Fira, the dazzling crown jewel of Santorini.
Also known as Thira, it’s not only the capital of Santorini but also a city with a rich history tracing back to ancient times.
Nestled atop the dramatic cliffs of the island’s caldera, Fira offers breathtaking views of the volcano and azure Aegean waters below. And as the island’s central hub, Fira boasts a blend of Cycladic and Venetian architecture, with its iconic whitewashed buildings interspersed with blue-domed churches.
My time in Fira can be encapsulated with the sea-scented breeze giving a much welcome respite after getting lost countless of times around its stone-laden labyrinthine alleys.
True to it’s reputation, Fira remains steadfast as the beating heart of Santorini, ever-waiting for the next wanderer to grace its felicitous streets.
History of Fira
Fira’s story is a tale of transformation, from ancient beginnings to its modern renaissance.
In the old days, Fira wasn’t the primary settlement on the island. The honor went to Ancient Thira, which was located on the southeastern coast.
Established during the 9th century BC by the Dorian colonist Theras, Ancient Thira was a prominent city with its own unique blend of cultures, thanks to its strategic position in the Aegean.
The catastrophic eruption around 1,600 BC that formed Santorini’s iconic caldera led to the decline of the island’s ancient civilizations, covering settlements and leaving behind the sunken heart of the volcano we see today.
For many centuries, the island remained relatively quiet. Fira, as we know it, began its ascent to prominence during the Venetian occupation in the 13th century.
The Venetians, recognizing the strategic importance of the island, fortified it and named it Santorini, after Saint Irene. With the passage of time, Fira emerged as the island’s political and commercial hub.
Best Places to Visit in Fira
1. Theotokopoulos Main Square
In central Fira lies Theotokopoulos Main Square, named after the great Cretan painter, El Greco, whose birth name was Domenikos Theotokopoulos. This bustling square is the epicenter of activity in Fira and an essential starting point for anyone visiting.
Surrounded by numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops, the square is always teeming with life. There’s always something happening. You’re bound to spot or be spotted by the Evil Eyes that hang around the shops, which have evidently made its way deep into Greek culture.
Moreover, the square offers a fantastic view of the east side of the island. As enjoy a traditional Greek meal at one of the surrounding eateries, you can gaze out onto the serene landscapes of Santorini.
2. Museum of Prehistoric Thira
Explore the ancient past of Santorini at the Museum of Prehistoric Thira! Located a short walk from Theotokopoulos Main Square, this museum primarily showcases finds from the archaeological site of Akrotiri, the ancient Minoan city buried under volcanic ash around 1627 BCE.
This catastrophic event not only preserved the city beneath layers of ash but also provided invaluable insights into the life and culture of the people from that era.
3. Three Bells of Fira
Perched dramatically against the backdrop of the Aegean Sea, the Three Bells of Fira, or “Tria Bells” as locals might call them, are among the most iconic and photographed landmarks of Santorini and in terms of pure aestheticism, can definitely give the cliff-hanging monasteries of Meteora a run for their money.
Located at the Catholic Church of the Dormition, this emblematic structure has graced countless postcards, travel magazines, and Instagram feeds.
While the majority of the churches in Santorini adhere to the Greek Orthodox faith, this particular church serves the Catholic community, a remnant of the Venetian influence on the island.
4. Archaeological Museum of Thira
Established in 1960, the Archaeological Museum of Thira houses a wide array of artifacts that chronicle the various phases of the island’s history, spanning from the Late Geometric period to the Roman times.
One of its primary attractions is the collection of artifacts excavated from the ancient city of Thira, which is located on Mesa Vouno. This assortment includes intricately designed pottery, vases adorned with elaborate geometric patterns, and sculptural fragments that speak to the artistry of the ancient Thirans.
Also noteworthy are the inscriptions and grave stelae that provide invaluable insights into the societal norms, religious beliefs, and daily lives of Santorini’s ancient inhabitants.
While it may not be as extensive as some of the larger archaeological museums found in Athens or Delphi, its focused collections and the stories they tell make it a must-visit for anyone seeking to understand the layers of history that lie beneath the modern-day allure of Santorini.
5. Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral
The Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral, or simply the “Metropolitan Cathedral”, was constructed in the late 19th century and later rebuilt after the devastating earthquake of 1956, the cathedral’s current structure reflects the Cycladic architectural style that Santorini is famed for: pristine whitewashed wall.
The walls are adorned with intricate frescoes painted by local artist Christoforos Asimis. These art pieces depict various biblical scenes and saints. The cathedral’s floor is an artwork in itself, crafted from beautiful tessellated tiles arranged in mesmerizing patterns that add to the church’s aesthetic appeal.
You can also visit the Panagia Mesani Church in Emporio, the largest village of Santorini, for a similar vibe.
6. Santorini Old Harbor
Santorini’s Old Harbor, aka the “Old Port”, evokes nostalgic tales of a time when sailors, traders, and fishermen made their living in these azure waters. This is where you’d go if you’re visiting other islands by ferry, it’s what I used going to Crete to visit Ierapetra, the southernmost town of Europe.
Long before the days of luxury cruises, the Old Harbor served as the primary point of entry for goods and trade for Santorini. The harbor teemed with colorful fishing boats, merchant vessels, and the chatter of tradesmen going about their daily business.
Today, the Old Harbor still retains its old-world charm. A winding path, dotted with donkeys (and please don’t ride them), offers a picturesque descent to the harbor from Fira.
The harbor is also the starting point for various boat tours that explore Santorini’s caldera and surrounding islets. From here, you can embark on voyages to the hot springs, the volcanic islands of Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni, and other nearby attractions.
If you’re interested here’s a very popular tour that does exactly that.
Best Tours in Fira
From Fira, you can join plenty of activities including those that take you out into the Aegean waters since the there are plenty of departures from the Old Port. Here are some highly-rated tours you can join:
- Catamaran Cruise with Food and Open Bar – Experience Santorini in the most luxurious way. Sail through the island’s coastline and enjoy the most famous sunset diving inside the sea, as you enjoy traditional Greek food and special wine.
- Horse Riding Trip to Black Sand Beach – Learn to ride a horse and explore Santorini from a whole new perspective, admiring stunning views and the volcanic black sandy beach from the top of your horse with expert guidance.
- Sea Caves Kayak Trip with Snorkeling and Picnic – Paddle your kayak in the south part of Santorini, explore sea caves, swim, snorkel, and jump from cliffs. Later, enjoy a picnic at the beach with local organic products.
- Cooking Class with a Chef at Ftelos Brewery – Cook a 4-course meal with a chef, based on the Cycladic and Mediterranean cuisine in Santorini. Wander in the brewery and then feast on the full meal with a craft beer while enjoying the scenery.
Hidden Gems in Fira
7. Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist
Within Fira’s Catholic neighborhood, stands the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, serving as the cathedral for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Santorini, its foundations are deeply rooted in history, tracing back to the inception of the diocese in 1204.
Distinct from the predominant Cycladic architecture in Santorini, the cathedral showcases a baroque design, characterized by its blue-gray and cream facade. Constructed in 1823, it witnessed the test of time, especially during the devastating earthquake of 1956. Despite the damages, the cathedral’s spirit endured, leading to a complete restoration and rebuild by 1970.
8. Megaro Gyzi
Housed within a 17th-century mansion, Megaro Gyzi is a window into Santorini’s diverse cultural past. It stands as one of the few mansions in Fira that preserves its Venetian architectural characteristics.
One of its most prized collections includes a series of rare old photographs showcasing Santorini before the major earthquake, offering a look at its erstwhile glory.
Another highlight is the collection of traditional musical instruments. Additionally, the museum displays ecclesiastical collections, which include old icons, wood-carved iconostases, and sacred scriptures.
9. Catholic Church of Saint Stylianos
The Catholic Church of Saint Styliano is a lesser-known religious sanctuary but one that radiates profound spiritual significance.
Dedicated to Saint Stylianos, a protector of children in Christian traditions. Born in Paphlagonia during the 5th century, Saint Stylianos dedicated his life to prayer, solitude, and the care of children.
Where to Stay in Fira
Staying in Fira brings you front and center to all the action, it’s one of the most convenient places to stay as it’s connected to the port if you’re doing excursions to the nearby islands, and the main bus terminal is also located within the bustling capital. The only thing to note is that it’s quite a popular place and more often than not, the streets will be crowded. If you’re after some nightlife and socialization, Fira is the place to be.
Here are some of the best places to stay in Fira:
Best Hotels in Fira:
- Amphitheater Cave Houses – a short 7-minute stroll from the Archaeological Museum of Thera and just a few steps from the town center, offers air-conditioned lodgings with complimentary Wifi and a terrace.
- Fanari Vista Suites – provides breathtaking views of the Caldera. Every suite is equipped with a private outdoor hot tub and standard air conditioning, alongside amenities like a fridge and kettle. You can enjoy a continental breakfast served daily.
- Callia Retreat Suites – an adults-only establishment that boasts an outdoor pool surrounded by palm trees and a poolside snack bar. Designed in Cycladic style, the property has suites that seamlessly blend traditional elements with contemporary aesthetics, all equipped with balconies or terraces, free WiFi, air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, safes, and private bathrooms with complimentary toiletries.
Best Hostels in Fira:
- Fira Backpackers Place – offers budget-friendly accommodation and designed with hotel-like amenities at affordable rates. Both private and dormitory-style rooms are available, with private rooms featuring their own bathrooms, refrigerators, and air-conditioning. Dorm rooms come equipped with shared baths, luggage lockers, air-conditioning, and fridges. There’s also complimentary Wi-Fi, a communal kitchen, a washing machine, daily cleaning, a living area with a big screen, and a hairdryer.
- Bedspot Hostel – provides air-conditioned rooms, a communal lounge, free WiFi, and a terrace. The hostel provides airport transport and has a bicycle rental service. Rooms come with bed linen.
- Santorini Camping & Hostel – boasts an array of amenities including a pool with a sun terrace, a self-service restaurant, a poolside snack bar, a hot tub, fitness center, and a mini-market. Dormitory rooms, which open to patios, provide views of the pool, garden, or Aegean Sea and are air-conditioned. Meanwhile, tents are equipped with fans. Both accommodation types share bathrooms with showers. I would read the reviews on this one, but there really aren’t that much hostels available in Fira so I chose to include this one as well.
Top Things to Do in Fira
10. Watch a Sunset in Fira
Sunsets in Santorini are legendary, and Fira offers one of the most magnificent vantage points to witness this natural spectacle. While Oia often steals the limelight for its iconic sunset views, Fira provides a slightly different, yet equally captivating, perspective.
Perched on the caldera cliffs, Fira’s horizon lights up in a symphony of colors as the sun dips into the Aegean. The town itself becomes bathed in a warm, golden hue, casting shadows that dance along its whitewashed walls and narrow pathways.
The gentle breeze, the distant murmur of the waves, and the soft chatter of fellow admirers add layers to the experience. As the final glimmers of sunlight fade, there’s an unmistakable feeling of having witnessed something magical, a fleeting moment that, in its ephemeral beauty, embodies the spirit of Santorini.
11. Check Out the Folklore Museum
Established in 1974 by the multifaceted Emmanuel A. Lignos – a lawyer, journalist, and the editor of “Theraic News” – this museum offers a glimpse into the Santorinian life at the turn of the 20th century.
Housed within a traditional cave house, constructed in 1861 and resiliently standing the test of the 1956 earthquake, the museum space vividly depicts the quintessential domestic life of its era.
Perhaps the museum’s piece de resistance is its authentic domestic winery, tucked within a cavern, where the illustrious Santorini wine was once crafted. This space showcases barrels, timeworn tools, treading vats, and a wine press, embodying the island’s celebrated vinicultural heritage. Also, if you’re interested in trying out Santorinian wine, this wine-tasting tour is right up your alley.
The house is complemented by a picturesque courtyard and garden, flourishing with verdant trees and blooms, and housing the serene chapel dedicated to Saints Constantine and Helen.
12. Go Down the Karavolades Stairs
Stretching from Fira down to its old port below, the Karavolades Stairs, with a total of 588 steps carve their way through the cliffside. Historically, this stairway was the principal route for transporting goods and passengers between Fira and its port.
While the majestic sights can be enough, the experience is further enriched by the occasional encounter with Santorini’s iconic donkeys. For years, these sturdy animals served as the primary means of transportation along this path.
Though they are still actively ferrying tourists up and down the steps, I recommend you approach this option with awareness and respect for the animals’ well-being.
13. Watch A Show at White Door Theatro
Dive deep into Greek culture at “The Greek Wedding Show” in White Door Theatro.
As an audience member, you’re whisked away to 1940 Santorini to partake in the vibrant wedding celebrations of the Papadopoulos family, a far-cry from the Greek tragedies of yore.
It’s an interactive experience where you’re not just a spectator but an esteemed guest at a Greek wedding, joining the joyous festivities of the Papadopoulos family’s significant day. Through the narrative, you get a glimpse into the Papadopoulos family’s life in their historic 19th-century home.
But the heart of the evening? A musical extravaganza that resonates with all ages. From traditional Greek dances to the exhilarating act of breaking plates, it’s a cultural spectacle in every sense. Your senses are further indulged with local appetizers and free-flowing wine served in a traditional Santorinian outdoor patio.
If you’re in Fira, it’s an occasion not to be missed. You can get your tickets for “The Greek Wedding Show” here.
14. Ride the Santorini Cable Car
The Santorini Cable Car promises an exhilarating ride, connecting with the Old Port situated 220 m (720 ft) below. Inaugurated in 1982, this modern marvel was an initiative funded by Evangelos Nomikos, a philanthropist who envisioned an alternative to the traditional donkey rides, aiming to provide a faster, more comfortable means of ascent and descent while alleviating the strain on the local donkeys.
This aerial journey, which takes around 3 minutes, unveils panoramic views that are nothing short of spectacular. As the cable car glides gracefully over the caldera, you’ll be treated to a bird’s-eye view of the shimmering sea, the volcanic islands, and the stacked whitewashed houses of Fira, making it one of the best vantage points on the island!
15. Feel the Breeze at Santozeum
Santozeum, sitted gracefully atop Fira’s cliffs, combines the allure of Santorini’s beauty with its open-air exhibits. Designed by prominent architect Mark Walker, you’ll be exposed not just to art but also to the mesmerizing panoramic views of the sea and beyond.
One of Santozeum’s most notable exhibitions is the Akrotiri Frescoes. These frescoes are meticulous reproductions of original wall paintings found during excavations at the ancient site of Akrotiri.
The museum’s design means that you can feel the gentle Santorini breeze on your skin as you explore the island’s vibrant arts scene. In some ways, Santozeum offers an experience unlike any other in Fira.
Plan Your Trip to Santorini | Best Travel Resources
Book Your Accommodations
- Booking.com – the world’s leading online booking platform for accomodations around the world, they have an extensive amount of available listings with zero booking fees and best price guarantees.
- Hostelworld – a backpacker’s best friend, Hostelworld has the largest collection of hostels and guesthouses for affordable prices.
Don’t Forget Insurance
- SafetyWing – from Nomad Insurance, an insurance by nomads for nomads. They understand our lifestyle well and have really comprehensive and flexible plans that cater to any traveler.
Find Cheap Flights
- Kiwi.com – my go-to for booking and finding the cheapest flights and it’s helped me save tons of money. They do virtual interlining which is connecting flights from airlines that do not codeshare, so you can find routes that you wouldn’t be able to find normally.
Join Tours & Activities
- GetYourGuide – is one of the best places to find unique tours and activities. I found that it’s an excellent way to meet fellow travelers and create fond memories. They are not only limited to tours as they also offer niche services such as skip-the-line tickets or private transfers.
Catch a Ride
- Rentalcars.com – nothing beats the freedom of the road, Rentalcars.com is the world’s largest online car rental service. They operate across 160 countries so they’re the perfect partner to work with if you find yourself wanting a ride.
