Therasia Island

Located just a short boat ride from Santorini, Therasia is part of the volcanic archipelago in the Aegean Sea. Its main settlement, Manolas Village, sits perched on a hill with captivating views from its caldera. Unlike the crowded streets of Santorini, Therasia retains a more traditional, slow-paced charm. Whitewashed houses, narrow cobbled paths, and colorful churches dot the island, giving visitors a feel of authentic Cycladic architecture. The village’s hilltop location offers panoramic views from the caldera to Santorini's famous sunset, without the crowds.

Top Things to Do

Though small, Therasia offers plenty to explore, showcasing both its natural charm and rich culture:

1. Explore Manolas Village

Stroll through the quaint lanes of Manolas, discovering Cycladic-style houses, a few local cafes, and panoramic caldera views around every corner.

2. Visit Agia Irini Church

Perched on a hillside, this lovely little church provides a tranquil spot with sweeping views over the Aegean Sea.

3. Discover the Monastery of Koimiseos Tis Theotokou

A short hike from the Riva port leads to this peaceful monastery, known for its serene atmosphere and breathtaking views of Santorini.

4. Watch the Sunset

For a quieter experience, catch the sunset from Manolas or nearby hilltops, a serene alternative to Santorini’s popular sunset scenes.

5. Tour a Local Vineyard

Visit Mikra Thira, the island’s only vineyard, to learn about the wine-making process and taste wines with unique volcanic mineral notes. Enjoy a guided tour covering production, bottling, and aging techniques, concluding with a memorable tasting experience.

Activities to Explore Therasia Island

Therasia is a fantastic stop on various tours departing from Santorini:

Volcano and Hot Springs Tour

Many tours to the volcanic islands of Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni also visit Therasia, offering the chance to swim in hot springs, enjoy the island’s natural beauty, or savor a meal at a local tavern.

Hiking Tours

Explore several trails on Therasia, including routes that lead to the island’s highest points, providing stunning panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and Santorini.

Private Cruises

Many private cruises include a lunch stop at Therasia, where you can enjoy a meal at a local taverna before returning to Santorini. Some boat tours even allow you to customize your itinerary, giving you the freedom to explore the island's secluded bays and swimming spots at your own pace.

Where is the Closest Beach for Swimming

Therasia may be rocky, but it offers several swimming spots with crystal-clear waters. The main beach, Riva Beach, is located near the island’s port. It’s pebbly but offers refreshing swimming spots in its calm, turquoise waters. Some tavernas along the shoreline offer a comfortable place to relax post-swim. Another excellent spot is Korfos Bay, a quiet area ideal for swimming and accessible by a winding path down from Manolas Village.

Where to Eat in Therasia

Therasia is known for its fresh seafood and authentic Greek cuisine, served at cozy, family-run tavernas that use locally sourced ingredients. A few must-try spots include:
•The Rock
•Captain John
•Qhera
•Taverna Panorama
•Fyrgano

Bars and Nightlife

Therasia is more of a quiet escape than a party destination, so nightlife is limited. A few tavernas stay open late, offering a relaxed spot to sip on local wine or raki under the stars. The laid-back ambiance makes it perfect for those looking to unwind rather than party, allowing visitors to enjoy a more serene evening experience.

Where to Stay in Therasia

Therasia offers limited accommodation options, as most visitors choose to stay in the main town of Santorini or other nearby villages, visiting Therasia for a day trip. However, for those seeking a peaceful stay on this quiet island, a few rooms are available near Manolas village, conveniently close to the local market and bakery.

How to Get to Therasia

Therasia is easily accessible by boat from Santorini, with multiple departure points. Regular ferries and small boats operate from Amoudi Bay in Oia, the Old Port of Fira , and Athinios Port, Santorini’s main ferry terminal. The journey is short, usually about 10–15 minutes, and provides scenic views of the caldera. Additionally, many day tours from Santorini include Therasia as part of their itinerary, allowing visitors to explore the island conveniently during a full-day excursion.

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