Best Places To Go In Santorini Greece
Santorini! Just the name makes you want to grab a pair of sunglasses and a ridiculously overpriced cocktail, right? It’s that postcard-perfect Greek island that’s basically Insta-famous for its whitewashed villages clinging to cliffsides, looking like they’re about to tumble into the sparkling Aegean Sea. But beyond the famous caldera views (which, let's be honest, are pretty darn spectacular), Santorini has a few delightful surprises up its sleeve.
Let’s start with Oia. Yes, yes, we all know Oia for its sunsets. And you absolutely must see one. It’s like a national holiday for photographers and romantics. But here’s a little secret: Oia is also an absolute maze of tiny, winding alleys. Get lost in them! Seriously, ditch the map. You’ll stumble upon quirky little shops selling handmade jewelry that looks way too expensive but you’ll buy it anyway, little cafes with surprisingly strong coffee, and views that make you feel like you’ve discovered a hidden gem, even if there are fifty other people taking the same selfie. My personal favorite thing to do in Oia? Pretend I’m a spy on a very important mission, peering into courtyards and trying to decipher the conversations of locals over the din of selfie sticks. It’s surprisingly entertaining.
The sunsets in Oia are legendary. They’re the kind of sunsets that make you feel like the world is putting on a private show just for you. Or, you know, for everyone else there too.
Now, if Oia is the glamorous older sister, then Fira is the energetic, slightly chaotic younger sibling. Fira is the capital, and it’s a bustling hub. It’s got more shops, more restaurants, and a lot more people. The cliffside path connecting Fira to Firostefani and then Imerovigli is a must-do. You can walk it, or for the more… adventurous… you can take a donkey ride. Just a word of warning: don't expect a leisurely spa treatment for your backside. It's a bumpy, albeit iconic, ride. The views from Fira are just as stunning as Oia, but with a different vibe. It feels more alive, more like a town that people actually live in, with laundry hanging out to dry and old men playing backgammon in the shade. You can even take a cable car down to the old port, which is a fun little thrill. Just try not to make eye contact with the seagulls; they have a very intense gaze.
For something a little different, head to the southern part of the island and discover the unique beaches. Forget powdery white sand; Santorini is all about volcanic drama. Perissa and Perivolos are long stretches of black sand. It sounds a bit gloomy, but it’s actually super cool! The black pebbles heat up in the sun, so it’s like walking on warm coals (but way more comfortable). There are plenty of beach bars here, so you can grab a sun lounger, a cold drink, and watch the world go by. Red Beach, on the other hand, is… well, red. The sand is a deep, rusty red, and the cliffs surrounding it are a vibrant crimson. It’s like stepping onto another planet. It’s a bit of a scramble to get down to the water, but the colors are so intense, it’s worth the effort. Just don’t wear your best white bikini unless you’re aiming for a new, avant-garde fashion statement.
One of my absolute favorite, slightly less-hyped spots is Pyrgos. This is a traditional village perched on the highest point of the island, away from the immediate caldera crowds. It’s a real step back in time. Wander through its narrow, labyrinthine streets, discover hidden churches, and find charming tavernas serving authentic Greek food. The panoramic views from Pyrgos are incredible, especially at sunset when the island is bathed in golden light. It’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle and experience a more peaceful side of Santorini. I once found a tiny, family-run bakery in Pyrgos that sold the most amazing spanakopita (spinach pie) I’ve ever tasted. The owner just smiled and patted my hand like I was her grandchild. Heartwarming stuff.
Sometimes, the best discoveries are found when you’re not looking for them.
And then there’s Akrotiri. This is Santorini’s very own Pompeii, an ancient Minoan city preserved under volcanic ash for thousands of years. Walking through the excavated ruins is like time-traveling. You can see the sophisticated infrastructure, the multi-story buildings, and the intricate frescoes that once adorned them. It’s a tangible reminder of the island’s dramatic past and its vibrant civilization. Imagine, people lived and loved here thousands of years ago, just like we do today. It makes you feel a little bit small, but also incredibly connected to history.
Finally, don’t forget the wine! Santorini has a unique volcanic soil that produces some truly distinctive wines, particularly the crisp, dry white wine made from the Assyrtiko grape. Visiting a local winery for a tasting is a fantastic experience. You’ll learn about the island’s ancient winemaking traditions and get to sample some delicious local produce. Some wineries are even set in caves, which is pretty atmospheric. Just be careful not to drink too much; driving those winding cliffside roads after a few glasses can be an adventure in itself, and not necessarily the fun kind.
So, while the iconic caldera views are undeniably breathtaking, remember that Santorini is so much more. It’s about getting lost in alleys, discovering unexpected beaches, stepping back in time, and savoring the flavors of this incredible island. It’s a place that stays with you, long after the tan fades.