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Discovering Santorini: my must-sees on the crescent moon island
- Késia
- 1 day ago
- 12 min read
An iconic and popular destination for tourists from all over the world, Santorini seems destined to remain a top choice despite the ever-increasing number of visitors each year. The influx of travelers is undeniable, and this trend has been ongoing for quite some time. At certain times, the island can accommodate tens of thousands of people simultaneously, which is considerable for a volcanic territory of limited size (76 km²). Some might even question whether this crescent-shaped island is still worth visiting. In my humble opinion, I firmly believe it is one of the most unique landscapes I have ever seen, and I would wholeheartedly recommend exploring it at least once in a lifetime.
For a more environmentally friendly, emotionally poetic, and visually richer experience for photography, I recommend visiting in April, May, September, or October. Once there, the first impression is unique: you'll be immersed in Cycladic architecture, with chapels, postcard-perfect blue domes, and dramatic cliffs contrasting with the whitewashed houses. Inevitably, you'll be captivated by the aroma of pastries wafting through the narrow, ancient alleyways.
Santorini is unlike other Greek islands: it's not a succession of verdant hills and beaches, but an ancient volcanic caldera formed after a massive eruption approximately 3,600 years ago. To briefly delve into geomorphology, before this eruption, the island didn't have its current semi-circular shape surrounding an inland sea. It was a much larger island, with a central volcano. When the magma was expelled, the volcano's summit was no longer sufficiently supported: a huge part of the island then collapsed into the sea. This created the Santorini caldera and explains why, today, its shape is associated with that of a crescent moon. Ready for adventure? It is with great pleasure and a touch of nostalgia that I present my must-see places. Want to enjoy your reading with some background music? Click on the soundtrack below.
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Before diving into my must-see spots, I'll share some practical information I wish I'd known to better prepare for my trip. I'm sticking to the essentials, as this blog post isn't a travel guide in itself.
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
▶ Money/Currency: The currency is the euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted. I recommend carrying a small amount of cash as a backup.
▶Water: Tap water is available, but its taste and quality can vary depending on the area and your accommodation. As a precaution, bottled water is preferable, especially if you are sensitive to changes in water quality.
▶ Car rental: If you're arriving by plane, choose a rental company outside the airport. They're usually just a 5-minute walk away and much cheaper. My experience with Volta4u was positive. If you're arriving by ferry, I recommend the Ferryhopper mobile app, where you can buy your ferry ticket online.
▶ Parking: In very popular areas (e.g., Amoudi Bay), some parking lots are paid and there is no alternative. In less popular villages (e.g., Pyrgos), look for free public parking instead.
▶ Food: The cheapest supermarket on the island is Lidl. For budget-friendly meals, try the gyros (vegetarian option available) in restaurants.
▶Accommodation: finalize your bookings as early as possible, as availability disappears quite quickly. If possible, prioritize Cycladic architecture to fully experience the cultural essence of Greece.
To discover Santorini, I needed an anchor point that would allow me to slow down between two photographic excursions. It was at Nicoletta Houses that I found this delightful escape. The family business offers several Airbnbs located directly in Oia (one of the island's most iconic parts). Whether you opt for a cozy studio in the heart of the white and blue alleyways, a high-capacity vacation home in Armenia Bay, or your own upscale retreat in Amoudi Bay, their selection of accommodations will suit your needs.
1 - OIA : THE SANTORINI POSTCARD
An iconic and unmissable village on this island, Oia wins the prize for the most popular spot on Santorini. It's literally the postcard image of Santorini, and that's precisely why it's one of my must-sees. It's a unique place where the colorful houses clinging to the cliffside never cease to impress, no matter how many times you visit. Oia was officially recognized as a protected site in 1976, which has helped safeguard its traditional architecture and ensure the continuation of tourism. In my eyes, it's a visual gem, and it would be difficult to describe it any other way with my photographer's eye. The village is brimming with iconic spots. Here are my favorites…
▶ Agios Nikolaos Castle (Oia Castle): This is the most popular spot in the village, where tourists gather to admire the sunset. Although the castle is now only ruins due to the 1956 earthquake, its location offers a particularly interesting geographical vantage point, as it sits on the cliffside and provides exceptional views of almost the entire village. It was once a true fortress built to defend against pirate attacks. The castle was surrounded by a densely built fortified village, with three- or four-story buildings. The houses themselves were part of the defensive system. Suggestions: if you want to take photos, I advise against going at sunset, as you will be overwhelmed by tourists and may not have enough space to capture the scene you envision. I personally chose to go before sunrise. I was aiming for a poetic result and artistic harmony: my vision combined the twilight with the still-lit lanterns of the houses to create a magical and enchanting atmosphere. Making the castle your first stop of the day will allow you to avoid the crowds, begin your exploration gently, and combine it with one or more other nearby locations.
▶ Kastro Oia Houses: literally 50 meters from Agios Nikolaos Castle, it takes barely a 2-minute walk to get there. One of the unique features of Kastro Oia Houses is that they are cave dwellings, meaning they were built directly into the volcanic rock. Architecturally, they represent the traditional character of the island. In the past, this type of house was inhabited by ship captains, and during the hottest weather, their interiors were known for staying cool. Today, the property has been converted into a hotel with three separate suites. Thanks to its vibrant colors, this building has become a popular spot for taking a souvenir photo. Although we cannot go inside, the staircase along the exterior wall is open to the public. Suggestions: Once you've finished your visit to the castle, head straight to Kastro Oia Houses to capture it in all its splendor. Avoid going in the early evening or just before sunset, as many local photographers take over the area for wedding shoots. Want to get a wide-angle shot like mine? Just opposite is a small staircase belonging to another building. Climb it and try to get a bird's-eye view!
▶ The Charisma Suites Mill: located at the westernmost point of Oia, near the castle ruins, this windmill was once used to grind grain thanks to the strong winds that sweep across this part of the island. Today, it's a private property that has been restored and converted into accommodation. It's therefore impossible to visit the interior, but the view from the outside is breathtaking! Suggestions: To avoid the crowds, I recommend going very early in the morning. If this is the first location you want to photograph in the morning, arrive 15 minutes before sunrise to find your composition. This way, you'll already be ready to shoot a wide-angle image when the light is at its best, and by prioritizing sunrise as your time of day, you won't be shooting into the sunlight. Then, complete your photo series by isolating details and taking closer shots of your subject. For my part, I arrived just in time for the end of the golden hour and the light was still quite soft.
▶ Terpi & Oia : if I told you it's possible to combine a coffee break, a meal, or a snack with a view of Oia's blue domes, does that sound appealing? Terpi & Oia is a café/restaurant open every day of the week, and honestly, it's the perfect place to take a break and savor a quality moment. Head to the second-floor terrace for the view and choose a table by the wooden railing. A word of caution: don't hold your camera too tightly, as the domes are right in front of you! Do as I did and capture your drink from a low angle, creating the perfect backdrop for your memories. Suggestion: the latte is delicious!
2 - IMEROVIGLI : THE VOLCANIC PANORAMA
It's no coincidence that locals call Imerovigli the "balcony of Santorini"! This village, perched 300 meters above the sea, sits directly on the caldera. Thanks to its spectacular clifftop location, Imerovigli offers one of the most breathtaking and expansive views of the entire Santorini caldera. This is precisely why it's one of my must-see spots on the island. Less colorful than Oia, the white buildings are just as poetic, adding a touch of minimalism and softness to the deep blue water. Visiting this little paradise will immerse you in a feeling completely different from that of Oia: a less chaotic and calmer environment that exudes elegance, refinement, and romance. In fact, Imerovigli is where most honeymooners choose to spend part of their holiday. Suggestions: stroll through the narrow streets at sunrise, when the village lights are still on, to enjoy a relaxing atmosphere without the crowds of tourists. If you make the effort to get up early, you won't be disappointed by the pastel colors of the sky, which harmonize so beautifully with the rest of the landscape. The village offers many excellent photo opportunities and is simply a feast for the eyes.
▶ The alleyways, the cats, and the footbridges: I confess, I'm not very specific about which alleyways to explore and which footbridges can serve as locations for lifestyle photography, but there are simply too many possibilities! Use your creativity and find the specific spots that charm you. As for cats, you'll encounter them during your stay on the island, no matter where you are, as their reproduction isn't controlled. Stray cats have been part of the daily Greek landscape for generations, and the locals and associations take care of them every day. For the alleyways, consider photographing the beautiful doors, the pretty windows, the clotheslines with their lovely clothes for a cultural touch, and, of course, the cats and kittens. Keep an eye out for the little geckos that sometimes perch on the railings and volcanic rocks! Regarding the footbridges, try to find one with a partial view of the village for a truly Greek effect.
▶ Nea Kameni & Palea Kameni : small volcanic islands located in the center of Santorini's caldera, they are composed primarily of black, brown, and reddish volcanic rocks. Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni are formations that developed within the caldera after the massive Minoan eruption. Perhaps the most surprising fact about these islands is that Santorini's volcano is not extinct. The last major eruption of Nea Kameni occurred in 1950. It was relatively small compared to the large historical eruptions, but it demonstrates that volcanic activity is still present. The best view of these two islands is from Imerovigli! Suggestions: you can literally hike on the volcanic island of Nea Kameni for nearly two hours to observe its geomorphology, then continue your adventure to Palea Kameni to bathe in its mineral-rich thermal springs. Remember to book in advance with Caldera's Boats Santorini Sea Excursions.
▶ Anastasis Church : considered one of the most imposing and picturesque churches encountered on the Fira-Oia route, Anastasis Church is sublime from many angles. Although there are approximately 600 churches and chapels on the island of Santorini, one never tires of admiring them. After all, most are part of the Greek cultural heritage and Cycladic architecture. This church is very rarely open to the public, and after confirming with locals, the official entrance is often locked. Suggestions: if you are near the church, you can photograph its blue dome from a slightly higher vantage point (see photo below), or even descend to the same level as its foundation if the door is open, to vary your angles. If you wish to capture the bell tower, I recommend moving further away and taking a wide-angle shot of both the dome and the tower in the same image. It's absolutely stunning!
3 - FIROSTEFANI : CHARMING COFFEE PLACES GOURMET DELIGHTS
If you're planning the famous walk from Imerovigli to Fira (15 to 35 minutes depending on whether you stop for photography), keep your eyes peeled! Along the way, you'll often come across small, makeshift tables where local producers offer their seasonal fruits and vegetables. If you'd like to sample the produce and support local businesses, remember to bring cash. The fig trees that occasionally dot the path add a lovely touch of greenery to this otherwise arid volcanic landscape. Once you arrive in Firostefani, it's time for a relaxing break! This is the perfect village to slow down, admire the view from a terrace, and savor traditional Greek dishes. In my opinion, these are precisely the reasons why it's a must-see village. Plus, prices are generally more affordable than, for example, in Oia or Fira. The views of the caldera remain sublime and the atmosphere is generally calmer than in Fira.
▶ Galini Café: its name, "Galini," means "serenity" in Greek. Admit it, that already inspires a little moment of well-deserved happiness and relaxation, right?! Without necessarily committing to a gourmet meal, Galini Café offers homemade recipes, coffee, juices, and breakfast-style drinks. The menu is more brunch-oriented (omelets, eggs, avocados, pastries, and sweet options) from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and you can then stay to enjoy snacks, local wine, and cocktails until sunset. Located on the rooftop of the Galini Hotel, directly on the edge of the caldera, the café boasts a magnificent terrace with unobstructed views of the volcano, the caldera, Thirassia, Imerovigli, and the Skaros rock. So, you don't just come here for a coffee, but also to fully appreciate the panorama. Suggestions: the establishment offers vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, which may be of interest to travelers with certain dietary preferences. Consider ordering your coffee or cappuccino with plant-based milk. It's delicious!
▶ Why Not : Why Not is a restaurant specializing in simple and quick Greek/Mediterranean cuisine: gyros, souvlaki, pitas, kebabs, tzatziki, Greek salad, and more. Prices are very affordable and portions are generous. For example, a gyros costs only a few euros. Despite being considered a fast-food restaurant, there is a dining area. You can choose to sit down and enjoy your meal or take it to go. If you opt to sit down, note that there is no air conditioning. The staff is welcoming and always happy to serve you. Suggestion: the restaurant offers vegetarian and vegan options. A real favorite is the falafel gyros (personally tried and tested)!
4 - PYRGOS : THE ANCIENT VENETIAN CITADEL
Pyrgos richly deserves its place among the must-see places to explore on the island of Santorini, as it is one of the best-preserved traditional villages on the island. You truly feel as if you've stepped back in time, into the medieval era. Lose yourself in the vaulted passageways, narrow staircases, and charming alleyways. You'll see small, colorful doorways, whitewashed houses, churches, bell towers, stray cats, restaurants, and souvenir shops. Follow the paths that lead to the highest point: Kasteli Castle. From up there, you'll have a breathtaking view of the vineyards, the island's villages, and the panorama stretching in almost every direction. Due to the 1956 earthquake, Kasteli of Pyrgos is now partially in ruins, but it remains quite legible. Suggestions: unlike Oia, where iconic photos are often sought, Pyrgos is more about small, successive discoveries. I recommend spending the whole day there. Although the village isn't overcrowded with tourists, arrive early to take advantage of the beautiful light and secure the perfect spot for your photos. End the day sipping herbal tea, regular tea, or a cocktail on the terrace of Franco's Café while watching the sunset.
5 - VLYCHADA BEACH : LUNAR CLIFFS AND VOLCANIC SAND
Although Santorini boasts around ten beaches, some are more impressive than others. The beach you choose will obviously depend on your needs. For example, if you want to spend a whole day relaxing, sunbathing, ordering cold drinks, and enjoying calm waters, then I would recommend heading to a well-known resort like Perissa Beach, Perivolos Beach, or Kamari Beach. If, on the other hand, you're looking for a beach that's out of the ordinary and has unique characteristics, then make your way to Vlychada Beach. Located in the south of the island, 13 km south of Fira, it sits on the outer crescent, directly facing the Aegean Sea. It's a dark brown sand beach, and what I find most interesting is its geological formation. The cliffs overlooking the beach, reaching heights of up to 38 meters, are composed of thick volcanic deposits from the massive eruption of Santorini. At Vlychada Beach, several layers corresponding to the different phases of this eruption are still visible in the cliffs. The light-colored walls have been gradually shaped and eroded by natural forces, including wind, rain, and sea spray. This erosion has sculpted the soft volcanic deposits into striations, grooves, hollows, undulations, and rounded shapes, which explains why it is described as a lunar landscape. Suggestions: start the day by exploring the cliffs along the shoreline, then head to the small relaxation area with its beach chairs. This is the best spot for swimming on this beach. There is a small bar there that opens occasionally, usually from 10:00 AM. Don't want to spend the whole day there? Two other beaches are located nearby: Red Beach and White Beach. The latter is accessible by water taxi from Red Beach.
In conclusion, Santorini boasts numerous must-see places and is, in itself, a truly enchanting island! The Cycladic architecture, the breathtaking geological landscapes, the medieval ruins, the delicious culinary culture, and its still-present volcanic activity are just a few facets of its appeal. Sitting at my desk, I write these final lines, remembering this experience as one of the most memorable of my European travels. I have nothing but love for this crescent-shaped island, and since this discovery, a new dream/project has been born within me… to explore all the islands of the Cyclades!
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★★★ This article was produced in collaboration with Nicoletta Houses, who graciously hosted me during my stay in Santorini. The photographs, impressions, and recommendations presented are based on my personal experience and editorial opinion.
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