The pretty little island that’s heaving in summer but best to visit in winter

A pretty little island topped with tiny snow-white villages that’s overly crowded in summer is among the best places to visit in Winter.

Located in Greece, Santorini is one of the most famous islands in the world. Its picturesque white-themed houses have made it one of the most Instagrammable places with several tourists flocking to the island for a perfect vacation. 

The island is a group of islands consisting of Thira, Thirassia, Aspronissi, Palea and Nea Kameni in the southernmost part of the Cyclades.

Santorini’s volcano is one of the few active volcanoes on Greek and European land. The islands that form Santorini came into existence as a result of intensive volcanic activity; twelve huge eruptions occurred, one every 20,000 years, and each violent eruption caused the collapse of the volcano’s central part creating a large crater (caldera). 

The volcano, however, managed to recreate itself over and over again.

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Romantic getaway

Today, Santorini is considered to be the most sought-after place for a romantic getaway in Greece since there are not many places in the world where you can enjoy exquisitely clear waters while perched on the rim of a massive active volcano in the middle of the sea.

The island has a growing reputation as a “wedding destination” for couples not only from Greece but from all over the world.

The popular tourist spot, however, is very busy during the summer with many people battling to get a perfect selfie spot.

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Authentic in Winter

However, the destination can be explored more peacefully during winter as there are not many tourists in that season.

Maria Zorzos, who works in one of the few shops to stay open out of season, told The Telegraph: “There aren’t so many tourists at this time, but the ones who do come are looking for a more authentic experience.”

Local media even reported that its Tourism minister Vassilis Kikilias has launched a programme to attract visitors out of season.

Even the temperature levels during the winter season make it a perfect winter destination. The temperature oscillates around 18-19C even in the third week of December.

‘Real island life in winter’

Andreas Makaris who runs an Earth and Water Studio in Megalochori was happy about the island out of season.

He told The Telegraph: “Santorini returns to real island life in winter. We meet up without neighbours in tavernas; we dance to live music; we have fun.” 

The best places to see in Santorini include The Castle of Nicholas, Amoudi Bay, Nea Kameni. Fira is the picturesque capital of the island perched on the top edge of the Caldera, 260m above sea level, offering breathtaking views to the Aegean Sea and the island of Nea Kameni.

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