From the best season to visit, to the optimum locations and how to secure the perfect spot.
Iconic architecture, volcanic sand beaches and excellent cuisine might be some of the reasons to visit Santorini, but its world-famous sunsets are why you’d want to stay. Casting an array of yellows, oranges, purples, pinks and reds across the sky every night, this natural showstopper can’t be missed when visiting the renowned Greek island. Here’s our top tips on how to make the most of your Santorini sunset.
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Visit during non-peak season
The beauty of Santorini’s sunsets are no secret, so expect the crowds to gather throughout the summer, especially in July and August. To save you battling for a prime viewing spot, visit in shoulder seasons, or low season. It means less people, cooler weather and a better deal on accommodation and flights. When is shoulder season exactly? The end of April to the beginning of June and then from early September to the end of October.
Try lesser-known locations like Pyrgos and Imerovigli
If you’ve ever seen a photo or video of a Santorini sunset, it was most likely taken at Oia. With the white-washed houses, blue-dome-roofs and ancient windmills cascading down the caldera, there’s a reason why millions flock to the north-west corner of the island. However, Oia isn’t the only spot to get a prime vantage point of the sunset. Imerovigli sits in the middle of the caldera ridge, meaning the sun perfectly splits the horizon as it sets. Sip on a cocktail or local wine at The Wine Bar, or BYO beer as you perch on Skaros Rock. Pyrgos is also a lesser-known option, but by no means less impressive as a vantage point. As Santorini’s highest village it’s perfectly placed to admire the shifting hues as they cross the sky. Book a table at Franco’s Cafe for one of the best Santorini sunset-spotting points on the whole island.
Join a sunset sailing cruise
There’s one way to guarantee an unobstructed view of a Santorini sunset – a sunset sailing cruise. Climb aboard a luxury catamaran before setting sail around the caldera, stopping for the sunset under Oia. Most tours aren’t just about the sunset though – make a half-day of it with a swim in volcanic hot springs, snorkelling in front of the White and Red Beaches and sunbathe on the boat’s deck as you admire the stunning natural landscapes from the water. Some even offer unlimited drinks and a freshly prepared traditional Greek meal – what more could you want?
For a truly unforgettable sunset, discover this private sunset catamaran experience (pictured).
Get there early to secure your spot
Like any event that draws a crowd, the early bird gets the worm. Pop by the local supermarket (otherwise known as culinary heaven) and stock up on snacks and drinks before making your way to your chosen sunset spot and settle in. Watch as the world passes you by, sipping on a Mythos beer and snacking on local treats like olives, dolmades (rolled and stuffed vine leaves), dips, pittas, or even takeaway spanakopita. Just don’t forget your camera.
Fail-safe sunset viewing spots
There’s not beating around the bush – Oia and Akrotiri Lighthouse are two of the most popular Santorini sunset spots because they offer absolutely stunning views of the red disc falling into the Aegean Sea each evening. Despite being at completely different ends of the island (Oia in the north, Akrotiri in the south) they both face west so are perfectly positioned for sunset watching as the different colours dance across the sky and reflect on the white-washed houses built into the cliffs. While they may get busy in the high summer, they consistently deliver amazing views and after all, that’s what we’re here for.
Feature image: Grace Hotel, Santorini.
Discover more about Greece on the new season of Luxury Escapes TV, airing Tuesdays 6pm AEST* on Foxtel Lifestyle and on demand on Binge and 10 Play. *Check your local TV listings for details.
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