You probably think of Santorini as the Mediterranean playground of the rich and famous. Well, at least one of their playgrounds. In many ways, you're right to think that. Celebrities, politicians and the like often escape here to get away from the rest of the world. But there are some places within Santorini itself that even celebrities might not frequent either. Towns that aren't as developed, but that's part of their charm. One such as Akrotiri. Famous for its tall lighthouse that gives a magnificent view, it's an escape in an escape in of itself. A true serene sanctuary.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Greece has a lot of history. It is the country, after all, that started many things. Mythology, democracy, and more. And so significant is this country's past that many areas within it aren't that modernized at all. A sort of touching tribute to preserve the essence of the past. In Santorini, one such neighborhood is the town of Emporio. Painstakingly local, it still looks like the Medieval Greece of centuries ago. Not only does it seem that you walked through a time a machine to get here, but you'll also feel as if you're in a Greek fairytale just strolling through the area.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
If you want to get into the heart of Santorini, look no further than Fira. Set atop a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean sea and a beautiful volcano, this neighborhood is actually the capital of the island. So expect that it's also the busiest area on this list. But this is perhaps the exact reason why you want to stay here. To get into both the local and tourist life in equal measure. To enjoy what the island has to offer as well as to experience what it's all about in essence. Not to mention the dazzling nightlife scene here!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Just a little beyond the capital is a slightly different area called Firostefania. But while it's treated as a different town altogether, the place is actually just an extension of the island's capital. Though it's also understandable why locals prefer to consider the distinction. While it looks like an ordinary GReek town, what makes it quite a worthwhile area is that it' gets you nearer to the island's volcano. If you're an academic who studies volcanoes, this is the town for you. But, if you're just a simple visitor who wants to experience local life by staying in Santorini for a period of time, this is still a nice option to consider!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Many locals and tourists alike have often considered the serene town of Imerovigli as the most romantic on the island of Santorini. Why? Because it gives astonishing views all around! At one corner, you'll get to see the caldera, one of nature's most profound wonders. It's quite a sight to see, even if you're not a scientist specializing in volcanoes. On another corner, there's a magnificent view of the Mediterranean sea. Imagine staring at the sunset every afternoon with your significant other, all while sipping champagne and hanging from your hammock. Now that's quite a life, isn't it?
Source: Wikimedia Commons
If you think Santorini is all about maintaining the traditional charm of Greek culture, think again. You may not be aware of this but there are parts of this luxurious island that lends itself to modern conveniences. And if you're still not convinced, it's high time you go to the Kamari neighborhood. Known as the most family-friendly among the many areas that make up the island, it boasts a more modern infrastructure than many of its neighboring towns. It's near Santorini airport too, which makes finding a place here even more convenient!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
If you've ever received a postcard from Santorini, chances are the town you're looking at on the card is Oia. When you imagine what Santorini looks like, more often than not, you're actually picturing this beautiful and beguiling town. Extremely famous for its picturesque homes, stone-crafted walkways, and a flurry of novel cafes and restaurants, staying here is Santorini-living at its finest. It's probably the first reason you wanted to visit the island in the first place, let alone move here! And the best part is the beauty is just as dazzling when you've stayed here for a long period of time as it was during your first time here!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Santorini-living is beach-living. At least, that's what Greek tourism will tell you. Or perhaps, what your friends who've been to the island will tell you too. And if that's their view of it, then it's highly likely they spent a lot of time in the beautiful neighborhood of Perissa. A coastal village unlike any other, this is the area you'd want to call home if you frequent the beach. However, the beach here isn't like any other in Greece nor in the rest of the Mediterranean. It's unique for its dark-colored ash sand and deep blue waters. But it's still majestic though!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
A Venetian castle, and centuries-old monstery—you'd think you were walking into a history book when you go to the stunning town of Pyrgos. But apart from the tourist attractions already mentioned, what makes this place so inviting is that its quintessentially Greek. All the other charming elements that drew you to the other neighborhoods? You'll probably find them here too. In fact, this neighborhood used to be the capital of Santorini. Before it became Fira, this was the heart of the island. And in many ways, you can still feel it too. Most especially if you decide to stay here whilst living in Santorini!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Santorini may seem like a beautiful escape from the rest of the world, but for many others, it's home. And you can call it home too! If you're planning to stay on this beautiful island for a long period of time, ensure that you choose the right neighborhood by reading more about them!
Subscribe to our newsletter to get curated travel inspirations.
Submit |
