Fira (Thira) – Santorini’s Capital
Fira or Thira is the capital and largest town in Santorini. It is situated on the western edge of the island and has a population of around 2,000 people.
Fira is known for its traditional architecture, stunning views of the caldera, and bustling nightlife. It is considered one of the best places to stay in Santorini, with numerous restaurants, bars, and shops, as well as direct bus connections to all corners of the island and to the airport.
Oia – The Santorini Sunset & Windmills Village
Oia is a charming village located on the northern tip of Santorini.
It has a population of around 1,500 people and is known for its beautiful blue-domed churches, narrow streets, old windmills, the ruins of a castle and stunning views of the sunset.
Oia is considered one of the most romantic places in Santorini and is a popular destination for honeymooners.
Imerovigli – Romance by the Skaros Rock
Imerovigli is a small village located on the western edge of Santorini, right on the Fira – Oia walking path. Imerovigli has a population of around 500 people and is known for its stunning views of the caldera and the Aegean Sea.
Less crowded than Oia and Fira, Imerovigli is considered one of the best places to stay in Santorini for its peaceful atmosphere and breathtaking caldera and Skaros rock views.
Firostefani – Caldera without the Crowds
Firostefani is a small village located on the western edge of Santorini, just a short walk from Fira. It has a population of around 400 people and it is known for its stunning views of the caldera and the Aegean Sea.
Firostefani is a quieter alternative to Fira, with fewer tourists and a more relaxed atmosphere. It is home to several restaurants, cafes, and shops, as well as some of the most luxurious hotels in Santorini.
There are some hotels in Firostefani with Caldera views, but also various apartments and less expensive hotels only a few minutes away from the magnificent caldera rim walk.
Kamari Village & The Most Popular Beach in Santorini
Kamari is a seaside resort town located on the southeastern coast of Santorini. It has a population of around 1,800 people and is known for its black sand beach, numerous restaurants, and lively nightlife.
Kamari is a popular destination for families and young people. Kamari Beach is one of the best beaches on Santorini. Mesa Vouno, the mountain that’s home to the archeological site of Ancient Thera, separates the two black sand beaches, Kamari and Perissa.
Perissa Village – Nice & Less Crowded
Perissa is a seaside village located on the southeastern coast of Santorini, just a few kilometers from Kamari. As a matter of fact, the two villages are so close to each other that they share the same coastline. However, they are separated by this mountain, Mesa Vouno, that stretches far into the sea,
Perissa has a population of around 700 people and is known for its black sand beach, crystal clear waters, and lively beach bars. I loved the beachfront promenade in Perissa, with its colorful street signs, chairs, umbrellas, vacation houses and restaurants.
Perissa is a popular destination for families and young people, offering a wide range of water sports, boat tours, and other activities.
Akrotiri – History & Beaches
Akrotiri is a small village located on the southwestern tip of Santorini, just a short drive from the Red Beach. It has a population of around 500 people and is known for its archaeological site, which dates back to the Minoan period.
Akrotiri is a great place to explore the ancient history of Santorini, with well-preserved ruins and artifacts on display. It is also home to some of the island’s most secluded beaches and charming tavernas.
There’s a direct bus connection between Fira and Akrotiri. Many people take the bus to Red beach, but very few of them stop by Akrotiri. I discovered because I wanted to visit the lighthouse in the neighborhood. Unfortunately, I arrived too late in the day to walk to the lighthouse and back to catch the last bus back to Fira, so I gave up this idea in favor of visiting Akrotiri.