Posted by The Most Beautiful Highlights & Tips for 2026 🌋
Santorini is without a doubt the most spectacular of all the Greek islands – and one of the most photographed places in the world. The white houses with their blue domes, the dramatic cliffs, romantic sunsets, and the unique volcanic landscape make the island a dream destination for travelers from all over the world. 🌅🏝️
But Santorini is much more than just a photo opportunity: Here you can visit ancient cities, bathe in thermal springs, stroll through traditional villages, and discover breathtaking natural wonders.
Here we show you the most beautiful sights on Santorini – from famous highlights to true insider tips for 2026. 🇬🇷✨
🏙️ 1. Oia – The Most Famous Sunset in the World
📍 Location: Northwest of the island
⭐ Tip: Arrive two hours before sunset
The village of Oia is the quintessential postcard image. White houses, narrow streets, churches with blue domes, and spectacular views of the caldera – this is Santorini as you know it from travel magazines.
Oia is especially famous for its sunset: Every evening, visitors gather on the terraces, walls, and viewpoints to admire the play of colors over the Aegean Sea. It’s an unforgettable experience – and one of the most beautiful moments of any Santorini trip.
💡 Tip: The viewpoint at the Oia castle ruins is particularly popular – secure your spot early!
🏙️ 2. Thira – Capital City with a View of the Volcano
📍 Location: Center of the Caldera
⭐ Tip: Perfect for a City Stroll
Thira is the vibrant heart of Santorini. The capital city is spectacularly situated on the caldera and offers breathtaking views of the volcano and the Aegean Sea.
Here you can stroll through charming alleyways, shop in boutiques, sample local specialties, and visit museums. The Archaeological Museum, which displays artifacts from the Bronze Age, is particularly worth seeing.
In the evenings, Thira transforms into a lively place with tavernas, bars, and terraces offering panoramic views – perfect for ending the day with a glass of wine.
💡 Tip: From Thira, you can also take the cable car down to the old port – a fantastic view included.
🏝️ 3. The Caldera – Spectacular Views and Natural Wonders
📍 Location: West Coast
⭐ Tip: Hike from Fira to Oia
The Caldera is Santorini’s most impressive natural wonder. It was formed by a massive volcanic eruption around 3,600 years ago, which shaped the island’s current landscape.
The steep cliffs, rising up to 300 meters above sea level, offer spectacular views – especially at sunset. One of the best ways to experience the Caldera is a hike from Fira to Oia (approx. 10 km, 2–3 hours), which takes you past numerous fantastic viewpoints.
💡 Tip: Start early in the morning – it gets very hot at midday in the summer.
🏛️ 4. Akrotiri – The “Pompeii of the Aegean”
📍 Location: Southwest of the island
⭐ Tip: A guided tour is highly recommended
The ancient city of Akrotiri is one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece. It was buried under ash during the volcanic eruption in the 17th century BC, resulting in its exceptionally good preservation.
Here you can see well-preserved houses, streets, frescoes, and everyday objects from the Bronze Age – a fascinating glimpse into Minoan culture. The excavations are covered and easily accessible, making them a pleasant place to visit even in summer.
💡 Tip: Combine your visit with a trip to Red Beach – it’s very close by. Other well-known beaches on Santorini can be found in the resorts of Perissa and Kamari.
🌋 5. Nea Kameni Volcano Island – Hot Springs & Crater Hike
📍 Location: In the center of the caldera
⭐ Tip: Book a boat trip from Fira or Athinios
Located in the heart of the caldera are the small volcanic islands of Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni – a must-see for anyone who wants to not only see Santorini, but truly experience it.
On a boat tour, you can climb an active volcanic crater on Nea Kameni and bathe in hot sulfur springs on Palea Kameni. The smell of sulfur takes some getting used to, but the experience is unforgettable!
💡 Tip: Wear sturdy shoes – the path to the crater is dusty and rocky. [wp-osm id=24]
🏞️ 6. Imerovigli – The “Balcony Village” Above the Caldera
📍 Location: Between Fira and Oia
⭐ Tip: Sunset from Skaros Rock
Imerovigli is a small, quiet village perched on one of the highest points of the caldera. From here, you have one of the most beautiful panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and the volcanic islands.
The Skaros Rock, a former Venetian fortress, is particularly famous and can be reached via a short hiking trail. The view from there is breathtaking – especially at sunset.
💡 Tip: Less crowded than Oia and Fira – perfect for a romantic getaway.
⛪ 7. Profitis Ilias Monastery – The Island’s Highest Point
📍 Location: Near Pyrgos
⭐ Tip: The climb is especially worthwhile on a clear day.
The highest point in Santorini is Profitis Ilias (567 m). At the top of the mountain stands an 18th-century monastery, still inhabited by monks today.
From here, you have a spectacular view of the entire island and as far as the neighboring islands. The view is particularly unforgettable at sunrise or just before sunset.
💡 Tip: It’s best to drive up by car or scooter and then hike the last part.
🏘️ 8. Pyrgos – Santorini’s Most Beautiful Mountain Village
📍 Location: Central Island
⭐ Tip: Away from the tourist crowds
Pyrgos is a traditional village in the island’s interior and a true hidden gem. Here you’ll experience Santorini in its most authentic form – with narrow streets, ancient churches, traditional houses, and charming cafes.
From the castle ruins on the hill, you’ll have a fantastic view of the island. Pyrgos is a particularly beautiful destination in spring when everything is in bloom.
💡 Tip: This area is home to some of the island’s best wineries – perfect for a wine tasting after your walk.
🍷 9. Wine Tasting in Santorini – An Experience for Connoisseurs
📍 Location: Around Pyrgos & Megalochori
⭐ Tip: Combine several wineries in one day
Santorini is famous for its volcanic wines. The island’s soils give the Assyrtiko, Aidani, and Athiri grape varieties a very special aroma.
Many wineries offer tours and tastings. Particularly well-known are Santo Wines, Gavalas Winery, and Venetsanos Winery – all with stunning views of the caldera.
💡 Tip: Wine tastings in the late afternoon – the atmosphere at sunset is truly unique.
🏝️ 10. Megalochori – The underrated village in the south
📍 Location: South of Fira
⭐ Tip: For those who want to experience “old Santorini”
Megalochori is one of Santorini’s most charming villages – yet it often goes unnoticed. Here you can stroll leisurely through quiet alleyways, visit small churches, and dine in traditional tavernas.
The village square is one of the most beautiful on the island and perfect for a break with a Greek coffee or a glass of wine.
💡 Tip: It’s best to visit during the week – many locals also come here on weekends.
🏁 Conclusion: Santorini’s Highlights – Volcano, Culture & Cycladic Charm 🌋✨
Santorini is so much more than just a backdrop for Instagram photos. The island is a place brimming with history, natural wonders, and unforgettable experiences. From the ancient city of Akrotiri to the dramatic caldera and the charming villages of Pyrgos and Megalochori, there’s something to discover around every corner.
Whether you’re strolling through the narrow streets of Oia, bathing in the hot springs of Nea Kameni, or sitting on the Skaros rock at sunset, Santorini is a place that will captivate you.
Santorini – all articles
| Santorini overview | Thira |
| Oia | Perissa |
| Kamari | Akrotiri |
| Beaches Santorini | Sights Santorini |
| Marine life Santorini | Ferries Santorini |