Local herbs, scents, an unspoiled beach with clear blue water, a marvellous view of Oia and wilderness are what the island can offer to those who choose to spend some days here.
Thirassia itself is a peaceful, 'step back in time' island seemingly unscathed by tourism. The pace is slower, the islanders friendly and the atmosphere is welcoming. So if you a visiting the island of Santorini don't forget to visit Thirassia too.
Thirassia has 150 permanent residents, two little ports, a handful of quaint undeveloped villages and no less than 21 churches on the tiny island!
Sightseeing
If you disembark at the harbour of Korfos you can only access the village of Manolas on foot or by donkey. Manolas is the capital of Thirassia and commands a wonderful cliff top view to Santorini and the other tiny islands.
Manolas, like all the tiny picturesque villages of Thirassia are well worth visiting. With whitewashed alleyways, colourful tiny houses and blue domed churches you can really feel the charming character of days gone by.
If you arrive at the main harbour of Riva from Athinios or Ammoudi you can get to the little villages of Potamos, Agrilia and Manolas. Riva itself has a pretty sandy beach and is home to a small church of Aghia Eirini (Saint Irene), of which some say Santorina gets its name.
The village of Potamos (potami is the Greek word for river) took its name because it is built by a ravine. Most of the houses in Potamos are built into the volcanic rock and look very picturesque.
Agrilia is the oldest and largest village on Thirassia and again is very picturesque with houses built into the volcanic rock. In the village you will find the church of Panagia of Eisodia, which has dates back to 1887.
There are lots of other little churches to explore on the island of Thirassia. And if you find yourself on the island on the 21st of September you will be welcomed to attend the local feast in honour of Panagia Giatrissa (Virgin Mary).
Thirassia is what Santorini used to be many years ago. There is nothing there beside peace and quiet. It is mostly visited by day trippers from Santorini, but if you go there for a few days you will be quickly part of the family. Be aware that hardly anyone on Thirassia speaks anything else than Greek.