Blue Colors of Greece

The islands of Santorini represent the biggest pearl of the Aegean Sea which is famous for its blue dome churches, aridity and mule rides. Every year they attract millions of tourists from different parts of the world.

Santorini lacks a mooring facility to accomodate an ocean liner that's why small water-boats are widely used.

As soon as a water-boat reaches the harbour one can land by the speedy funicular, climbing the long stairs of 588 wide steps or riding a mule. If you are not eager to wait in an endless line of people  under the hot flaming sun or, say, are not on real friendly terms with horses or their relatives including donkeys, the only choice being left is climbing the mentioned stairs hoping to reach the top faster than those who preferred queueing to walking.

By the way, mule rides won't give you the feeling of safety if you are scared of height. The narrower is the road, the lesser you will trust the animals. But if you are a thrillseeker or an experienced rider you'll definitely enjoy.

Two towns are available for sightseeing. They are Fira and Oia. Fira is larger but no so architecturally rich as Oia. 

The funicular gets you right to Fira. Here you can make wonderful pictures at sunset when the sky turns red and the shadows become longer.

The streets of the town are very narrow.

This is the principal church and probably the biggest building here. Blue domes of Santorini's chapels correspond to the shade of the sky.

And don't forget to visit a small and always empty restaurant in the most remote part of Oia. They don't have a menu there but you'll find the taste of home-made sandwiches with egg-plants and tomatoes unforgettable.

via sergeydolya