The 7 Best Hidden Gems in Santorini

Santorini is one of Greece’s most popular islands – after all, who doesn’t think of Greece and immediately think of the iconic white and blue buildings that serve as a symbol of Santorini? But Santorini is so much more than its white buildings, as it offers up a truly unmissable collection of tourist hubs and attractions. If you want to be in amongst the action, definitely stay in Oia or Fira, which are the best-known tourist destinations. 

For those of us who want to add a little something extra to our trip away, Santorini is also bursting at the seams with hidden gems and secluded places that are most likely missed out of many tourists’ itineraries, who flock to Oia or Fira. These hidden gems are what make Santorini all the more worthwhile and are guaranteed to make your trip all the more memorable. Let’s take a look at the 7 best hidden gems in Santorini:

Santorini’s best-kept secrets – from red-sand beaches to quaint hilltop villages 

Red Beach

Best characterised by its volcanic red-tinged sand and cliffs, Red Beach is truly a sight to behold. Although popular with locals, tourists to the area may not know about this beach, making it one of Santorini’s best-kept secrets (until now). Red Beach is located a short distance from Akrotiri, a village around a 20-minute bus journey from Santorini’s capital city, Fira. 

Pyrgos Village 

Santorini has charming little villages dotted around, and one of the perhaps lesser-known of the lot is the stunning Pyrgos Village. Its medieval streets host wine bars and independent boutique stores, and its castle ruins and historic sites make for essential viewing for tourists. Not nearly as packed as its neighbouring city of Fira and village of Oia, Pyrgos is ideal for those who want to explore Santorini in more depth and detail and want to avoid large crowds of tourists. 

Koloumbos Beach 

Kolumbo Beach is a reasonably secluded beach, in that you normally won’t find swathes of sunbathers or swimmers as you would on most of Santorini’s beaches. Instead, you can enjoy the coastline peacefully and enjoy the scenery without worrying about being unable to find a place to sit.

Kolumbo Beach is known for its dramatic cliffs and dark, inviting sand that makes it different from Greece’s traditional white-sand coastline. Both Red Beach and Koloumbos Beach are perfect for those who want something a little different.

Heart of Santorini Rock, Megalochori

Much more than just a lookout point, the Heart of Santorini is a heart-shaped hole that feels like a portal to another world whenever you look through it. It’s somewhere you can sit and admire the beautiful volcano and the Aegean Sea, from the tranquillity of a small village. 

It’s unlikely that you’ll be swarmed with tourists here, as you have to really go out of your way to find this, which is what makes it so appealing for those who want a more peaceful experience. The Heart of Santorini Rock is also one of the best places to get undisturbed sunset views.

Mesaria Village

Another small village in Santorini, but one that packs a mean punch in terms of appeal. Somewhat hidden from the tourist hubs, Mesaria village is charming and unsuspecting, with many people stumbling across it and making it their new favourite hangout spot. 

Complete with the traditional white-washed buildings that are widespread across Santorini, Mesaria captures the true essence of the island and offers some pretty stunning sightseeing opportunities too. 

Kookoo Bar & Lounge

The first and only restaurant on our list, we had to include the Kookoo Bar & Lounge as a hidden gem, as it is often either missed or overlooked in favour of chain restaurants or other Greek tavernas. Although located on the edge of tourist hotspot Oia, Kookoo Bar might not (initially) be high on your restaurant list. 

What you can expect from Kookoo is authentic Greek cuisine, signature and expertly mixed cocktails, a perfectly blended menu to incorporate every meal of the day, and a welcoming and inviting atmosphere — what more could you want? 

Ammoudi Bay

Having grown in popularity in recent years, you may think Ammoudi Bay doesn’t deserve to be labelled as a hidden gem, however, it does, simply because of what it has to offer. Located on the bottom edge of Oia, Ammoudi Bay is a great place to dive and swim, and admire the beautiful towering cliffs. Not to mention, the promenade is stacked with restaurants and eateries, and you’re guaranteed to find the best seafood you’ve ever had! Avoid the hustle and bustle of Oia and Fira and experience Santorini in one of the best ways possible.