Today, we're setting off on an unforgettable adventure to the island of Thirassia, a little gem tucked away in the Santorini archipelago. If you've already visited Santorini, you know just how magical this destination is. But have you ever heard of its little sister, Thirassia?
Picture a place where time seems to have stood still, where white houses with blue roofs blend into a landscape of volcanic cliffs and the shimmering Aegean Sea. A place where the locals greet you with a warm smile and where the local cuisine is a real treat for the taste buds. That's Thirassia, a hidden gem of the Aegean Sea.
On my first visit to Santorini, I was captivated by the island's beauty, but also struck by the crowds of tourists. While looking for an escape, I discovered Thirassia. A day trip to this island gave me an authentic experience, far from Santorini's tourist bustle. Since then, every time I plan a trip to Santorini, I always make sure to include a day on Thirassia in my itinerary.
Why visit Thirassia?
Thirassia is like travelling back in time. Far from the crowds of Santorini, this little island offers an authentic taste of traditional Greece. Here are a few reasons why you should absolutely visit Thirassia during your stay in Santorini.
A haven of peace
Thirassia is a true haven of peace. With a population of approximately 300, the island is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of Santorini. Here, you can relax, enjoy nature and immerse yourself in local life. I spent an entire day wandering the narrow lanes of the village of Manolas, admiring the traditional houses and chatting with the locals. It was a truly enriching experience.
Breathtaking landscapes
Thirassia offers breathtaking landscapes. Picture volcanic cliffs plunging into a deep blue sea, white houses perched on the heights and panoramic views over the Santorini caldera. I was dazzled by the beauty of these landscapes. I highly recommend hiking to the top of the island to enjoy a breathtaking view over Santorini.
Delicious food
If you love Greek food, you'll adore Thirassia. The island is renowned for its family-run tavernas where you can enjoy traditional dishes made with local ingredients.
An authentic experience
Finally, Thirassia offers an authentic experience of Greece. Here, you can discover the islanders' traditional way of life, take part in local festivals and explore historic sites off the beaten path.
For me, Thirassia is a must-see destination for anyone looking to discover another side of Santorini. Whether you're looking for tranquillity, breathtaking landscapes, delicious food or an authentic experience, Thirassia has it all. So don't hesitate to include a trip to Thirassia in your Santorini travel itinerary. You won't regret it!
How to get to Thirassia
Now that you're convinced Thirassia is worth it, you're probably wondering how to get there. No worries, I'm here to guide you!
By ferry from Santorini
The most common way to get to Thirassia is to take a ferry from Ammoudi port in Oia, Santorini. Ferries usually leave three times a day, at 8:00 am, 12:45 pm and 5:35 pm from Ammoudi in 2026; this is the free municipal boat "Eleftherios", which serves Riva and Korfos. The crossing takes approximately 20 minutes. Note that Thirassia residents have priority and remaining seats go to visitors on a first-come, first-served basis, so arrive 15 to 20 minutes before departure. Crossings depend on the weather: check with the Santorini Port Authority (+30 22860 22239). Don't forget to check the return times so you don't miss the last ferry!
On an organised tour
If you'd prefer a more comfortable option, you can also book an organised tour to Thirassia. Many travel agencies in Santorini offer day trips to Thirassia, which usually include the boat transfer, a guide and sometimes a meal. It's an excellent option if you want to enjoy your day without worrying about the logistics.
By private boat
Finally, if you're after a more exclusive experience, you can hire a private boat to get to Thirassia. It's a pricier option, but it lets you discover the island at your own pace and enjoy incredible views of the Santorini caldera. You can hire a boat in Oia or Fira.
Whichever option you choose, I promise the journey to Thirassia is an experience in itself. Whether you take the ferry, an organised tour or a private boat, you'll be amazed by the beauty of the Aegean Sea and the view of the Santorini caldera. So get your camera ready and enjoy the ride!
What to do on Thirassia
Once you arrive in Thirassia, you may be wondering what to do. Don't worry, there's plenty to explore on this little island. Here are some of the main attractions and activities you can enjoy on Thirassia.
Historic sites
Thirassia is an island steeped in history and culture at every turn. Here are some of the historic sites you won't want to miss during your visit.
The church of Agia Irini
The church of Agia Irini is one of Thirassia's gems. Legend has it that this little white church gave Santorini its name (Santa Irini). Located near the port, it offers a magnificent view over the Aegean Sea. Inside, you can admire beautiful Orthodox icons and soak up an atmosphere of peace and serenity.
The monastery of Moni Kimisi Theotokou
Perched on the island's highest point, the monastery of Moni Kimisi Theotokou is another must-see historic site on Thirassia. This 19th-century monastery is still home to a few monks and offers a panoramic view over the Santorini caldera. On my last visit, I was struck by the tranquillity of the place and the beauty of the view.
The village of Potamos
Be sure to visit the village of Potamos, one of the oldest on the island. Here, you can wander the narrow lanes, admire the traditional houses and discover the church of Saint Demetrius, a fine example of Cycladic architecture.
The ruins of Kera
Finally, if you're a history buff, I recommend hiking up to the ruins of Kera. Dating from the Byzantine era, these ruins offer a fascinating glimpse into Thirassia's history and a breathtaking view over the Aegean Sea.
Outdoor activities
Thirassia is a true paradise for outdoor lovers. Here are some of the activities you can enjoy on the island.
Hiking to the top of the island
One of the most popular activities on Thirassia is hiking to the top of the island. The trail starts in Manolas, the island's main village, and takes you through varied landscapes, from vineyards to fields of wildflowers. Once at the top, you'll be rewarded with a breathtaking view over Santorini and the Aegean Sea. Don't forget to bring water and sunscreen, as the sun can be very strong.
Exploring the vineyards
Thirassia is renowned for its wines, and visiting the island's vineyards is a great way to discover the local wine culture. You can stroll through the vines, learn how the wine is made and, of course, taste some of the island's best wines. There you'll find Mikra Thira Winery,
Cycling around the island
Finally, if you prefer land-based activities, why not rent a bike and explore the island at your own pace? Several cycle paths cross the island, letting you discover incredible landscapes and visit places off the beaten path.
Local cuisine
Thirassia's cuisine is a real treat for the taste buds. The island is renowned for its family-run tavernas where you can enjoy traditional dishes made with local ingredients. Be sure to try "fava", a yellow split pea purée typical of the island, or "ntomatokeftedes", tomato fritters. And of course, pair your meal with a glass of local wine produced in the island's vineyards.
Relaxing on the beach
Finally, don't forget to enjoy Thirassia's few beaches. There are the pebble beaches of Riva, which are very welcome after a hard day. You can also swim at Korfou at the foot of the caldera, among the boats. And after a day of exploring, what could be better than relaxing on the beach while watching the sunset over the Aegean Sea?
Thirassia has a lot to offer, whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, a foodie or a beach lover. So don't hesitate to explore the island and discover its many treasures. You won't be disappointed!
One-day itinerary on Thirassia
Now that you have an idea of what Thirassia has to offer, let me suggest an itinerary for a day trip to the island. This itinerary is based on my personal experience and will let you discover Thirassia's main attractions.
Morning: arrival and exploring Manolas
Take the morning ferry from Ammoudi port in Oia and arrive in Thirassia in approximately 20 minutes. Once on the island, start your day with a visit to the village of Manolas. Get lost in the narrow lanes, admire the traditional houses and enjoy the view over the Aegean Sea. Don't forget to visit the church of Agia Irini and the monastery of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary.
Lunch: tasting the local cuisine
For lunch, head to a local taverna to sample Thirassia's cuisine. Try the "fava", the "ntomatokeftedes" and other traditional dishes. And of course, pair your meal with a glass of local wine.
Afternoon: hiking and relaxing on the beach
After lunch, hike to the top of the island to enjoy a breathtaking view over Santorini. Then head down to Riva beach for a relaxing afternoon.
Evening: returning to Santorini
Take the last ferry back to Santorini and enjoy the view of the caldera at sunset. It's an unforgettable experience!
This itinerary is just a suggestion and can be adapted to your interests and pace. Whatever you decide to do, I'm sure you'll have a memorable day on Thirassia. So don't hesitate to explore the island and create your own memories!
Travel tips for Thirassia
Before wrapping up this article, let me share a few useful tips for your visit to Thirassia.
Best time to visit
Thirassia is pleasant to visit all year round, but the best time is probably between April and October, when the weather is warm and sunny. If you want to avoid the crowds, I recommend visiting in the low season (April–May and September–October).
What to bring
Don't forget to bring sunscreen, a hat and water, especially if you plan to go hiking or spend time on the beach. And of course, don't forget your camera to capture the island's stunning landscapes!
Safety tips
Thirassia is a very safe island, but as always, it's important to use common sense. Be careful when hiking, especially on rocky terrain, and follow the safety rules if you go sea kayaking or jet skiing. For more information on safety in Santorini and the surrounding islands, check out our article on safety in Santorini.
Conclusion: exploring Thirassia from Santorini
Thirassia is a true gem of the Aegean Sea, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Santorini. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, a foodie or a beach lover, Thirassia has something to offer you. With its breathtaking landscapes, delicious food, historic sites and outdoor activities, Thirassia is a must-see destination for a day trip from Santorini.
FAQ – Discover Thirassia
How do you get to Thirassia?
The easiest option is the free municipal boat "Eleftherios" from Ammoudi port below Oia (three departures a day in 2026, residents have priority). Organised boat trips also serve the island.
What is there to see and do on Thirassia?
There's plenty to see and do on Thirassia. You can visit the traditional villages, beaches, monasteries, caves and archaeological sites.
Where can you stay on Thirassia?
There are a few hotels and apartments on Thirassia, and they're fairly cheap.
Where can you eat on Thirassia?
There are a few restaurants on Thirassia serving traditional Greek and international dishes.
How much does a stay on Thirassia cost?
The cost of a stay on Thirassia depends on the length of your stay, your type of accommodation and your budget. In general, however, a stay on Thirassia is more affordable than a stay on Santorini.
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