Summary
Santorini is a popular destination when visiting Greece. The famed Greek island of Santorini is especially renowned for its sunsets, but some places are better than others for this evening ritual on the island.
01. Promenade in Fira
The short promenade along the cliff edge in the southern area of central Fira near the Cathedral is a popular sunset viewing location. Relax with a drink or bite at one of the many cliff-clinging bars and restaurants, which are also very popular. Some places may require reservations. Depending on the time of year, the sun may be setting beyond the island of Thirassia across the caldera, a large volcanic crater, meaning your sunset will be a little earlier than for those watching off the tip of Oia.
02. Oia, Santorini
The town at the northern tip of the crescent of Santorini is Oia and is generally considered to be the best sunset viewing location on the entire island. Unfortunately, this also makes it the busiest location for sunset viewing in Santorini. If you find crowds stressful, or the sound of three hundred cameras clicking away simultaneously annoying, it may not be the best choice for you, especially during the busiest summer months.
03. Santo Winery
Address
Pyrgos Kallistis 847 00, Greece
Phone: +30 2286 022596
This winery located in the center of the Santorini crescent has a long terrace with tables providing a great view of the sunset. Enjoy wine and hors-d’oeuvres or a wine tasting in the small bar to create a memorable experience. It’s a dramatic, photogenic spot with a full view of the caldera and the volcanic islands of Nea and Kameni.
04. The Lighthouse
Address
Ios 840 01, Greece
Located at the bottom of the island of Santorini, this lighthouse offers a picturesque setting for sunset viewing. Be prepared to park nearby and walk to the lighthouse. Along the way, you’ll also encounter an old windmill base, which provides another excellent spot to observe the sunset.
05. Southern Santorini
The coastal road through the southern portion of Santorini, heading toward the west, features several spots that provide excellent views of the sunset over the caldera.
06. Profitis Ilias, Meso Vouno, and Ancient Thira
Address
Santorini 847 00, Greece
Phone: +30 2286 081939
The highest point on Santorini offers a splendid viewpoint of the islands, especially at sunset. However, the drive back down the mountain in the near-dark can be challenging for some. The parking area for Ancient Thira, located farther down the mountain, provides another pleasant sunset-viewing spot, though the ruins themselves will be closed at that hour.
07. Thirassia
Address
Mitropoleos, Thira 847 00, Greece
Phone: +30 2286 023900
This village-topped island provides a distinct sunset view, as it is not seen looking across the caldera like the other locations. Instead, you’ll see many of the Cycladic islands in the distance along with Santorini itself. Depending on the conditions, the distant white buildings painted pale pink with the sunset create stunning photographs.
However, before you visit Thirassia, ensure you have made arrangements for overnight accommodations. The sunset occurs too late for you to catch a boat back to the main island of Santorini, and there are only a few rooms available. This is a classic case where a spot in Greece can be truly “sold out.”
What if you’re eager to witness the splendor of a Santorini sunrise? The clouds surrounding Santorini will display color no matter where you are. To witness the beautiful sunrise, consider trying the back terrace of the Hotel Aressana in Fira.
