greek-islands.org - My visits to laid-back Greek Islands in the Cyclades and the Dodecanese

Santorini

Fira and the Caldera cliffs from the sea.

For many visitors, to the Greek Islands and the Cyclades, Santorini is the favorite island. I understand the fascination for the islands, its special shape, nature, fantastic views from the Caldera cliffs. Some even say that Santorini has the most beautiful sunsets in the world. Personally I do not agree with the latter, because you can find a lot of breathtaking views elsewhere in the Greek archipelago.

Santorini is actually a group of islands in the south Aegean sea: Thera, Thirassia, Aspronisi, the Christiana Islands, Palia Kameni (Hot Springs) and Nea Kameni (Volcano). And my favorite islands Folegandros, belongs to the Province of Thera, which also includes Anafi, Thirassia, Ios,and Sikinos – the Southern Cyclades group

I have not spent that much time on Santorini, mainly because it is packed with tourists, overdeveloped, expensive, and it’s hard to relax. I like to get away from the crowds during my holidays. One way would be to visit Santorini outside the main season, of course, but normally I am busy visiting my favorite islands Folegandros and also Naxos during spring time.

Despite the negative aspects I mention here, you should at least visit Santorini one time. Maybe you fall on love with this island?

Naxos town by night

Naxos town at the water front, by night.

Temple of Apollonas, known as Portara, by night.

The moon above Naxos town at the water front.

For me Naxos town by night is a tasty dinner with some wine, a slow walk by the water front, looking towards west and the Temple of Apollonas/Portara, feeling the mild wind from the sea, looking at people passing by, and eventually taking some cool photos!

Others might focus on the night life, clubs, dancing and so on. These activities are also possible in Naxos town, especially during the main season.

The photos above were taken September 2009.