Santorini is a popular destination when visiting Greece. The famous Greek island of Santorini is especially known for its sunsets, but some places are better than others for this nightly ritual on the island.
Promenade in Fira
The short promenade along the edge of the cliff in the southern part of the center of Fira, near the Cathedral, is a popular place to watch the sunset. Relax with a drink or bite into one of the many bars and restaurants clinging to the cliffs, also very popular. Some places may require reservations. Depending on the time of year, the sun may be setting beyond the island of Thirassia through the caldera, a large volcanic crater, and this means that its sunset will be a little earlier than for those watching from the tip. of Oia.
Oia, Santorini
The town at the northern end of the Santorini crescent is Oia and is generally considered the best place to watch the sunset on the entire island. Unfortunately, this also makes it the busiest place to watch the sunset in Santorini. If you find crowds stressful, or the sound of three hundred cameras clicking at the same time annoying, it may not be the best option for you, especially during the busiest summer months.
Santo winery
Direction
Pyrgos Kallistis 847 00, GreeceGet directions
Telephone
+30 2286 028058
Web
Visit the website
This winery located in the middle of the Santorini crescent has a long terrace with tables that offer an excellent view of the sunset. Add the opportunity for wine and snacks or enjoy a wine tasting in the small bar and you have a memorable experience. It is a dramatic and photogenic place with a full view of the caldera and the volcanic islands of Nea and Kameni.
The lighthouse
Direction
Ios 840 01, GreeceGet directions
Located at the bottom of the island of Santorini, this lighthouse is picturesque in its own right, but it also offers a nice place to watch the sunset. Prepare to park where you can and then walk towards the lighthouse. On the way to the lighthouse, you will also find an old windmill base which also provides a great spot to watch the sunset.
On santorini
The coastal path through the southern part of Santorini, heading west, has a number of points that offer an excellent view of the sunset over the caldera.
Profitis Ilias, Meso Vouno and Ancient Thira
Direction
Santorini 847 00, GreeceGet directions
Telephone
+30 2286 081939
Web
Visit the website
The highest point on the island of Santorini offers a beautiful view of the islands, spectacular at sunset. The journey back up the mountain in the dark can be challenging for some. The parking area for Ancient Thira, located further down the mountain, can provide a pleasant spot to watch the sunset, although the ruins will close at that time.
Tirasia
Direction
Mitropoleos , Thira 847 00 , GreciaGet directions
Telephone
+30 2286 023900
Web
Visit the website
This island crowned by the people offers a different view of the sunset, since it is not seen looking through the caldera as in the other places. Instead, you will see many of the Cyclades islands in the distance. You can also look back on the island of Santorini. Depending on the conditions, the distant white buildings painted pale pink with the setting sun will make great photos.
However, before rushing to Thirassia, make sure you’ve arranged a place to stay for the night. Sunset is too late to allow you to take a boat back to the main island of Santorini, and there are only a few rooms available. This is a case where a place in Greece can actually be ‘sold’.
But what if you want to see the color show from the other side of the night, that is, a beautiful Santorini sunrise? The clouds around Santorini will show color no matter where you are, but to watch the beautiful sunrise, try the back terrace of Hotel Aressana in Fira.
