Is there anyplace out of the way in Santorini?

[kosta_karapinotis]

Santorini is inundated with tourists but I am wondering if there is anywhere on the island that may not be as busy but is still nice to visit. Or, that is maybe close to the busy areas but not too close. I love Santorini, and my family has never been. I want them to see it, but I don't want it to be stressful.

I am wondering if I should just forget it. I have heard stories about how expensive and busy it is in the summers.

 

[Deborah]

I’m not sure that there is any out-of-the-way place left in Santorini. However I agree with you. It is a very unique and important place to visit. In spite of the fact that Greece is now being heavily promoted as a year-round destination, you should definitely try to avoid Santorini in July and August, unless that interferes too much with (I assume) your children’s school schedule. You could also look for accommodation in a village like Pyrgos or other inland village and rent a car which would give you flexibility to get around and find those quiet spots when the cruise ships arrive and everyone else is on the cliffs! The other secret is to get up early and walk the cliffs (Fira to Oia) before people are awake and people have disembarked from the ships. It can be a blissfully quiet and stunning walk as the morning fog rises out of the Caldera. Unless the cruise ships have changed this, Sunday morning can be a good time to explore Greek towns in general - before the shops are open.

 

[FootsLog]

I think this travel hack "get up early" to enjoy a popular destination works every time. It's really hard to take a photo if the place is already crowded and somehow disappoints you. So, if I really want to enjoy and appreciate its beauty, then I don't mind waking up early.

 

[k_tsoukalas]

I agree with Deborah, Santorini is important to visit at least once. It's iconic and very stunning. FootsLog, it is tough for me to wake up early but for Santorini I agree with you. Set the alarm and get out there and really see it before the crowds come in.

 

[kosta_karapinotis]

There's some great advice here thank you everyone! I am going to try to get my family up early to enjoy some stuff before the crowds kick in. Maybe we can eat a long lunch during the "peak" times to avoid much of the bustle in the main areas.

Meanwhile, I am thinking of staying in Pyrgos or other village inland and slightly away from Oia or Fira to help with that, too. But my wife is still pushing to stay on the Caldera... we'll have to see how this evolves. lol.

 

[Deborah]

Unless your wife is thinking of one of the luxury cliffside hotels with cave bedrooms and a horizon pool etc. (and who could blame her?!) a good compromise might be the Aressana Spa and Hotel in Fira. It is located right next to the Cathedral and just a minute’s walk to the cliffside that could be viewed any time. There’s also a pool for the family and parking for your rental car.