

A cultural guide to Santorini
Its whitewashed villages and spectacular sunsets are world-famous, but this enchanting Greek island, steeped in culture and history, is far more than just a pretty face
KEY NEIGHBORHOODS
Oia
THE VIBE
Oia is the photogenic jewel in Santorini’s crown and a favorite among honeymooners. Cascading down a cliff with cobbled streets and whitewashed houses aplenty, it is undeniably beautiful—but in peak season, undeniably busy. If jostling for a spot to take a picture of the sunset is not your thing, there are plenty of cafés and restaurants for a relaxed meal, meandering alleys to get lost down, and a Maritime Museum housed in a restored 19th-century mansion to explore. A short walk from the center of town, the Esperas Santorini hotel is spread out over eight levels with stunning views, a large pool and 21 rooms, some with plunge pools.
Where to stay
Fira
THE VIBE
The capital and largest town of Santorini, Fira is also the center of the island’s nightlife scene. If you are here to party, the Koo Club and Enigma are Fira’s best-known clubs. In the daytime, hike the six-mile route along the rim of the caldera to Oia, passing blue-domed churches and making detours through the large villages of Imerovigli and Firostefani on the way. Cosmopolitan Suites has just 10 rooms and one of the best infinity pools in Fira, perched on the edge of the cliff overlooking the caldera.
Where to stay
Megalochori
THE VIBE
Just 10 minutes’ drive from the coast and surrounded by vineyards, Megalochori feels a world away from the packed streets of peak-season Fira. Life moves slowly around the pretty town square; winding alleys lead off to elegant neoclassical houses and traditional Cycladic homes. Enjoy caldera views from the churches of Panagia Plaka and Agios Nikolaos, and visit the Symposion Cultural Center, a space dedicated to traditional Greek music which hosts performances, workshops and events.
Where to stay

Scan the QR code or select one of the links below.