Explore the Villages of Santorini
EXPLORE SANTORINI
From the whitewashed alleys of Oia to the traditional charm of Pyrgos and Megalochori, Santorini’s villages each reveal a different side of the island. Explore picturesque settlements rich in history, local culture, distinctive architecture, and breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea.
FIRA
Discover Fira, Santorini, the island’s lively capital and a perfect blend of breathtaking Caldera views, culture, shopping, gastronomy and nightlife. From historic landmarks to local flavors, here are some of the best things to do in Fira.
Museum of Prehistoric Thira
Explore Santorini’s ancient history at the Museum of Prehistoric Thira, home to fascinating finds from the excavations of Akrotiri, including the famous golden goat statuette. Combine your visit with the Archaeological Museum of Thira.
Fira Cable Car
Take the Fira Cable Car down to the old port of Gialos and enjoy spectacular views along the way. The ride takes just 3–4 minutes, although queues can be longer when cruise ships arrive.
Taste Local Cuisine
No visit to Fira is complete without trying traditional Santorini cuisine. Taste local favorites such as fava and tomato fritters made with the island’s famous cherry tomatoes. For dining with a view and memorable flavors, explore Argo, 5 Senses and Pelican Kipos.
Karavolades Stairs
The famous Karavolades Stairs, with around 580 steps, connect Fira with the old port. Walking down offers a unique experience and beautiful views, while the cable car is a convenient way back up.
Shopping in Fira
Discover boutiques, galleries, souvenir shops and jewellery stores throughout Fira’s charming alleys. Ypapantis Street, also known as the “Gold Street,” is particularly popular for Greek and international jewellery designers.
Three Bells of Fira
The iconic Three Bells of Fira is one of Santorini’s most photographed landmarks and a beautiful spot to admire the Caldera and enjoy the sunset.
Cathedral of St. John the Baptist
Located near Theotokopoulou Square, the Catholic Cathedral of St. John the Baptist overlooks the sea. Originally built in 1823, it was restored after the 1956 earthquake.
Dominican Monastery
Located in Fira’s Catholic neighborhood, the Monastery of Dominican Sisters features beautiful Baroque architecture and a small bell tower. While the monastery is not open to visitors, the nearby Church of Our Lady of the Rosary can be visited, and you may even hear the nuns singing.
No visit to Santorini is complete without exploring Oia, the island’s iconic northern village. Famous for its whitewashed Cycladic architecture, blue-domed churches, Caldera views and spectacular sunset, Oia is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Greece.
Oia’s Castle
The Venetian Castle of Agios Nikolaos is one of Oia’s most famous landmarks and a prime sunset spot. Dating back to the 15th century, its ruins offer panoramic views of the Caldera and Aegean Sea. Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially at sunset.
The Blue Domes
The famous Blue Domes of Oia, belonging to the churches of Agios Spyridonas and Anastaseos, are among Santorini’s most photographed sights. Visit early in the morning for beautiful photos with fewer crowds.
Ammoudi & Armeni Bay
Below Oia, the picturesque ports of Ammoudi and Armeni offer a quieter escape. Walk down the steps from Oia to enjoy fresh fish and traditional dishes at Ammoudi’s tavernas or take a refreshing swim in the peaceful waters of Armeni.
Captains’ Houses & Canaves
Oia’s unique architecture combines elegant kapetanospita (captains’ houses) with traditional canaves, cave homes carved into the volcanic cliffs. Many have been beautifully restored and transformed into stylish suites and boutique accommodation. Wander through Oia’s narrow streets to discover this distinctive Santorini architecture.
Oia’s Restaurants
Oia is also a destination for Greek and Mediterranean cuisine. From local specialties and fresh seafood to juicy meats, sophisticated pasta and creative dishes, the village offers an impressive gastronomic scene. Look for restaurants serving fresh, locally sourced ingredients, Greek olive oil and excellent wines, ideally with a Caldera view. Reservations are highly recommended.
Taste Greece in Oia
Using pure olive oil, fresh seafood and carefully selected ingredients from Greece and the Mediterranean, local restaurants create modern Greek and Mediterranean dishes full of flavor. Discover authentic local delicacies alongside contemporary recipes and enjoy a memorable dining experience overlooking Santorini’s famous Caldera.
On the highest point of the caldera, Imerovigli is considered as the best spot to watch the sunset. Praised for its majestic view of the volcano and the sea, Imerovigli is just as cosmopolitan as Oia, but at the same time quieter and more relaxed. Its name comes from the words “imera” (day) and “vigla” (watchover), as it was an observation place during the pirate era. One of the must-sees of the area is the imposing Skaros Rock where you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the caldera! During your visit, take a relaxing stroll along the stone-paved alleys with the cycladic, white-washed houses and blue-domed chapels. Among them the church of Panagia Malteza and the chapel of Panagia Theoskepasti, located on the edge of the cliff in front of Skaros. If you are on the most adventurous side, we recommend that you take the path that links Fira and Imerovigli and enjoy the spectacular view along the way.
With its cobbled alleys, old cave houses and neoclassical mansions that date back to the 17th century, Megalochori will take you to a journey back in time! Megalochori, that literally means “great village”, has a history of wealthy merchants who exported Vinsanto sweet wine all over the world. The prosperity of its inhabitants is still present in the renovated mansions with the high wooden doors and the blissful inner courtyards. The small and picturesque central square with the colorful bougainvillea, is ideal to take a break and indulge in authentic local dishes at one of the tavernas. Megalochori is a true paradise for all wine lovers as it is surrounded by vineyards and is close to exceptional wineries, Gavalas, Boutaris and Antoniou. During your visit don’t forget to book a winetasting and savor the local varieties!
Strategically built on the foot of Mount Prophitis Ilias, Pyrgos offers an amazing view of the entire Santorini. Away from the crowds and the fuzz of Oia and Fira, this village is definitely one of the highlights during your stay in Santorini. As you walk through the charming white houses and the blue domed churches, you will get the chance to fee the essence of the Aegean life, while you can buy some souvenirs from the small galleries and shops. Follow the street to the upper side of the village to reach the Venetian Kasteli, one of the five castles of Santorini and admire the view! To experience Pyrgos in all its glory, plan a trip here during the orthodox Easter. On Good Friday the village is lit up with thousands with thousands of tin lanterns offering a spectacular sight!
The largest settlement of Santorini rests is named after the greek word “emporio” (trade) probably because it was the center of the island’s commercial life. The village presents a strong medieval character with many old buildings being well-preserved, taking you on a journey back in time. In Emporio you will find colorful, historical buildings with original architectural details and narrow, rather maze-like streets. Emporio’s most famous attraction is the medieval Kasteli (castle) and the 16th-century church that lies in it.
A natural bay with crystal clear waters, some traditional tavernas and fishing boats create a charming landscape in Ammoudi, just below Oia. Surrounded by red cliffs it presents one of the most dramatic sceneries of the island. Here, you can swim in the small rocky beach right next to the village and enjoy fresh fish in one of the traditional taverns. Ammoudi bay is easily accessible from Oia’s castle by foot – you can walk down the 300 steep steps – or you can take a taxi from your hotel!