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Fira (Thira) capital of Santorini is
considered one of the most beautiful towns in Greece. The
Greeks are actually very proud of it. The view from the edge
of the cliff is breathtaking and there are many people who
think it is one of the most beautiful views in the whole
world. It is spectacular, I'd go that far.
The town centre of Thira is at the edge
of the cliff. All the exclusive restaurants, luxury hotels
and pricy shops are located there. The price level is one of
the highest in all Greece. Spending 50 Euro on a meal is no
problem, 500 Euro per night for a room with a view nothing
unusual and the exclusive jewellery shops are in a league of
their own. You want to spend 5000 Euro for a ring? In Fira on
Santorini that isn't a problem and they will gladly assist.
A serpentine path leads the 200 meters down to the bottom of
the cliff. It is meant for pedestrians. If you are feeling
lazy you can also rent a donkey or use the cable car. The
donkeys are very popular. During high season about 100
donkeys are "on duty" to carry tourists up and down the path.
Another interesting walk is along the path at the edge of the
cliff. It leads to the suburbs up north.
Thiras old town is a pedestrian zone. The lanes are narrow,
beautiful and packed with tourists. The further you go from
the edge of the cliff the cheaper Fira gets. It takes less
than 200 metres to leave the pedestrian zone. The main road
is where you find the main square with its takeaways, small
super markets, travel agencies internet cafes; right next to
it is the bus station. In the area you will also find more
basic accommodation and shops for the - let's say - less
wealthy tourists.
Fira is a "must see" if you are in the area and with that I
mean the Cyclades. The city on the top of a volcano is
something special. A day trip is enough though. A good work
around if you travel on budget is to stay in Perissa for
example and go to Fira by bus.
Busses from Thira: The bus station in Fira is the main
bus terminal on the island. From here you get everywhere. The
busses are frequent and cheap. The bus to the ferry port also
leaves from here. Busses will depart approximately 90 minutes
before the ferries departure-time enough. The bus station is
situated in the centre of the city, conveniently located
close to all major attractions. An up-to-date bus schedule
you will find at the station.
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