santorini caldera blue cruise

Caldera BlueCruise

Caldera Blue Cruise

Day cruise (5 hours) 10:00 – 15:00.

Our Day Cruise starts from the picturesque Ammoudi Bay. Passing by the fishermen’s island Thirassia, we will sail to the Volcano where you will enjoy a swim at the Hot Springs. Continuing our cruise, we will pass between Palea and Nea Kameni. Sailing across the Indian Rock & Venetian Lighthouse with their impressive view, we will stop at the famous Volcanic Red beach for swimming and snorkeling. Our next stop is Mesa Pegadia, where you can relax, swim or snorkel while we are preparing your meal. On the way back, we will sail coast to coast for admiring the breathtaking view of Caldera, passing by St. Nikolas and St.Eptapedes, until we reach Ammoudi.

Complimentary Services Transportation from/to hotel Lunch or Dinner Buffet οn board: Grilled chicken skewers, Hot dogs, Tzatziki & stuffed vine leaves, Salad, Soft drinks, White local wine Snorkelling gear Maps & info about the island

€120 /person

Sunset Cruisee (5 hours) 15:30 – 20:30

The Sunset Cruise promises a superb experience, while sailing across the sea route from Ammoudi and Thirassia to Volcano, passing by the gorgeous coastline of southern Santorini with stops at the Volcanic beaches of the island and more sailing until the Northern part to St Nikolas and St. Eptapedes. After that, you will have the unique chance to live the majestic golden hour of the sunset. Impressive pictures, spectacular colors, unmatched beauty of the sun disappearing in the Aegean waters below the inimitable landscape of Oia Village.

  €120 /person

• Electric Fridge
• Fishing Equipment
• Lifejackets
• Power Generators

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Full-day Santorini Caldera Cruise with a glass-bottom boat

Experience nature’s beauty in all its glory by opting for a Santorini Caldera Cruise

Witness the treasures of one of the most famous calderas in the world. Take in the diverse landscapes that unfold before your eyes as you sail past volcanic islands and dramatic cliffs. From the soothing hot springs in Palaia Kameni to the picturesque alleys of Thirassia, you can’t help but wonder at the splendor surrounding the island. Finish your Santorini Caldera Cruise with a visit to Oia to marvel at the mesmerizing sunset!

• Price: From €50
• Meeting Point: Dakoutros Bros’ office in Fira or pick-up point
• Start Time: 09:20 am or pick-up point time
• Capacity: More than 50 participants
• Language: English
• Activity Level: Easy
• Duration: 9 hours
• Available: April to October

Santorini Caldera Cruise Highlights

• Explore the active volcano craters in Nea Kameni islet
• Rejuvenate at the hot springs of Palaia Kameni
• Be fascinated by the raw beauty and heavenly food of Thirassia
• View the vibrant marine life that’s thriving underwater the caldera
• Snap frame-worthy photos in the quaint pathways of Oia
• Admire Santorini’s sunset from one of the best vantage points on the island

Santorini Caldera Cruise Itinerary

Meet your guide.

Make your way to Dakoutros Bros’ office in Fira, where you’ll hop on a bus and be transferred conveniently to Athinios port. You can also be picked up from a central point near your hotel at no extra charge.

Visit the remarkable Thera volcano

Board your glass-bottom boat and start your trip to Nea Kameni islet, home to the Thera volcano. During your 1 hour and 15-minute stay, you can walk to its top to witness the active craters emitting steam!

Relax at the hot springs

Your next stop is another uninhabited volcanic islet called Palaia Kameni. Swim in its natural hot springs, which boast mineral-rich waters. There, you can enjoy a mud bath or just unwind for about 30 minutes.

Uncover the untold secrets of Thirassia

Continue your cruise to Santorini’s charming neighbor, Thirassia. Whether you choose to eat at a local tavern or wander around Manolas village, get ready to experience the authentic side of the Cyclades.

Watch the world-renowned sunset of Oia

Sail past imposing cliffs and disembark at Athinios port, where a bus is waiting to transport you to Oia. Stroll through its cobblestone lanes, filled with cute shops and cafes. Find a little corner to gaze at the setting sun as it dips below the horizon!

Finish your tour full of memories

Right after the sunset, the bus returns you to the starting point. With so many sights and activities packed into your day, you’ll leave with a deep appreciation for the magic of Santorini.

Santorini Caldera Cruise In Detail

Prepare for an unforgettable adventure in the turquoise waters of the Aegean. Set sail to behold the Thera volcano, which erupted 3,600 years ago, reshaping Santorini’s geological profile.

Then, revitalize in hot springs, which are believed to have beneficial properties for the body. Have a pleasant break on the island of Thirassia, either for lunch or exploration.

The final leg of your tour is the lovely village of Oia. Get lost in its iconic paths and marvel at whitewashed houses adorned with cascading bougainvillea. And the best part? You’ll arrive just about in time to cherish the setting sun painting the sky in golden-pink hues.

• Swimming noodles
• English-speaking tour guide
• Optional pick-up from central points in every village
• Transportation from Dakoutros Travel’s office to Athinios port with a bus
• Transportation from Oia to Dakoutros Travel’s office with a bus
• Personal expenses
• Gratuities (not mandatory)
• Entrance fee at the volcano (5€ per person)
• Wear comfortable clothing, sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat.
• Bring both flip-flops and walking shoes.
• We advise you not to wear a light-colored swimming suit, as the water in the hot springs contains sulfur and iron and can leave stains.
• Due to weather and safety reasons, the captain might modify the route without prior notice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you swim in the caldera santorini.

Yes, you can swim in certain areas of the caldera, such as the hot springs in Palaia Kameni and several coves in Santorini.

Is Santorini volcano worth it?

Absolutely! Visiting the volcano is a must-do for its stunning views and the chance to explore Santorini’s fascinating geological history up close. Just book one of the plentiful Santorini boat tours and get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Related Tours

Santorini Glass-Bottom Boat Tour

Explore Santorini’s nearby islands, including Palaia Kameni, Nea Kameni and Thirassia. From swimming in hot springs to hiking the active volcano, this Santorini glass-bottom boat tour will be etched into your memories forever!

Activity Level

Price from:

Santorini Volcano and Hot Springs Tour

Set sail on the deep blue Aegean Sea to explore the islets formed by the cataclysmic eruption of 1600 B.C. By booking this 3-hour excursion, you can check off unique bucket-list activities, such as hiking a dormant volcano.

Santorini Volcano Boat Tour Including Hot Springs & Therasia

Uncover the treasures nestled in caldera’s embrace during a unique adventure. Visit the famous Thera volcano, whose activity shaped Santorini’s geology. Revitalize your body with a swim at the hot springs and glimpse the authentic Cycladic way of life in Therasia.

Our Services

Kamari, Santorini – Greece

Kathrin: (+30) 6977435033

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• ΜΗΤΕ 1167Ε60000033700

GEMI 129149638000

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Santorini Caldera Blue Cruise (Day or Sunset)

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Sailing and swimming in the deep blue sea, enchanted by the beauty of the Caldera.

The Day Cruise begins from the lovely marina at Vlychada , continuing on to the Red Beach (with its impressive red rock formations) and White Beach (stunning with its grey and white pebbles and black sand) enabling you to take eye-catching photos on our way sailing past the Light House and finally reaching the old port of Fira , constantly under the shadow of the striking appearance of the Caldera.

We then head towards the Hot Springs (a natural volcanic spa) of Nea Kameni on the Volcano , you will have the chance to view the lunar scenery and swim or snorkel on top of a volcano, feeling the energy that overwhelms the senses.

On our return we will have our last stop at Black Mountain for swimming and lunch then sail back to Vlychada for the end of our tour.

Sunset cruise

The Sunset Cruise begins from the large and modern marina at Vlychada , sailing by the Red Beach (with its impressive red rock formations) and White Beach (stunning with its grey and white pebbles and black sand) enabling you to take eye-catching photos.

Our trip to the Hot Springs involves firstly passing by the old port of Fira , thus admiring on our way the impressive scenery of the Caldera .

At the Hot Springs (a natural volcanic spa) at Nea Kameni on the Volcano , you will have the chance to view the lunar scenery and swim or snorkel on top of a volcano, feeling the energy that overwhelms the senses.

On our return we will have our last stop at Black Mountain for swimming and dinner with wine and dessert, in the meantime, we will be enjoying one of the most stunning sunsets in the world.

Finally we sail back to Vlychada for the end of our tour.

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Caldera classic, caldera blue, caldera traditional cruise, panorama winter cruise.

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• 1. Watch the Sunset
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• 4. Visit Volcano and Hot Springs
• 5. Swim in the Black Beach
• 6. Visit Red Beach
• 7. Delish Dinner at Ammoudi
• 8. Visit a Winery on Caldera
• 9. Visit the Charming Prophet Elias Monastery
• 10. Visit Akrotiri Excavations
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Boat Tours in Santorini

Caldera traditional cruise in santorini with meal and drinks.

Want to make the most of your Greek holiday experience? Experiencing the Caldera traditional cruise is a must!

This one-of-a-kind Mediterranean experience will begin when we pick you up from your hotel in Santorini at the agreed-upon time. A friendly, professional driver and guide will wait for you in the hotel lobby, welcoming you to embark upon a sailing experience you will never forget!

From your hotel, we will head straight to the Ammoudi Port. You will get a chance to explore the island’s coastline and witness the breathtaking beauty of the Caldera . You can also swim in the therapeutic waters of Hot Springs and have the time of your life at Therasia Island .

Toward the end of the cruise, we will serve a delicious Greek meal on board . We have chicken fillet, tzatziki, beans, stuffed vine leaves, salad, and fruits on the menu. Special dietary meals are also available upon request. You can also chill on the deck and enjoy local white wine and your favorite soft drinks with your loved ones.

Apart from the complimentary transportation service from and to the hotel, you will receive snorkeling gear and maps of Santorini. Our experienced captain will accompany you on the cruise, sharing interesting information about the island.

You can choose between the following two cruise options, depending on your specific needs, requirements, and preferences.

The day cruise starts at 10.30. We will begin sailing from Vlychada Port towards the Red beach and White beach . You can walk by the shore with your partner or swim with your friends before we go on to explore the 19th-century lighthouse.

The next spot will be Hot Springs. The vibrant essence of the volcanic sea will awaken your soul, leaving you enchanted. The traditional wooden boat will then continue sailing towards Therasia Island, where you can swim and capture some fantastic photos of the natural landscape. A hearty meal will be served on board before the cruise leaves for the old port of Ammoudi. The fun-filled tour will end at 15:30.

Sunset Cruise

The sunset cruise starts from Ammoudi Bay at 15.30. The boat will sail towards Therasia Island and Palea Kameni. A soul-awakening experience awaits you at the volcano and Hot Springs. Enjoying the sun and the sea simultaneously, you will be left mesmerized by the unique beauty of the volcanic area.

The boat will then head south, crossing the ancient lighthouse, the famous Indian rock, the Red beach and White beach . Before entering the Vlychada Port, you will witness one of the most beautiful sunsets of your life. The cruise will end after you enjoy delectable Greek dishes on board.

Adults Age 13+

Children Age 3-12

Infants Age 0-2

• Chicken fillet, tzatziki, beans, stuffed vine leaves, salad, fruits
• Snorkeling equipment
• Transportation from/to your stay with an A/C mini-bus
• English speaking tour guide
• Safety equipment
• Drinks (soft drinks, white Santorinian wine)
• Meal included
• Maps and information about our island
• Greek salad
• Swimming noodles
• Gratuities (optional)
• Full name is required at time of booking for all participants
• Vegetarian/vegan food options are included in the menu
• For the sunset cruise, you are advised to bring a jacket
• A white swimsuit is not recommended at the sulfurous hot springs
• Alcoholic drinks will be denied for those under 18 years old
• Children under 12 years old must be accompanied by an adult
• Children of the age group 4 to 12 years old will be charged half ticket
• The map depicts the course of the Sunset cruise. The Morning or Day cruise follows the exact opposite route

A very enjoyable experience. Well organized. Friendly guides. A good opportunity to see different locations around the island. A very good meal. The only critique was that the sunset watching experience seemed too rushed.

The cruise was so good minimal people on board which made it a very personal experience and the 2 guys running it were awesome., A great experience!, Excellent!, Wonderful experience!, A must do!, Our guide was awesome!

My mom and I were visiting Santorini and I knew I wanted to do a sunset cruise, however, I was turned off my the cruises that had 20-30+ people packed onto a catamaran. I wanted something more intimate and enjoyable to truly get to soak up the experience! I am SO thankful we booked this cruise which was recommended by a friend. There were only 10 of us and 2 crew which was perfect and we had more than enough space. The crew was incredible and wanted us all to have fun. I will book this cruise again when I return!!

Super friendly staff, especially on board. There were biscuits to snack, Barbecue with freshly made food and even fruit after. They were never tight with drinks. Some great explanations and lovely atmosphere. Just to be aware, there are lots of boats out there doing the same thing but I’d always recommend to do it!

Once your booking is complete, you will receive the voucher, which includes the meeting point, time and supplier’s contact information, at your email address. You need to have it with you, in paper form or in digital form.

Cancellation

If you cancel at least 2 day(s) in advance of the scheduled date, there is no cancellation fee. If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled date, there is a 100 percent cancellation fee.

Passport or Id

Full names of the passengers (as shown on their passport or id). Passengers need to have onboard with them their passport or id or a copy of them, in case the Port Authority runs a check on the boat. A picture on their mobile will suffice.

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Our travel experts from santorini will be more than glad to help you select the right hotel and find the best experiences on this heavenly greek island.

We’re Santorini’s leading marketplace to explore and book unforgettable travel experiences. Santorini View is operated by Atlantis Software E-Services, a reliable travel agency licensed by the Greek National Tourism Organization with registry number ΜΗ.Τ.Ε. 0206E70000659501.

We offer top-quality , personalized tours and activities tailored to our guests' preferences and interests, with invaluable advice from our team of local experts. Our goal is to ensure that travellers, have the best possible experience in Santorini with access to the island's finest offerings.

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Private Cruises in Santorini island, GREECE

Yacht "oniro" in santorini.

Santorini’s first and only semi-private cruises  offering gourmet 5 course meals created by renowned chef.

Aboard the classic full renovated Motor Yacht “Oniro”, Greek for “Dream”, your dreams of living the good life in the Greek Islands will come true.

Choose from two cruises: a daytime cruise with lunch or a dinner cruise during which you will experience the magic of Santorini’s fabled sunsets. Both cruises offer opportunities for swimming and snorkeling.

During both, you’ll cruise the beautiful blue seas of the Aegean in luxury, survey the breathtaking vistas of Santorini, the Caldera and the island’s ports and hilltop villages, enjoy wine, beer and soft drinks while relaxing on the deck or in the lounge, savor a gourmet 5 course meal on the sunset dinner cruise or a delicious homemade buffet meal on the day lunch cruise and receive complimentary transportation from and to your hotel.

SEMI-PRIVATE CRUISE

Unique private cruises features, 5 course gourmet meals, champagne, local wines, beer, spirits, cocktails, soft drinks, water, coffee and tea, luxury beach towels, snorkeling equipment, transportation from and to your hotel, simplicity is the ultimate sophistication trend..

We are  Santorini’s only semi-private cruise on a classic full renovated motor yacht.

Oniro Yacht

To insure your comfort and safety, we limit the number of guests to 14 per cruise .

We are the only cruise offering 5 course gourmet meals .

We offer gourmet 5 course meals created by renowned chef.

We serve fine champagnes, local wines, beer, spirits, cocktails, soft drinks, water, coffee and tea.

We provide luxury beach towels and snorkeling equipment.

Our affordable prices include all food and beverages, transportation from and to your hotel.

Crew consisting of 4 highly experienced members on yacht services.

Ethnicity: Spain

Date: 4/8/2023, ethnicity: italy, date: 30/7/2023, ethnicity: uk, date: 29/7/2023, date: 27/7/2023, ethnicity: wahsington dc, date: 22/7/2023, ethnicity: usa, date: 20/7/2023, date: 8/7/2023, date: 7/7/2023, ethnicity: india, date: 2/7/2023, ethnicity: australia, date: 1/7/2023, blue cruisers.

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Santorini and Mykonos will soon impose a €20 tourist tax

To ease the burden of visitors in the summer season, those who arrive on cruise ship could be subject to the fee

Picture Greece and the likelihood is that the stacks and stacks of white-washed walls and cobalt blue roofs will spring to mind – they are iconic after all, so it’s hardly surprising so many people flock to the islands of Santorini and Mykonos every year to get an irl glimpse. 

But both destinations, like so many across Europe , are buckling under the sheer volume of visitors – and now local authorities have announced a policy to avert overtourism and ease the numbers during peak season. 

It comes in the form of a €20 tourist tax, which visitors who arrive specifically on cruise ships will have to pay in both destinations. Greece relies heavily on tourism, with the industry producing €20 billion in revenue to the economy in 2023, but Santorini is also home to 20,000 residents who are keen for numbers to be curbed. 

‘Greece does not have a structural over-tourism problem [but] some of its destinations have a significant issue during certain weeks or months of the year, which we need to deal with,’ said Greek PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis, according to the Telegraph .  ‘Cruise shipping has burdened Santorini and Mykonos and this is why we are proceeding with interventions.’

The money raised will apparently be funnelled back into local infrastructure investments, and regulations on the number of cruise ships arriving simultaneously in particular locations are also being considered. 

These measures aren’t the only restrictions being placed on tourists. Last week it was announced that the Environment Ministry had introduced draft legislation on building restrictions within Santorini’s caldera zone. 

This could mean the suspension of building swimming pools, extensions and brand-new structures, and while the policy is under public consultation, there’s been controversy between environmentalists and local businesses – stay tuned for updates on this. 

Take another Greece of our hearts

There’s nowhere quite like Greece – with its ‘gram-worthy beaches , pretty islands and lovely places to visit , the country is arguably the ultimate Mediterranean destination. Headed here for a late-summer vacay? You best brush up on the new nationwide rules on beaches . 

Been there, done that? Check out the best places to visit in Albania . 

Did you see that these are the world’s best island-hopping destinations ?

Plus: You might soon have to pre-book to view one of Italy’s most-visited attractions . 

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Santorini: Overtourism due to cruise ship visitors

Hordes of cruise ship tourists are overwhelming santorini. many feel that visitor numbers are out of control..

Every day, thousands of tourists visit the Greek island of Santorini, the majority arriving on cruise ships. As the amount of visitors continues to rise, pressure is mounting on the island's infrastructure.

Tourists on massive cruise ships disembark at Santorini's Old Harbor. There is something very dramatic about the contrast between the imposing cruise ships and the small harbor bay.

Although it's almost 6:00 p.m., the temperature is still over 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit). A little stand opposite the entrance to the Santorini cable car is selling water to tourists in need of refreshment.

ALSO READ: Greece: Tourism boom leads to new restrictions and fees. Is your favorite island affected?

The quickest way to Fira, the picturesque capital of the island, is to take the cable car. The only problem is that the cable car has just six carriages, each capable of carrying a maximum of six people.

The cable car also only departs once every 15-20 minutes. The tourists wait patiently for almost an hour in the scorching heat. The line is hundreds of meters long.

Mass tourism in the Mediterranean

Overtourism is a growing problem all over Europe's Mediterranean region.

A number of places are particularly affected, such as the Spanish island Mallorca, parts of Croatia's Adriatic coast and Kotor in Montenegro.

But of all the European holiday destinations, Greek islands, specifically Santorini, suffer most from mass tourism.

Santorini in the Cyclades is world famous for its white, blue-domed buildings and magnificent sunsets.

ALSO READ: Too many people, not enough management: A look at the chaos of 'overtourism' in the summer of 2024

Day-trippers overwhelm Santorini

A return trip on the cable car costs €12 ($13.25). Everyone inside the carriage is calm and relaxed, and the view outside is breathtaking.

A young couple takes photos. Others prepare their cameras and check their equipment. The trip lasts less than three minutes.

The calm dissipates as soon as the cable car arrives at the top of the hill. Tourists pour out of the cable car, intent on exploring Fira. In next to no time, the town's narrow, winding streets and alleys are thronged with people.

The chaos is a far cry from the calm of the cable car. Everyone is in a hurry; the daytrippers from the cruise ships have only a limited amount of time on the island but several items to tick off their Santorini bucket list.

Flora Danasi's shop is directly opposite the cable car exit. The daytrippers from the cruise ships are an essential source of revenue for her, especially this season.

Compared to recent years, the number of visitors booking accommodation on Santorini and staying for several days has dropped considerably. Hotels and accommodation report that bookings are down almost 30% this season.

"The difference between this year and the last two years is enormous," Danasi tells DW. "On days where no cruise ships dock, the island feels empty, and I don't do any business."

ALSO READ: Can responsible travel curb overtourism woes?

Residents feel sidelined

Just a few streets away from the cable car, the crowd of tourists comes to a complete standstill.

There are too many daytrippers for Anastasia Vazeou, who works in a clothes shop in Caldera. Vazeou grew up in Santorini and still lives there, but she feels sidelined as a resident.

"We have been advised to spend as little time as possible outside at peak cruise tourist times," Vazeou tells DW. "It is sad and extreme. Are tourists more important? There are too many people. It's just too much for such a small island."

Vazeou also works as a receptionist. The guests tell her about endless waiting times and hours of standing in line. "It seems as if it's now a case of quantity before quality here on Santorini," she says.

Noise, litter and pollution

The masses of people visiting the island also make for an unpleasant experience for the visitors.

Mona Isazad, a lecturer in Ireland, is on vacation with her husband in Santorini. In addition to the unique landscapes and the pretty white houses, she will take home memories of a very different aspect of her Santorini vacation.

"As a tourist, I feel that the island is overcrowded," she says. "There are people everywhere, especially in Oia and Fira."

Isazad and her husband have noticed that there is a lot of litter lying around.

"Also the rubbish seems to be an issue due to the masses. Maybe Greece should think of a way of limiting the daily amount of people on the island and some other measures to preserve nature, like Venice is doing," she says.

People working in the hotel sector also complain about the noise. "From 8:00 in the morning until 1:00 in the afternoon, the alleys are full of groups of tourists. You can hardly move. Like sardines in a tin," says Stavros Koukouvelis, describing the hordes of tourists who descend on Oia in the northwest of the island.

Koukouvelis has been working in Oia for 16 years. The village is a tourist hotspot because it is such an ideal spot for enjoying the sunsets. The apartments he manages in the village are directly on the narrow street that leads to the viewing point.

"The cruise ship tourists are destroying quality tourism. Even two ships cause a problem for us," says Koukouvelis.

Travelers pay almost €400 per night for these apartments and often complain about the noise caused by the crowds of tourists outside their doors.

New limits from 2025 onwards

The challenges that come with cruise tourism on Santorini are nothing new. It was one of the main issues for Mayor Nikos Zorzos during his first term in office from 2011 to 2019.

A 2018 study conducted by the University of the Aegean showed that Santorini can cope with up to 8,000 cruise ship tourists a day as long as their arrival is staggered over the whole day.

Based on this study, a berth allocation system for cruise ships was introduced in 2018. It worked well, Zorzos tells DW. "But the number of visitors was exceeded considerably again and again this year."

Zorzos says that this is not only frustrating for the locals, but also puts huge pressure on the island's infrastructure and is exhausting for the tourists themselves, especially in hot weather.

The mayor says that the daily limit of 8,000 visitors will be re-introduced in 2025. "This year, we were at least able to limit the number of days on which several cruise ships visited Santorini at the same time," he says.

Now in his second term, Zorzos is also concerned about construction on the island and the over-supply of accommodation. "This irrational development of the island must stop. Santorini does not need even a single room more," says the mayor. "It's just destroying the unique landscape that has made our island world-famous."

The island on social media and in reality

It's 6:00 p.m. in Oia, and the sun is still beating down. The streets are jam-packed with visitors on their way to the viewing point to watch the sunset. The crowd moves at snail's pace.

The streets are so narrow at some points that tourists moving in the opposite direction have to wait for several minutes. Hardly a word of Greek is being spoken.

On arrival, they swarm around like ants, vying for the best spot. Two Greek musicians are sitting on a white step playing Greek music on a guitar and a bouzouki.

Most of the tourists don't even notice them, so busy are they with their smartphones, filming their next Insta story and trying to get the perfect photo of the blue-domed buildings, sea and sunset. Everyone wants good photos with as few people as possible — ideally without anyone at all.

As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle subsides. Just minutes after the sun goes down, the viewing point is completely deserted. The musicians play on regardless.

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Where to Find the Blue Domes of Santorini (Anastasi Church)

Last Updated on 19th January 2024 by Sophie Nadeau

This post may contain affiliate links. Please check out my  privacy policy  and  disclosure  for more information.

Set against the backdrop of quintessential Greek architecture and the glittering azure of the sparkling sea, it’s easy to see why the Blue Church Domes of Oia in Santorini feature in pretty much every postcard from Greece. Here’s a quick guide on where to find the blue domes of Santorini (and how to get the best photos of the beautiful architecture once there!)!

Where to find the blue domes of Santorini (Anastasi Church of Oia)

How to take photos of oia, greece, things to do in oia close to the blue domes, enjoyed reading about where to find the blue domes of santorini pin it now, read it again later:.

Though the capital of the island of Santorini is actually Fira ( a small city in the central western part of the island that’s also known as Thera/ Thira or Θήρα in Greek) , the blue domes themselves are located in Oia , a magical hilltop town in Northern Santorini that’s characterised by its trailing bougainvillaea and winding narrow lanes.

Some of the best reasons to visit the island of Santorini include the amazing foodie scene to be found there, the stunning architecture, and the wealth of things to do.

From wine tasting to relaxing on volcanic beaches, there’s something for everyone on Santorini. Santorini is even a great destination if you’re planning a honeymoon in Greece. Want more proof? Check out our perfect 3 days in Santorini itinerary .

The blue domes themselves can be found in the form of the Anastasi Church on an unnamed road. This ecclesiastical building has been famous by the blue cupolas that crown the whitewashed walls and can be reached if you turn left down the pathway just before Patisserie Medevio on the road of Nik. Nomikou.

When it comes to taking photos of the blue domes of Santorini, you should know that despite what you may have seen on Instagram (and other travel publications) , both the blue domes of Santorini, as well as the rooftops surrounding them are strictly private and off limits and so you cannot get up close to them.

Do not cross the barriers and don’t purposefully ignore the ‘private signs’! These are people’s homes and so trespassing is forbidden. Next, as you may well imagine, the area surrounding the blue rooftops can get pretty busy, particularly during sunset- which many claim is the most beautiful time of the day to be in Oia!

This is especially true of peak season (i.e. May through to October) , and especially so during school holidays and at weekends. The quietest time in Oia is during the winter and early on the day mid-week.

As such, if you want to capture the best of the domes without the crowds, then you should head to Oia as early in the day as possible (preferably at sunrise so as to capture your photos with the best lighting). If you really want to beat the crowds, consider staying in Oia. Check the best accommodation prices for Oia here .

Fancy photographing a blue dome of Santorini outside of Oia? Well, another of the more photographed locations on the island is that of Imerovigli in Fira. For further information about taking beautiful travel photos, check out my ultimate travel photography gear guid e.

After snapping a picture of the blue domes, it’s not time to leave yet! Instead, there are a number of other things worth doing in Oia, for any kind of budget.

Aside from sampling the local cuisine at the ever-so-chic Red Bicycle Restaurant, be sure to pop into the beautiful bookshop of Atlantis Books and scout out the Cycladic windmills on the edge of Oia village.

Finally, if you’re looking for a memorable experience while in Santorini, you might consider taking a sunset cruise like this Small Group Sailing Cruise on a Catamaran .

Including a BBQ meal, drinks, towels, and lasting for five hours, there’s WiFi onboard and snorkelling equipment is available. Finally, this Traditional Santorini Sightseeing Bus Tour includes the opportunity to enjoy Oia at sunset.

You will surely not be disappointed should you opt to visit Greece, though there are a number of things to consider while planning your trip, such as the best time of the year to visit and other travel considerations. Check out our guide to the best of Greece tips for more information and inspiration!

Sophie Nadeau is a full time travel writer and photographer focused on cultural experiences in Europe and beyond. When she's not chasing after the sunset (or cute dogs she sees on her travels) she can be found reading, playing video games, and going on long hikes with her husband.

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One Comment

Your post is filled with such good tips! I’ve been planning for a trip to Santorini so this is really good for me to know.

– Laura || afinnontheloose.com

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