Rent a car and drive up to Ancient Thera. The road uphill winds quite a lot so go slow and watch for opposing traffic!
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After passing the ticket check, it is a long walk further uphill to reach the ruins of an ancient city. The views are spectacular - you can even see planes take off from the local airport beneath you, and ocean surrounds you on 3 sides.
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Pyrgos Kallisis also commands a great view of Santorini. It is slightly touristy with a key attraction but the crowds are manageable. Some shops line the narrow streets and the brilliant sunshine bounce off the white and blue buildings nicely.
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Fira is visible in the distance, perched above the cliff overlooking the ocean.
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Try out some local dishes, such as eggplant, tomatoes, and very sweet desserts.
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It is quite easy to drive around the island. There isn't too much traffic and the roads are easy to navigate. I didn't see police anywhere but you wouldn't want to speed through the lovely scenery.
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Heading south, the red beach near Akrotiri extends up the hillsides. It was still a bit too cold to swim in these waters though.
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This lonely lighthouse at the southwestern tip of Santorini is a great place to see the caldera and also the sunset.
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Sunsets are incredible everywhere.
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You can take a donkey down to the caldera to the ferries, or the cable car, or via a long staircase.
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Ferries take visitors on half day trips to Nea Kameni, a volcanic island just off Santorini. On the way, you can appreciate Fira's spectacular and perilous geographic setting.
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Life continues to thrive on the barren landscape. Volcanic remnants are actually very nutritious.
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This is a popular day trip option, and the island is now overrun by tourists.
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Seems like every guidebook tells you to walk from Fira to Oia, which takes about 3 hours. Initially, it's a comfortable walk with lots of great views.
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Endurance is key. The last 2 hours is full of uphill steps and downhill falls. You will be hungry and hoping to find the main road and catch the bus for the rest of the way.
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You will arrive in Oia just in time for another spectacular sunset.
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Good morning Oia! The tourists arrive quite early in their coach convoys, so you need to beat them by an hour at least.
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