Thira (Fira)

Arriving by boat to Santorini is dramatic - sheer black cliffs, capped with tiny white buildings, rise steeply from the sea. Fira has been the capital of Santorini since the late 18th century, prior to that it was home to vineyards!

Go to Fira early in the morning to have your coffee and watch the sun creep up over the caldera, see the fishermen selling the morning's catch at the busy central market, later why not explore the town's excellent museums & beautiful churches. As the ferries arrive on the island Fira will become noticeably busier - day trippers and backpackers will make their way into Fira's narrow alleyways to browse the variety of shops.

580 steps rise up from the old port to the town, helpfully each step is numbered! If this all seems a bit strenuous for you then there is a cable car! Once at the top why not install yourself in one of the many bars or restaurants which offer dramatic views across the caldera.

Fira is the must-see for cruise ship visitors and backpackers so can get quite crowded in the summer.