Santorini
The snow-white houses on the bright red crater rim. The brilliant blue of the church cupolas set against the backdrop of ochre-brown pumice stone formations. Luminous vines and miles of black lava-sand beaches: Santorini is a unique and fascinating natural phenomenon of awesome beauty.
Santorinis symphony of colours: a holiday on dark beaches
The volcanic island of Santorini was formed more than three and half thousand years ago. Even today, the volcano demonstrates sporadic activity and is thus unique in the Eastern Mediterranean. The serpentine route from the harbour to the edge of the crater is, per se, an unforgettable experience just like the rest of your holiday on Santorini.
Venture on spectacular boat trips, hike through solidified, jet-black worlds of extrusive rock shapes and enjoy long, sunny days at the beach. Get to know typical Greece from a slightly different perspective.
Beach resorts, bar atmosphere and ravishingly beautiful views - a holiday on Santorini
Fira awaits you with a sea of houses that resemble icing sugar. Towering above is the impressive arcaded structure of the cathedral that boasts massive crystal chandeliers and colourful frescoes in its interior. Other sights in Fira are the Prehistoric and the Archaeological Museum. But best of all is the chance to admire the islands simply stunning panoramas whilst sitting in a charming taverna and savouring a glass of delicious crater wine.
From the old harbour, you can take a boat to Nea Kameri and walk between stone deserts and crater holes. Or how about relaxing in one of the hot springs? Or, if you prefer, why not visit Thirissia, the sister island of Thira (Santorinis official name), which is still virtually untrammeled by tourists and enchants with unspoiled nature.
Santorinis most prominent beach resorts are Kamari and Perissa. Kamari is popular with package tourists and attracts with an unending choice of hotels and tavernas and a rugged, steeply ascending cliff, as well as with miles of dark gravel beach. After a sunny, relaxing day at the beach, why not sweeten your stay in Kamari with a wine-tasting in the area?
Perissa radiates youthfulness and is appreciated, inter alia, by rucksack tourists. This is where to enjoy warm Greek nights to the full.
Cultural bliss, a romantic fishing village atmosphere and sunset in Oia
Oia is located at the north tip of the island. A former fishing settlement, Oia is characterised by winding streets with steps, round roofs and church cupolas. A large number of artists and artisans have settled here. The sights in Oia include the interesting galleries and the marine museum, and when the fiery red sun sets into the deep blue sea, your holiday will feel like absolute bliss.
Santorini, an island for connoisseurs and aestheticians. Lean back and enjoy the magic of nature in unison with a laid-back and enjoyable lifestyle.
Destinations - A to Z
Flightplan
Distance & flight time
- Distance from Zurich: 1860 km
- Time shift: +1h
- Flight time from Zurich: 02:30h
Characteristic Santorini
Why are Greek houses painted white and blue?
Nothing is more symbolic of Greece than the colour combination white and blue. Whitewashed, cubic houses with bright blue window frames and cupolas epitomise Greeces romantic holiday charm.
The colours of the houses reflect the Greek national flag and symbolise the sea and the sky and the purity of the fight for independence. Thus, the choice of colour for their respective houses was also a pledge to Greece in times of Turkish foreign rule.