5 best sunset spots in Santorini (where to skip the crowds)
There’s something about watching the sun slowly dip below the horizon that’s so grounding,
and Santorini is one of the most amazing places we’ve visited to see the sunset!
The landscape is just so unique!
If you’re heading to Santorini for your next vacation or stopping over quickly on a
European cruise, you can find some of the most romantic sunsets in the quieter corners of
the island.
However, when following recommendations from most guide books and blogs, we ended up being surrounded by herds of tourists… Which to be honest, spoiled the experience a bit.
So, we’ve put together a list of our favorite sunset places in Santorini, Greece, where you will have less crowds!
1. Skaros Rock, Imerovigli
Skaros Rock in Santorini is where you will find some of the most dramatic sunsets, but you
won’t need to battle with other tourists while you’re there.
Because this rocky outcrop juts over the caldera near Imerovigli, you’ll get unobstructed
views across the sea and over to Oia in the distance. It really doesn’t get more romantic than
this.
Just bear in mind that you will need to take a short hike to get to this viewpoint, so be sure to
wear good shoes that are comfortable to walk in. It’s also not a bad idea to take along a
backpack with some water and a light jacket for when the breeze picks up.
READ OUR FULL ARTICLE ABOUT THE BEST THINGS TO SEE IN IMEROVIGLI
2. Akrotiri Lighthouse
If you head to the very southern edge of Santorini, you’ll find the Akrotiri Lighthouse, which
dates back to the 19th century.
The views of the open ocean and the golden light bouncing off the cliffs is pretty surreal, and
because there are very few tourists, it feels more like a secret location.
The lighthouse is a bit of a distance from the main towns, though, so you’ll want to come
prepared. Bring along a few snacks, and after the sun sets, you can linger and watch the
stars come out. Plus, there’s very little artificial light here, so the night sky is mostly clear.
READ OUR FULL POST ABOUT THE BEST THINGS TO SEE IN AKROTIRI
3. The Village of Pyrgos and its 360° View
Another must-see spot for admiring the sunset in Santorini is the village of Pyrgos. Perched high on the island, it offers a 360-degree view of the surrounding area. Perfect for panorama lovers! Moreover, the Monastery of Prophet Elijah is also located in the same area.
Located at an altitude of approximately 565 meters, it is another ideal spot to contemplate the sunset in all its splendor. Although the altitude of this site allows for a spectacular panorama, it remains relatively peaceful during sunset. So, don’t hesitate to go there to enjoy a moment of peace and beauty.
MAKE SURE TO VISIT PYRGOS DURING YOUR TRIP TO SANTORINI – FULL GUIDE HERE
4. Admire Santorini Sunset by Boat
Embark on a unique experience in Santorini with a sunset cruise!
From the Santorini caldera, you can admire the surrounding landscapes from a truly unique perspective. The sun dips into the Aegean Sea to the west, setting the other islands of the archipelago ablaze, while to the east, the light makes the whitewashed buildings of the coastal villages shimmer. Poetic, isn’t it?
Finally, dinner and drinks await you on board the boat as it gently rocks along the water. So, how about a sunset cruise—an unforgettable experience in Santorini?
WE LISTED OUR FAVORITE CRUISES IN SANTORINI HERE
5. Firostefani
Firostefani is one of the must-see villages on the island of Santorini. It offers a breathtaking view of the caldera and the island of Thirasia.
Take the path leading to Fira and admire the sunset from the many little alcoves along the way. You can also choose one of the restaurants in the village, or sit on the bench opposite the church, right next to the Aktaion restaurant. In short, it’s up to you to decide which of these spots suits you best.
HIKE FROM FIRA TO OIA – COMPLETE GUIDE
As you’ve probably gathered, Santorini is a magnificent place to admire sunsets. Each of these spots offers a unique and memorable experience. Which one appeals to you most?
