13 Less-Known Places in Santorini That Are Worth Visiting
Santorini often brings cliffside sunsets and postcard-perfect villages like Oia and Fira to mind. But tucked away beyond the camera lenses and cruise ship crowds, the island harbors quieter corners brimming with charm and authenticity.
You’re about to discover quiet beaches, abandoned castles, and historic paths that most guidebooks skip. Tag along as these hidden gems are revealed.
Karterados
Close to Fira but far more relaxed, Karterados retains a village identity. You’ll pass under arched walkways and past hidden bakeries where prices drop and portions increase. Small guesthouses and family homes line the streets. It gives you proximity to the capital without any of its pace.
Pyrgos Village
Pyrgos sits quietly at the island’s center, once its capital before Fira. Narrow alleys wind through whitewashed homes, leading up to a 13th-century Venetian castle. Unlike its busier neighbors, Pyrgos remains rooted in local life, where residents gather in cafes instead of posing for photos. The view at the top spans the entire caldera, untouched and vast.
Emporio
Emporio is the largest village on Santorini, with labyrinthine streets and fortified towers. Colorful doors, stone houses, and the evocative Kasteli, a relic of the Venetian era, match its medieval charm. Few tourists venture deep into its heart, yet its architecture tells a powerful story of resilience and artistry. The town’s quiet churches and alleys often attract artists seeking genuine inspiration.
Vlychada Beach
Vlychada Beach is not your typical Santorini beach. Its lunar-like cliffs, sculpted over time by wind and sea, give it a surreal quality. Far from the packed shores of Kamari or Perissa, it feels raw and private. A small marina nearby hosts fishing boats and a handful of tavernas, adding a rustic charm to this beach.
Megalochori
Megalochori feels suspended in time, a village untouched by hurried travelers. Traditional houses with neoclassical influences line the paths, while courtyards bloom with bougainvillea. Local wineries, such as Gavalas and Boutari, welcome guests without crowds, offering a more intimate tasting experience. The bell towers here chime softly above peaceful squares.
Koloumbos Beach
Located on the northeast coast, Koloumbos is hidden behind a cliff and can only be accessed through a rocky path. It’s named after the underwater Koloumbos volcano last erupted in 1650. This beach offers solitude and unfiltered natural beauty, with strong waves and dramatic terrain.
Mesa Gonia
Destroyed in the 1956 earthquake and largely abandoned, Mesa Gonia has slowly returned to life. It’s a village of contrasts, with restored homes alongside ruins that tell stories of the past. The Church of Panagia Episkopi, one of the oldest churches on the island, stands nearby with frescoes that have survived for centuries. Oenophiles will appreciate local wine cellars reviving ancient Assyrtiko techniques.
Exo Gonia
Sitting on the slopes just above Kamari, Exo Gonia is barely marked on tourist maps. Its charm lies in its quiet courtyards, the Church of Agios Charalambos, and scenic views across the plain below. Local tavernas, such as Metaxi Mas, serve traditional dishes under vine-covered pergolas. It’s the kind of place where locals linger, and time seems to slow.
Kameni Islands
The Kameni Islands, accessible only by boat, sit in the heart of Santorini’s caldera. Nea Kameni, the more popular of the two, hosts an active volcano whose crater can be explored on foot. Scientific observations by the Hellenic Geological Institute indicate that the island continues to swell, exhibiting signs of seismic activity. Palea Kameni, quieter and less traveled, features sulfur hot springs and a sense of isolation.
Thirassia
Thirassia sits opposite Santorini. It is part of the same volcanic complex but without the tourist influx. Just a short boat ride away, it offers glimpses into the island’s pre-tourism life. Families still farm and fish here, and donkeys are used for transport on its steep paths. Its untouched nature makes it a living museum of Cycladic tradition.
Profitis Ilias Monastery
Perched at 567 meters on Santorini’s highest point, the monastery of Profitis Ilias offers unmatched views of the entire island. Built in the early 18th century, it once served as a cultural and economic center. Today, it houses a small museum of ecclesiastical artifacts and rare manuscripts. The path leading up is a favorite among hikers seeking both solitude and a unique perspective.
Akrotiri Lighthouse
Far from the bustling caldera edge, the lighthouse at Akrotiri offers a calmer place to watch the sunset. Built in 1892, it stands on a cliff facing the Aegean Sea. With no shops or crowds nearby, it’s a spot for silence and reflection. Photographers often prefer it for its unspoiled views and golden-hour light.
Gavrilos Hill Windmills
Near Emporio, the Gavrilos Hill windmills are remnants of Santorini’s agricultural era. Though in varying states of ruin, they speak to a time when wind power drove local economies. Climbing the hill reveals views stretching toward the caldera and beyond.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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