There are so many things to see on the Greek island of Santorini, but what makes the pearl of the Cyclades even more sublime are its famous sunsets. Every evening thousands of people come to watch the magnificent show on the caldera. So here are our best places to watch the sunsets in Santorini.
SANTORINI WEATHER1- Oia
We start with the favorite spot of tourists and all those who come on a trip to Santorini: the small and famous town of Oia. Located in the north of the island, this village with whitewashed houses, built on the side of a cliff, is already exceptional by day. Then when the sun sets it is an explosion of beauty and color.
Even if you have to expect to be surrounded by a hundred people, phone in hand and applauding the last rays disappearing on the horizon, Oia is a must to see the sun setting on the caldera and the bay of Ammoudi, provided you know the best viewpoints:
- the ruins of the Byzantine castle, west of the village, a 360° view of the bay of Ammoudi, and plunging on the blue domes of the churches. Beware, this is the most famous and therefore the most frequented sunset of Santorini.
- the pretty little orange houses of the Kastro Oia House, a hotel restaurant at the end of Oia.
- the panoramic terrace of one of the restaurants in Oia (remember to book several days in advance).
- along the coastal path that leads to the east.
- next to the windmills in the north of Oia, a quieter place with fewer tourists.
Tip: Oia is very famous and you should plan several hours to have the chance to be in the front line for the sunset. The places on the terraces are expensive and the crowd starts to move towards the spots from 6 pm.
2- port of Ammoudi
Here again, you will have a great view at the end of the day. The small port of Ammoudi is accessible from the village of Oia by descending… 200 steps! But believe me, this incredible spot in Santorini is worth sacrificing your calves. A pretty cove with its small taverns, its boats floating on translucent water, and its magnificent view of the sunset for the lucky ones who will have booked a table as soon as they arrive on the island. One can only fall under the charm of this small authentic fishermen’s port surrounded by red cliffs.
tip: If you don’t want to walk down the vertiginous stairs from Oia, the port of Ammoudi is accessible by car or scooter via a small road.
3- Skaros Rock
Skaros Rock is a rock formation jutting out into the Aegean Sea, littered with the ruins of a Venetian fortress and located about a 20-minute walk from the village of Imerovigli. The path is steep to get there, but the view is worth it! Sunset lovers will be crazy about this promontory offering a breathtaking panorama of the island of Thirassia and the volcano Tholos in front, Fira on the left, and Oia on the right.
Tip: Wear good shoes to make this short hike to the rock of Skaros even if the path is well marked. And don’t forget to visit the small white and blue chapel built on the side of the cliff (Panagia Theoskepasti). Here no one to disturb you!
4- Imerovigli
Imerovigli is another typical village located on the heights of Santorini and it is also one of the most beautiful places for the sunset as it is 300 meters above the water level. Located between Oia and Fira, the white village of Imerovigli offers a magnificent view of the volcano and the Skaros Rock, and a unique sunset over the caldera. Moreover, Imerovigli is very similar to Oia but less known, so you will be more relaxed taking pictures.
5- Fira
After visiting the capital of the island of Santorini, take the time to sit at the terrace of a bar or restaurant in Fira and enjoy the flamboyant colors of the sunset over the caldera, the volcano, and the villages of Imerovigli and Firostefani. Fira is also a good compromise to find cheaper sea view hotels than in Oia. In Fira, there are a lot of rooftops for a perfect aperitif + sunset combo. Here are our favorites:
- The Vine: Greek and Mediterranean cuisine for brunch/lunch or dinner, friendly atmosphere, beautiful shaded terrace, and breathtaking view of the caldera. Very good wine list with local grape varieties but also ouzo.
- PK Cocktail Bar: this is the oldest cocktail bar on the island. Signature drinks, good music, an incredible spot in Fira to watch the sun go down and have a great night.
- Enigma Cafe: nice bar with an incredible view, choice of cocktails and glasses of wine, correct prices compared to what is practiced in Fira. We are well installed on sofas to see the sunset on the caldera.
Tip: The hiking trail along the coastline between Fira and Oia (11 km) is punctuated with magnificent viewpoints to watch the sunset. Quiet, romantic corners, away from the tourists. We love it!
6- Akrotiri Lighthouse
To see another facet and another style of sunset on Santorini just as sublime, you can go to the lighthouse of Akrotiri. It is located on the southern tip of the crescent formed by the island. Of course, you will not have the view on the caldera, but on one of the oldest lighthouses of the Cyclades still in function. We like this spot because it is isolated, less frequented, and still very accessible.
Tip: To get to the lighthouse of Akrotiri, leave your car at the end of the road and continue on foot by a small path on the left at the foot of the cliff. Do you want a great picture with the lighthouse and the Aegean Sea? Climb a little higher and find the perfect spot for a great view.
7- Firostefani
This village located just above Fira also offers magical and unforgettable moments every night. Many say they prefer Firostefani to Oia because it is less crowded. You can go to one of the restaurants and taverns with a terrace facing the sea to see the last rays shining on the caldera. And if you can afford it, choose accommodation with a sea view in Firostefani, the most luxurious ones even offer Jacuzzis or private pools.
8- Pyrgos
For an incredible view of the heights of Santorini, go to Pyrgos located in the middle of the island. In addition to a small picturesque village, with charming alleys dotted with old white houses, Byzantine churches, and small flowery taverns, Pyrgos allows you to have an unobstructed view of Santorini’s landscapes (the sea on the horizon, the vineyards on one side) and to admire the incredible spectacle of the sunset from the top of the old Prophet Elias Monastery, the highest point on the island.
