For many, Santorini is synonymous with whitewashed buildings, blue domes, and spectacular sunsets. While these postcard views are undeniably enchanting, they often represent only the surface of what the island truly offers. Beyond the polished edges of Oia and the luxury resorts lies a more authentic, deeply rooted Santorini—a land of timeless traditions, volcanic history, and secret corners known mostly to locals.
If you long to go beyond the beaten path and uncover the island’s soul, this guide is for you. Here’s how to experience the real Santorini—with local tips, hidden spots, and immersive suggestions to help you feel like more than just a visitor.
1. Wake Up in a Traditional Village
Oia and Fira might be the stars of the travel brochures, but Santorini’s heart beats strongest in its smaller, lesser-known villages.
Pyrgos: A Timeless Beauty
Perched on a hill with 360-degree views, Pyrgos is a maze of narrow alleys, stone houses, and hidden chapels. It’s Santorini’s highest village and still relatively untouched by mass tourism. Climb to the Kasteli (castle ruins) for sunrise or sunset, and you’ll likely have the view to yourself.
Local Tip: Visit during Orthodox Easter, when Pyrgos hosts a breathtaking Good Friday procession. The entire village glows with thousands of candles lining the alleys and rooftops.
Emporio: The Labyrinth of the South
Emporio is a hidden treasure of medieval architecture and winding paths. Explore the Kasteli area, where old stone towers, tunnels, and arched passageways whisper stories of the past.
Don’t Miss: Tiny cafés tucked between alleyways serve homemade loukoumades (Greek doughnuts) and Greek coffee in copper pots.
2. Eat Where the Locals Eat
True Greek hospitality is often found in the humblest places. To taste the island’s soul, skip the trendy caldera-view restaurants and seek out the traditional tavernas.
Metaxi Mas (Exo Gonia)
Arguably the island’s most beloved local restaurant, Metaxi Mas offers Cretan-Santorinian fusion in a rustic stone house setting. No caldera views—just unforgettable flavors.
Must Try: Fava purée, baked white eggplant, and the rakomelo (warm raki with honey and spices).
Taverna Giorgaros (Akrotiri)
Set on a quiet cliff above the sea, this hidden gem specializes in fresh fish caught the same day. Simple, family-run, and full of character.
Local Tip: Ask for the catch of the day and pair it with local white wine from nearby vineyards.
3. Discover the Island’s Forgotten Beaches
Santorini’s dramatic coastline isn’t just about the famous Red and Black Beaches. There are secret coves and untamed shores that even seasoned travelers miss.
Koloumbos Beach
Located east of Oia, Koloumbos is a peaceful, off-the-radar beach with dark volcanic sand and towering cliffs. It’s often quiet even in peak season.
Note: Bring your own water and umbrella—there are no facilities here, and that’s part of the charm.
Mesa Pigadia
Near Akrotiri, this beach is accessible via a bumpy dirt road or boat. Tucked between cliffs, Mesa Pigadia offers snorkeling, seclusion, and a cozy taverna.
4. Visit Family-Run Wineries
Santorini’s volcanic soil and dry climate produce some of Greece’s most distinctive wines, especially Assyrtiko, a crisp white varietal. While some wineries cater to tour groups, several offer more intimate, authentic experiences.
Gavalas Winery (Megalochori)
A fifth-generation, family-owned winery nestled in the village of Megalochori. Visit the old cellar, learn about basket-trained vines, and enjoy tastings in a peaceful courtyard.
Vassaltis Vineyards
Combining tradition with innovation, Vassaltis is one of the newer boutique wineries. Its elegant tasting menu pairs modern Greek cuisine with rare varietals.
Local Tip: Don’t skip the lesser-known vinsanto, a sweet wine made from sun-dried grapes—perfect for dessert.
5. Hike the Forgotten Trails
The Fira-to-Oia hike is legendary, but Santorini hides dozens of lesser-known trails that pass through vineyards, chapels, and wind-swept fields.
Pyrgos to Prophet Elias Monastery
This trail climbs to the highest point of the island. At the top, the Monastery of Prophet Elias offers panoramic views and a glimpse of monastic life.
Insider Info: Stop by the monastery’s shop, where monks sell homemade wine, honey, and herbs.
Akrotiri to the Lighthouse
Start from Akrotiri village and follow a dirt path west to the Faros Lighthouse. The sunset here is just as magical as Oia’s—minus the crowd.
6. Connect with Local Art and Culture
Santorini has long inspired artists, writers, and musicians. Many locals keep the creative spirit alive through galleries, workshops, and community events.
Art Space Winery & Gallery (Exo Gonia)
Located in an old canava (wine cellar), this space combines contemporary art with traditional winemaking. Explore the underground cellars and view local art exhibits.
Santorini Arts Factory (Vlychada)
This cultural hub in an old tomato factory hosts concerts, film nights, and exhibitions celebrating Cycladic culture.
Local Tip: Check schedules for summer music events—many are free and held under the stars.
7. Stay in Traditional Guesthouses
Instead of luxury hotels, consider staying in a traditional cave house or heritage guesthouse. Many have been lovingly restored and offer a more genuine connection to the island.
Notos Therme & Spa (Vlychada)
Built with natural volcanic materials, this spa-hotel offers both comfort and authenticity, just steps from the quiet harbor.
Kastro Oia Houses
If you still want to stay in Oia, this small property near the castle offers historic cave-style suites with sunset views, but a homey, personal feel.
8. Take a Local Cooking Class or Farm Tour
Learning to cook the island’s food is one of the best ways to understand its culture.
Petra Kouzina (Megalochori)
Join a hands-on cooking class in a local home and learn to make dolmades, tomato fritters, and other Cycladic favorites.
Gaia Farm (Vourvoulos)
This small organic farm offers tastings, walking tours, and cooking demonstrations using Santorini-grown ingredients.
9. Explore the Caldera by Boat—The Quiet Way
While many visitors hop on big catamaran cruises, smaller, locally run boat tours offer a deeper, more personal connection with the sea.
Santorini Sailing Center – Traditional Kaiki Tours
Sail on a wooden Greek kaiki (fishing boat) to volcanic islands, hot springs, and hidden beaches. These slower, more relaxed cruises offer storytelling and often homemade meals onboard.
Tip: Choose a morning or late-afternoon departure to avoid the heat and crowds.
10. Embrace the Slower Pace
Perhaps the most powerful way to experience real Santorini is to slow down. Greek island life isn’t about ticking off checklists—it’s about moments: sipping coffee under a fig tree, chatting with a shopkeeper, watching cats sunbathe on warm stone steps.
Wander without GPS. Sit in a square and people-watch. Ask for recommendations in a bakery. Let curiosity be your guide.
The Santorini Most Tourists Miss
The real Santorini is not just in the domes and dramatic sunsets, but in quiet chapels, backyard gardens, and the generosity of its people. It’s in the scent of thyme on a hillside trail, the taste of sun-dried cherry tomatoes, and the laughter at a taverna table filled with locals.
By venturing beyond the surface and embracing its hidden spots, you’ll discover not just a destination, but a living, breathing island full of stories waiting to be heard.
