Romantic and iconic, Santorini is a bucket-list destination for many travelers. But beyond the classic whitewashed villas, there are places where the crowds thin and you can appreciate more facets of this Aegean gem. Watch the sunrise from a secret spot, stay the night in a cave, and more with this list.
## Unveiling the Enchanting Allure of Santorini
Santorini, an island paradise sculpted by volcanic forces and adorned with the iconic whitewashed architecture, presents a truly singular and unforgettable travel experience. Imagine multicolored cliffs gracefully curving around a breathtaking volcanic caldera, their edges delicately fringed by the pristine snow-white houses that have become synonymous with the Greek isles. It’s no wonder that Santorini draws a wealth of visitors, particularly during the sun-drenched summer months, eager to immerse themselves in its beauty. While the island’s celebrated landmarks are well-known and widely photographed, a sense of discovery still lingers, waiting to be unearthed by the intrepid traveler. You can still blaze your own trail, venture off the beaten path, and uncover lesser-known gems that will add a unique dimension to your Santorini adventure. Seek out secluded, little-visited beaches where you can bask in the sun’s warmth in tranquil solitude. Explore remote hiking trails that wind through the island’s rugged interior, rewarding you with breathtaking panoramic views. To help you craft an unforgettable vacation, we present a curated selection of our favorite must-see places and experiences, each offering a distinct perspective on the magic of Santorini.
## Witness the Dawn’s Embrace at Oia
The quintessential Santorini experience often revolves around witnessing the mesmerizing sunsets that paint the sky with vibrant hues from the village of **Oia**, dramatically perched atop the precipice of the caldera cliffs. As evening approaches, the narrow, winding streets of **Oia**, its charming restaurants, and the historic ruins of the **Castle of Saint Nikolas** become a bustling hub, filled with eager crowds vying for the best vantage point to capture the sunset’s splendor. This iconic spectacle is undoubtedly a must-see. However, we encourage you to consider an even more sublime experience: witnessing the sunrise over **Oia**. The colors that grace the sky at dawn are just as breathtaking as those at sunset, yet you’ll find that you can savor the experience in relative solitude. Most travelers will still be peacefully slumbering, recovering from the previous night’s enjoyment of the local ouzo. To fully appreciate this magical moment, rise before the first light of dawn and make your way to the castle ruins. From this westernmost point of Santorini, you’ll witness the entire village of **Oia** and the majestic caldera awaken before your very eyes, bathed in the soft, golden glow of the rising sun.
## The Ancient Tradition of Grape Stomping at Megalochori
Santorini’s reputation for producing exceptional wines dates back to Roman times, when the island’s unique volcanic terroir was first recognized as being ideal for cultivating distinct grape varietals. Among the white grapes, you’ll find the crisp Aidini, the renowned Assyrtiko, and the aromatic Athiri, while the reds are represented by the robust Mandilaria and the complex Mavrotragano. These grapes thrive in the island’s volcanic soil, which imparts a distinctive minerality, sometimes likened to the lightness of Savoie wines. A significant portion – approximately one-sixth – of Santorini is dedicated to wine production. Many independent producers sell their grapes directly to Santo Wines, a cooperative whose **Oenotourism Center**, conveniently located directly above the harbor, provides an easily accessible shore excursion for cruise-ship passengers.
However, for a more intimate and authentic experience, we recommend venturing beyond the well-trodden tourist path and following the “wine route” to discover lesser-known wineries far from the cruise-ship crowds. Head south to **Megalochori**, a traditional village nestled in the heart of Santorini’s wine country. Begin your exploration at **Boutari Winery**, where guided tours in English conclude with a delightful five-wine tasting session. Nearby, at **Gavalas Winery**, the owners, heirs to a family tradition that spans four generations, personally conduct tours, sharing their passion for winemaking. If your visit coincides with the month of August, you may have the opportunity to participate in the traditional foot-stomping of freshly picked grapes alongside the Gavalas family. Finally, venture east to **Art Space Winery**, situated in the charming little town of **Exo Gonia**. This unique winery boasts cave cellars carved directly into the pumice rock, which also serve as a museum showcasing the history of winemaking and as art galleries curated by winery owner Antonis Argyros.
## Embrace the Unique Charm of a Traditional Cave House
Did you know that the early inhabitants of Santorini ingeniously adapted to the island’s environment by dwelling in caves? These homes were carved directly into the island’s volcanic rim or into the banks of dry rivers, providing natural protection from the strong Meltemi winds and the intense summer heat. What were once ruggedly functional lodgings have now been transformed into aesthetically attractive destinations. The rise of tourism on Santorini has breathed new life into these traditional dwellings, further supported by a Greek tourism initiative dedicated to the Preservation and Development of Traditional Settlements. Many of these structures have been meticulously converted into boutique lodgings, becoming an integral part of Santorini’s famed architectural landscape. Therefore, when planning your accommodation, consider adding a classically Grecian touch by choosing to stay in a “cave house.” Rest assured that these modern cave houses offer a level of luxury far exceeding that of their ancient counterparts.
## Discover Seclusion and Sun at Koloumbos Beach
The volcanic black-sand beaches of Santorini, including **Kamari**, **Perissa**, and **Perivolos**, are deservedly popular among visitors seeking sun, sea, and relaxation. However, if you crave a more secluded and tranquil beach experience, venture to **Koloumbos Beach**. Framed by dramatic cliffs and the prominent **Cape Kolumbo**, Koloumbos Beach is situated just 2.5 miles northeast of Oia, near the northern tip of the island. This secluded beach is also popular with nudists, offering a discreet and liberating space to embrace the sun in its entirety (although the majority of visitors are not so daring). We recommend arriving early in the day, as the cliffs begin to cast shadows on the beach in the late afternoon. Koloumbos Beach offers a truly natural setting, with no beach chairs, umbrellas, or even restaurants available. The nearest facilities can be found at the **Gia Sas** beach bar, located half a mile west, but be prepared for potentially higher prices.
Approximately five miles offshore, submerged 30 feet below the water’s surface, lies the active **Koloumbo volcanic crater**, which lends its name to the beach. This underwater volcano last erupted in 1650, causing devastating consequences. Today, its hydrothermal vents release currents that warm the waters off the coast of Kolumbos Beach. To reach Koloumbos Beach, you can travel by quad bike or taxi, parking near **Soulis Apartments**, from where a trail leads downhill to the beach.
## Journey Back in Time at the Akrotiri Archaeological Site
Now it’s time to enrich your Santorini experience with a glimpse into the island’s rich history. The **Akrotiri** archaeological site is the perfect place to embark on this journey, as it showcases the unearthed remains of a Minoan city that was once buried by a catastrophic volcanic eruption. This remarkable site, often referred to as the “Pompeii of the Aegean,” dates back to the 4th millennium BCE and features an elaborate drainage system, well-preserved pottery, and stunning frescoes that once adorned the walls of multi-story buildings. These buildings were buried by the cataclysmic explosion of Thera in the 17th century BCE. The archaeological site is housed within a modern structure, illuminated by natural light from above. To further enhance your understanding of Akrotiri’s significance, many of the finest excavated items are displayed at the **Archaeological Museum of Thera**, located in **Fira**. To complement your historical exploration, consider visiting the aptly named **Red Beach**, which is conveniently located nearby.
## Wander Through the Charming Streets of Pyrgos
**Pyrgos**, situated approximately five miles southeast of Fira, stands out as one of the loveliest and most well-preserved small towns on Santorini. Remarkably, it remains relatively untouched by the influx of tourists, offering a more authentic and tranquil glimpse into island life. Rising among the craggy hills near the highest point of the island, **Pyrgos** commands sweeping vistas that encompass the iconic blue-domed roofs that adorn Santorini. It also serves as a particularly fine spot to witness the beauty of either dawn or sunset. Lose yourself in the labyrinthine lanes of **Pyrgos**, which are filled with countless churches and other examples of ancient architecture, all painted in either blazing magnesium white or cool pastel hues. The pace of life here is noticeably more relaxed and traditional. Be sure not to miss the magnificent **Church of Nikolaos Theotokaki**, which lies in the very heart of the village.
## Embark on a Memorable Hike Between Oia and Fira
Santorini boasts a number of remarkable hiking trails, but the most memorable is undoubtedly the panoramic clifftop path that connects **Oia** and **Fira**. Embarking on this eight-mile footpath, which takes approximately 2.5 to 5 hours to complete, will provide you with a vivid appreciation for the scale of the caldera and the immense power of the explosion that created it when Thera erupted around 3,600 years ago. The southern section of the trail is paved and lined with walls, while the northern section, beyond the **Ekklisia Profitis Ilias church**, transitions to cobblestone and dirt. We recommend setting out either at sunrise, if you prefer to have the trail mostly to yourself, or in the late afternoon to avoid the intense midday heat. Regardless of the time you choose, you’re guaranteed to capture sensational photos. As you ascend higher along the trail, you’ll find yourself immersed in the natural beauty of the island, accompanied only by the gentle rustling of the Meltemi breeze through the wild grasses. Be sure to bring water and sunscreen for protection, and upon reaching either **Oia** or **Fira**, you can easily catch a bus or taxi back to your hotel.
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