Megalochori, the Santorini Village Worth Slowing Down For
We visited Megalochori while exploring Santorini beyond Oia, and found one of the island’s most rewarding villages: quiet laneways, cave houses, blue-domed churches, family-run wineries, and a square that still feels lived in. Here’s our guide to the best things to do in Megalochori, including where to eat and what’s actually worth your time.
Most visitors to Santorini spend their days between Fira and Oia, moving from one viewpoint to the next. It's understandable, as both are extraordinary and the main reason visitors flock to the Island.
But Santorini is considerably larger than those two towns, and in our opinion, the further you drive from the caldera, the more interesting it gets.
Megalochori sits in the southwestern interior, about 10 minutes from Fira on a road that winds through vineyards.
Arriving here for the first time, you notice things slowing down almost immediately - a taverna owner arranging tables on the cobblestone square, a cat stretching in a patch of sunlight, clothes drying in the midday sun, and the sound of bells from the bell tower drifting across the whitewashed laneways.
The village has a different history from the caldera towns. In the 17th century, Megalochori was home to wealthy wine merchants, land barons and traders, their influence still visible in the grand mansions along the main laneways, with solid wooden doors and high stone walls that once doubled as protection against pirates.
The earthquake of 1956 that devastated much of Santorini hit Megalochori hard, too, but the village has been quietly and carefully restored by the people who live here.
It won't appeal to everyone, though. There's no caldera view, no cliff-edge infinity pool and no famous sunset spot, but Megalochori appeals to travellers seeking something more.
What is here is quintessential Greece - the Church of Agios Nikolaos with its blue dome, the famous six-bell tower that frames the main square, the Symposium Cultural Centre where Greek mythology and the island's winemaking history collide in a genuinely interesting way, and the surrounding vineyards, some of the oldest on the island, producing wines from Assyrtiko grapes grown in volcanic soil that exists nowhere else on earth.
Our day here was one of our favourites on the island. This guide covers everything worth doing, eating and drinking in Megalochori, and the best places to stay if you want to base yourself away from the crowds.
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MEGALOCHORI TRAVEL GUIDE
DON'T MISS | The six-bell tower and main square, wine tasting at Gavalas, cooking class at Petra Kouzina, wandering every laneway, the Symposium Cultural Centre, ice cream at Mr Scoop
BEST FOR | Those wanting a quieter, more authentic Santorini experience away from the caldera crowds
WHEN TO VISIT | Late afternoon when the light is best and the day-trippers have moved on
HOW LONG | A half day covers the village comfortably
GETTING THERE | By car or ATV: 10 minutes from Fira - the easiest option. By bus: KTEL from Fira, check timetables at ktel-santorini.gr
WHERE TO EAT | Raki Tavern (our pick for atmosphere), Athermi Restaurant, Geromanolis , Olio
WHERE TO STAY | Vedema Resort (luxury) · Artemis Suites (mid-range) · Enarma Suites and Spa (mid-range boutique)
PLAN YOUR VISIT TO MEGALOCHORI
IS MEGALOCHORI WORTH VISITING?
If your idea of a good day involves wandering somewhere without a plan, stopping for coffee when you feel like it, exploring a winery at your own pace, and finding a table for lunch that doesn't require booking three weeks in advance, Megalochori is built for you.
The village doesn't have a sunset viewpoint with a queue or a main street gridlocked with day-trippers. What it has is a square with excellent tavernas, a six-bell tower and bougainvillea-covered streets, and local wineries that are amongst the best on the island.
The cooking class at Petra Kouzina has been running in a cave house in the village for years and is one of the best experiences available on the island, and the Symposium Cultural Centre is the kind of place that rewards an hour of curiosity rather than a ten-minute tick-box visit.
The laneways have the kind of corners you find by wandering rather than following a map, which is perfect for photography.
Megalochori suits the traveller who already knows what Oia looks like from the photographs and is more interested in what the rest of Santorini actually feels like.
If that’s you, then yes, it’s 100% worth visiting.
WHERE IS MEGALOCHORI, AND HOW TO GET THERE
Megalochori sits in the southwestern interior of Santorini, around 10 minutes by car from Fira and 15 minutes from Oia.
It's set back from the caldera on the southern side of the island, surrounded by the vineyards and wineries that have shaped the village's character for centuries.
The neighbouring archaeological site of Akrotiri is around 5 minutes away by car, same with Pyrgos village, and both are worth combining on the same day.
BY CAR OR ATV | The drive from Fira takes around 10 minutes on a straightforward road, and parking is available in and around the village. Book a car or ATV in advance via Discover Cars, as having your own wheels opens up the wineries, Akrotiri and the southern beaches on the same day, which is the best version of this part of the island.
BY BUS | KTEL runs services from Fira to Megalochori. Check current timetables at ktel-santorini.gr before travelling as the schedule thins out in the afternoon, so plan the return journey before you set off.
BY TAXI | Around €15-20 from Fira depending on time of day. The restaurants in the village will arrange a taxi back for you if needed.
WHEN TO VISIT
Late afternoon is the best time of day, as the light on the laneways is glorious, the day-trippers from the cruise ships have largely moved on, and the tavernas in the main square are setting up for the evening. That being said, it’s always mostly quiet here.
For the season overall, late April to early June and mid-September to October are the perfect times
HOW LONG TO SPEND IN MEGALOCHORI
A focused half day covers the village properly, such as the laneways, the bell tower, a winery visit and lunch.
A full day is the better option if you're combining with the cooking class at Petra Kouzina, Akrotiri and a late afternoon wander through the village as the light changes.
That's one of the better full days available on Santorini.
WHAT TO SEE IN MEGALOCHORI, SANTORINI
WANDER THE LANEWAYS
The best thing to do in Megalochori costs nothing and requires no planning. Walk away from the main square and keep going until you're not sure where you are.
The laneways here are narrow and winding, the whitewashed walls close on either side, bougainvillea overhead and the occasional cat stretched across a warm step.
Colourful doors and windows open onto courtyards, and dead ends lead to unexpected views across the vineyards. You hear people going about their day rather than tour guides explaining it.
There are two churches worth seeking out: the Church of Agios Nikolaos with its blue dome and intricate frescoes, and the Church of the Ascension of Mary, whose pastel-hued belltower sits above the main square. Both are unlocked during the day and are worth stepping into.
If you'd rather explore with someone who knows the history and the stories behind the buildings, this small group Santorini sightseeing tour with a local guide includes a proper walking tour of Megalochori village with stops at an authentic cave and local bakery.
One of the more consistently well-reviewed tours on the island for those who want context alongside the wandering.
BOOK | Small group Santorini tour including Megalochori village
THE MEGALOCHORI BELL TOWER
The bell tower is the image most people have seen before they arrive in Megalochori.
Part of the Virgin Mary Church, the ancient six-bell tower rises above a narrow cobbled lane, the surrounding whitewashed walls draped in bright pink bougainvillea on all sides.
In the afternoon light, the whole scene glows in a way that makes you understand immediately why this is one of the most photographed corners of Santorini.
It's also five minutes from the main square, completely free and almost always quiet. Take your time here.
THE DETAILS
VISIT THE WINERIES
Santorini has 18 wineries for an island of its size, and the ones around Megalochori are among the best on the island; they’re small, family-run and completely removed from the tourist infrastructure of the caldera villages.
The wine itself is worth understanding before you taste it.
The Assyrtiko grape grows in volcanic soil in a distinctive coiled basket shape that protects it from the island's fierce winds, and the result is a crisp, mineral white that tastes different from any Greek wine you'll find on the mainland.
Vinsanto, the island's famous sweet dessert wine made from sun-dried grapes aged in oak barrels, is another small glass worth seeking out after lunch.
Gavalas in the village itself is our winery recommendation. It’s a fourth-generation establishment and features small-scale, unhurried tastings.
Venetsanos is another option, a short drive away above the port at Athinios, with caldera views alongside the wine if you want both.
If you'd rather visit several wineries in one go without driving yourself, this half-day tour of three Santorini wineries covers the key producers near Megalochori with tastings and local snacks included.
BOOK | Half-day tour of three wineries near Megalochori, or this popular half-day tour of three wineries near Megalochori
TAKE AN AUTHENTIC GREEK COOKING CLASS
Petra Kouzina is a cooking class run by George and Paula from a traditional cave house in the heart of the village.
Thick stone walls, a terrace overlooking the rooftops of Megalochori, appetisers and local wine waiting when you arrive - a visit here doesn't feel like a tourist activity, but rather it feels like being invited into someone's home, which is exactly what it is.
Over around four hours, a chef guides you through five traditional Greek dishes from scratch, including tzatziki, tomato fritters, Greek salad, moussaka and more, depending on the session.
George and Paula have their own olive oil made specially for the class, and the recipes come from George's grandmother, so you feel the intangible history as you cook.
Once finished in the kitchen, you eat it together at the table on the terrace, and you leave with a recipe booklet to recreate everything at home.
Understandably, it’s booked out months in advance in peak season. Book as early as you can, particularly for July and August.
EXPLORE THE NEARBY AKROTIRI RUINS
Just a short drive from Megalochori, Akrotiri is one of the easiest and most worthwhile cultural detours on this side of Santorini.
Buried beneath volcanic ash after the Thera eruption around 3,700 years ago, the ancient city was once a thriving Bronze Age settlement, with multi-storey buildings, pottery, drainage systems, and frescoes preserved beneath the island’s volcanic fallout.
It’s often called Santorini’s answer to Pompeii, though the experience is quieter, older, and a little more abstract.
The ruins are housed beneath a large protective roof, with raised walkways guiding you through the remains of streets, rooms, staircases, and storage spaces.
On its own, the site can feel a little dry, so we’d recommend visiting with a licensed guide if you want the history to properly come alive.
For us, Akrotiri works best as part of an easy half-day from Megalochori, paired with Pyrgos.
If you're looking for a guided tour of Akrotiri, we recommend this guided walking tour with a licensed archaeologist. Buy your tickets ahead of time here.
THE DETAILS
Where | Akrotiri Archaeological Site, around 10 minutes from Megalochori
When | Summer hours are generally 8:00 am to 8:00 pm, with reduced hours on some days. Winter hours are shorter, so check before visiting
Cost | €20 full entry, €10 reduced entry
How long to allow | 60 to 90 minutes
BOOK |Guided walking tour of Akrotiri with a licensed Archaeologist
FIND MEGALOCHORI’S TRADITIONAL UNDERGROUND CAVES
Spend time walking around Megalochori’s streets, and you’ll soon notice signs steering you to a secret labyrinth of traditional caves. If you see these signs, follow them, for you’ll gain a unique glimpse into Santorini’s history.
Dating back to the 17th century, the underground caves were carved out of soft volcanic rock and used as homes and storage spaces for the local population.
Cool in the summer, they were ideal for storing wine, olive oil, and other perishable goods. Many of the caves are now used as wine cellars, providing the perfect environment for ageing and storing the island's famous Vinsanto wine.
Today, the underground caves of Megalochori have been carefully restored and transformed into a tourist attraction, providing a glimpse into the island's rich history and culture.
THE DETAILS
Where |Megalochori Cave houses
Entry Fee | Free
DEVOUR DELICIOUS ICE CREAM AT MR. SCOOP
Being the ice cream enthusiasts that we are (our life motto is “an ice cream a day keeps the doctor away"), we felt compelled to try creatively named Mr Scoop, while slowly strolling the pretty streets of Megalochori.
We’ve tried gelato everywhere from Rome to London, and this local institution was one of the best we’ve ever had. Made fresh in that quintessential Greek style - thick, creamy, and smooth, the gelato popped with flavour.
Mark went for the Pistachio and dark chocolate which was a taste sensation, while Mim tried the fruitier and equally delicious watermelon and strawberry.
Mr Scoops’ location, in the centre of Megalochori’s pretty town square, is the perfect place to sit back, chill and eat your gelato, before setting off to explore more corners of this storied village.
Trust us, don’t miss a visit here.
THE DETAILS
Where | Mr Scoop
WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK IN MEGALOCHORI
For such a small town, there are a number of exceptional restaurants and bars located within the time-worn streets.
ALISACHNI RESTAURANT
An amazing multi-space combining fine arts, some of the best wines and gastronomy right in the heart of Megalochori, Alisachni is one of the best restaurants in Santorini. If you’re after creative Greek cuisine, this is THE place to eat.
Try the saganaki served with honey and grapes, the seared tuna salad, and the saffron risotto with squid. Wash it all down with local wines.
Set in a restored village house, along with excellent service and an outstanding Sommelier and wine list, provides the perfect local, Santorini-Greek, dining experience!
FEGGERA
Set on a quiet, cobbled square and covered in bougainvillea, Feggera is wildly charming. And the food is fantastic too.
Serving contemporary Greek food, showcasing local produce, the dishes are flavourful and well-plated. We suggest the homemade ravioli stuffed with sea bass and the smoked white eggplant salad. Accompany any food with local white wine.
TRADITIONAL KAFENEIO MEGALOCHORI
A hidden gem on Santorini, Kafeneio Megalochori serves excellent brunch and lunch options in the heart of town.
Located close to the picturesque bell tower, Kafeneio serves everything from coffees and smoothies to bruschetta and octopus salad.
Additionally, you can enjoy delicious home-made and freshly made Greek food, cakes, local wines or special Greek evenings with music.
RAKI TAVERN
Right on the cobblestone main square next to the famous bell tower, under a pergola tree that's been there for decades.
Serves traditional Santorinian food emphasising local products, including cherry tomatoes, capers, and white eggplant, with live Greek music in the evenings.
Popular with locals. The most atmospheric restaurant in the village.
GEROMANOLIS
A hidden gem tucked deep inside Megalochori, serving honest, simply-cooked fresh seafood.
The grilled sardines and octopus are the dishes to order.
WHERE TO STAY IN MEGALOCHORI, SANTORINI
In so many places, Santorini feels like an island that exists solely for tourists.
Here, the quiet life is enjoyed, and while the accommodation options are more limited, they’re still exceptional and feel a little more exclusive.
Below are a few of our recommended hotels in the town:
VEDEMA MEGALOCHORI | LUXURY
Built around a 400-year-old vineyard in the medieval town of Megalochori, Vedema offers a little more authenticity than other luxury Santorini hotels.
The 59 suites, villas and handcrafted houses create something like a Greek village overlooking the Aegean sea.
As well as swanky rooms with private balconies and jacuzzis, Vedema has all the epicurean delights and premium experiences you’d expect from a 5-star Marriott hotel on Santorini.
BOOK |Vedema
ARTEMIS SUITES | MID-RANGE
If you’re looking for front-row seats to stunning sea views, Artemis Suites promises to deliver. The seven-suite Artemis complex is perched 250m above the sea on the caldera edge in Megalochori, one of the best areas to stay in Santorini if you’re after tranquillity.
The rooms are simple but tasteful, decorated inside and out in the classic Cycladic style.
Megalochori is south of Fira, so only one room at Artemis offers sunset views. But the hotel pool is still a great place to chill out on a sweltering Santorini day.
BOOK |Artemis Suites
CULTURAL HOUSE | BUDGET
One of the best things about staying in nearby Pyrgos is experiencing something close to an “authentic” way of life. Cultural House, in the middle of the medieval village, is the perfect example.
A recent renovation (in 2018) spruced up the aparthotel complex, adding modern touches like flat-screen TVs and updating the bathrooms. The rooms aren’t fancy, but they have everything you need for a comfortable stay.
In terms of value for money in a quiet area of Santorini, you can’t go wrong with Cultural House.
BOOK |Cultural House
TRAVEL INSURANCE | STAY SAFE IN GREECE
Honest take: if something goes wrong, a medical emergency, a missed ferry, a scooter accident on a coastal road, travel insurance is the difference between a stressful story and a catastrophic one.
After 10+ years of full-time travel, here's what we use and recommend:
FOR TRAVELLERS | World Nomads offers travel insurance for independent travellers and intrepid families. Their policies offer coverage for more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more.
Get a quote from World Nomads →
READ | Our ultimate guide to travel insurance
PLANNING A TRIP TO GREECE SOON?
Check out these essential guides, travel tips, and more to help you plan your trip:
EXPLORE SANTORINI
Santorini Travel Guide — everything you need to know before you visit
Where to Stay in Santorini — every area and budget covered
Oia Guide — what to see, when to go and how to do it right
MORE CYCLADES
Things to Do on Naxos — we spent a month here, and it's our favourite Greek island
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO SANTORINI WITH THESE GUIDES
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