Fira holidays

Good to know for your Fira holiday

Embarking on a holiday to Fira? Here are some essential tips to help ensure your trip is smooth and enjoyable:

How to reach Fira

• Flight time: Flights to Santorini take about 4 hours from London and other major UK cities.

• Transfer time: Fira is within a 10- to 15-minute taxi or bus ride of the airport.

• Price: An airport taxi will set you back around €30–€35; single bus tickets cost €2–€2.50.

Best time to visit Fira

The best time for your holidays to Fira depends on your preferences for weather and tolerance for crowds.

March to May sees Santorini warming and brightening up, with average temperatures ranging from 16 to 24°C and 7 to 11 hours of sunshine daily. With spring showers tapering off into April and May, these are lovely months to explore the island’s capital, less so for beach-going, with sea temperatures below 17°C until May.

June to August brings clear blue skies and temperatures in the high 20s and low 30s. If you want to beat the worst of the summer crush, June is your best bet. By July and August, Fira will be heaving, though things will quiet down in the late evening with the departure of cruise ship passengers.

September and October offer comfortable temperatures, between 27 and 23°C, and 10 to 7 hours of sunshine daily. With sea temps in the low 20s, these are lovely swimming months. Rain picks up going into October, but you’re still talking four rainy days out of 31.

November to February is cooler, with temperatures falling from 19 to around 14°C. There’s a higher chance of rain; January (the wettest month) experiences 85mm of rainfall. Sunshine hours are at their lowest, too, averaging 4 hours. However, if you want to see the more authentic side of the capital and are not a fan of crowds, these are arguably the best months to visit. Short of a few like-minded travellers, it will be you and the locals.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Greek is the official language, but English is widely spoken in Santorini.

• Currency: Greece is in the eurozone.

• Getting around: Fira is the hub of Santorini’s comprehensive bus network. Depending on distance and time of travel, fares range from €2–€3.10 (cash only). Taxis are like gold dust; there are only about 25 on the island. They aren’t metered, so negotiate a fare before you travel. As a guide, taxiing between Fira and Oia should cost around €25–€35. Given the rarity and cost of taxis, renting a car at the airport or a local agency in Fira may be a better option.

• Electricity and plug types: The standard voltage is 230V 50 Hz. Plugs are two-pin Type C and F.

• Time zone: Greece operates on Eastern European Time, 2 hours ahead of GMT (3 hours ahead during Daylight Saving Time).

By keeping these points in mind, you can navigate your Fira holiday with ease and make the most of your time in this stunning Santorini town. Enjoy the blend of cultural richness and scenic beauty that Fira has to offer!

Best things to do in Fira

Santorini’s capital ticks all the boxes: picture-perfect streetscapes with whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches, sensational natural scenery, and a vibrant dining and cultural scene.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Three Bells of Fira (The Catholic Church of the Dormition): The church is worth a look-see for its dome and iconic bell tower, but the number one reason to visit is the views over Santorini’s partially-drowned volcano.

• Cable Car: Shuttling back and forth between the Old Port and Fira, 220m above sea level, the 3-minute cerulean sea views just about compensate for ride wait times.

The best districts

• Old Port: A staggering 600-odd steps below the main town (you’ll be thanking your lucky stars for the cable car), the Old Port area offers tavernas, souvenir shops, stunning views and boat excursions.

• Plateia Theotokopoulou: Fira’s central square, flanked by shops and eateries and dotted with whimsical donkey statues and benches.

Parks and gardens

• Nea Kameni: Smack bang in the centre of the flooded caldera, a 20-minute boat trip from the Old Port; this otherworldly volcanic island is one to cross off your bucket list.

Museums

• Museum of Prehistoric Thera: This small museum houses fascinating artefacts from the ancient city of Akrotiri, including pottery, frescoes and tools dating back to the Bronze Age.

• Lignos Folklore Museum: Set in a traditional cave house, this heritage museum provides a fascinating snapshot of island life in the late 19th and early 20th century.

Historical monuments

• Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral: Business in the front, party in the back. The church’s stark, gleaming white stone exterior gives no hint of the colourful, heavily frescoed interior waiting inside.

Day trips in the area

• Oia: Famous for its stunning sunsets, Oia also offers a ruined Venetian castle, classic Cycladic architecture, art galleries and a maritime museum.

• Akrotiri Archaeological Site: Often referred to as the Pompeii of the Aegean, this impressive Bronze Age settlement was buried under volcanic ash during the Minoan eruption c. 1645 BC.

Activities for families in Fira

Best known as a grown-up getaway (not entirely undeservedly), Fira is unlikely to be the first place to spring to mind for a family holiday. The terrain is hilly, many hotels are adult-only, and the usual kids' activities are few and far between. That’s not to say you should rule it out, but it’s probably a better fit for families with older children.

• Swimming pools: Aria Suites, Santorini Palace and El Greco Resort and Spa are family-friendly options with swimming pools.

• Boat tours: Boat tours of the caldera have a broad family appeal and include a swim to the volcanic hot springs.

• Interactive museums: Located in nearby Megalochori, Lost Atlantis is a 9-D experience (ages 6 and up) and interactive museum that brings Plato’s legendary city to life.

• Family-friendly beaches: Roughly 10km east of Fira, organised Kamari Beach is one of the most popular beaches on the island, and it's no wonder. It has 5km of volcanic black sand, deep water for swimming and plenty of amenities, including water sports.

• Cinemas: The Open Air Cinema Kamari is hard to beat for a family-friendly evening activity. Think of movies like Mamma Mia, The Fall Guy, Deadpool and Wolverine. Films are shown in their original language with Greek subtitles.

Free things to do in Fira

A tight holiday budget doesn’t need to mean missing out on fun activities; there are plenty of free (or at least wallet-friendly) things to do and see on Fira holidays.

• Watch the sunset: Oia gets top billing for sunsets, but it’s far from the only option. Nearby Imerovigli Viewpoint and Skaros Rock are both top spots.

• Annual festivals: Oia is the hub of Santorini’s September Ifestia Festival, which celebrates the island’s volcanic heritage. Festivities include art exhibitions, live music and theatrical and dance performances, capped by dazzling pyrotechnics.

• Explore around Fira by public transport: The Fria to Oia bus route circuits the northern part of the island, making stops at the caldera villages – Firostefani, Imerovigli, Finikia, Oia – and the north coast beaches. Tickets cost €2–€2.50.

Nature and outdoor activities

• Hiking: The point-to-point hike from Fira to Oia offers breathtaking views of the caldera and the sea. It’s a moderately challenging route and typically takes around 3 hours.

• Cliff jumping: One for daredevils, the teeny, tiny, steep island just off Amoudi Bay on the northwestern tip of the island is a go-to spot for cliff jumping.

• SUP: With minimal wave action, Kamari Beach is an ideal spot for sedate paddleboarding. You can rent boards from the on-site water sports kiosk.

• Horse-riding: For animal lovers, local outfits such as Maris Horse Riding offer horseback tours suitable for all levels of rider.

Best beaches to visit during your Fira holiday

While Fira itself is perched atop the caldera cliffs and doesn't have direct beach access, its central location on Santorini makes it an excellent base for exploring some of the island's most stunning beaches. Here's where you can enjoy sun, sea, and sand during your Fira holidays:

• Kamari Beach: Just a short drive from Fira, Kamari Beach is known for its striking black pebbles and crystal-clear waters. This well-organized beach offers sun loungers, umbrellas, and a promenade lined with cafes and shops, making it a perfect spot for a day trip.

• Perissa Beach: Famous for its black volcanic sand, Perissa is another beach that's easily accessible from Fira. With a vibrant atmosphere, this beach boasts a variety of water sports facilities, beach bars, and restaurants.

• Red Beach: A bit further afield but worth the visit for its unique red and black volcanic sands framed by towering red cliffs. Red Beach offers a dramatic and picturesque setting ideal for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers.

• Vlychada Beach: For those seeking a more secluded experience, Vlychada is characterized by its moon-like landscape and tranquil atmosphere. It's less commercialized and provides a peaceful retreat with natural beauty in abundance.

• Amoudi Bay: Although not a beach in the traditional sense, Amoudi Bay offers a delightful spot for swimming and snorkelling. Located below Oia, you can enjoy a scenic drive from Fira to this charming port, famous for its clear waters and fresh seafood tavernas.

Each of these beaches offers a different experience, from the bustling shores of Kamari to the serene retreat of Vlychada. They all complement your Fira holiday by providing a full spectrum of seaside activities and scenic beauty, ensuring your trip is as relaxing or as adventurous as you desire.

Local dishes in Fira

One of the pleasures of Fira holidays is sampling local produce, such as its signature tomatoes, legumes and aubergines.

Some typical dishes

• Sfougato: Along the same line as an Italian frittata, Sfougato combines beaten eggs with cheese, vegetables and herbs.

• Melitzanes Santorinis: Unique to the island, Santorini’s sweet-tasting white aubergines are a must-try. Look for dishes like Melitzanes Papoutsakia (stuffed aubergines) or Melitzanosalata (aubergine dip).

Meze dishes

• Tomatokeftedes: Moreishly good fritters, onions, fresh herbs and spices play second fiddle to the star ingredient, Santorini’s famed tomatoes.

• Fava Santorinis: Contrary to what you might expect from the name, yellow split peas are the key ingredient in this humble but tasty dip. The peas are cooked with onions, garlic and olive oil until they disintegrate, then blended into a creamy purée.

Meat dishes

• Moussaka: Common across the mainland and islands, this traditional Greek béchamel-topped layered lamb and aubergine casserole is a safe bet.

• Spetsofai: Sliced sausages and bell peppers in a rich tomato sauce.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Grilled sun-dried Octopus: Seasoned with olive oil, balsamic vinegar and oregano and served slightly charred, this dish is a worthy contender for any must-eat list.

• Psarosoupa: Made with fresh local fish, vegetables and herbs, this rustic fish soup packs plenty of flavour.

Street food

• Souvlaki: These grilled beef, chicken, lamb or pork skewers are typically served with pitta bread, tomatoes, onions and tzatziki.

• Gyros: Spit-cooked pork or chicken, tomatoes, onions, lettuce and cucumber topped with tzatziki and wrapped in pitta.

Sweets and desserts

• Baklava: Paper-thin layers of filo filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with honey or syrup.

• Galaktoboureko: Buttery filo and semolina custard drenched in orangey, sugary syrup.

Local drinks

• Vinsanto: Produced using sun-dried Assyrtiko and Aidani grapes, Vinsanto wines (not to be confused with Italian Vin Santo) are naturally sweet and pair well with nutty desserts.

• Yellow Donkey: Brewed by the Santorini Brewing Company in Episkopi Gonias, this refreshing pale ale has a citrussy finish.

Insider tips for your Fira holiday

Fira, the vibrant heart of Santorini, offers a diverse range of holiday experiences, whether you're looking for a budget-friendly escape, a luxurious all-inclusive stay, a romantic getaway, or a family adventure. Here are some insider tips to help you make the most of your Fira holiday:

Cheap Fira holidays

• Travel Off-Peak: For the best deals, visit Fira during the shoulder seasons of late spring or early autumn when the weather is pleasant, and prices are lower than the peak summer months.

• Accommodation Choices: Opt for guesthouses or budget hotels a little away from the main caldera view areas. These offer significant savings and often still provide charming environments.

• Eat Local: Dine at tavernas where the locals eat. The food is delicious, authentic, and often more affordable than the tourist spots facing the caldera.

Fira holidays all-inclusive

• Book Early: Secure your all-inclusive packages well in advance, especially if you’re planning to travel during the high season. Early bookings can offer the best rates and availability.

• What’s Included: Check what the all-inclusive package includes. Some might cover not just meals and your room, but also drinks, some activities and even transfers.

• Location Matters: Ensure your hotel is centrally located so you can also explore Fira’s attractions easily without needing extra transport.

Romantic holidays in Fira

• Sunset Views: For an unforgettable romantic experience, choose a hotel with a sunset view over the caldera. The breathtaking scenery adds a special touch to your stay.

• Private Tours: Consider booking private tours to vineyards or a sunset cruise which can be tailored to create a more intimate, memorable experience.

• Spa Services: Select a hotel with spa facilities where you and your partner can enjoy relaxing treatments enhancing your romantic holiday.

Family holidays to Fira

• Stay Flexible: Look for family-friendly accommodations offering flexible room configurations and kitchen facilities to make your stay more comfortable.

• Activities for Kids: Check if your hotel provides children’s activities or has a pool, which can be a great way for the kids to unwind.

• Explore Together: Visit local attractions like the Archaeological Museum of Thera or take a donkey ride up the old port steps—fun for the whole family.

With these insider tips, your Fira holiday can be tailored to fit your needs, whether you're saving on costs, seeking luxury, enjoying a couple’s retreat, or navigating the delights of Santorini with your family.

Sports and outdoor activities in Fira

Fira, with its stunning landscapes and vibrant atmosphere, offers more than just scenic views and historical sites. For sports enthusiasts and adventure seekers, Fira presents a variety of outdoor activities that capitalize on its unique terrain and beautiful weather. Here’s what you can dive into during your Fira holidays:

Hiking

• Caldera Edge: One of the most popular activities in Fira is hiking along the caldera edge. This trail offers breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea and the volcanic islands. Starting from Fira and extending to Oia, this route is not only scenic but also filled with opportunities to explore the natural and historical landmarks of Santorini.

Water sports

• Kayaking and Stand-Up Paddleboarding: With the clear blue waters of the Aegean Sea, engaging in water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding is a must. These activities are available on many of the beaches close to Fira and offer a fun, refreshing way to enjoy the sea.

• Scuba Diving: Explore underwater volcanic rock formations, vibrant marine life, and even some shipwrecks by diving into the waters around Santorini. There are several reputable diving centers offering courses and excursions for all experience levels.

Sailing

• Catamaran Tours: Book a catamaran tour to see the island from a different perspective. These tours often include stops at secluded beaches, hot springs, and provide a unique opportunity to watch the sunset from the sea, making them a popular choice for both relaxation and romance.

Biking

• Mountain Biking: For a land-based adventure, consider renting a mountain bike to explore the rugged terrain of the island. There are routes suitable for all levels of cyclists and it’s a great way to discover hidden corners of Santorini.

Whether you're a seasoned athlete looking for your next challenge or a holidaymaker eager to try something new, Fira’s range of sports and outdoor activities promises to add excitement and adventure to your stay. Get active, enjoy the natural beauty, and make the most of your holiday in Fira!