Fira, the Charming Capital of Santorini
Atop the dramatic cliffs of Santorini, overlooking the azure waters of the Aegean Sea, lies the charming town of Fira. This picturesque capital is a tangle of whitewashed buildings and winding cobblestone streets, interspersed with breathtaking views. In Fira you will find history, culture, romance, and plenty of natural beauty.
Why Fira is Worth a Visit
Santorini is famous for beautiful beaches and for being one of the most romantic destinations in the Mediterranean, especially if you stay in one of the gorgeous villas for rent. In the many villages of Santorini you can breathe in the authentic Greek atmosphere, while hiking trails such as the one to Skaros Rock show all the wild beauty of the island.
If Oia is famous for its sunsets, Fira serves as the vibrant heart of Santorini, pulsating with life and energy. In fact, Fira is the only town in Santorini where you can really live the nightlife in bars, restaurants and clubs.
What to see in Fira
Here are some of the most interesting things to see during a stay in Fira.
The Caldera
Everywhere in Santorini, views of the caldera are a must, and in Fira the view of the old collapsed volcano is truly incredible, with the dark rocks, the blue sea and the other small ones in the background.
To admire the caldera, you can take a walk in search of the best vantage point, but you can also admire it from cocktail bar while sipping an aperitif. Even more fascinating is to join a boat tour, to admire Santorini from a different perspective.
One of the best viewpoints is on Nomikou Street, near the conference center.
The Old Port of Fira
The Old Port is one of the must-see places in Fira. Besides the picturesque charm of the place, what makes it so popular is also the way you can get there. You can choose to ride up on a mule, the island’s iconic animal, or use the cable car that leaves from the center of town. Alternatively, you can walk the rock staircase of 500 steps. Whichever you choose, the view will always be enchanting!
The Museums of Fira
The Archaeological Museum of Fira collects ancient artifacts from the Hellenistic period -vases, sculptures, ceramics- to which are added a few Byzantine works and prehistoric remains.
The Museum of Prehistoric Thira displays objects of daily life dating back to the 3rd millennium B.C., including frescoes found at the archaeological site of Akrotiri.
Another museum is the Megaro Gizi Museum, which houses a collection of photos, manuscripts and memorabilia tracing the history of Santorini. Concerts and events often take place inside.
The Churches
Definitely worth seeing are the Orthodox Cathedral and the Christian Cathedral.
The Orthodox Cathedral, with its white color, imposing dome and portico, is one of the most photographed buildings in Fira. It is located in the center of the town and dates from the first half of the 19th century, but was rebuilt in 1956 after an earthquake destroyed it.
The Catholic Cathedral, on the other hand, is completely different, with painted details and a beautiful ornate bell tower. If you can, climb to the top of the tower to admire the town from above.
The Trail from Fira to Oia
This trail is perfect for walkers. The full trail is almost 10 kilometers long and takes about three hours, but you don’t have to walk it from start to finish.
This trail is suitable for everyone and offers incredible views of the sea, in an atmosphere of peace and tranquility very different from what you experience in downtown Fira.
The Beaches of Fira
While Fira itself is perched on the cliffs overlooking the caldera rather than directly on the beach, there are several beautiful beaches within a short distance from the town. Here are some of the main beaches near Fira:
- Kamari Beach: It is one of the most popular and well-developed beaches on the island. It features black volcanic sand, clear blue waters, and a range of amenities including sunbeds, umbrellas, water sports facilities, beach bars, and tavernas. Kamari is only about 10 kilometers (6 miles) southeast of Fira and can be easily reached by car, bus, or taxi.
- Perissa Beach: Adjacent to Kamari Beach, Perissa offers another stunning stretch of black sand and crystalline waters. Like Kamari, Perissa is equipped with sun loungers, umbrellas, water sports rentals, beachfront restaurants, and cafes. It’s a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the laid-back beach atmosphere.
- Perivolos Beach: Situated next to Perissa, Perivolos Beach shares the same volcanic black sand and tranquil waters. It’s known for its relaxed vibe and a variety of beachfront establishments offering food, drinks, and entertainment. Visitors can indulge in water sports activities like jet skiing, windsurfing, and beach volleyball.
- Vlychada Beach: Located on the southern coast of Santorini, Vlychada Beach stands out with its unique landscape of white volcanic cliffs sculpted by wind and sea erosion. The beach itself boasts dark sand and clear waters, attracting visitors seeking a quieter and more secluded atmosphere. Vlychada is ideal for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a serene beach experience. It’s approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) from Fira and accessible by car or bus.
