Santorini, Greece: Top 3 New Places to Visit

So you're visiting Santorini for a few days, have you planned your trip already of which places to go to first? Don't worry, we wrote a list of the three best places you can visit in Santorini for a breath of fresh air! So in no particular order, here they are!

Oia's Main Street

From white-painted Oia Santorini hotels to blue-domed churches and structures, this wonderful sight is brought to you by the village of Oia! Be ready to get awed by the magical and awesome setup the locals have in Oia. The main street is made up of traditional tavernas, restaurants, and shops for goods. There are many tourists going up from the docking station. If you want to avoid the crowd, you can opt for a cable car ride where you can see the village and most of the island from above. Or you can pay for a donkey ride!

Oia's Main Street

Yet, the best way to explore the main street is by walking. You'll get more of the picturesque town by slowly gazing at its inspiring architecture, natural beauty, and accommodating locals. The main street of Oia gives us an idea on how to chill and take the time to appreciate the little things.

Akrotiri Lighthouse

The south tip of the island unveils the romantic and sunset-viewing spot just as beautiful as Oia, the Lighthouse in Akrotiri. Akrotiri is a one bus ride away from Fira and Oia. Also, it is where you will find the ancient archaeological site which is also a must-visit. But we are here for a different purpose. We are here to witness the best feature of the day- sunset! It is romantic because it is a peaceful remote part of the island where you can share the golden hour with the one you love.

The Akrotiri Lighthouse

Hey, you have to be careful on hiking down to the Lighthouse as this is made of steep cliffs. Nevertheless, you will have the best time here!

The Cultural Village

Everyone who visits the island of Santorini eventually becomes captivated with the culture. Let the yourself get lost in the Cultural Village in Pyrgos which the locals call the Old Santorini Town. Here, not only you will notice the beautiful home setting in a traditional town. But also, there's a museum complex where the visitors can take a historical and gastronomic tour of the island!

Pyrgos: The other face of lovely Santorini

The museum houses antiques, old photographs, model figures of locals that generally describe the Old Santorini. This museum complex was established to show the new generations the gift of the past. You will have a good time at the Cultural Village as they serve lunch and dinner to guests. Also, you can taste a set of traditional wines they offer. This place is a must-see for all history buffs and individuals alike!

A Grandeur Santorini Accommodation: The Delfini Hotel in Oia

Your vacation isn't and wouldn't be complete if you will not have a good time in a posh accommodation. The Delfini Hotel in Santorini offers you not only a place to stay at but a magical home away from home where you can rejuvenate and just forget whatever work, problem, or stress you have back home!

This view upon waking up? YES!

The Delfini Hotel is located in Oia. The hotel complex is perfectly carved by the cliff! You have unlimited time to view the Caldera from the veranda of your room or suite! Also, when in Delfini Hotel, you will be greeted by the friendly staffs. So don't be afraid to approach them or ask them about the island. They will surely love to help!

Delfini Hotel with the view of Caldera

Nightlife Guide in Santorini 2016

Did you know that Santorini offers the next best night out experience in your life? Of course, nightlife isn’t exclusive for clubs and bars. But coffee shops and snack bars are also popular in this island! Unlike in Mykonos where all the party animals are headed to, Santorini provides a perfect scene for both intimacy and bliss. Hey, one can still have a good time with a couple of cold booze or a cup of coffee, right? Indeed, the nightlife experience in Santorini is artistically redefined!

The main village of Fira is also known as the social hub of Santorini. At first, the town lets you see a typical busy place for tourists who don’t seem to know where they are headed yet. But wait until the crimson sky turns blue to dark, this is when the magic happens. Santorini hotels, residences, and other establishments lit up their buildings making the whole island glow! If you’ll be in Fira, here are some of the best clubs where you can have a totally cool time with your friends: Enigma, Koo, Tithora, Mamounia, and Town Club. If you are more of an introvert, these cozy coffee shops are also recommended for you: The Pure Coffee Bar, Lava Café, and Art Café. These shops don’t only bring you the best local brew but also, they will provide you the captivating view of the Caldera.

Fira by night.

Love spending time at the beach? You’ll the stunning and unique beaches of Santorini even more! Santorini beach bars are nothing new. Get yourself served with a sparkling drink or really, a glass of margarita or ouzo will be much appreciated. During big events such as summer music fest, there will be guest DJ’s to bring you the upbeat of the scorching hot sun. Santorini beach bars are mostly found in Kamari and Perivolos. These are the bars you shouldn’t miss while at the awesome beach! Ethnic Café Bar, Hook Bar, Mango Bar, and West Stories Beach Bar. You can also enjoy different music genres while hanging out at these beach bars: ethnic, rock music, pumping mainstream, and cool club.

Mango Bar in Kamari, Santorini, Greece

Where to Stay in Santorini?

A relieving view of the Aegean Sea from one of Strogili's apartments.

Staying in a cozy and posh Santorini accommodation such as Strogili Apartments is a must try experience. First, you are free to wake up and chill next to the sight of the Caldera and the Aegean Sea that will surely give you peace and refreshment. Moreover, a variety of facilities and services are available to exceed each guest’s satisfaction. One can also rent a car, motorcycle, or even a boat from Strogili. If you will be in Santorini for the summer or even during the off-peak season, the traditional houses of Strogili in Oia welcomes everyone with warm greetings!

Strogili Traditional Houses

Santorini’s Villages and Towns

Santorini is one of the best islands in the world that should be included in your travel bucket list! The inviting sight of the vivid colors of structures resting on a cliff is one of the mainstream pictures of the island that is located in the southern Cyclades. Haven’t been in Santorini yet? No problem! We will accompany you and tour you to Santorini’s villages and towns today! Tips and travel hacks such as getting you the best deal out of Santorini studios are also included in this article. You better have your pen and paper handy so you can list down a helpful guide that you can make use of for your next holiday in Santorini.

Fira

Fira is the capital of Santorini- of both commercial and arts. One of the most obvious things you will notice about Fira is that it is overpopulated with tourists. Why? Not only it is the capital city of the island, but also its suburb, Ornos, is where cruise ships dock. Making Fira the first village most visitors see and experience upon their arrival to the breathtaking island of Santorini. There are a lot of things to do in Fira. One can visit the art galleries and museums here or drop by the largest shopping stores tucked in the cobblestone streets in Fira. Moreover, there are an overflowing number of restaurants, coffee shops and night bars in Fira. You’ll experience the best night out in this village! Tip: Tango and Enigma bars are worth checking out!

Fira Village

Oia

Oia and Fira are like inseparable sisters as these villages are the two most developed tourist centers in Santorini. In fact, most of the holidaymakers pick Oia hotels over Fira’s because the settlement of the village on the west gives the tourists the best view of Caldera and the sunset! The traditional town of Oia is also called “Apano Meria” by the locals. Did you know that Oia is one of the most photographed places in Greece and in the world? Thanks to its perfect architecture that features Cycladic houses and villas perched on a cliff and some of the most renown Captains’ houses! Tip: If you are looking for an affordable private apartment or studio during your stay in Oia, Nikos Villas is always up to accommodate your needs. Make sure to give them a call!

Nikos Villas and Apartments in Oia, Santorini.

Imerovigli 

Another pretty town in Santorini is called Imerovigli. It is only 3 km away from the villages of Fira and Firostefani. For the adventurers, hiking is one of the suggested activities to do in Imerovigli. Make sure to get to the end of the trail, to the Skaros Rock Formation. You can also start a pilgrim here by visiting the Church of Panagia Malteza which houses some of the most important icons that represent scenes from the Old Testament. Tip: This town is only a bus away from Fira yet it offers the most affordable side of Santorini.

Imerovigli and Skaros Rock.

Pyrgos

A quiet hillside town that is 8 km away from Fira is Pyrgos which is also the highest point of Santorini. It offers the best panoramic view of the scenic villages in Santorini such as Messaria, Imerovigli, Karterados, Skaros, Firostefani, Oia, and Fira. You will also find two of the most visited tourist sites in Santorini in Pyrgos, the Kasteli, and the Profitis Ilias Monastery. There are traditional restaurants, small taverns, grocery stores, and halls that pump music concerts in the area. Tip: Pyrgos is a must-visit place during Easter! Go see it, yourself!

The Pyrgos Kasteli during Easter!

Megalochori

The most remote village on our list is the Megalochori which is 10 km away from the town of Fira. It is also dubbed as the winery capital of Santorini even the vineyards are widely scattered on the island. Some of the wineries you should see when in Megalochori are the Antoniou, Boutari, and Gavalas Vineyards and Wineries. Moreover, a glimpse of the two remote beaches of Thermi and Plaka and the chapel of Agios Nikolaos is also accessible from Megalochori.

The chapel of Agios Nikolaos.

The 1800 Restaurant: A Place to Dine and Unwind in Santorini, Greece

It is true that Santorini is popular for its dome-shaped structures, pristine beaches, spotless mountains, and hotels and houses that are beautifully painted in blue and white. Another thing that one must not forget to check out are the Santorini restaurants dispersed around the island for one main purpose- to serve the best and authentic Greek menu to the visitors of Santorini. If you will be having your vacation in Santorini anytime soon, here's a fashionable and vintage restaurant in Oia, The 1800 Restaurant.

The 1800 Restaurant in Oia Santorini with the view of the Caldera!

Why should I try 1800 Restaurant?
Not only the best Santorinian dishes are being prepped by the master chefs in here, but also, you will be taught of the knowledge of where this restaurant came from and how it started from scratch back in the old times. Looking back from where the now successful restaurant started, the luxurious and unique "live museum" was then the mansion of a Santorinian sailorman named Ioannis Sarris. The building was originally built in 1845 but had its first restoration and commercial conversion in 1986 by the architect/owner of 1800, Ioannis Zaggelidis.

A delightful dish served at the 1800 Restaurant!

One would appreciate the mini museum you'll find by the entrance of the restaurant where antique wooden sofas and sculptures from abroad are being displayed. It's always nice to experience what's left behind by history while being a part of the history at the same time.

The 1800 Cuisine
If you will be visiting The 1800 Restaurant during your stay in Santorini, here are our favorite picks for you to try!

A delightful dish served at the 1800 Restaurant!

-Enticing menu of roasted fish and seafood
-A heavenly platter of local and international cheeses with mezedes
-The perfect Grilled lamb chops
-Fresh veggies, fruits, and salad served with all the gorgeous colors

Where is The 1800 Restaurant located?
The 1800 Restaurant is located at the northern tip of Santorini, carved on top of a mountain in Oia where one would have the access to the scenic view of the ocean and the town from above.

An intimate dinner at the mountaintop? Yes! Go check out the 1800 Restaurant in Oia!

The 1800 restaurant is a perfect place for you to share a dinner with your other half. It is even the best place for you and your best friends to chat over a magnificent Greek meal served by the multi-awarded chefs in Santorini. Delicious food, delighting faces of restaurant staffs, and the ever great and breathtaking setting at the mountaintop. Another reason to love The 1800 Restaurant is for their exceptional and prime Santorini wines. It is true that 1800 is your one-stop-shop-kind of restaurant and bar!

Happy dining!