What to See and Do on Therasia, Santorini’s Secret Island
When travelers dream of the Greek islands, Santorini almost always steals the spotlight. But just across the shimmering waters of the caldera lies another island, quiet and unassuming, where time seems to move at a gentler pace. This is Therasia (or Thirassia), Santorini’s little sister.
Therasia offers a completely different experience. Here, there are no crowds or luxury boutiques, no lines for sunset photos or noisy beach clubs. Instead, you’ll find traditional villages, unspoiled landscapes, and the tranquil rhythm of everyday island life. It’s the perfect escape for those who want to experience the authentic soul of the Cyclades.
A Glimpse Into Therasia’s History
Therasia was once part of ancient Strongyli, the single volcanic island that existed before the catastrophic eruption of around 1600 BCE — an event that shaped not only the geography of Santorini but also its history and legend. When the volcano erupted, it blew apart the island’s center, creating the dramatic caldera we see today. Therasia and Santorini were left as remnants of that ancient land, standing on opposite edges of the submerged crater.
For centuries, Therasia remained relatively isolated, its people living from fishing, agriculture, and viticulture. Even as Santorini developed into a major tourist destination, Therasia preserved its traditional way of life in its small villages perched on cliffs, quiet harbors, and old stone churches.
Today, the island has only a few hundred residents, but it has gained growing attention among travelers seeking authenticity and peace.
The Must-See Sights of Therasia
Though compact, Therasia offers a surprising variety of sights and experiences, from hilltop villages to volcanic beaches and hidden monasteries. Here are the highlights not to miss.
1. Manolas, the Island’s Charming Capital
Manolas, the main village of Therasia, sits high on the cliffs overlooking Santorini’s caldera. Reached by a steep path or a winding road from the port, this cluster of whitewashed houses and narrow alleys offers stunning panoramic views across the water to Oia and Imerovigli.
The pace of life here is wonderfully slow. Stop for a coffee or a glass of local wine at one of the small tavernas and simply take in the silence broken only by the sound of cicadas and the distant hum of boats below.
From the village’s edge, the sunset view rivaling that of Santorini can be admired. But here, you might have it all to yourself.
2. Agia Irini, the Ancient Heart of Therasia
Located near the island’s eastern coast, Agia Irini (Saint Irene) is said to be the site that gave Santorini its name. Though little remains of the original settlement, the area holds a quiet, historical charm and offers excellent hiking paths through volcanic terrain and terraced fields.
3. Riva, the Main Port
Most visitors arrive at Riva, the island’s small but lively harbor on the northern tip. It’s a simple place with a few seafood tavernas, fishing boats bobbing gently on the water, and locals unloading their morning catch. Riva is also the departure point for boat trips around the caldera and for ferries back to Santorini and the nearby island of Ios.
Just a short walk away lies Korfos Bay, a smaller and quieter harbor surrounded by cliffs. From here, a traditional donkey path climbs up to Manolas. It is a rewarding but steep ascent that takes about 30 minutes and offers spectacular sea views along the way.
4. Potamos and Agrilia, two Villages Frozen in Time
If Manolas is the beating heart of Therasia, the villages of Potamos and Agrilia are its soul. These two small settlements are among the oldest on the island, known for their unique cave houses carved directly into the volcanic rock.
In Potamos, you’ll find charming chapels, arched doorways, and traces of daily life untouched by mass tourism. Agrilia, once largely abandoned, is now slowly being restored, with a few guesthouses and workshops breathing new life into its historic dwellings.
5. Volcanic Beaches and Hidden Coves
Therasia’s beaches may not have the glamor of Santorini’s Red Beach, but they possess a raw, natural beauty. Agia Irini Beach and Agios Georgios Bay are two of the most popular, known for their clear waters and quiet atmosphere. The coastline is mostly rocky, with dramatic cliffs plunging into the sea that made it perfect for snorkeling or peaceful swims.
Adventurous travelers can also rent small boats or kayaks to explore hidden coves and sea caves along the coast. The waters are calm and crystalline, reflecting the volcanic minerals that give them a distinctive blue-green hue.
Things to Do on Therasia
Therasia may be small but offers plenty for those who love nature, authenticity, and relaxation.
Go Hiking
Therasia is a hiker’s paradise, with trails that cross volcanic ridges, old terraces, and traditional farmland. For example, the trail from Riva to Manolas offers breathtaking panoramic views. Another popular route leads from Manolas to Korfos Bay, descending through olive groves and rocky slopes.
Taste Local Flavors
Food in Therasia is simple, seasonal, and full of flavor. The island’s tavernas serve fresh seafood, meze, sun-dried tomatoes, and local cheeses. Pair your meal with a glass of Assyrtiko, the crisp white wine made from grapes grown in volcanic soil.
How to Get to Therasia
Reaching Therasia is easy. Small boats and ferries leave regularly from Ammoudi Bay in Oia, taking about 15 minutes to reach Riva or Korfos Bay. During summer, Therasia is occasionally connected to Ios, Folegandros, and Anafi via inter-island ferries.
Once on the island, you can explore on foot, by bike, or by renting a small scooter. The roads are few and quiet, making it perfect for slow travel.
