These are the most beautiful villages on Santorini
March 26, 2024
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Santorini is not only a dream destination for sunsets and white houses with blue domes, the island is also full of culinary surprises. From cozy taverns and seafood restaurants overlooking the sea to trendy beach clubs where you'll want to hang out all day. In this article, we share our favorite hotspots on Santorini: from atmospheric restaurants in Fira to hidden gems on the beach.
The best hotspots in Fira
Fira is the bustling capital of Santorini and our favorite place to stay. You'll find quaint streets, cozy boutiques, and most importantly, lots of atmospheric restaurants and bars overlooking the caldera. These are our recommendations in Fira:
Wondering where the best places to stay are? These are our favorite accommodations in Fira!
1. Restaurant Rastoni
Restaurant Rastoni is located right in the center of Fira and offers an insane view of the caldera, especially during sunset! The menu is varied, with Italian and Mexican dishes in addition to Greek specialties. The restaurant has three floors. For the best view, you definitely want a table on the top floor. This place is popular, so reserve in time!
Price range: medium to slightly higher, especially the wine is pricey.
2. Svoronos Bakery Fira
For a quick (and affordable) bite, Svoronos Bakery is the place to be. This local patisserie is beloved by Fira residents, and that says it all. You'll find freshly baked breads, savory snacks, baklava and other sweets like apple and pistachio croissants. But you can also score a nice cup of coffee there. Ideal for breakfast or on the go.
Price level: budget. A good filled sandwich costs around €5.
3. Taverna Eleni's 1955
Small but cozy, Taverna Eleni's is tucked away on a side street in Fira and is a real experience. Owner Eleni welcomes you with open arms and serves tasty, homemade Greek dishes. The warm interior and personalized service make this an evening to remember.
Price level: average. Good value for money.
Firostefani: local hot spot overlooking the caldera
Firostefani is a charming village between Fira and Imerovigli. Although often overlooked, it has some hidden gems. One of these spots is Aktaion, a hotspot that you also walk past during the hike from Fira to Oía.
1. Restaurant Aktaion
There are few places you would eat twice on vacation, but Aktaion is one of those. This Greek restaurant in Firostefani is one of the oldest taverns on Santorini, and has been run by the same family since 1922. It has a great location on the caldera, where you can enjoy breathtaking sunset views while eating. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, and the traditional Greek dishes are always fresh and flavorful. Choose a local dish and pair it with a delicious local wine from the island. Everything fits perfectly with the charm of this iconic tavern.
Tip: Come for the sunset and enjoy a glass of Greek wine with a view!
Price level: average. Prices are very reasonable considering the location and quality of food.
Best restaurants in Imerovigli
Imerovigli is our favorite place on Santorini, thanks to its panoramic views and peaceful atmosphere. This village has a charming blend of traditional Greek charm and modern luxury. These are the places you absolutely must visit.
1. Restaurant Avocado
Restaurant Avocado in Imerovigli is a wonderful place for lunch or dinner. Located on one of the highest points on the island, it offers a cozy atmosphere despite not having a view of the caldera. The Mediterranean cuisine is a highlight, and the friendly staff makes you feel right at home. The restaurant is perfect for a cozy evening, with a menu consisting of delicious and light dishes. Try the seafood dishes and the local Greek wines!
Price level: average. It is slightly more expensive than other places, but the hospitality makes it worth it.
2. Anogi
Anogi is a must-visit in Imerovigli, especially for its fantastic Greek food and great value for money. Located away from the caldera, the restaurant offers an authentic experience with a local touch. It is a popular spot, so reservations are recommended. The house wine is highly recommended, and the staff will make sure you leave with a smile.
Tip: order the carafe of house wine, it is surprisingly delicious and costs much less than a bottle!
Our ultimate tips for local hot spots
Santorini is not only known for its iconic views and tourist attractions, but the island also has plenty of hidden gems that you don't want to miss. We found one such spot in Akrotiri, a village a little further from the crowds but definitely worth exploring. Here we discovered a local hot spot that you really shouldn't miss.
1. Asterias Restaurant in Akrotiri
Asterias is a charming Greek restaurant that you reach via steps down from the small water pool in front. It is near Red Beach, so it is the perfect place for lunch or dinner after a day of sunbathing on the beach.
What makes this restaurant so special is not only its location, with a beautiful view of the sea, but also its warm atmosphere and delicious dishes. The owner, a local man, proudly shares the history of the restaurant and the famous tzatziki served here. We recommend you try the tzatziki, as it is the most delicious you will ever taste!
Price level: reasonable. Prices are good for the quality of food and location.
2. Ammoudi Fish Tavern in Ammoudi Bay
Ammoudi Fish Tavern is the number one seafood restaurant in the bay. Here you eat freshly caught fish while enjoying a great view of the sunset. The place is especially crowded in the evening, so it is a popular spot for a romantic dinner. The seafood is top quality, and the atmosphere is intimate and cozy. You can spend the whole evening here while the sun slowly sets over the Aegean Sea.
Price level: average to slightly higher. You pay a little more for the fresh fish, but the experience is worth it.
3. Franco's Cafe in Pyrgos
Santorini is known for its stunning sunsets, but most people opt for the popular vantage points in Oía or Fira. However, if you really want to enjoy a unique sunset without the crowds, Franco's Cafe in Pyrgos is the place to be. Located at the top of the village, this cafe offers a panoramic view of the island and the sea. It is a quiet, romantic spot where you can enjoy a drink while the sun slowly sets.
Pyrgos itself is also one of the most beautiful villages on Santorini, with charming streets and an authentic atmosphere. If you want to know more about this idyllic village, also read our article on the most beautiful villages on Santorini.
The café has a charming, relaxed atmosphere away from the tourist crowd. It is the perfect place to unwind and experience the beauty of Santorini in peace. Reservations are a must, though, as the popular spot fills up quickly, especially during sunset.
Price point: medium to high, but the experience and the view make it worth it.
The best beach clubs on Santorini
On the east coast of the island you will find some of the most beautiful beaches of Santorini: Perissa Beach, Eros Beach and Perivolos. The beaches are famous for their black volcanic sand. Whereas Perivolos and Perissa offer a pleasant promenade with a mix of cozy beach bars and restaurants, Eros Beach offers an impressive and peaceful landscape to relax. Volcanic cliffs. These are our tips for the best beach clubs on Santorini that you don't want to miss:
1. Tranquilo
Tranquilo is a colorful and relaxed beach bar on Perissa Beach, perfect for a day of rest. The atmosphere is wonderfully laid-back, enhanced by the Spanish background music and friendly staff. You can eat good food here, with many vegetarian options on the menu. The portions are large. The caesar salad XL is enough to share for three (!) people! For the ultimate relaxing experience, you can soak up the sun on the comfortable loungers.
Price level: average. Prices are very reasonable for a beach bar of this quality.
2. JoJo
JoJo is a cozy beach club with a great atmosphere. The lounge bar offers a nice view of the beach, and there is even a pool where you can cool off after a day in the sun. It is the ideal place to relax, have a refreshing drink and a nice lunch. The comfortable sunbeds and umbrellas make it extra nice to spend a few hours here.
Price level: average. Prices are a bit higher than at Tranquilo, but the extra luxury makes it worth it.
Also read: The most beautiful beaches on Santorini
From hidden coves to vast volcanic beaches. On Santorini you will find beautiful beaches to enjoy a scrumptious sun, sea and beach vacation. Where to go? Read on quickly for our tips!
3. Wet Stories
Wet Stories is a more exclusive beach club in Perivolos, and it shows in the atmosphere and prices. It is the perfect place if you are looking for a chic experience with stylish sunbeds and a beautiful lounge bar. Here you can truly enjoy the sun and sea in luxury. Prices are a bit higher than at Tranquilo and JoJo, but the atmosphere and comfort make it well worth it.
Price level: higher. It's a more exclusive beach club, so prices are a bit above average.
4. Theros Wave Bar
The only beach bar on Eros Beach is Theros Wave Bar, an elegant beach bar that blends perfectly into its surroundings, with a design of stone and wood. The bar offers an intimate atmosphere where you can relax with a drink while enjoying the view of the volcanic landscape and black sand beach. You can rent two beds and an umbrella here for an affordable price, so you can spend your day enjoying a spot of shade.
Price level: average for an exclusive beach location.
Where is the best place to stay during your vacation on Santorini?
Santorini is a dream destination that you immediately recognize by its whitewashed houses, bright blue domes and panoramic views of the Aegean Sea. Do you dream of staying in a luxury cave hotel or do you prefer a charming and affordable Airbnb? In our extensive article 'where to stay on Santorini' we share helpful tips and suggestions for choosing the perfect base on Santorini.
Even more travel inspiration for your vacation to Santorini
Looking for even more travel inspiration for your vacation to Santorini? These are our most read articles:
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