THE EXTENDED STAY:
SANTORINI
Beyond the blue domes — a more intimate, thoughtful way to experience the island.
SCROLL TO EXPLORE ↓The Island, Beyond
the Postcard
I came to Santorini for the iconic views, but I left loving the quieter villages, the long dinners and the sense of place that exists beyond the blue domes.
This is how I'd plan the trip for a friend — where to wander, what to eat, how to build a few beautiful days and the little details that make all the difference once you're on the island.
Take the pictures. Watch the sunset. But leave yourself enough time to discover the Santorini you weren't expecting.
The Neighborhoods
FOUR DISTINCT AREAS, FOUR DIFFERENT EXPERIENCES
OIA
Iconic · Romantic · Sunset Views
The postcard village. Beautiful, romantic and unforgettable — just expect crowds, especially at sunset.
EXPLORE OIA →FIRA
Lively · Central · Caldera Views
The island's hub for restaurants, shopping and nightlife, with beautiful caldera views and convenient connections.
EXPLORE FIRA →PYRGOS
Traditional · Quiet · Hilltop Views
A quieter village with winding lanes, traditional architecture and a wonderfully unhurried atmosphere.
EXPLORE PYRGOS →AKROTIRI
Historic · Scenic · Laid-Back
Ancient history, dramatic beaches, local tavernas and a beautiful lighthouse sunset.
EXPLORE AKROTIRI →Eat, Drink & Experience
MY CURATED LIST OF RESTAURANTS, SUNSET SPOTS,
WINERIES, BEACHES & MORE.
The Little Black Book
A FEW BEAUTIFUL REASONS TO STAY OUT A LITTLE LONGER
Selene
A polished dining option in Fira, perfect for an evening worth dressing up for.
VIEW ON MAP ↗To Psaraki
Save this Vlychada restaurant for a leisurely seafood lunch along the southern coast.
VIEW ON MAP ↗Sun Spirit
An Oia sunset stop to investigate. Check current reservations and seasonal hours.
VIEW ON MAP ↗Good Heart
A taverna recommendation from the handwritten Santonero map.
VIEW ON MAP ↗Wineomia
One of the recommendations to save for an evening centered on wine and conversation.
VIEW ON MAP ↗Caldera Cruise
See Santorini from the water, with its volcanic coastline and unforgettable views.
EXPLORE OPTIONS ↗Three Days, Beautifully Spent
THOUGHTFULLY PACED. COMPLETELY YOURS.
The Postcard, But Better
The Santorini you've dreamed about, with enough breathing room to actually enjoy it.
Oia, Before the Crowds
Start early and wander Oia's whitewashed lanes. Stop for coffee, admire the caldera and take your photographs before the streets become busy.
A Long Lunch at Ammoudi Bay
Head toward the waterfront for fresh seafood and a slower afternoon. The walk back uphill is steep, so consider arranging a ride.
VIEW ON MAP ↗Sunset at Sun Spirit
Finish with sunset drinks in Oia. Check reservations and seasonal opening details before visiting.
VIEW ON MAP ↗The Santorini You Didn't Expect
Quieter villages, volcanic wine and a beautiful evening overlooking the caldera.
Get Lost in Pyrgos
Wander the winding lanes, discover traditional architecture and stop for a coffee with a view. Don't rush this part.
VIEW ON MAP ↗A Taste of Santorini
Book a winery experience and try the island's famous Assyrtiko. Arrange a driver or tour transportation if you'll be tasting wine.
FIND WINERIES ↗Dinner in Fira
Stroll the caldera-side streets and settle in for dinner. Selene and Barolo are two options to explore.
VIEW RESTAURANTS ↗The Wild Side of Santorini
Ancient history, volcanic landscapes and one final unforgettable sunset.
Explore Ancient Akrotiri
Visit the archaeological site and discover a completely different chapter of Santorini's history. Check opening times and tickets.
VIEW ON MAP ↗Lunch by the Southern Coast
Explore Vlychada's dramatic volcanic scenery, then enjoy a leisurely lunch. To Psaraki is one restaurant to look into.
VIEW ON MAP ↗Akrotiri Lighthouse at Sunset
End your trip with sunset on the southwestern coast. Bring a light layer if it's windy, and plan your return transportation.
VIEW ON MAP ↗A LITTLE NOTE: This itinerary is intentionally flexible. Adjust your days around reservations, weather and the pace you actually enjoy.
The Art of Getting Around
BECAUSE PARADISE SHOULD NOT REQUIRE A TRANSPORTATION MELTDOWN.
My Favorite Way to Explore?
A private driver. Santorini isn't a particularly large island, but getting between its villages, beaches and viewpoints can take more planning than you expect.
I'd rather spend my afternoon enjoying a winery or getting lost in Pyrgos than figuring out parking or how I'm getting home.
For airport and port arrivals, I also recommend booking a transfer ahead of time.
Less logistics. More magic. ♡Need a Driver Recommendation?
I'm happy to share my Santorini driver recommendation. Send me a note and I'll point you in the right direction.
Here's to getting a little lost, finding something beautiful, and remembering to enjoy the journey.
BACK TO THE TOP ↑Oia.
Beyond the Blue Domes
Yes, it's the Santorini you've seen in a thousand photographs. And yes, it's every bit as beautiful in person. But my favorite way to experience Oia isn't by racing between viewpoints. It's an early coffee, a little wandering without a destination, a long lunch by the water, and finding somewhere lovely to sit when the sky starts turning gold.
Before the busiest day-trippers arrive.
Views, long lunches and golden-hour walks.
Expect steps, slopes and uneven paths.
Where to Go in Oia
Coffee first, always. Then something delicious, a little exploring and a sunset worth staying for. Choose a category to find your next stop.
Passaggio
For a slow start: coffee, breakfast, something fresh and a caldera-facing terrace. A lovely stop before a day of exploring.
THE OCCASION · YOUR FIRST COFFEE OF THE DAYMelenio
For a coffee-and-cake kind of afternoon. Add this to your list when you're craving something sweet between wandering Oia's lanes.
THE OCCASION · AN AFTERNOON TREATVitrin
Crêpes, waffles, coffee and a sweet little break from sightseeing. A casual option when you don't want an elaborate sit-down meal.
THE OCCASION · A RELAXED BREAKFASTThalami
Right in Oia, with caldera views and a menu of Greek and Mediterranean favorites. One to consider for lunch or a beautiful dinner.
THE OCCASION · A MEAL WITH A VIEWLauda
A special-occasion dining option in Oia. Consider this when you want to make one evening of your trip feel particularly memorable.
THE OCCASION · YOUR SPLURGE DINNERMelitini
For Greek meze and a table full of dishes to share. A great alternative when you want a more casual meal than a formal caldera dinner.
THE OCCASION · A LONG, UNHURRIED LUNCHAmmoudi Fish Tavern
Fresh seafood at the water's edge beneath Oia's red volcanic cliffs. Make time for the setting, not just the food.
THE OCCASION · A LONG SEASIDE LUNCHArmeni Restaurant
A traditional fish taverna down in Armeni Bay. Part of the adventure is getting there; arrange access before you go rather than assuming it's a simple stroll.
THE OCCASION · SOMETHING OFF THE MAIN PATHSun Spirit
One of the places to save for Oia's famous sunset. A drink, a seat and a view beat trying to squeeze into the busiest lookout.
THE OCCASION · GOLDEN HOUROia's Village Lanes
Give yourself an hour with no agenda. Wander the public pathways, discover little corners and enjoy the village before the crowds build.
THE OCCASION · AN EARLY MORNING WALKAmmoudi Bay
Red volcanic cliffs, fishing boats and clear blue water. A beautiful change of scenery from the whitewashed village above.
THE OCCASION · A SEASIDE AFTERNOONOia Castle
A famous viewpoint at the western end of the village. Beautiful for the scenery, but expect a crowd around sunset.
THE OCCASION · THE CLASSIC OIA VIEWNo recommendations in this category yet.
The Extended Stay combines Brittany's own destination notes with additional researched recommendations. Always confirm seasonal hours, accessibility and reservations directly.
Don't Spend the Whole Day Chasing the Sunset.
I love a beautiful sunset as much as anyone, but there's something to be said for seeing Oia when it's waking up. Grab a coffee. Find a quiet corner. Look around instead of only looking through your camera.
And if you head down to Ammoudi or Armeni, plan your return carefully. Those cliffside steps are no joke, especially in the heat.
With love, Brittany ♡Fira.
A Little More Lively
If Oia is the romantic leading lady of Santorini, Fira is her slightly more spontaneous best friend. She's got the restaurants, the cocktails, the shops and a calendar that definitely includes dinner plans. But look beyond the busy streets and you'll find incredible caldera views, centuries of history and plenty of reasons to stay a little longer.
Explore before the midday crowds, then return for dinner.
Restaurants, cocktails, museums and nightlife.
A convenient base for buses and exploring beyond Fira.
Where to Go in Fira
Start with a good coffee, spend the afternoon wandering somewhere beautiful, and leave room for a cocktail when the sun starts to set.
Iriana Café
A coffee or breakfast stop with a view. For mornings when you'd rather sit and enjoy Santorini than immediately rush into sightseeing.
THE OCCASION · A SLOW MORNING WITH A VIEWCoffee Lab
A practical stop when your morning priorities are a proper coffee and getting out to explore. Less of an occasion, more of a caffeine mission.
THE OCCASION · COFFEE BEFORE EXPLORINGEggomio
For a casual breakfast when you want something a little more substantial before walking around the island's capital.
THE OCCASION · A RELAXED BREAKFASTLukuMum
Save this for a sweet treat. Loukoumades, little Greek doughnut-style bites, are a very good reason to make an extra stop.
THE OCCASION · AN AFTERNOON SUGAR BREAKSelene
For the dinner you plan your outfit around. A refined tasting-menu experience with a strong focus on Greek ingredients and Santorini wines.
THE OCCASION · A SPECIAL NIGHT OUTBarolo
One from the Santorini recommendation notebook. Keep it on your dinner shortlist and check the current menu and reservations before visiting.
THE OCCASION · AN EVENING IN TOWNLucky's Souvlaki
Because not every meal in Santorini needs a reservation or a spectacular view. Sometimes a good, casual souvlaki is exactly what you want.
THE OCCASION · A QUICK, CASUAL LUNCHPelican Kipos
A garden setting for a meal away from the busiest caldera-facing terraces. A lovely option to consider when you want a different atmosphere.
THE OCCASION · A LONG, RELAXED MEALPK Cocktail Bar
A classic Fira cocktail stop with a caldera-facing terrace and a history dating to 1976. Book ahead if you're hoping for a prime sunset table.
THE OCCASION · SUNSET COCKTAILSV Lounge
A rooftop cocktail option for when you're ready to trade walking shoes for a seat and a view over the caldera.
THE OCCASION · A BEAUTIFUL EVENING VIEWMuseum of Prehistoric Thera
Discover artifacts from ancient Akrotiri and learn about the island before its postcard-perfect villages existed. A wonderful stop for history lovers.
THE OCCASION · A CULTURAL AFTERNOONThe Caldera Path
Follow the cliffside pedestrian route north toward Firostefani and Imerovigli. You don't need to commit to the full hike to enjoy beautiful views.
THE OCCASION · AN UNHURRIED MORNING WALKThe Three Bells of Fira
One of Santorini's classic blue-dome scenes, overlooking the sea. Located in Firostefani, just north of central Fira.
THE OCCASION · A BEAUTIFUL PHOTO STOPOrthodox Metropolitan Cathedral
Step inside one of Fira's landmark churches, or simply pause in the courtyard and take in the architecture. Dress respectfully if visiting inside.
THE OCCASION · A MOMENT OF QUIET IN THE CITYNo recommendations in this category yet.
This neighborhood edit combines Brittany's destination notes with additional researched recommendations. Confirm current opening hours, seasonal availability and reservations before visiting.
Come for the Views. Stay for the Evening.
I think Fira is one of those places that's best enjoyed without trying to do absolutely everything. Start with a coffee, explore the streets, wander toward the caldera and then find somewhere beautiful to sit with a cocktail.
And if you're trying to decide between staying in Oia or Fira, here's my thought: Oia is wonderful for romance and iconic views, but Fira is a great base if you want restaurants, nightlife and convenient transportation.
With love, Brittany ♡Pyrgos.
The Art of Slowing Down
If Oia is the Santorini you came to see, Pyrgos might be the Santorini you fall in love with. Tucked into the hills, this former island capital is a beautiful little maze of whitewashed homes, medieval passageways and church bells.
Come without a strict itinerary. Order a Greek coffee, take the wrong turn, discover a tiny courtyard and follow the lanes upward until the entire island seems to unfold beneath you.
Quieter streets, softer light and lovely hilltop views.
Longer if you're staying for lunch or a winery visit.
Expect steps, sloping lanes and limited vehicle access.
"Some of the most beautiful moments in Santorini happen when you stop looking for the next beautiful thing."
Where to Go in Pyrgos
Traditional cafés, beautiful restaurants, volcanic wines and centuries of history. Pick a category, find a place you love, and leave a little room for the unexpected.
Kantouni
Right in the village square, this long-standing family-run spot is the kind of place that makes you want to stay for a second coffee. Think shaded outdoor tables, Greek coffee, traditional dishes and a slower pace.
THE OCCASION · COFFEE BEFORE EXPLORINGBrusco
A relaxed café, wine and deli stop on the village square. Perfect for lingering over a coffee or returning later for a glass of local wine.
THE OCCASION · A LAZY VILLAGE AFTERNOONKantouni Sweetery
A little something sweet after all those hilltop steps. Save this village-square pastry stop for cakes, desserts and an afternoon indulgence.
THE OCCASION · THE AFTERNOON SUGAR BREAKPenelope's Ouzeri
A charming option along the climb toward the castle. Settle in for traditional Greek meze, share a few plates and don't rush lunch.
THE OCCASION · A TRADITIONAL GREEK LUNCHCava Alta
Tucked into the old village, with a courtyard and rooftop setting. A beautiful choice for dinner after an afternoon wandering the medieval lanes. Reserve ahead.
THE OCCASION · AN INTIMATE DINNERRosemary
Near the castle, Rosemary pairs Mediterranean cooking with an elevated terrace overlooking the island. One to consider when you want a romantic dinner without returning to Oia.
THE OCCASION · A ROMANTIC EVENINGMadame Sousou
A more contemporary option for Mediterranean and Greek flavors, with a wine-focused atmosphere. Add this to your shortlist for a leisurely evening in the village.
THE OCCASION · DINNER & A GLASS OF WINEFranco's Café
Near the top of Pyrgos, this café is known for its panoramic views, classical music and cocktails. An especially lovely place to enjoy the golden-hour light.
THE OCCASION · SUNSET WITHOUT THE OIA CROWDSSanto Wines
A short drive from the village, this winery offers tastings of Santorini's volcanic wines alongside sweeping caldera views. Sunset reservations are especially worth planning ahead.
THE OCCASION · WINE WITH A VIEWHatzidakis Winery
An appointment-based winery experience in the wider Pyrgos area. A wonderful option for travelers curious about Assyrtiko, Santorini's distinctive volcanic terroir and the island's winemaking traditions.
THE OCCASION · A WINE-LOVER'S AFTERNOONPyrgos Kasteli
Follow the winding medieval lanes toward the old Venetian castle. The reward is a beautiful panorama across the island, along with an entirely different sense of Santorini's history.
THE OCCASION · THE ESSENTIAL PYRGOS WALKThe Medieval Lanes
Forget the map for a little while. Pyrgos is made for discovering narrow passageways, old doorways, tiny chapels and quiet corners around the next turn.
THE OCCASION · GETTING BEAUTIFULLY LOSTProfitis Ilias Monastery
Above Pyrgos, on one of the island's highest points, this historic monastery offers extraordinary views. You'll need transportation to reach it comfortably from the village. Check visitor access and dress respectfully.
THE OCCASION · AN EXTRA SCENIC STOPPyrgos Village Square
Start here. Watch village life unfold, grab a coffee, admire the traditional buildings and then choose whichever little lane looks most inviting.
THE OCCASION · YOUR STARTING POINTNo recommendations in this category yet.
This neighborhood edit combines Brittany's destination perspective with researched recommendations. Always confirm seasonal opening hours, accessibility and reservations directly.
Four Hours in Pyrgos
Not another minute-by-minute itinerary. Just a lovely way to spend an afternoon.
Coffee in the Square
Start with Kantouni or Brusco and settle into village life.
Climb to the Kasteli
Follow the medieval lanes uphill and stop whenever you like.
Lunch or a Cocktail
Choose a long Greek lunch or a hilltop drink at Franco's.
Finish With Wine
Arrange transportation to a nearby winery for a tasting.
The Best Part? There's No Rush.
You know how sometimes you travel somewhere and feel like you're supposed to be checking things off a list? Pyrgos is where I'd throw that list out the window.
Wear comfortable shoes, stop for coffee, wander the old streets and let the afternoon become whatever it wants to be.
And one practical note: if you're planning a wine tasting, book a driver. No one needs to be navigating unfamiliar roads after a few glasses of Assyrtiko.
With love, Brittany ♡Akrotiri.
The Wilder Side of Santorini
Santorini has a wild side. And she's not particularly interested in whether you got the perfect Instagram photo.
Down on the island's southern peninsula, the scenery changes. Ancient ruins replace boutique-lined streets. Volcanic cliffs meet the sea. The villages feel quieter, the coastline a little more dramatic, and the best moments often happen somewhere between stops.
Come for the history. Stay for a long Greek lunch. And leave enough time to watch the sun disappear beyond the lighthouse.
Start with the ruins and save the lighthouse for evening.
Depends on how many coastal stops you want to make.
The main sights are spread across the peninsula.
"Not every beautiful part of Santorini comes with a blue dome."
Where to Go in Akrotiri
Ancient civilizations, local tavernas, volcanic beaches and a sunset worth driving for. Choose a category to find your next adventure.
Akrotiri Coffee & Bistro
A relaxed village stop to start your morning or take a break between adventures. Check the current menu and hours before visiting.
THE OCCASION · COFFEE BEFORE THE RUINSThe Good Heart
A family-style Greek taverna in the wider Akrotiri area, known for traditional dishes and a relaxed atmosphere. A lovely choice for a leisurely lunch.
THE OCCASION · A LONG GREEK LUNCHMisteli
A contemporary restaurant in Akrotiri village serving Mediterranean and Greek flavors. A good option for a proper sit-down meal after exploring.
THE OCCASION · A RELAXED VILLAGE DINNERThe Edge
A scenic dining option to investigate for a meal in the southern part of Santorini. Confirm its current location, operating season and reservations before planning around it.
THE OCCASION · A MEAL WITH A VIEWTo Psaraki
A seafood-focused restaurant overlooking Vlychada's fishing harbor. This is a separate drive east of Akrotiri, but a worthwhile option for a southern-island day.
THE OCCASION · A LONG SEASIDE LUNCHArchaeological Site of Akrotiri
Walk through the remains of a prehistoric settlement preserved by volcanic ash. Its streets, buildings and sophisticated infrastructure reveal a fascinating chapter of Aegean history.
THE OCCASION · THE ESSENTIAL HISTORICAL STOPRed Beach Viewpoint
The striking red cliffs are one of Santorini's most dramatic sights. Appreciate the scenery from a safe, permitted viewpoint rather than descending beneath unstable cliffs.
THE OCCASION · A DRAMATIC PHOTO STOPWhite Beach
A small cove framed by pale volcanic cliffs, generally reached by boat. Access depends on weather and sea conditions; confirm safe landing arrangements with your operator.
THE OCCASION · A COASTAL BOAT EXCURSIONMesa Pigadia
A quieter stretch of coastline with dark volcanic pebbles and striking rock formations. Check the road, beach conditions and available facilities before setting out.
THE OCCASION · A SLOW SEASIDE AFTERNOONAkrotiri Lighthouse
At the southwestern tip of the island, the lighthouse area offers sweeping sea views and a different kind of Santorini sunset. Bring water, wear sturdy shoes and stay well away from cliff edges.
THE OCCASION · THE GRAND FINALENo recommendations in this category yet.
This chapter combines Brittany's destination notes with researched recommendations. Check current opening hours, seasonal operations and access restrictions before visiting.
Before You Venture South
A few things worth knowing before you trade the caldera villages for the coastline.
Arrange Your Ride
Akrotiri's sights are spread out. A private driver or rental car can make the day easier than relying on buses, especially if you're visiting the lighthouse.
Admire the Cliffs Safely
Red Beach and other volcanic cliff areas can experience rockfalls. Respect all closures and warning signs, and avoid walking or sitting beneath unstable cliffs.
Think Practical
Water, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, a hat and a charged phone. Some coastal areas have limited shade and facilities.
Check Before You Go
Archaeological opening hours change seasonally, and boat access depends on weather. Confirm your plans before committing to the day's route.
A Day on the Wild Side
Ancient history, a long lunch and the kind of sunset that makes you forget to check your phone.
Explore Ancient Akrotiri
Discover the prehistoric settlement and allow time to appreciate the history rather than rushing through.
Settle In for Greek Food
Choose a village restaurant such as Misteli or The Good Heart. Make lunch part of the experience.
Explore a Coastal Stop
Enjoy a permitted Red Beach viewpoint or a safer accessible coastal alternative, depending on current conditions.
One Last Coffee
Pause for a drink, enjoy the scenery and make your way toward the western end of the peninsula.
Akrotiri Lighthouse
Find a safe viewing spot and enjoy the evening light over the Aegean. Sunset time changes throughout the year.
There's More to Santorini Than the Postcard.
Don't get me wrong. I love a beautiful caldera view. But I also love discovering the places that remind you an island has an entire life beyond its most photographed corners.
Akrotiri is a wonderful excuse to see a different side of Santorini. Learn something about its past, have a really good lunch and let the landscape surprise you.
And please, don't turn this into another checklist. The best part of an adventure is leaving a little room for the unexpected.
With love, Brittany ♡