We’ve pulled together the best places to watch the Santorini sunset, avoiding the crowds. Look for images of Santorini on Instagram and chances are you’ll find many photographs of the Santorini sunset. It’s a magical time of the day. As the blood red-orange sun slips into the ocean, visitors from all over the world admire this mother nature spectacle.
In fact, thousands of visitors flock to Instagrammable sunset locations around the island to enjoy this special time of day. Nowhere is this more evident than in Oia (pronounced I-A) where serious sunset seekers arrive hours before sunset time to bag the best spots. Thanks to social media, Oia has become the busiest place to watch the Santorini sunset. But this isn’t your only option! We’ve pulled together, based on customer feedback our top 7 places in Santorini to enjoy the sunsets without the crowds.
Why is the Santorini sunset famous?
Like it or not, many people are influenced by social media. With Instagram feeds full of Santorini sunset photos, it’s no wonder that the Santorini sunset has become world-famous. The spectacular sight when the sun dips into the Aegean Sea painting the sky a myriad of colours and casting shadows onto the rugged caldera cliffs is an Instagrammer’s dream.
The famous and magical sunset of Santorini was also ranked at the sixth place the National Geographic magazine for best summer sunsets in the world. According to National Geographic, the sunset in Santorini is a giant postcard.
Our 7 Favourite Places in Santorini to Watch the Sunset
1. Pyrgos
The beautiful village of Pyrgos has been voted as the best place to watch the Santorini Sunset by our guests. Pyrgos is the highest village on the island of Santorini. Commanding sweeping 360-degree island views, it doesn’t matter where the sun sets – in Pyrgos, you’ll be treated to a bird’s eye view of this stunning, daily mother nature spectacle.
Grab a table at Franco’s café, located near the medieval castle ruins and enjoy a sunset cocktail with light classical music and incredible views. Alternatively, head to one of the many great restaurants in Pyrgos and enjoy the sunset over a romantic, relaxing dinner. Penelope’s, Cava Alta and Rosemary’s are stand-out choices. Check out these fabulous Sunset images of Pyrgos, as captured by guests.
Location: Pyrgos Kallistis
2. Profitis Ilias
Close to Pyrgos Village, the monastery of Prophet Ilias boasts views of the entire archipelago of Santorini. At 565 metres above sea level, you’ll need a car to reach this spot, unless you’re a keen walker (2 hours walk from Pyrgos uphill). Due to its location, this place is usually quiet at sunset, probably because the monastery closes at 4pm. If you value peace and quiet, then this is the place to head to for an epic Santorini sunset. Take something to drink with you and toast the end of a beautiful day together.
Location: Profitis Ilias
3. Faros Lighthouse in Akrotiri
Located on the south-west tip of the island, the Faros lighthouse and rocks surrounding it is an impressive spot to watch the sunset in Santorini. With far-reaching views of the whole caldera, plunging cliffs and the lighthouse silhouetted against the changing sky, you’re in for a dramatic sunset experience here. You’ll need transport to reach the lighthouse in Akrotiri.
Location: Faros Lighthouse, Akrotiri
4. Book a table at one of Fira’s Bars or Restaurants
There’s no getting away from the fact that Fira does attract the crowds. The recommended way of enjoying the capital is to book a table at one of the bars or restaurants which are located on the caldera (the cliff edge). Here you can enjoy an evening in one of the best Santorini sunset restaurants or maybe sip on your favourite tipple in an open-air cliffside bar. A firm favourite is the PK Cocktail Bar. Booking a table is recommended.
Location: Fira
5. Santorini Sunset Dinner Cruise
Book a sailing boat or catamaran cruise and enjoy a 360-degree sunset experience as you cruise the stunning Santorini coastline. The sunset cruise departs early afternoon, well before dusk. You’ll sail past the iconic Red and White beaches and close cruise past the volcano. Most cruises also stop for swimming at the hot springs. A full meal and drinks are served as the sun begins to set. It’s a perfectly romantic way to experience the Santorini sunset. Definitely one of the best places to watch the Santorini sunset!
6. Enjoy the Best Santorini Sunset from your Own Terrace
If you’re lucky enough to be able to see the Santorini sunset from your accommodation, then this is one sure way of avoiding the crowds. Sink into your comfy chair, a glass of chilled wine in hand and enjoy stunning sunsets and island views. Sunset accommodation in Santorini doesn’t just mean hotels on the cliffside. Head inland to Pyrgos, for example, and you’ll find authentic Santorini Cave Houses offering equally spectacular sunset views.
7. Santo Wines Winery
Just outside Pyrgos, Santo Wines stands out as one of the best wineries on the island for sunsets. With a commanding location on the edge of the plunging sea cliffs, expect jaw-dropping views. To the right you can see the white-washed buildings of Fira as far as Oia, to the left the Akrotiri peninsular and straight ahead, the volcanic lava islands and the deep blue of the Aegean sea. The wines are delicious too. Choose from a selection of wine tasting options and say cheers to another marvellous day in paradise.
Location: Santo Wines in Pyrgos
