5 Best Places to Watch the Sunset in Santorini

Last Updated: December 21, 2023

Ah, Santorini! The crown jewel of the Greek islands. Home to the famous caldera with the whitewashed houses, the breathtaking views, the exquisite wines and of course the magical sunsets.

Santorini is the ultimate destination if you plan on visiting the Greek islands and it has so much to offer. But, let’s face it, those dreamy sunsets when the sky takes on a perfect orange hue, reflecting on the caldera, are reasons enough to visit. I have visited Santorini twice and both times I was on the lookout for the best places to watch the sunset. These are my top 5 locations in Santorini to witness the most spectacular sunset you’ve ever seen.

5 BEST PLACES TO WATCH THE SUNSET IN SANTORINI

1. OIA 

Oia is one of the most popular places to watch the sunset in Santorini. It is an incredibly picturesque town with whitewashed houses carved on the hillside and narrow cobblestone alleys. The views from here are unlike anything you’ve ever seen. If you want to avoid the congested alleys, make your way towards the windmills where the space opens up. This is the best place to watch the sunset in Oia, Santorini, as it has more elbow room and wonderful views.

2. FIRA

Fira or Thera (it goes by both names), is Santorini’s capital and one of the largest towns on the island, recognised worldwide for its unparalleled beauty. The Cycladic architecture is apparent on the buildings perched on the caldera cliff, dominated by white and blue colours. The best place to watch the sunset in Fira, Santorini is from Saint Minas Holy Church and Church of St. John the Theologian. Both churches are located very close to each other so you can take pictures from different angles, without wasting much time.

READ ALSO: HOW TO SEE IOS ISLAND IN 3 DAYS

3. IMEROVIGLI

This is my favorite best place to watch the sunset in Santorini. Imerovigli sits between Fira and Oia and it is located at the highest point on the caldera. There are many excellent places to enjoy the sunset from here but I truly believe that the best is from Skaros Rock in Imerovigli. It is a somewhat more secluded part of the little village of Imerovigli, extending towards the Aegean Sea and offering magical sunset views. Although Imerovigli has less crowds than its neighbouring towns, it does not mean that you will completely avoid the hordes. If you prefer to stay in the centre of the village, another excellent place to watch the sunset is from the church of Ai-Stratis, Santorini.

4. AKROTIRI

Undeniably the best places to watch the sunset in Santorini are from the towns located on the caldera. Akrotiri Lighthouse is one of the locations that promise extraordinary views but it is a little off the beaten path. For a long time, this hidden gem had remained a well-kept secret amongst the locals. Until recent years, when more and more tourists looking to avoid the crowds of the popular towns discovered it.

5. PYRGOS

Pyrgos is a charming village in the centre of Santorini, surrounded by vineyards. The vibe here is more relaxed which can be very refreshing after spending a few days in the busy caldera. Allow a few hours to explore the village, walk leisurely through the alleyways and get to know the friendly locals. The main square is one of the busiest places, where you can enjoy your Greek coffee at its quaint cafes. Pyrgos also offers plenty of exquisite restaurants, wine bars and galleries. As the time passes by and the sun starts setting in the horizon, make your way towards the Agios Nikolaos church to enjoy the panoramic views. It may not compete with the caldera; but this is one of the best places to watch the sunset in Santorini as you get to see a different, less advertised side of the island.