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Santorini’s magnificence is famous, however past its iconic spots lies an undiscovered facet of the island ready to be explored. I’ve wandered by its lesser-known paths, discovering locations the place time slows down and the crowds disappear. For those who’re somebody who craves genuine experiences, these hidden corners will captivate you, revealing the perfect issues to do in Santorini that few get to see.
Think about strolling by Pyrgos, with its winding streets and gorgeous hilltop views, or catching a secret sundown on the Akrotiri Lighthouse. These are the spots the place Santorini’s true soul shines, removed from the standard vacationer trails. Prepare and fly to Santorini to uncover the island’s best-kept secrets and techniques, the place each flip gives one thing new and unforgettable. Your journey begins within the coronary heart of Santorini’s hidden gems.
The Greatest Hidden Villages in Santorini At a Look
Listed below are all my favourite underrated spots to discover on Santorini. I’ll cowl extra intimately under!
Now, let’s leap into every little thing it is best to find out about Santorini’s prettiest secret spots.
1. Akrotiri Lighthouse
The Akrotiri Lighthouse is like discovering a secret spot only for you, away from the standard vacationer hustle. This lighthouse has been standing tall since 1892, guiding ships with its attraction and historical past. Getting there’s half the enjoyable—only a 30-minute drive from Fira by a few of Santorini’s quieter, extra scenic roads. For those who’re not driving, no worries—the bus is a straightforward and budget-friendly choice. From Fira, you’ll be able to catch the bus to Akrotiri village, with a 40-minute experience that prices round €2 every manner. The buses run about each hour.
When you arrive, it’s a couple of 20-minute stroll from the bus cease to the lighthouse. Belief me, the views are next-level, particularly at sundown. Think about the sky exploding in coloration with no crowds round—simply you, the ocean, and this iconic lighthouse. Pack a picnic, seize your favourite drink, and make it a night to recollect. It’s the sort of spot that seems like your personal little slice of paradise.
2. Pyrgos
Pyrgos is a kind of locations in Santorini the place you’ll be able to really feel the island’s historical past and attraction at each nook. This village, as soon as the capital of Santorini, is like stepping again in time, however with all of the relaxed vibes you’re in search of. The slender, winding streets are good for a leisurely stroll, and also you’ll discover hidden gems round each nook—suppose tiny church buildings, quaint cafes, and native artwork retailers.
A must-do is the climb as much as the Kasteli (the outdated citadel). It’s a average 15-20 minute hike, with some steep sections, however the path is well-paved with stone steps. The views from the highest are value each step, particularly at sundown. Take your time and benefit from the journey; the panoramic views are gorgeous and far much less crowded than different spots on the island.
Afterward, reward your self with a meal at Kantouni, a comfy taverna within the coronary heart of Pyrgos. Beloved by locals, it gives conventional Greek dishes made with contemporary, native components. It’s the proper spot to unwind after exploring, providing you with an actual style of Santorini’s genuine vibe.
3. Megalochori
Megalochori is a village the place time appears to decelerate, providing a peaceable escape from Santorini’s busier spots. To get there, you’ll be able to take a brief 15-minute drive from Fira, or hop on the native bus, which runs recurrently and prices round €2. When you arrive, one of the simplest ways to discover is on foot—Megalochori is small and excellent for a leisurely stroll.
As you wander by its slender, cobblestone streets, you’ll uncover lovely neoclassical mansions, hidden courtyards, and charming church buildings just like the Church of Agios Nikolaos with its iconic bell tower. The Panagia ton Eisodion church, positioned close to the village sq., is one other must-see, recognized for its gorgeous structure and serene environment.
One of many highlights is the normal sq. on the coronary heart of the village, the place you’ll be able to loosen up at an area taverna and revel in genuine Greek delicacies. For those who’re a wine lover, don’t miss a go to to the Gavalas Vineyard or Boutari Vineyard, each close by and providing implausible wine-tasting experiences. You should definitely strive Assyrtiko, Santorini’s signature white wine, recognized for its crisp, mineral-rich taste. Megalochori is the perfect spot to decelerate, savor the second, and expertise the genuine, laid-back facet of Santorini.
4. Emporio
Emporio is Santorini’s largest village, but it stays considered one of its best-kept secrets and techniques. Nestled inland, it’s a spot the place historical past and custom come alive. To get there, you’ll be able to drive or take a bus from Fira—each choices take about 20 minutes. The village is ideal for exploring on foot, with its maze of slender alleys and hidden corners.
One of many village’s highlights is the Goulas Tower, a medieval construction that after served as a lookout. It’s free to go to and gives a singular glimpse into the island’s previous. Close by, the Panagia Mesani Church can be free to discover, that includes gorgeous blue domes and conventional Cycladic structure. Each websites are usually open throughout daytime, making them simple to suit into your itinerary.
For a style of native life, cease by To Kafenedaki tou Emboriou, an enthralling taverna within the village sq., recognized for its genuine Greek dishes and comfortable environment. Emporio additionally has a number of hidden cafes the place you’ll be able to loosen up with a espresso and soak within the village’s laid-back vibe. It’s a spot that feels untouched by time, providing a extra genuine and peaceable expertise of Santorini.
5. Finikia
Finikia seems like a hidden treasure, despite the fact that it’s only a quick stroll from the bustle of Oia. This village is all about laid-back vibes and genuine attraction, good for anybody wanting to flee the crowds. As you wander by its slender, winding streets, you’ll be greeted by pastel-colored homes, quaint archways, and charming courtyards which are straight out of a postcard. The village is thought for its conventional cave homes, a lot of which have been fantastically restored, providing you with a glimpse into Santorini’s previous.
Ensure to go to Kyra Panagia church, with its iconic blue dome and gorgeous views over the village. The church is usually open from 9 AM to five PM, providing you with loads of time to discover and snap some images. For those who’re hungry, Lefkes is a must-visit taverna providing scrumptious, conventional Greek dishes. Strive their slow-cooked lamb with lemon and oregano—it’s an area favourite and filled with taste. For dessert, don’t miss the loukoumades (Greek honey donuts), that are a candy method to end your meal.
Attending to Finikia is straightforward—only a 15-minute stroll from Oia. When you’re there, take your time exploring on foot. The village’s calm, relaxed tempo will make you are feeling such as you’ve stepped into a unique world. Whether or not you’re a foodie, a photographer, or simply somebody who likes to wander, Finikia is a hidden gem that you just received’t need to miss.
6. Exo Gonia
Exo Gonia is a quiet, tucked-away village that provides a real style of conventional Santorini. Not like the busier areas, Exo Gonia stays largely undiscovered, making it the proper spot for a peaceable retreat. As you discover the village, you’ll discover slender streets lined with whitewashed homes, vibrant bougainvillea, and gorgeous views of the island’s vineyards.
One of many highlights right here is the Panagia Episkopi church, a fantastic Byzantine gem courting again to the eleventh century. It’s free to go to and normally open from 9 AM to 4 PM, providing a serene escape with its historical frescoes and tranquil environment. One other must-see is the Artwork House Vineyard, a singular mix of artwork gallery and vineyard housed in a historic constructing. Right here, you’ll be able to get pleasure from native wines whereas admiring up to date artwork from Greek artists. After visiting these spots, cease by Metaxi Mas, a beloved taverna recognized for its scrumptious Greek delicacies. Their fava dip is a must-try, made with regionally grown Santorini fava beans, and don’t miss their grilled octopus—an area favourite.
Exo Gonia is greatest explored on foot, permitting you to totally soak up the village’s attraction. For those who’re coming from Fira, it’s only a 10-minute drive, or you’ll be able to take a brief bus experience. The village’s peaceable vibe, mixed with its cultural and culinary delights, makes it an ideal spot for vacationers trying to expertise the quieter facet of Santorini.
7. Vothonas
Vothonas is considered one of Santorini’s coolest hidden spots—a village that feels such as you’ve stumbled into one other world. Tucked into the volcanic rock and constructed alongside a slender gorge, it has an nearly otherworldly vibe. For those who’re trying to escape the crowds and discover a quieter, off-the-beaten-path facet of the island, Vothonas is your home. As you wander by its winding paths, you’ll come throughout conventional cave homes, charming courtyards, and little gardens that really feel like secret finds.
Don’t miss the Church of Agia Anna, a shocking church that’s partly carved into the rock. It’s a peaceable retreat with epic views of the panorama round it. One other gem right here is the Santorini Folklore Museum, the place you’ll be able to dive into the island’s historical past, all housed in a cool Nineteenth-century cave home. After soaking within the tradition, swing by Vothonas Bakery for some contemporary pastries—locals rave about their bread and sweets.
One of the simplest ways to expertise Vothonas is on foot. The village is only a fast 10-minute drive from Fira, so it’s tremendous simple to get to. Whether or not you’re into historical past, structure, or simply need to get pleasure from a peaceable stroll, Vothonas provides you a slice of Santorini that’s nonetheless untouched by the vacationer rush. It’s good for those who’re in search of one thing actual and genuine.
8. Mesa Gonia
Mesa Gonia is considered one of Santorini’s hidden villages and secret spots, providing a cool escape from the island’s busier areas. Often called the “ghost village” after an earthquake in 1956, Mesa Gonia has this eerie but fascinating vibe that’s good for exploring. For those who’re into discovering locations that really feel frozen in time, that is your spot.
As you wander by the village, you’ll discover a mixture of deserted buildings and fantastically restored properties. Positively try Panagia Episkopi church, one of many oldest Byzantine church buildings on the island. It’s free to go to and open every day from 9 AM to 4 PM. The traditional frescoes inside are fairly unbelievable, and the entire place has a peaceable, nearly mystical really feel. To get there, simply comply with the indicators from the principle village sq.—it’s a brief stroll.
After soaking within the historical past, swing by Roussos Vineyard, one of many oldest on the island, for a wine tasting. It’s an awesome spot to strive a few of Santorini’s well-known wines, like Assyrtiko. The village is only a 15-minute drive from Fira, and it’s greatest explored on foot so you’ll be able to actually take within the environment. Mesa Gonia is ideal for these trying to dig deeper into Santorini’s extra genuine and off-the-beaten-path experiences.
9. Karterados
Karterados is a kind of under-the-radar spots in Santorini the place you’ll be able to actually get a really feel for native life. Simply minutes away from the touristy areas, this village blends old-world attraction with a laid-back environment. It’s good for these eager to see a unique facet of the island.
As you wander by Karterados, you’ll see a mixture of conventional cave homes and neoclassical mansions that give the village its distinctive character. You should definitely try the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, a shocking instance of Cycladic structure. It’s free to go to and open many of the day, making it an awesome spot to relax and soak in some historical past. You possibly can’t miss it—it’s proper by the principle sq..
For a style of native flavors, head to Kira Niki’s Tavern, a favourite amongst locals for its selfmade Greek dishes. Their moussaka is a must-try, filled with wealthy, savory goodness. Karterados is tremendous accessible, only a 5-minute drive or a 20-minute stroll from Fira. Exploring on foot is one of the simplest ways to find all of the hidden gems tucked away in its slender streets. For those who’re trying to expertise Santorini’s genuine facet, Karterados is the proper place to begin.
10. Monolithos Seaside
Monolithos Seaside is considered one of Santorini’s hidden villages and secret spots, the place you’ll be able to absorb chill seaside vibes with out the crowds. Only a fast drive from Kamari, this seaside is all about enjoyable by the ocean in a laid-back setting. For those who’re feeling adventurous, try the Tomato Industrial Museum in Vlychada, simply quarter-hour away—it’s a cool spot to dive into Santorini’s distinctive agricultural historical past. For a bit extra buzz, head over to Kamari Seaside, the place you’ll discover a full of life scene with loads of locations to eat and hang around.
The seaside itself has mushy, black sand and shallow waters, good for swimming or simply lounging with buddies. And since it’s much less crowded than the big-name seashores, it’s the perfect place to unwind. When starvation strikes, hit up Taverna Skaramagkas proper on the seaside for some wonderful grilled fish and Greek dishes.
Monolithos Seaside can be superior for those who’re up for a bit of motion. There’s a volleyball court docket and loads of house for seaside video games. If you wish to discover the world on two wheels, hire a motorcycle from Moto Chris in Kamari—it’s a straightforward experience over. With only a 10-minute drive from Fira, Monolithos Seaside is ideal for kicking again or getting lively, all whereas having fun with Santorini’s extra relaxed, off-the-beaten-path facet.
