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The Santorini villages are as different as they are beautiful. Some cling to the caldera cliffs, while others sit quietly inland among vineyards. Here is our short guide to six of them, with our own photos from the island.
Oia village
Oia village sits at the northern tip of Santorini. It is famous for its sunsets, its whitewashed houses and its blue domes. In addition, old captains’ houses line the marble lanes. Below the village, steps lead down to Ammoudi Bay and its small fish tavernas. Read our guide to the Oia sunset before you go.
Fira, the capital
Fira village is the capital of Santorini and its busiest place. It sits high on the caldera rim, so the views are wide. For example, you can ride the cable car down to the old port, or visit the Museum of Prehistoric Thera. In the evening, the cliff-top bars fill up for sunset.
Imerovigli village
Imerovigli village is one of the highest points on the caldera rim. As a result, it is often called the balcony of the Aegean. It is quieter than Oia and Fira. Below the village, a path leads to Skaros Rock, where a Venetian castle once stood.
Pyrgos, the inland village
Pyrgos Santorini sits on a hill in the middle of the island. Narrow lanes wind up to the ruins of a Venetian castle at the top. From there, you can see almost the whole island. Above all, Pyrgos feels traditional and calm, especially in the morning.
Megalochori village
Megalochori Santorini is a small village in the south-west, surrounded by vineyards. Look for its bell towers built across the lanes, its old wineries and its shady central square. In short, it is a lovely place for a slow lunch.
Perissa village and its black beach
Perissa village lies on the south-east coast, at the foot of a large rocky mountain. Its long beach has black volcanic sand. However, the sand gets very hot in summer, so bring beach shoes. Meanwhile, the village itself is relaxed and good value.
Which of the Santorini villages should you visit?
If you only have one day, see Oia for the sunset and Fira for the views. With more time, add Imerovigli for peace, then Pyrgos and Megalochori for village life. Finally, finish at Perissa for a swim. You can read more about the island on Wikipedia, or in our guide to the Santorini sunset and blue domes.
Take the Santorini villages home. Our photos of Oia and the blue domes are on the personalised photo mug, a personalised wooden photo print and a metal photo ornament for your Christmas tree. You can add your own words to each one.
All photographs in this article © Simov P Store. All rights reserved.
