Santorini features two of the most significant archaeological sites in Greece: the city of Ancient Thira and the Prehistoric Settlement of Akrotiri. Ancient Thira is a spectacular archaeological site, situated a short distance from the settlements of Perissa and Kamari. It is comprised of the ruins of an entire city, including an agora, a theater, a, gymnasium, sanctuaries, and other structures.

Akrotiri is an extremely well-preserved ancient site, with houses, storage rooms, a very sophisticated ancient sewage system, staircases, and roads, all of which are in magnificent condition. The entire settlement was covered in lava when the eruption of the volcano took place in the 17th century B.C. Before visiting Akrotiri, ask the reception desk of Fanari Villas for the opening hours of excavation area.

Of course the visit of the museum cannot be neglected: Museum of Prehistoric Thira and Archaeological museum, both in the capital of the island Fira, as well as the Folklore museum Megaron Gyzi, etc.

Relax and have fun in the sun on some of the most unique beaches in Greece. In a cove, at the foot of the cliff where Fanari Villas is located, lies the picturesque pebble and rocky beach of Ammoudi, with its quaint fish tavernas and excellent swimming spot at the island of Aghios Nikolas.

Situated close to Ammoudi is another beautiful cove called Armeni, which is known for its small port and lovely pebble beach. While staying at Fanari Villas, you will have easy access to the beautiful Santorini beaches of Katharos, Baxedes, Paradissos and Koloumbos.

The black sandy beach, which extends along the eastern coast of Santorini, is also a popular place for sunbathers, avid swimmers and water sports enthusiasts. These black sands are located in the coastal settlements of Perissa, Kamari, Monolithos, and Perivolos. The Red Beach and the White Beach near Akrotiri, are also wonderful and offer a stunning Aegean Sea view.

In Oia, we recommend strolling through the charming streets, going to the bay of Ammoudi with its quaint tavernas; and visiting the Oia Castle, Maritime Museum where you can admire the fine artefacts that outline the nautical tradition of Santorini and of course the four hundred years old church of Ayia Ekaterina (St Catherine) which remains untouchable even passing through tremendous earthquakes and disasters.

An abundance of lovely churches is located in Oia (Panagia Platsani or Akathistou, Agios Spyridonas, Anastasi, Agios Sostis), as well as in other areas, including Ipapanti of Sotira in Fira, Panagia in Emporeio, Agios Georgios in Imerovigli, Eisodon of Panagia in Megalochori, Theotokaki in Pyrgos, and Panagia of Katefiani in Perissa.

While vacationing in Santorini Greece, don’t forget to visit the small, volcanic islands of Thirassia, Nea and Palea Kammeni, located off the western shore of the island, where you can swim in the thermal baths of the Caldera. From Ammoudi, a traditional boat departs for Thirassia Island, three times a day.

Like in most areas in Greece, cuisine plays an important role in learning about its culture and history.

Centuries of poverty and occupation by enemies combined with the lack of water, the total absense of forests and animals, lead the habitants to discover new sources of proteins. We make use of anything offered by this extraordinary land.

Anhydrous cultivations give smaller but much tastier fruits and vegetables. If you want to "sample" true Santorini, you should try its delicious local specialties. The most popular dishes are the famous fava (split pea paste) and tomato balls, as well as zucchini balls, chick pea balls, sun-dried cherry tomatoes, fried white aubergines, fish stew, and other seafood dishes. No visit to Santorini is complete without trying one of the wines produced on the island, which are celebrated for their aroma and the rich bouquet.

Today, all this tradition has developed to a fusion cuisine, characterized by the special aromas and the touch of Aegean Inspiration.