Santorini

11 quieter places to add to the big sights: viewpoints, markets, walks, small museums and local favourites.

11 places in Santorini

BeachesFree

Red Beach

Akrotiri

A dramatic beach of red volcanic cliffs and dark sand.

  • Suggested time: 2h 30m
  • No booking needed
  • Suits: Beach lovers · Photographers

Open access; some rockfall risk

Hidden GemsFree

Fira to Oia Hike

Caldera rim

A cliff-top walking path with constant caldera views between the island’s main villages.

  • Suggested time: 4 hrs
  • No booking needed
  • Suits: Outdoor lovers · Photographers

Open-air; start early to avoid heat

Food & Drink~£25

Santorini Wine Tasting

Pyrgos

Try Assyrtiko and Vinsanto in a volcanic-soil winery with a caldera view.

  • Suggested time: 2 hrs
  • Booking recommended
  • Suits: Couples · Food lovers

Wineries open daily; sunset slots popular

View Tickets
Day Trips~£30

Volcano and Hot Springs Boat Trip

Nea Kameni

A boat trip to the active volcano islet with a short hike and a swim in warm springs.

  • Suggested time: 5 hrs
  • Booking recommended
  • Suits: Families

Trips run daily in season

View Tickets
Hidden GemsFree

Imerovigli and Skaros Rock

Imerovigli

A quieter village with a dramatic rocky headland and some of the island’s best views.

  • Suggested time: 2 hrs
  • No booking needed
  • Suits: Couples · Photographers

Open-air; best at sunset

Culture~£4

Museum of Prehistoric Thera

Fira

A small museum showing frescoes and pottery from the Bronze Age city buried by the volcano.

  • Suggested time: 1 hr
  • No booking needed
  • Suits: Culture lovers

Tuesday–Sunday; hours vary

Hidden GemsFree

Pyrgos Village

Pyrgos

A hillside village with a Venetian castle, narrow lanes and a wide view, far less crowded than Oia.

  • Suggested time: 1h 30m
  • No booking needed
  • Suits: Photographers

Open-air; tavernas open daily

Hidden GemsFree

Ammoudi Bay

Oia

A tiny harbour below Oia, reached by 300 steps, with fish tavernas and a rocky swimming spot.

  • Suggested time: 1h 30m
  • No booking needed
  • Suits: Food lovers

Open-air; tavernas open daily

Hidden gems are the quieter alternatives to the headline sights. Prices, hours and booking advice are approximate, so check the official site before you go.

The big sights in Santorini