything from spa reservations and dinner reservations, to a range of special experiences available in our featured resorts that you may not know about.
Flight Information
Easyjet from London Gatwick to Santorini.
Flight Time
From London Gatwick to Santorini: 3 hours, 55 minutes.
Travelling With Children or Without an Adult
Children travelling without both parents should be aware that some countries require documentary evidence of parental responsibility before allowing lone parents to enter the country or, in some cases, before permitting the children to leave the country. Please contact the relevant Embassy for the county you are travelling to for further information.
Visa and Advance Passenger Information
All passengers must ensure they have a valid, acceptable passport, any required visa and any other documentation for both the final destination and any stop-off points en route. Please make sure that Advance Passenger Information is submitted in advance to travel for all destinations. Failure to hold correct documentation or submitting incorrect details with Advance Passenger Information or Visa applications may result in refusal of carriage or entry into a country. Please check with the relevant Embassy regarding visa requirements well in advance of your travel date. Charges may apply for some visas.
Passengers not travelling on a British Passport are advised to contact their relevant Foreign & Commonwealth office for individual Visa requirements.
For up-to-date resort information, visit www.fco.gov.uk
Health facilities, hygiene and disease risks vary worldwide and you should take health advice about your specific needs from your general practitioner or a specialist clinic as early as possible before travel. Those planning to become pregnant should discuss their travel plans with their healthcare provider to assess their risk of infection with Zika. For information about Zika, other mosquito-borne diseases (such as Dengue fever and Chikungunya), Lyme Disease (caused by tick bites), and to receive advice on mosquito bite avoidance measures, please visit Insect and tick bite avoidance.
In addition, we highly recommend that you seek specialist advice from your doctor and, where recommended, obtain vaccinations or tablets for protection against, for example: Malaria, Hepatitis A, Polio and Typhoid. In some cases, treatments for Malaria should begin well in advance of travel. Travellers may also be required to show Yellow Fever Certificates on arrival in certain destinations ie, some African countries. Please note that you are strongly advised against scuba-diving for 24 hours before travelling by air. We would also like to draw your attention to the risk of DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis) and recommend that you consult with your doctor before travelling.
Visit the FCDO website and select your destination country for the very latest travel advice: Foreign Travel Advice. Additional sources of information include: Public Health England, The National Travel Health And Network Centre, Foreign And Commonwealth Office and your General Practitioner or a specialised clinic.