15 BEST Places to Visit in Santorini

Many people think that Greece is one of the best places to visit in the world. Greece has a lot to offer tourists, as there are so many fun things to see here. Out of all the beautiful places in Greece, Santorini is one place that everyone loves the most. One of the most beautiful places to visit in Greece is this island located in the southeast. For couples who are looking for the perfect place to visit, Santorini is the best option. Santorini is a great place for couples, but it has a lot to offer to others as well. Santorini is a great place to visit with friends or family. The people there will make you feel welcome.

You need to know about the best places to visit in Santorini before you pack your bags. That’s where we come in. We have compiled a list of all the best and most popular places to visit in Santorini to help you plan your trip. Let us tell you about the various places to visit in Santorini.

List of the 15 Best Places to Visit in Santorini

1. Pyrgos Village

Pyrgos Village - Best Places to Visit in Santorini

Pyrgos is a village that is visited by a lot of tourists. It is actually one of the best places to visit in Santorini. Fira is very close to it and is located in the heart of the island. The specialty of this place is that the outline of an old, glorious castle is visible here in Pyrgos. Although the earthquake destroyed this castle, you can still have a good time in its ruins. This town is a great place for couples.

During the Holy Trinity celebration, the village is lit up with beautiful candles. The party takes place a day before Easter Sunday or on the night of Good Friday itself. Would you like to have a good time with your partner or family? This could be the perfect place for you.

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2. Red Beach

Red Beach - Best Places to Visit in Santorini

Red Beach is one of the most beautiful places in Santorini. It is near the Akrotiri site. You have never seen this amazing rock wall before. It is easy to reach the beach by walking from the Akrotiri site. Again, you can also reach the beach by car or bus. However, if you want something better, you should reach there by taking a boat from one of the ports of Akrotiri, Perris, or Kamari. During the summer, the beach is quite crowded.

So, if you want to go there in the summer, make sure to book a great place to see the red rocks and blue water. However, you should be careful if you stay here because it is prone to flooding. That is why we have closed many parts of the beach to the general public. If you are looking for something to visit in Santorini, Red Beach is the best place. You can do water sports there or relax on the beach.

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3. Oia

Oia - Best Places to Visit in Santorini

When talking about the most popular places to visit in Santorini, it is impossible not to mention Oia. People from all over the world come to this place to see beautiful sunsets. This is one of the most special places to visit in Santorini. It is located 12 kilometers from Fira on the coast in the northern part of the island. This area has its own unique feel, with many whitewashed houses and cozy streets. Stylish places to stay are easy to find in this area.

There are also many interesting restaurants where you can eat along the water. If you like fish, this may be the best place for you. The nearby KTEL bus can take you to Oia. Or, you can walk along the path that leads along the cliffs above the caldera.

4. Caldera

Caldera - Best Places to Visit in Santorini

The caldera in Santorini is another beautiful place you must visit. This is the place where the center of the island was blown away in a massive eruption. The caldera is a volcanic crater that was formed around 3600 years ago and is now filled with water. The place is still the center of volcanic activity today, although it is one of the most popular tourist destinations. Many companies and groups offer one-day boat trips to the caldera.

If you want to enjoy your time there to the fullest, you should book one of the trips organized by the businesses there. In these trips, you can swim in the hot springs and also have lunch at Thirasia. From across the water, you can see some beautiful views of the island. This trip with your family can be one of the most interesting things to do on your trip.

5. Perissa Beach

Perissa Beach - Best Places to Visit in Santorini

Many people in Santorini like to swim and relax at Perissa Beach. The water is bright blue and the sand is black from volcanic rocks. There are plenty of chairs, umbrellas and water sports available on the beach. There are restaurants and cafes along the beach where you can eat and drink while watching the waves. People with children love this beach because it is safe and the police are posted here in summer. You can also stroll along the beach or visit the nearby shops. Perissa Beach is a great place to spend a sunny day on the island.

6. Emporio

Emporio Santorini

Emporio is a traditional village on the island of Santorini. Small streets, stone houses and old windmills make it even more beautiful. Walking here feels like you have gone back in time. You will see the medieval castle, some small buildings and local markets. This village is not as crowded as other parts of the island. Emporio has a special charm that makes many artists and photographers crazy about it. You can also taste the food nearby in small bars. If you want to get to know the real people of Santorini, then this city is perfect for you.

7. Megalochori Village

Megalochori Village Santorini

The village of Megalochori is rich in history and character. It has beautiful churches, white houses and gardens which are rare to find. The ancient Greek style is still alive in the village. There are quiet streets where you can stroll and meet nice people. Megalochori has famous farms and wineries that attract wine lovers. You can learn to make wine in the region and even taste it. The village also has great places to watch the sunset. It is a beautiful place to spend a quiet day in Santorini.

8. Ammoudi Bay

Ammoudi Bay Santorini

Oia Island has a small port called Ammoudi Bay. It has clear water, red rocks and waterside bars that serve seafood. Many people come here to watch the boats and eat fresh fish. From this bay you can swim or rent a boat. You can reach Ammoudi by climbing down stairs from Oia. The walk is very beautiful. It is a great place to watch the sun set peacefully over the water. Amed Bay is a great place if you like fresh food and beautiful nature.

9. Panagia Platsani Church

Panagia Platsani Church Santorini

Right in the heart of Oia is the Panagia Platsani Church. The blue dome and white walls of this church make it one of the most photographed churches in Santorini. People come here to enjoy the view and peaceful atmosphere. This church is very popular during fairs and other events in the area. You can see statues and burning candles inside. You can also explore Oia by stopping in the area around the church, which is lined with shops and coffee shops. It is a simple but beautiful place that shows how religious and culturally rich this island is.

10. Fira

Fira Santorini

Santorini is truly the most beautiful island in the world. For tourists, this island is unique because of places like Fira. When you visit Santorini, Fira is one of the most interesting places to visit. It is the official and capital city of Santorini and is located on the west coast. You cannot complete your trip to Santorini Island without visiting this beautiful place. There are many beautiful places to visit in Fira.

For example, the Thera Archaeological Museum and Thera Prehistoric Museum are two of the most important museums to visit in Fira. If you want to learn more about the past of this region, this is a good start. Taxis, cable cars, and buses are some of the public transportation options that can take you around the city. On the other hand, walking is the best way to fully explore our city.

11. Kamari Open Air Cinema

Kamari Open Air Cinema Santorini

Watching movies outside is fun at the Kamari Open Air Cinema. It is located in the town of Kamari and is open in the summer. The cinema has good chairs, a big screen and delicious snacks. People come here to watch movies outside. Movies are shown in English with Greek subtitles. It is a great place for families and couples. Sit back, sip a drink and watch your favorite movie in a beautiful park. One of the most interesting things to do in Santorini.

12. Thirassia

Thirassia Santorini

Therasia, also spelled Thirasia, is a beautiful island located in the Greek Cyclades. It is part of the Santorini volcanic island group. This small island is located northwest of Nea Kameni, right next to Santorini. It is away from the hustle and bustle of modern life and offers you a wonderful natural landscape. The place is extremely attractive with its beautiful cliffs and black beach. The island is very small-only 9 square kilometers-and only 319 people live here permanently. If you want to discover some hidden gems while visiting Santorini, this is the place for you. It takes only 11 kilometers to reach Therasia from Santorini, and it takes about an hour and a half to reach here.

13. Museum Of Prehistoric Thira

Museum Of Prehistoric Thira Santorini

In Fira, you will find the Museum of Prehistoric Thira. It houses old artifacts from the city of Akrotiri that were found there. You can see pots, tools, and paintings on the walls. This museum tells the story of Santorini before the massive volcanic eruption. It may be small, but it is packed with history. The shows are fun for both children and adults to learn about. Getting to the museum is easy and quick. There is a lot of history here, so if you like that kind of thing, you should definitely visit.

14. Nea Kameni

Nea Kameni Santorini

If you want to see interesting places to visit in Santorini, then definitely visit Nea Kameni. The most special thing about this place is that it is located in the middle of the three islands of the caldera, where the volcano erupted. Nea Kameni is known for the name of its largest crater, Daphne. Visiting this place is truly an unforgettable experience. Many things make this place unique, such as walking around the crater, taking pictures of its surrounding areas and exploring various rocks. There are also warm water diving and fun activities here. Visiting this place will definitely refresh you. If you are in Santorini, you must visit this beautiful place.

15. Akrotíri Archaeological Site

Akrotíri Archaeological Site Santorini

The Minoan culture of Akrotiri is well known. The foundations of this society still exist today and thousands of tourists visit it every year. Akrotiri is one of the best places to visit in Santorini for tourists, although there is not much to see here. There is something special about this place that forces you to get closer to it. In Akrotiri, the city itself is made of mud and bricks. It has been well taken care of for hundreds of years. Strong winds cannot harm the city because of the roof built on it. Akrotiri has two beaches, one called Vlichada and the other called Red Beach. There are also ruins of an ancient society here. There are many interesting places near Akrotiri that you must visit.

Conclusion

Santorini is more than just an island. It is a vast storehouse of history, culture, and beauty. Every place is different, from whitewashed towns to sparkling beaches. In Oia, you can enjoy beautiful sunsets, relax on Perissa Beach, or explore the ancient ruins of Akrotiri. Although the island is small, there are still many fun things to do here.

Tourists can visit the beaches with their families, spend romantic nights with their partners, or hike to volcanoes or small towns. The fresh fish and famous wines of the area make every meal special. If you walk through the small streets or ride the cable car, you will truly feel like you are on an island.

Santorini is a place you will never forget, whether you stay for a few days or a whole week. It has beautiful scenery, friendly people, and a long history. Every tourist has a favorite spot, like a quiet chapel, a busy street, or a hidden cove. If you keep these 15 best spots in mind, you’ll understand why Santorini is one of the most popular islands in the world.

Parmeshwar Das is a dedicated blogger, Website Designer and Developer, Travel Writer and SEO Specialist. With a keen interest in reading and writing, he shares her travel expertise on Yatravelo.com, a comprehensive travel guide for all.