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Hellenic seaways’ three new high-speed passenger catamarans arrive in greece.

AERO 1, 2 and 3 in Piraeus © George Giannakis

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SEAJETS operates the largest high speed fleet in the Aegean. As your fastest connection to the Aegean island, we are committed to operating one of the comfortable and punctual fleets in the Mediterranean. Whether you visit a single island or you go island hopping, the largest network of high speed vessels worldwide guarantees for an uneventful trip.

SEAJETS, welcome to your destination!

The largest high-speed fleet of the Aegean

Connected in Cyclades, including Crete

CONNECTIONS

Between Aegean islands' ports

Of marine experience

PASSENGER CAPACITY

One of the largest in Europe

VEHICLE CAPACITY

In safe and spacious decks

WORLDCHAMPION JET

• SHIP TYPE CATAMARAN/PASSENGER-FERRY
• YEAR BUILT 2000
• COUNTRY OF MANUFACTURE AUSTRALIA
• MAX SPEED 50KNOTS

• SHIP TYPE MONOHULL HIGHSPEED PASSENGER- FERRY
• YEAR BUILT 1999
• COUNTRY OF MANUFACTURE ITALY
• MAX SPEED 40KNOTS

CHAMPION JET1

• SHIP TYPE CATAMARAN,PASSENGER-FERRY
• YEAR BUILT 1997

CHAMPION JET2

• YEAR BUILT 1996
• MAX SPEED 38KNOTS

• SHIP TYPE CATAMARAN RO/PAX
• MAX SPEED 36KNOTS

SUPERRUNNER JET

• SHIP TYPE MONOHULL HIGHSPEED
• YEAR BUILT 1998
• MAX SPEED 34KNOTS

SUPERRUNNER JET2

• SHIP TYPE MONOHULL RO/PAX

SPEEDRUNNER JET

• SHIP TYPE MONOHULL RO/ PAX

SPEEDRUNNER JET 2

• YEAR BUILT 1991
• MAX SPEED 37KNOTS

• MAX SPEED 33KNOTS

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• SHIP TYPE CATAMARAN / PASSENGER
• YEAR BUILT 1995
• COUNTRY OF MANUFACTURE FINLAND

• COUNTRY OF MANUFACTURE NORWAY

EXPRESS JET

• SHIP TYPE PAX / CAR FERRY
• COUNTRY OF MANUFACTURE BELGIUM
• MAX SPEED 21KNOTS

SPORADES STAR

• MAX SPEED 19KNOTS

• COUNTRY OF MANUFACTURE JAPAN
• MAX SPEED 20KNOTS

• COUNTRY OF MANUFACTURE GREECE

SUPER CAT JET

• SHIP TYPE CATAMARAN PAX
• COUNTRY OF MANUFACTURE PHILIPPINES
• MAX SPEED 32KNOTS
• PASSENGERS 300

SUPER CAT JET 2

• SHIP TYPE TRIMARAN PAX
• YEAR BUILT 2002
• PASSENGERS 350
• COUNTRY OF MANUFACTURE

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Greek Ferry Types: Normal, highspeed, cat or dolphin?

By Ferriesingreece on 24-04-2014

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If you have traveled to the Greek islands or if you are trying to book Greek ferry tickets, you have probably noticed that there are many Greek ferry types that run the routes between the islands and mainland ports. There are normal ferries, high-speed ferries, catamarans, and flying dolphins that have different features and run in specific routes. Here is a brief description of these Greek ferry types.

Normal ferry

The normal ferry is the classic ferry type. This is a large vessel with the slowest speed of all types. However, it provides a very fun ferry ride to the Greek islands as travelers can stay at the deck and enjoy the vast blue sea. These conventional ferries have open decks, semi-enclosed decks, indoor salons, air type seats as well as cabins for 2-4 passengers, cabins for pets and disabled, and car garages. Cabins are very convenient for long or overnight trips to the Greek islands.

These simple ferries are the cheapest option for Greek ferry trips, which is why they are largely preferred by passengers who travel on a budget or by passengers who do not mind spending more time on board. Ferry companies with conventional ferries are Blue Star which runs schedules to the Cyclades islands, the Dodecanese and Eastern Aegean, as well as Minoan Lines which operates routes to Crete and Italy.

High speed ferry

High speed ferry is usually smaller than the normal ferry, which is why their speed is faster . They are newly-constructed, modern and comfortable with open decks, indoor salons, air type seats, cabins and car garages. As high speeds are faster than normal ferries, their price is more expensive. These Greek ferries are ideal for passengers who do not like traveling in the sea. The ferry company Hellenic Seaways operates such high speed ferries.

Flying dolphins

Flying dolphins (also called hydrofoils) are the smallest vessels that travel in the Greek seas. Their shape is oblong and they have only air seats. When reaching a certain velocity, they lift up from the sea and get inclined, achieving this way faster speed. These small vessels may carry 200-1000 passengers and operate short routes, such as the routes from Athens to Aegina, Hydra, Poros, and other Saronic islands, from Volos to Skiathos and Skopelos, from Corfu to Paxi, and the routes between the islands of Dodecanese.

Due to their small size, they are the first vessels to get affected by bad weather in Greece. Trips with such vessels are operated, for example, by the ferry companies Aegean Flying Dolphins and Hellenic Seaways.

Catamarans are smaller than normal vessels and larger than flying dolphins. It is easy to spot a catamaran (cat for short), as they are multihulled vessels with parallel hulls of equal size. They have only air type seats and some catamarans also have car garages. As their speed is fast, they are also called flying cats. Hellenic Seaways and Sea Jets are two Greek ferry companies that run ferry trips with catamarans.

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Paros to Santorini Ferries

Greece › Greek Ferries › Paros to Santorini Ferry by Santorini Dave • Updated: March 12, 2023

• Where to Stay in Paros
• Best Hotels in Paros
• Best Paros Tours & Things to Do
• Where To Stay in Santorini
• Best Hotels in Santorini
• Best Santorini Tours & Things to Do
• Santorini Ferry Port Guide

The Golden Star SuperExpress is the fastest ferry from Paros to Santorini.

Greek Ferry Essentials FerryHopper.com is the best way to buy tickets for Paros to Santorini ferries. It’s also good for researching ferry timetables, costs, and schedules. Book tickets 2 to 3 months in advance. Most tickets (when booked through FerryHopper ) are e-tickets which means you do not have to pick up a paper ticket before boarding. If a ticket purchased online doesn’t have a barcode that usually means you’ll need to pick up a real ticket when in Greece. This is most often done at the ferry port 30 to 45 minutes before departure. Don’t worry about pick up – it’s easy and effortless and usually very close to your actual ferry. Ferries will leave on-time from their first departure port in the morning (usually large ports like Piraeus, Heraklio, and Rhodes) but will be late arriving and departing from all onward ports (e.g. Naxos). Usually getting later as the day progresses.

Paros to Santorini Ferry Schedule

Example paros to santorini ferry schedule.

Paros-Santorini ferry schedule and prices on ferryhopper.com . Ferries can and do sell out in June, July, August, and September.

The islands of Paros and Santorini are well-connected by ferry in the busy summer tourist season, with more frequent ferries in July and August than in May, June, and September. Ferries depart from the Paros Port in Parikia from mid-morning until early-evening. The length of the ride ranges from 2 to 3 hours, depending on what boat you choose and how many stops it makes. Blue Star ferries are larger, more stable, and generally slower, usually taking a little more than 3 hours for the journey. Smaller high-speed catamarans can make the journey in about two hours. Ticket prices range from around €22 to €85.

• Check prices for Paros-Santorini Ferries

• Greek Ferry Guide
• Santorini to Paros Ferries
• Paros to Athens Ferries
• Athens to Paros Ferries
• The Best Greek Islands
• The Best Hotels in Paros
• The Best Hotels in Paros for Families
• Maps of Paros
• Paros Travel Guide
• The Best Hotels in Santorini
• The Best Santorini Hotels for Families
• Where to Stay in Santorini
• Maps of Santorini
• Santorini Travel Guide

About Santorini Dave

• Ferry from Heraklion (Crete) to Santorini

Tickets, Prices & Schedules

• Ferry Tickets
• Ferry routes

Ferry schedules

Is there a ferry from Heraklion to Santorini?

There are weekly crossings  from Crete to Santorini all year round. During the summer months, there are up to 4 daily ferry crossings to Santorini from Heraklion. The route is mainly operated by 3 ferry companies : Seajets, Fast Ferries , and Blue Star Ferries .

Please note that ferry timetables are subject to change depending on the season. You can check real-time schedules and book ferry tickets online on Ferryhopper.

What’s the ferry schedule from Heraklion (Crete) to Santorini

The earliest Crete to Santorini ferry departs from Heraklion at 08:00 and arrives at the port of Athinios at around 09:50. The latest ferry from Heraklion usually departs at 22:45 and arrives in Santorini around 01:55.

Ferry Tickets, Offers & Discounts

How much is the ferry from heraklion (crete) to santorini.

The Crete to Santorini ferry price ranges from approximately €16  to €92 . The final ticket cost can be higher or lower depending on discounts, seat type, or vehicle selection.

On Ferryhopper, you can find all available offers for the ferry trip to Santorini from Heraklion (Crete). Take a look at our ferry routes, find great ferry deals and book your ferry tickets on Ferryhopper without hidden fees .

Take advantage of the available discounts and travel by ferry from Heraklion (Crete) to Santorini with lower-cost ferry tickets . The ferry companies offer discounts up to 50% to the following passenger categories :

• Children from 5 to 10 years old
• Members of large families
• Permanent residents of islands (holders of Unique Islander Number)
• Students of Greek Public Universities
• People with disabilities and their accompanying persons

Note : infants and children up to 5 years travel for free . However, keep in mind that available discounts may vary depending on the company you’re traveling with.

Ferry Route Info

How long is the ferry ride from heraklion to santorini.

The Heraklion - Santorini ferry time is around 2 hr to 4 hr depending on the type of ferry (conventional or high-speed).

Tip : bear in mind that ferry timetables may change. Therefore, make sure to check your departure time before your trip. You can also track your ferry in real time on the Ferryhopper App !

How far is Santorini from Crete?

The distance from the port of Heraklion to the port of Santorini (Athinios) is 63 nautical miles (120 km).

Is there a high-speed ferry from Heraklion to Santorini?

Yes, you can travel with a fast ferry from Heraklion (Crete) to Santorini. The Crete-Santorini ferry route is mainly operated by high-speed ferries lasting about 1 hr 50 min .

Ferry Trip Tips

Useful tips for your ferry trip to santorini from heraklion.

Here are some travel tips for your trip from Heraklion (Crete) to Santorini:

• The port of Heraklion can get crowded during the summer so we recommend that you arrive at the port at least 1 hr in advance of your departure to avoid queuing.
• Ferry rides can be  bumpy during the summer. If you feel seasick you can ask the ferry crew for some aspirin or carry with you anti-nausea pills. 
• Athinios, the port of Santorini is small and can get very crowded in high season. Check our blog for a helpful guide for the port of Santorini . 
• If you are planning to stay in Santorini for longer, we recommend that you book  accommodation  as early as possible (about 3-4 months in advance). 
• Read our Santorini travel guide for useful information and tips about the island.

How do you get from Heraklion, Crete, to Santorini?

You can get from Crete to Santorini by ferry all year round. During the summer, there are at least  3 ferries per day from the port of Heraklion to Santorini. During the winter, there is usually 1 weekly ferry from Crete to Santorini.

Where in Crete can you get the ferry to Santorini?

The Crete - Santorini ferry departs from the port of Heraklion . It's located about 2 km from the center of the city, close to many shops, restaurants and city landmarks. 

To get to the port and catch the ferry from Crete to Santorini, you can take a public bus, taxi or walk. The regional bus station of Heraklion is located 700 m (10 minutes walk) from the port.

Can you do a day trip from Crete to Santorini?

Yes, you can and Santorini is definitely worth a day trip from Crete! Hop on the first ferry from Heraklion and be in Santorini before  10:00 . Enjoy the island’s breathtaking views, walk through its blue-domed churches and get back to Heraklion by evening.

Can I travel on the Heraklion - Santorini ferry with a car?

Yes, you can travel with a vehicle in the majority of the ferries from Heraklion (Crete) to Santorini. Both conventional and high-speed ferries provide the service of vehicle transfer.

The Crete to Santorini ferry cost for your vehicle transfer ranges between €60 to €90 depending on the type of vehicle, the ferry company as well as the season.

Ferry luggage

Ferry companies like  Seajets ,  Fast Ferries , and  Blue Star Ferries  are usually quite flexible when it comes to luggage size and weight. You can keep your luggage next to you or store your bags and suitcases in the designated luggage area on the ferry to Piraeus.

Good to know : bear in mind that there is  no check-in  procedure for luggage items.

Tip:  each ferry company has its own baggage allowance policy. We recommend that you don’t carry more than  50 kg  of luggage to avoid delays due to restricted space in the luggage area.

Some ferries traveling from Crete to Santorini have cabins but the majority of them offer numbered seats . 

You can travel with your pet on the Crete - Santorini ferry depending on the company and type of vessel you’ve chosen. Make sure to carry along the necessary certificates, tickets and any pet supplies you may need for your trip.

Book cheap ferry tickets from Heraklion to Santorini

You can book your tickets for the Heraklion to Santorini ferry online on Ferryhopper. On our Map of ferries , you can see all the available ferry connections, compare ferry companies and prices, and book your ferry trip to Santorini with confidence!

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Ferry to Santorini

Santorini is a beautiful Greek island located in the Aegean Sea. It is known for its stunning sunsets, white-washed buildings, and crystal-clear waters. If you're planning a trip to Santorini, you may be wondering how to get there by ferry.

To get to Santorini by ferry, you have several options depending on your starting location. Here is a general guide on how to take the ferry to Santorini :

• Choose your departure port: Santorini is well-connected to various ports in Greece. The most common departure ports are Piraeus (Athens), Rafina (Athens) and Heraklion ( Crete ). Choose the port that is most convenient for you
• Check ferry schedules: Ferries operate seasonally, so it's important to check the schedules and availability of ferries to Santorini. You can do this by using our ferry booking platform
• Book your tickets: Once you have selected your preferred ferry and departure port, book your tickets in advance. During peak travel seasons, it is recommended to book your tickets well in advance to secure your spot
• Arrive at the departure port: Arrive at the departure port at least one hour before the scheduled departure time. This will give you enough time to complete the boarding process, especially if you have luggage
• Board the ferry: Follow the instructions given by the ferry staff and board the ferry. Make sure to keep your ticket and any necessary identification documents readily accessible
• Enjoy the ferry journey: The ferry ride to Santorini can vary in duration depending on the departure port and ferry speed. On average, it takes around 4-7 hours to reach Santorini from Athens (Piraeus or Rafina) and around 2-3 hours from Heraklion (Crete). Sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic views of the Aegean Sea
• Arrive at Santorini: Once you arrive at Santorini, disembark from the ferry and collect your belongings. The main port on Santorini is Athinios Port. From there, you can take a taxi, local bus, or arrange for a transfer to reach your final destination on the island

It's important to note that ferry schedules and availability can change, so it's recommended to double-check the information closer to your travel date.

All year round there are ferries running to Santorini from Athens and Piraeus, while from May to September there are frequent ferries from Paros, Naxos, Ios, Folegandros, Milos, Crete (Heraklion and Rethymnon), Mykonos, Rhodes, Kos, Astypalea, and from some more Aegean islands.

Cars are allowed on most ferries, for an additional fee and children usually travel for half price!

• There is a choice of Regular and High-speed catamaran ferries running frequently with stops along the way.

Give a departure port and a date and find all possible departures to Santorini!

Notice : Each year and depending on the period, there may be more or fewer connections to Santorini. The biggest shipping companies (ferry operators) announce the new ferry schedules by the end of December and the rest of them by January-March each year!

Local transportation services

Buses and Taxis are all available to help travelers get around in Santorini. The transportation services are not always convenient and smooth however the new regular services take you to all parts of Thira at a low cost.

The ports of Santorini

Santorini has 4 seaports that serve not only ferries and cruise ships but also yachts and fishing boats.

• Athinios port where the ferry to Santorini lands.
• The old port Skala is built below Fira where the cruise ships put anchor daily.
• The Amoudi bay which is situated below the village of Oia is a genuine small fishing port with lovely local eateries right by the sea. From Amoudi there are small boats that sail to the island of Thirassia. Also, some boat tours start and end there.
• Vlychada port is next to the beach of Vlychada where small fishing boats and yachts put anchor. Many boat tours start and end here too.

Public Transport from Athinios port

• The public Buses to Fira Town meet most of the ferries to Santorini that arrives in Athinios port. All the buses at Athinios port go straight to Fira central station but often do intermediate stops to the villages of Pyrgos, Karterados & Messaria.
• Buses to the port leave Fira station about an hour before the scheduled departures of the ferries leaving Santorini.
• The buses go through the villages of Karterados and Messaria. You will see a schedule posted outside the central bus station in Fira.
• The bus ticket from Athinios port to Fira central station cost approx. 2.30 Euros per way. For night routes from 00:30 to 05:00, the cost is approx. 2.90 Euros.

Public Bus Services on Santorini

• There is a frequent public bus network service that runs to all the villages of the island departing and ending in Fira Town.
• Travelers going to Oia need to change bus in Fira‘s main bus station.
• The tickets can be purchased by the bus collector, and the price can vary from 1.80 to 2.50 Euros per person and per route.

Bus directions:

• Fira – Airport
• Fira – Akrotiri
• Fira – Baxedes
• Fira – Exo Gonia
• Fira – Kamari
• Fira – Monolithos
• Fira – Perissa
• Fira – Vlihada
• Fira - Vourvoulos
• The main station in Fira: 25 Martiou str. and Danezi M. str., near Alpha bank
• Tel. +30 2286025404
• E-mail: [email protected]   UPDATED DETAILS

Taxis on Santorini

• At Athinios port, there is a taxi station, where the cabs are waiting after the ferry arrival, although many of them have been booked in advance!
• All taxis are gray and have a lit ‘taxi’ sign on top.
• Taxis can sit up to 4 passengers although they might not be able to take that many suitcases.
• Cabs in Greece apply extra charges for excess baggage, port picks up and night transfers.
• Taxis will take you to most places on the island.
• If you are in Fira town, there is a taxi stand at the main square.
• With just a phone call you can be picked up from any point of the island.

Main locations for taxis in Santorini:

• Fira’s taxi stand is on Dekigala just around the corner from the bus station
• Athinios port
• Taxi and Radio-Taxi number: +30 2286022555, +30 6906794316
• E-mail: [email protected] , DETAILS
• Prices: From Athinios port to Fira Town approx. 12-15 Euros

Tip : Most of the hotels in Santorini have their own minibus and will transfer you from the port to the hotel or vice versa. Try ringing them to find out if this service is available!

Ferry tickets to Santorini

Ticket Prices

• From Athens: Euro 50-55,00 (regular ferry), € 80-110,00 (catamaran or high-speed)
• From Mykonos: € 70-95,00 (high-speed)
• From Naxos and Paros: € 30-60,00 (regular/high-speed)
• From Milos: € 70-80,00 (high-speed)
• From Crete: € 90-100,00 (high-speed)

Book your Santorini Ferry with any shipping company that suits you better and enjoy your journey in the Cyclades! The “Easy-Way” booking system of go-ferry.com, allows the most reliable online ferry reservations and offers cheaper, faster and better services for your f erry tickets to Santorini .

With go-ferry.com you are able to connect online with the reservation systems of most Greek shipping companies, to compare prices, to find information about routes and vessels, to look for alternative routes and to print instantly your confirmation.

Ferry timetables may change by season, so take an optical canvassing via our search engine to receive the latest call of dates, schedules, prices and availability to Santorini by ferry. With so many accommodation options to call from, you can be sure to find the best deal at a price that fits your budget.

Complete the below fields and click on SHOW to compare the prices of all operators that run to and from Santorini!

Book in advance

Arrange your journey to Santorini in advance

It is very important that you have organized your ferry to or from Santorini in advance, having arranged all the details. You don't want anything to go wrong, and you can achieve perfect holidays with a great organization. In addition to hotel accommodation and air-tickets, when you book the tickets you know that everything is under control even before leaving home.

There are many reasons why you should arrange to book in advance your ferry to Santorini. Here are some of the most important:

Pay for Hotel without using it!

During the high season in Greece, and especially in July and August, it is likely that you won't find ferry tickets to popular destinations, such as Santorini if you don't book them in advance. So, don't make the mistake to book your hotel in Santorini without having booked the ferry pass. The last thing you want is to get to the port and not find an available ferry to your holiday destination!

Although we charge a commission for acquiring ferry bookings, this allows you not only to secure your tickets but also to save time in Santorini; besides receiving a service and attention of first.

Have a bigger choice!

Buying in advance gives you a better chance of getting the ferry tickets to Santorini, on the ferry you prefer and at the schedule you want. It does not make sense that your trip is interrupted by not finding available ferry departures, but it is possible.

Find more connections!

If you want to organize your vacations, it is wise to check all the possible routes and timetables in order to make the right combinations between Santorini and other destinations as well as between air-tickets and ferry-tickets. Online, you can have an overview of all the routes going to or from Santorini.

Get the best deal!

Ferry rides to Santorini can be expensive, so it’s natural to want to get the best deal on them. It has become a regular practice for ferries to announce special rates and deep discounts for booking ferry tickets up to 3-6 months in advance.

Feeling great having your ferry ticket in your pocket!

You will feel a great feeling when having confirmation in your hands. The reservation with us will allow you to secure your ferry to or from Santorini, you will be relieved to have the confirmation in your hands or on your smartphone!

Accommodation options

Find out about the ferry types that are running to Santorini, choose the ideal accommodation option on the ferry to Santorini and get fresh and relaxed at your destination.

Comfortable armchairs, business class comfort seats, outside and inside cabins or economy deck chairs. There is a range of accommodation options to choose from for a day or night ferry cross.

About Santorini

It is one of the most famous islands of the Cyclades as well as one of the most renowned Greek islands around the globe. Santorini presents a unique geological phenomenon , as today it is what has been left from the initial one (Stroggyli), which was submerged into the sea after the eruption of its volcano during the 16th century B.C. This was one of the most violent eruptions in the history of the Earth: the three quarters of the island were submerged, forming the Caldera (crater), while one of the most serious consequences caused by the eruption was the destruction of the Minoan palaces in Crete. The island extends over a surface of 73 km, its coastline is 69.5 km long and it has 13,670 inhabitants.

Santorini is the southernmost island of the Cyclades . Actually, it is an island complex which comprises of Thira, Thirasia, Aspronisi, Palea and Nea Kameni. It preserves to a great extent its architectural heritage, except for Fira and Oia , and the rest of the inland settlements. A great prehistoric culture was developed in Santorini, mainly during the Middle-Cycladic period, but it was destroyed by the eruption. Later the island was inhabited again, became prosperous during the Hellenistic and Roman periods, while it was under Venetian occupation for many centuries.

The tourist development of the last decades was frenetic, but the island still remains attractive, full of secrets and unknown beauties and continues to have one of the most famous sunsets of the planet. It is also famous for its local production of wine as the vines have been cultivated since ancient times. The varieties Assyrtiko, Athiri, Aidani, Mandilaria and Mavrotragano are cultivated here, while the wine is known as “Vinsanto” is an exceptional one, produced by a mixture of Asirtiko and Aidani. Santorini used to be a round island, but during an earthquake and volcano-outbreak in the 15th century BC the middle of the island sunk and gave it the shape it has today. This is one of the reasons why many believe Santorini really is where Atlantis once was. The Minoan civilization on the island was razed after this, but apparently, most people managed to flee.

The island has changed names through history. Originally it was called Stroggyli ("round") since that was the shape of the island. When the Phoenicians came they named it Kallisti ("the very best"), and finally, it got the name Thira after its first ruler. Theras was the son of the Theban hero Autesion who was a descendant of Cadmus. He was the vice-king of Sparta and responsible for his twin nephews Procles and Eurysthenes. When they were old enough to rule by themselves, Theras left Sparta with a company of aristocrats and settled on Santorini.

The Romans originally used the island as a place for exiles, but later helped in building up the island. The Christianization of Santorini took place between the 2nd and 5th century. The island was often ravaged and even destroyed by pirates and in 1204 it was conquered by the Venetians. It was about then the island got its current name. The islands patron saint was Agia Irini (St Eirene) and the foreign sailors called her St Irini - thus Santorini. The island was destroyed by the Venetians in 1354, and once again in 1397, this time by the conquering Turks. In 1821 Santorini joined forces with the Greek revolutionists and the island was subsequently freed from Turkish rule. In 1956 there was a terrible earthquake which caused many buildings to be ruined. The people in Kamari are almost all from a village that was totally destroyed back then. The underwater volcano, which is one of the rare examples of volcanoes in the world and clearly uncovered their internal structure, created from a circular island that was there before the explosion, a group of islands namely Thera, Thirassia, New and Old Kameni and Aspronisi. The island has been reconstructed after the terrible earthquake that destroyed on 9 July 1956.

What to see in Santorini

A walk through the town will give you the chance to visit its main sights. Do not forget to visit:

• The orthodox cathedral of Ypapanti and the catholic cathedral of St. John the Baptist.
• The Archaeological Museum including a big collection of 7th and 6th-century B.C. vessels as well as statues dating back to the Archaic and Roman periods.
• Thira Prehistoric Museum: one of the most important Greek museums, which, among other things, exposes mural paintings from the prehistoric settlement of Akrotiri.
• The Folklore Museum housed in a traditional building built in a rock in 1861.
• The Gkizi manor house (18th centuries) with remarkable collections (chalcographies etc.)
• Aghia Aikaterini monastery of Dominican monks.
• Bellonio Cultural Center and “Petros Nomikos” Conference Center hosting conferences, exhibitions, concerts, etc.
• Firostefani, a traditional settlement with interesting architectural features and offering a wonderful view.
• The caldera and the islets of Nea and Palaia Kameni, monuments of particular natural beauty, which present great scientific interest and which are accessible by boat. In Nea Kameni you will also find the crater of the active volcano.

Fira , the capital of Santorini, is built on the edge of the caldera at the west side of the island, at an altitude of 250 meters and was founded in the late 18th century. It was the time when the inhabitants of the old capital of the island, the castle of Skaros which was just underneath the village of Imerovigli, began to abandon it because it was heavily damaged by the earthquakes. In the early 19th century, Fira became the capital of the island, and had access to the sea through the port of Fira that is used until today mainly for cruise ships. Fira is the seat of both the Orthodox, and the Catholic Diocese of Santorini. What impresses at first glance in Fira is the typical architecture of the houses and the stunning views. In the town are based the public offices of the island, most of the shops, restaurants and hotels and the town itself is the most populated of the island. In Fira you can visit also the the art exhibition in the famous mansion Gizi . the Archaeological museum and the Prehistoric museum where in both of them you can see items from the excavations in Akrotiri as well as many artefacts and sculpture e covering the rich historical past of Santorini from the Prehistoric times to the Neolithic and Minoan era, the Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine periods. The main square Theotokopoulou is the centre of the town. There you will find most of the banks, the buses and taxi terminals and many shops. During the evening all the terraces of the privileged cafes at the edge of the caldera filled with tourists that are coming to enjoy a drink as the sun sets over the deep blue Aegean.

At night the small streets along the east side of the town over the caldera are bursting with crowds of holiday makers that walking up and down the steps and narrow labyrinthine stone streets in a colourful environment among numerous shops, cafes, bars and restaurants. During the summer the city never sleeps, numerous cafes and snack bars are open for the clubbers until the early morning hours. In Fira there is also a folklore museum, a citadel from the Middle Ages, two Metropolis - Christian centres - a Catholic and an Orthodox. In Fira you can go to the church of Ag Mina, which is the church that most postcards of Santorini portray . If you come to Fira in September, there is a renowned classical music festival every year. At Oia you get the best sunsets, and both Oia and Fira are excellent towns for just strolling around and shopping. The main street of Oia bursts of tourists, especially when cruise ships are arrived, strolling around the numerous tourist and souvenir shops. Be sure to find a table at one of the cafes at the edge of the caldera before the sunset. Imerovigli It is located about 2 miles north of Fira and south of Oia. The village of Imerovigli is buid on the top of the Caldera at 300 metres over the sea level. It has a few hundred inhabitants and is a national heritage village with many chapels and churches. The most famous landmark of Imerovigli is the castle of Skaros on the top of the rock beneath the village that use to be the capital of the island of Santorini until the 18th century. There are many hotels but more quite as Fira and Oia. You can walk there from Fira going through Firostefani. Akrotiri is an ancient town that was buried when the volcano erupted 3500 years ago. Archaeologists are still excavating it, but you can walk around in the little street quarters and see the buildings almost like they were back then. You'll be impressed by the modernity: the houses were two or three storey high, and they even had running water. The excavations have also revealed beautiful frescoes, tools and everyday life objects. In Pyrgos , a few kilometres from the capital you can see the medieval fortress Kasteli and admire a 10th century church and a monastery both with beautiful Byzantine icons and relics. The village ofMessaria is also located close to Fira and is surrounded by vineyards, you should visit the two small churches that are built in caves. In Megalochori 5 km southeast of Fira interesting is the unique way that this village combines the Cycladic architecture with neoclassical mansions, there are some interesting churches to visit and many places to stay. In Perissa in addition to the beautiful black sand beach with all kinds of shops, accommodations and water sports facilities worth visiting is the ancient site with buildings and ruins from different time periods. There is an ancient theatre, the ancient market, the ruins of a temple of Apollo, a shrine of Egyptian deities and many buildings from the Hellenistic period. In Kamari in addition to the well organised beach you can visit a church of the 11th century with significant Byzantine frescos and sculptures from an earlier chirch. Don't miss to visit Finikia a small traditional village, Mesochori, Emporios the traditional old market village of the island and Karterados. It is very nice to go on one of the boat excursions offered. There are sunset trips in the evenings, and daily trips to the volcano and the opposite islands Palia Kammeni, with warm natural wells, and Thirasia, where there is a tiny picturesque village.

Ancient Thira Situated on top of high cliff just above Kamari, and there is also and old church there from 1100 . This was the Roman head quarters. Right at the top of the southeast peak of the highest mountain of Santorini in Profitis Helias is the ancient settlement of Thira. The winding road that leads to this settlement begins at the south end of Kamari at the foot of the mountain. The physically fit can walk up the winding mountain road. which takes around 45 minutes, but the easiest way is to drive up or take a bus and reserve your energy for the final climb to the settlement itself as this last part is only accessible by foot. The road is carefully constructed from hard stones and ends at the beginning of the archaeological area of ancient Thira. Here you will find a refreshment hut, seating and car parking space. Buses also go to this point. From the top of the Ancient Thira  there are breathtaking views over the eastern coast of Santorini, with the coastal villages of Kamari and Perissa as tiny toy towns far below. If you intend to walk or take your car it is advisable to go before 11am, in this way you will avoid trying to negotiate passing oncoming traffic on the narrow mountain road. If you are intending to walk it is recommended to wear suitable footwear because the climb from the car park to the settlement itself is not dangerous or difficult but it does not have a properly constructed road to walk on. The other most historic area of Santorini located in Akrotiri where the excavations brought to the light the remains of the Minoan town. Thirasia Thirasia belongs to Santorini island complex and is opposite of Oia. Its today’s shape is what was left from Stroggili west coast after the volcano's eruption in 1.500 B.C. The imposing natural landscape with impressive geological formations, well preserved folk architecture of houses and churches, the amazing view of Santorini, Palaia and Nea Kameni and the scenic Korfos coast with traditional taverns are the main features of this beautiful but not very popular island. It extends over 9000 sq. m and has a population of 260 inhabitants. Archeologists have found here settlements of later Copper period and Classic period. You can reach Thirasia by boat from Santorini or by sailing boat from Oia.

Useful information

• Police (Fira) (+30) 22860 22649
• Police (Oia) (+30) 22860 71954
• Fire Brigade (+30) 22860 33199

TRAVEL SERVICES

• Port Authority (+30) 22860 22239
• Airport (+30) 22860 22218 / 31525 / 31538
• Customs (+30) 22860 22230
• Aegean Airlines (+30) 22860 28500
• Santorini's Local Buses (+30) 22860 25404
• Santorini's Radio Taxis (+30) 22860 22555
• Archaeological Museum of Santorini (Fira) (+30) 22860 22217
• Prehistorical Museum of Santorini (Fira) (+30) 22860 23217
• Archeological Site of Akrotiri (+30) 22860 81366
• Folklore Museum of Santorini [Em. A. Lignos] (Fira) (+30) 22860 22792
• Maritime Museum (Oia) (+30) 22860 71156
• Bellonio Civic Centre (+30) 22860 24962
• Petros M. Nomikos Conference Centre (+30) 22860 23217
• Informational & Cultural Association (Emporio) (+30) 22860 81490
• Cultural Centre, Megaro Gyzi (Fira) (+30) 22860 22244

LOCAL AUTHORITIES

• District Council (+30) 22860 22996
• Municipality of Fira (+30) 22860 22231
• Community of Thirassia (+30) 22860 29143
• Community of Emporio (+30) 22860 81333
• Community of Oia (+30) 22860 71228
• Community of Pyrgos (+30) 22860 31226
• Community of Messaria (+30) 22860 31604
• Community of Akrotiri (+30) 22860 81364

PUBLIC SERVICES

• Post Office (Fira) (+30) 22860 22238
• Telecommunication Organization of Greece (OTE) (+30) 22860 22135 / 22121
• Electric Company (+30) 22860 22258
• Cable Car (Fira) (+30) 22860 22977
• Alpha Bank (Fira) (+30) 22860 23801
• Alpha Bank (Oia) (+30) 22860 71867
• National bank (Fira) (+30) 22860 22662
• National Bank (Kamari) (+30) 22860 34133
• Piraeus Bank (Fira) (+30) 22860 25441
• EFG Eurobank Ergasias (Fira) (+30) 22860 25739
• EFG Eurobank Ergasias (Oia) (+30) 22860 71342

HEALTH SERVICES

• Hospital (+30) 22860 23123-4 / 23333
• Health Centre (Fira) (+30) 22860 22237
• District First Aid Station (Emporio) (+30) 22860 81222
• District Firts Aid Station (Kamari) (+30) 22860 31175
• District Firts Aid Station (Oia) (+30) 22860 71227
• DistrictFirts Aid Station (Pyrgos) (+30) 22860 31207
• District Firts Aid Station (Thirassia) (+30) 22860 29144
• Pharmacy (Fira) (+30) 22860 22700
• Pharmacy (Fira) (+30) 22860 23444
• Pharmacy (Fira) (+30) 22860 25310
• Pharmacy (Oia) (+30) 22860 71464
• Pharmacy (Kamari) (+30) 22860 32440
• Pharmacy (Messaria) (+30) 22860 32566

PRIVATE DOCTORS

• Dentist (Fira) (+30) 22860 23685
• Dentist (Fira) (+30) 22860 23769
• Gynaecologist (Fira) (+30) 22860 25080
• Gynaecologist (Fira) (+30) 22860 24100
• Gynaecologist (Messaria) (+30) 22860 28502
• Ophthalmologist (Fira) (+30) 22860 25488
• Chest Specialist (Messaria) (+30) 22860 32916
• Orthodontics (Fira) (+30) 22860 25753
• Orthodontics (Fira) (+30) 22860 23769
• Orthopedic Surgeon (Fira) (+30) 22860 25815
• Microbiologist (Fira) (+30) 22860 25124
• Physiotherapist (Vothonas) (+30) 22860 31517
• Radiologist (Messaria) (+30) 22860 33294
• Psychologist (Emboreio) (+30) 22860 82273
• Veterinary Surgeon (+30) 22860 31482

• Contact Us:
• +30 2810 346185

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