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Greek island in the Aegean Sea
Photo: (WT-en) Chmouel at English Wikivoyage http://www.chmouel.com/, CC BY-SA 1.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Santorini is an archipelago of 5 volcanic islands in the Cyclades group of the Greek islands in the southern Aegean Sea, about 200 km southeast of mainland Greece. It used to be a single island, but was obliterated around 1600 BCE by an enormous volcanic explosion that destroyed the earliest settlements on the former island and created the current geological caldera. It is famous for dramatic views, stunning sunsets from white clifftop villages, the ancient city ruins of Thera and Akrotiri, unique wines, artists and craftsmen, an active volcano, and strikingly colorful pebble beaches.
By plane
There are regular flights from Athens by Aegean Airlines, Sky Express, and Volotea, with a flight time of 30-45 minutes. Volotea also has a regular service from Thessaloniki.
By boat
There are the standard ferryboats that need about 7–9 hours to reach Santorini from Piraeus and the fast ferries or high speed catamarans that take about 4–5 hours to reach the island.
By boat
Boats run between major coastal towns in the archipelago, notably between Fira, Nea Kameni, Palea Kameni, and the old port of Thirassia.
By car
Most of the people in Santorini are tourists, so road conditions are unsafe, with many people driving by the laws and conventions of nearly every country in the world.
By bicycle
The island is small enough to thoroughly explore by bicycle.
By foot
In Santorini, you shall find pathways paved mostly with cobblestones and steps at the cliffside, so it is not the best place for heels or non-comfortable shoes.
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Santorini Island · International · JTR
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