#984 Santorini (Thira), Greece

Ancient Thira road.

Very few islands in the world can claim the spectacular vistas and incredible history that Santorini does. A massive circular volcanic ridge, with the smaller islands of the newer volcano growing in the center, it is a beautiful island among beautiful islands in the Aegean Sea. History wise, it was the home to many cultures, from Dorians, Hellenists, Romans, Byzantines, and others! It's most famous moment in history was the cataclysmic eruption in 1650BC (the biggest eruption in recorded history) which caused several massive tsunamis across the Mediterranean that saw the beginning of the end of the Minoans culture in Crete (and also the burial of the Minoan settlement of Akrotiri on Santorini itself). Its many volcanic eruptions have changed it from circular to the moon shape it is today. To the north are the sunset viewing spots of Oia, the main town of Fira. In the central area are the resort towns of Kamari and Perissa with Ancient Thira on the steep mountain between. Further south along the caldera is Akotiri.

View from the hilltop city of Ancient Thira towards Kamari.

Main center of Fira looking toward Oia.

Fira atop the caldera ridge.

Small islands of Palia Kameni (left), which appeared in 197BC and Nea Kameni, which appeared in 1707BC with town of Fira behind.

Fira Skala landing point of cruise ships.

Looking toward Fira from Imerovigli.

Fira

Many tourists gather for sunset photos in Oia.

View of the other half of the volcano - the island of Thirasia (separated in 236 BC).

Source: Lonely Planet Greece