Quick Facts

Volcanic Origin

Santorini was formed by one of history's largest volcanic eruptions around 1600 BCE, which created its distinctive caldera and crescent shape.

Sunset Views

The village of Oia on the northern tip is world-famous for its sunset views, considered among the most beautiful on the planet.

Unique Wines

Santorini produces distinctive wines from Assyrtiko grapes grown in volcanic soil using the kouloura vine-training system that protects grapes from strong winds.

Akrotiri Archaeological Site

Often called the 'Minoan Pompeii,' Akrotiri is a prehistoric settlement preserved under volcanic ash since the 17th century BCE.

Colorful Beaches

The island features unusual beaches with red, black, and white volcanic sand and pebbles, most famously Red Beach and Black Beach.

Cycladic Architecture

The iconic white-washed buildings with blue domes that cascade down the caldera cliffs represent traditional Cycladic architecture adapted to the volcanic landscape.

Overview

Santorini is a volcanic island in the Cyclades group of the Greek islands. It is famous for its dramatic views, stunning sunsets, white-washed houses, and blue-domed churches perched on cliffs overlooking the Aegean Sea. The island is shaped like a crescent with the caldera in the middle, created by one of the largest volcanic eruptions in history. Beyond its picturesque landscapes, Santorini offers unique beaches with red, black, and white volcanic sand, renowned wineries producing distinctive wines from grapes grown in volcanic soil, and archaeological sites like the prehistoric settlement of Akrotiri.

Why Visit Santorini, Greece?

  • Experience the world's most spectacular sunset views from Oia
  • Swim in unique volcanic beaches with red and black sand
  • Sample distinctive wines grown in volcanic soil at local wineries
  • Explore the ancient Minoan settlement of Akrotiri
  • Cruise the caldera and see the island from the water
  • Photograph the iconic blue-domed churches against white buildings