Theresa AdidoLooking for the most Instagrammable spots in Santorini Greece? Santorini, an enchanting Greek island, is a dream come true for photographers. While this island boasts numerous picturesque spots, discovering the best ones can be a challenge if you’re unfamiliar with the area. But don’t worry, we’re here to guide you!
This beautiful Greek destination, nestled among the Cyclades islands, is a tourist hotspot, offering a multitude of incredible experiences. You can explore charming villages, bask in the beauty of pristine beaches, embark on exhilarating hikes, and delve into the island’s rich museum offerings.
Santorini is particularly captivating for photography enthusiasts, thanks to its photogenic vistas, iconic blue-domed churches, and mesmerizing sunsets. If you’re looking for the most Instagrammable spots in Santorini Greece, you’re in the right place! Our Santorini travel guide will unveil the top most Instagrammable spots in Santorini Greece.
Complete with precise locations and valuable tips on how to reach them and the ideal time to visit. Despite its popularity among global tourists, Santorini’s allure remains undeniable. The allure of its whitewashed buildings, charming blue-domed churches, car-free hillside villages, and the backdrop of the Aegean Sea create an unforgettable setting.
It’s no surprise that Santorini finds a coveted spot on every European traveler’s bucket list. While exploring the island, you’ll constantly stumble upon the most exquisite sights, whether you’re drawn to scenic vistas, quaint architecture, or blooming flora.
If you and your partner are looking for the perfect getaway to rekindle your romance, consider heading to Europe, where you’ll find an abundance of enchanting cities and picturesque landscapes that make it a top romantic travel destination for mature couples in Europe, offering a blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty to create unforgettable memories together.
Here are the most Instagrammable spots in Santorini Greece:
1. The Famous Blue Domes Viewpoint
Let’s kick off our list of the most Instagrammable spots in Santorini Greece with the iconic viewpoint in Oia. You’ve probably come across countless photos of this picturesque location featuring the stunning blue domes, the charming pink church, and the glistening sea.
However, it’s important to note that this viewpoint is situated on private property. Unless you’re a guest at one of the nearby hotels, accessing this spot can be a bit tricky. At the start of the stairway, there’s a small gate with a private property sign. Technically, stepping through this gate means trespassing, but in reality, it’s a minor concern.
You’ll find that you only need to take a few steps beyond the gate to reach the perfect photo spot. Your photographer doesn’t even have to enter through the gate. Additionally, there’s often a line of people waiting to take photos before the gate, making it appear less like private property.
We’ve also had conversations with some locals, and they’ve assured us that as long as you stay on the street and don’t enter the church, you won’t run into any issues. Unfortunately, this is not widely discussed, but we value transparency, so we wanted to ensure you’re well-informed before your visit.
If you prefer to be on the completely safe side, consider booking a hotel in this area. Luxus VIP Suites, Cave Suite Oia, and Oia Spirit Boutique Residences are all excellent choices, offering absolutely breathtaking views!
Location on Google Maps: Famous Blue Domes Viewpoint
How to get there:
Navigating Oia can be quite a maze, making it challenging to locate this viewpoint (it certainly posed a challenge for us). Fortunately, we’re here to guide you! To begin, activate the satellite view on Google Maps, a handy tool for discovering other most Instagrammable spots in Santorini Greece as well.
Start your search by looking up “Melenio Cafe.” This cafe is conveniently situated on Oia’s main street, making it easy to find (just follow the red line’s starting point on the map below; that’s where the cafe is). When you’re facing the cafe, turn right, and then take the first left turn onto a narrow street.
As you stroll down this street, you’ll soon encounter a small gate with a “Private property” sign on your left. Don’t worry, the gate is open at all times. If you step through it and descend three steps, you’ll arrive at the viewpoint! The best part? Your photographer can capture stunning shots without entering the gate.
Best time to go:
Even though the viewpoint is officially located on private property, there’s a general sense of indifference, and you’ll often find people queuing up throughout the day to capture that stunning view. If you’re looking to steer clear of the crowds, consider visiting at sunrise, when the lighting is at its most enchanting, and be ready to snap your photos swiftly!
What NOT to do:
No matter what you choose to do, we kindly urge you not to attempt climbing onto the church. Numerous prominent influencers have shared photos from this spot, some even perched on the roof. We strongly discourage emulating their actions; it’s not acceptable.
A conspicuous sign explicitly prohibits ascending the church, and it’s also private property. Local photographers we’ve spoken to have emphasized the prohibition, so we implore you to refrain from such.
2. Three Domes of Santorini Viewpoint
The famous trio of domes stands as one of Oia’s most renowned landmarks, making this location one of Santorini’s most Instagram-worthy spots. Regrettably, it falls within Oia’s private domain, just like the first spot on our list. Access is limited to those staying in nearby hotels or Airbnb accommodations or those who opt to enter discreetly.
Situated on the opposite side of the well-known blue dome viewpoint (our initial Santorini Instagram spot), it’s essential to remember that descending the staircase toward the blue domes viewpoint leads to a dead end. You must backtrack and approach it from the other side.
While the first spot is only a few steps beyond the gate, this one is slightly deeper into the private area. The positive aspect is that this marks the final entry on our list located within a private zone. All other Santorini Instagram spots are in public areas.
Even if you choose to skip these two, Santorini still offers fantastic photo opportunities. However, as these two locations are the most iconic, we’ve included them in the list while providing an honest account to help you decide whether to visit them.
Location on Google Maps: Three Domes of Santorini Viewpoint
How to get there:
If you plan to visit this location after the blue dome viewpoint, you’ll need to return to Melenio Cafe and begin your journey from there once more. When facing the cafe, this time, you should turn left (recalling that you went right for the first spot) and then take the first right onto the street. This spot can be a bit more challenging to locate, but if you follow the directions provided, we’re confident you’ll navigate your way there successfully!
Best time to go:
Our suggestion is to visit this spot early in the morning, either before or after your visit to the first location. Please keep in mind that this area is still privately owned in Oia. To prevent any potential conflicts, it’s advisable to go around sunrise when the streets are less crowded.
The same guidelines hold true here: refrain from climbing on the churches, be efficient with your photography, and maintain a hushed demeanor. It’s worth noting that there are guests staying in nearby hotels, so please strive to minimize noise disturbance.
3. Church of Panagia Akathistos Hymn
The Church of Panagia Akathistos Hymn, nestled in the heart of Oia, is undeniably among the most Instagrammable spots in Santorini Greece. Its exceptional architecture and breathtaking vistas make it a top choice for Instagram enthusiasts. Boasting five distinctive domes and a picturesque bell tower, this church ranks as one of Oia’s most frequently photographed structures.
Remarkably, it’s a reconstructed version of the original church, which succumbed to the 1956 earthquake. For those seeking crowd-free photo opportunities, an early morning visit is highly advisable. Given its proximity to the iconic blue domes, we recommend swinging by right after your visit to them!
Location on Google Maps: Church of Panagia Akathistos Hymn
4. Blue Dome Photo Spot
If you’re in search of one of Oia’s most captivating viewpoints, this location is an absolute must-visit! On one side, you’ll be treated to the most picturesque panorama of Oia, making it an ideal spot for landscape photography. Additionally, it offers a fantastic opportunity to capture striking images featuring the church bells. It’s important to note that climbing atop the church is strictly prohibited.
The often-overlooked opposite side of this spot boasts its own charm, with the charming white-washed cliffside houses. For those planning a morning visit (which we wholeheartedly recommend), the sun graces this direction with its rising, creating a captivating play of light and shadows to enhance your photography experience.
Location on Google Maps: Blue Dome Photo Spot
5. Main Street of Oia
Oia, as a whole, resembles a picture-perfect postcard, and this sentiment extends to its primary shopping street. Typically, this bustling street is teeming with tourists during the day, making it challenging to capture truly remarkable photos. However, if you’re able to rise early in the morning, you’ll have the entire street at your disposal.
The enchanting storefronts, the vibrant deep blue doors, and the flourishing bougainvillea provide a stunning backdrop for every photograph. As an added bonus, you can catch a glimpse of a blue-domed church from this main street. Rest assured, the effort of waking up early is well rewarded!
Location on Google Maps: Main Street of Oia
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6. Blue Dome with Orange Walls
This enchanting blue-domed church with vibrant orange walls undeniably earns its place among the most Instagrammable spots in Santorini Greece! If you’re fortunate enough to visit during the summer, you might even capture the exquisite charm of pink bougainvilleas in your photos.
During our September visit, while the city still bloomed with bougainvilleas, regrettably, this particular one had already withered. Situated in a different quarter of the city, this narrow street becomes an essential stop on your way to Oia Castle. The street, though, tends to get overwhelmingly crowded during daylight hours, making an early morning visit highly advisable.
Location on Google Maps: Blue Dome with Orange Walls
7. Kastro Oia Houses
Just minutes away from both Oia Castle and Ammoudi Bay, the staircase adjacent to Kastro Oia Houses is renowned as one of Santorini’s most iconic Instagram spots. The charming orange house adorned with turquoise doors and windows exudes undeniable charm, set against a breathtaking backdrop.
To replicate the stunning shot showcased above, position yourself on the stairs in front of Kastro Oia Houses, while your photographer should stand on a separate staircase, similar to the gentleman in the photo above. To circumvent long queues for your photo opportunity, arriving early is strongly advised.
Location on Google Maps: Kastro Oia Houses
8. Oia Castle
Oia Castle, undoubtedly one of the most Instagrammable spots in Santorini Greece, is renowned for its spectacular sunsets. Picture this: a bustling crowd around sunset—now, triple that, because it’s genuinely that bustling! If you’re determined to capture the sunset here, prepare for a formidable challenge.
Arriving at least 3 to 4 hours ahead of sunset is a must to secure your spot, and once you’re there, hold your ground until the sunset concludes. Brace yourself to share this tiny space with a throng of around 300 others. Rather than battling the sunset crowd, we highly recommend visiting early in the morning when solitude reigns supreme.
And fret not, we’ll reveal a better sunset spot soon! Alternatively, consider arriving after sunset when most of the crowds have dispersed. The lighting remains magical, and you won’t be vying for space with hundreds of others. Despite its name, Oia Castle no longer stands as a traditional castle; it fell victim to an earthquake, leaving only remnants of the old watchtower.
Yet, the view from this vantage point is undeniably breathtaking and well worth a visit. Be prepared, though, as this spot is often quite windy, which may pose challenges if you’re planning to wear flowing skirts or dresses for your photos.
Location on Google Maps: Oia Castle
9. Byzantine Castle Ruins
Experiencing the sunset in Oia is undoubtedly one of the most Instagrammable things to do in Santorini, Greece. However, if you’re seeking to escape the crowds, look no further than the Byzantine Castle Ruins! Surprisingly, it offers the same breathtaking view as Oia Castle, yet with a notable difference.
While Oia Castle rests atop the hill, perpetually teeming with people, the Byzantine Castle Ruins reside lower on the hillside, typically enjoying relative solitude. Locating this gem can be a tad challenging without precise directions, as it requires a different route than the one leading to Oia Castle.
Essentially, you’ll need to follow the path descending toward Ammoudi Bay and pause at the Old Castle Oia, the hotel with a hillside-view pool. Right above it, you’ll discover this hidden spot on a narrow pathway.
Location on Google Maps: Byzantine Castle Ruins
10. Ammoudi Bay
Ammoudi Bay, nestled in the heart of Santorini, Greece, stands as one of the most Instagrammable spots in Santorini Greece. Not only does it offer an idyllic setting for swimming, but it also serves as a picturesque backdrop for your photos.
It’s the ultimate locale for capturing breathtaking sunset snapshots or framing your shots with the magnificent caldera as a backdrop. To reach Ammoudi Bay from the heights of Oia, you’ll embark on a memorable journey down a winding staircase comprising approximately 200-300 steps.
While this path boasts breathtaking views, it’s worth noting that it can be quite slippery, so be sure to put on comfortable footwear for your descent. Plan accordingly, as the descent takes about 15-20 minutes, and keep in mind that you’ll need to make the return trip. For an unforgettable experience, aim to visit Ammoudi Bay at sunset.
We even recommend arriving a bit earlier to capture some pre-sunset photos and then indulging in a delightful dinner at the bay’s restaurants, which offer some of the most spectacular views Santorini has to offer!
Location on Google Maps: Ammoudi Bay
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11. Windmills of Oia
The windmills of Oia, situated in the northern part of the village, rank among the top most Instagrammable spots in Santorini Greece. Although these windmills are no longer functional, they remain a prime location for captivating Instagram photos.
The ideal moment to explore these windmills is during sunset, when the lighting is optimal for photography. Alternatively, you can visit at various times throughout the day, but it may require some patience to capture a shot without any other individuals in the frame.
Location on Google Maps: Windmills of Oia
12. Street above Caldera Massages Studio
Wandering through the streets of Oia offers a plethora of fantastic photo opportunities waiting to be discovered around almost every corner. Nevertheless, the street situated above Caldera Massages Studio stands out as truly iconic, thanks to its enchanting floral arrangements, vibrant blue doors, and, of course, the breathtaking view it provides.
This spot is one of those quintessential Santorini Instagram locations where finding the perfect angle for your photo requires minimal effort. You can simply aim your camera in any direction, and you’ll capture a splendid shot!
As previously mentioned, the street above Caldera Massages Studio is accessible to the public at all hours, but it’s most enjoyable to explore in the morning when the streets are less crowded.
Location on Google Maps: Street above Caldera Massages Studio
13. Saint Georgios Oia Holy Orthodox Church
Nestled in the southern part of the village, the Saint Georgios Oia Holy Orthodox Church emerges as one of the most Instagrammable spots in Santorini Greece. This church is a true gem among Santorini’s architectural marvels. Noteworthy for its striking blue dome and distinctive yellow exterior, it deviates from the typical white façades found in Oia.
Despite surviving the 1956 earthquake, it was on the brink of destruction but has been painstakingly restored to its present splendor. This church graces the center of a square adorned with graceful cypress trees, and an enchanting archway at the square’s entrance provides an ideal setting for photography.
its slightly more secluded location compared to other renowned Santorini Instagram spots, it remains pleasantly uncrowded, offering ample opportunities to capture a photo without any unwanted distractions.
Location on Google Maps: Saint Georgios Oia Holy Orthodox Church
14. Street with Bougainvillea Tree
This particular spot may appear quite random on a street that lacks the typical charm of Santorini, but the reason for its inclusion in our compilation of the best Santorini Instagram spots is the splendid flowering bougainvillea tree that graces this humble street.
While the town boasts numerous captivating bougainvillea trees, this one surpasses them all in terms of beauty! Our discovery of this hidden gem was entirely serendipitous, occurring during our stay at the nearby Marcos Rooms hotel, just a few steps from the remarkable tree.
While the accommodations at Marcos Rooms are relatively modest, they present a budget-friendly option for those seeking a central location in the heart of Oia. Since this street remains less frequented by tourists, you can visit it at almost any time without the usual crowds.
Location on Google Maps: Street with Bougainvillea Tree
15. Church of the Resurrection of the Lord
Undoubtedly, the Church of the Resurrection of the Lord in Imerovigli ranks among the most Instagram-worthy locations in Santorini, as it allows you to capture two iconic symbols of the island simultaneously: the charming blue-domed church and the vibrant bougainvillea tree in full bloom!
To replicate an amazing photo, head to the street situated above the church (you can utilize the satellite view on your phone for guidance). While you can effortlessly take pictures during daylight hours, if possible, consider arriving early in the morning to bask in the exquisite morning light, which adds an extra layer of beauty to the scene.
Location on Google Maps: Church of the Resurrection of the Lord
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16. Skaros Rock
If you’re in search of the most Instagrammable spots in Santorini Greece, Skaros Rock should be at the top of your list. It provides one of the most stunning views of Santorini’s caldera, making it one of the ultimate Santorini Instagram-worthy locations. However, keep in mind that reaching the summit of Skaros Rock requires a bit of effort.
To get there, you’ll need to follow the stairs leading down from Imerovigli, and once you reach the rock’s base, prepare for some uphill climbing. What’s worth noting is that ascending Skaros Rock involves actual climbing!
At a certain point, the path transforms into a sort of rock-climbing experience, so it’s essential to wear appropriate attire, including at least sneakers and long pants. Furthermore, exercise extreme caution when you reach the summit, as there is a significant drop-off, and there are no safety rails in place.
Location on Google Maps: Skaros Rock
17. Mother of Lord Theoskepasti Holy Orthodox Church
If you’re on the hunt for the most Instagrammable spots in Santorini Greece, the Mother of Lord Theoskepasti Holy Orthodox Church should be on your list. This charming church boasts not only stunning views but also a picturesque location perched on the edge of the Imerovigli cliff, offering breathtaking vistas of the sea caldera. Adorned with a striking blue dome and a bell tower, it’s enveloped by a quaint garden.
To reach this spot, simply follow the path leading down from Skaros Rock – an excellent option, especially if you prefer not to undertake the rock climb. Notably, this was the first church we encountered with no “private property” or “do not climb” signs, so we enthusiastically seized the opportunity to explore. The resulting views were undeniably incredible!
Location on Google Maps: Mother of Lord Theoskepasti Holy Orthodox Church
18. Eglise Church
Yet another picturesque church nestled in the center of Imerovigli, serving as a captivating setting for your photos, is the Eglise Church. This quaint church features a charming courtyard and, while it may not be perched on a cliff’s edge, it still presents delightful vistas. What’s particularly convenient is its central location within the town, making it easily accessible. However, exercise caution, as a bustling road runs adjacent to it.
Location on Google Maps: Eglise Church
19. Flying Dress Photoshoot
One of the most Instagrammable spots in Santorini Greece, isn’t your typical photo spot, but rather an unforgettable experience we can’t recommend enough! If you’re seeking stunning photo opportunities, we highly suggest indulging in a flying dress photoshoot.
We had the pleasure of partaking in one with the renowned company, Flying Dress Photo, and it was an absolutely incredible experience. They offer photoshoots in various parts of the island, but Imerovigli stands out as one of the absolute best locations.
The vistas here are simply breathtaking, and as an added bonus, they grant access to private, exclusive locations you wouldn’t otherwise reach. We had an absolute blast during our photoshoot, and the resulting pictures were nothing short of amazing. If you’re contemplating such an experience, don’t hesitate to book one – it’s truly worth every moment!
20. Streets of Imerovigli
When exploring the many Instagrammable spots in Santorini Greece, you’ll discover that the island’s beauty knows no bounds. Here’s another hidden gem we stumbled upon – the charm of Santorini lies in the fact that every corner offers picturesque scenes! We were utterly captivated by the view from this particular street, and it translates beautifully in photographs.
However, it’s important to note that you needn’t limit yourself to this specific location; you’ll encounter numerous similar enchanting streets in Imerovigli as well. Always remain attentive, for the island’s beauty awaits around every corner, ready to be captured!
Location on Google Maps: Streets of Imerovigli
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21. Franco’s Bar
Franco’s Bar boasts an incredible vantage point, offering a mesmerizing view of the white-washed buildings along the coastline, making it an absolute must-visit among Santorini’s Instagram-worthy spots. While you can enjoy it at almost any time, the truly enchanting moment arrives during the sunset.
Witnessing the city bathed in the warm, golden glow of the setting sun is an experience beyond words. However, it’s essential to note that the bar leans towards the pricier side. Expect to pay approximately €6-10 for coffees, beers, ciders, and wines, and between €15-20 for cocktails.
While the costs may seem steep, we firmly believe that it’s entirely justified, especially when you consider the unparalleled sunset view you’ll savor from this spot. This may not be the place for a night of heavy drinking, but indulging in a single beer won’t put too much strain on your wallet. The reward, both in terms of the view and the stunning photos you’ll capture, makes it unquestionably worthwhile!
Location on Google Maps: Franco’s Bar
22. Church of St. John the Theologian
Among the array of the most Instagrammable spots in Santorini Greece, the Church of St. John the Theologian stands out as a truly unique gem. Distinguished from the typical deep blue-roofed churches of Santorini, this one boasts an all-white exterior. Its pristine façade serves as a stunning backdrop for every photograph.
Particularly when set against the charming cityscape. For those aspiring to capture a photo devoid of other tourists, our recommendation is to visit in the morning, before the streets become crowded. Additionally, it’s wise to choose vibrant and colorful attire for your photo session.
Location on Google Maps: Church of St. John the Theologian
23. Fira Walls near St. Stylianos Church
If you’re looking for the most Instagrammable spots in Santorini Greece, consider embarking on an early morning adventure in Fira. Begin your day by strolling along the scenic coastal walls that stretch from one side of the city to the other, treating yourself to breathtaking views of Fira.
This captivating path extends all the way to Oia, making it an ideal choice for hiking enthusiasts. The entire Fira to Oia trail spans 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) and typically takes 2-3 hours to complete. Even if hiking isn’t your thing, don’t worry! Along this route, near the city, you’ll discover some remarkable Instagram-worthy locations.
One of our personal favorites is the staircase overlooking St. Stylianos Church, offering a panoramic vista of the entire city. If you visit in the morning, you’ll be treated to exquisite lighting conditions that are perfect for capturing stunning photographs.
Location on Google Maps: Fira Walls near St. Stylianos Church
24. Three Bells of Fira
When it comes to uncovering the most Instagrammable spots in Santorini Greece, look no further than the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church, often dubbed the Three Bells of Fira. This iconic landmark has graced countless postcards and remains a must-visit destination in the city.
Accessible within a mere 15-minute walk from Fira’s center, capturing the perfect shot of this church requires venturing to the street situated behind or above it. While it’s true that photographing this gem may pose a bit of a challenge due to its location, don’t be discouraged. Find a perch on the wall behind the church, and you’ll still be able to capture remarkable Instagram-worthy images.
With the church and the mesmerizing sea as your backdrop, this spot is virtually immune to photobombers, making it an ideal choice for photoshoots at any time of day. However, for softer lighting and to avoid harsh glares on the church, consider visiting in the afternoon.
Location on Google Maps: Three Bells of Fira
25. Monastery of Profitis Ilias
Perched atop the summit of Mount Profitis Ilias, you’ll find the Monastery of Profitis Ilias, one of Santorini’s most ancient churches. Situated approximately 3 kilometers (1.8 miles) from the village of Pyrgos, this monastery, perched on the island’s highest peak, unveils a truly awe-inspiring panorama of Santorini.
The monastery itself is a sight to behold, boasting a graceful bell tower and being encircled by four other charming churches and chapels. Your photography options here are abundant, allowing you to capture images featuring the monastery itself, the breathtaking vista, or the picturesque exterior stone walls adorned with vibrant flowers that surround the monastery.
Location on Google Maps: Monastery of Profitis Ilias
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26. Saint George Church
Saint George Church stands as one of Pyrgos’ most exquisite places of worship. While it does require a short uphill trek from the parking area, the effort is richly rewarded by the church’s splendor. Positioned in proximity to Pyrgos Castle, it’s a logical choice to explore both attractions concurrently.
The all-white church is conveniently framed by a stairway at its entrance, rendering it an easily photogenic subject. Given Pyrgos’ relatively tranquil tourist atmosphere, you can plan your visit at virtually any time of day without encountering crowds.
Location on Google Maps: Saint George Church
27. Agios Nikolaos Theotokaki
When seeking the most Instagrammable spots in Santorini Greece, be sure to include Agios Nikolaos Theotokaki on your list. This enchanting church, located in Pyrgos, offers a striking contrast to Saint George Church. Adorned with a classic deep blue dome and a lofty bell tower, it exudes picturesque charm.
Whether you opt for an up-close snapshot with the church or explore creative angles from various vantage points along nearby streets, Agios Nikolaos Theotokaki promises captivating photo opportunities.
Location on Google Maps: Agios Nikolaos Theotokaki
28. Pyrgos Castle
When compiling your list of the most Instagrammable spots in Santorini Greece, don’t overlook Pyrgos Castle. Despite suffering significant damage in a 1956 earthquake, this castle remains a worthwhile destination, primarily because of its breathtaking setting.
Perched atop a hill in the charming village of Pyrgos, the castle treats visitors to an incredibly scenic panoramic view of the island and the glistening sea. Just be ready for the typically brisk winds, which can make it a bit challenging to capture photos in flowing dresses.
Location on Google Maps: Pyrgos Castle
29. Akrotiri Lighthouse
One of the lesser-known but still worthwhile spots to explore for the most Instagrammable spots in Santorini Greece is Akrotiri. While the village itself may not be the most picturesque, there’s a charming lighthouse situated on the southwest edge of the island that’s perfect for capturing stunning photos, especially during sunset.
If you’re eager to enhance your Santorini Instagram feed and don’t mind a short drive, this location is a must-visit. However, we recommend making the trip if you have your own car and have already enjoyed the sunsets in Oia and Fira. Akrotiri is conveniently about a 50-minute drive from Oia or a 25-minute drive from Fira, and you can easily park your car along the road near the lighthouse.
Since it’s not as crowded as some other Santorini spots, finding a parking space is a breeze, and the parking is free. In the past, there used to be a hill behind the lighthouse that was accessible to everyone, providing a fantastic backdrop for photos (as seen in the pictures from 2019).
It’s important to note that when we revisited, we discovered that the hill has been completely fenced off with a private property sign. As a result, you can now only access the area in front of the lighthouse, which still offers breathtaking views. Unfortunately, it’s no longer possible to capture a shot with both the lighthouse and the sea in the same frame.
Location on Google Maps: Akrotiri Lighthouse
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How to Get Around Santorini
When it comes to exploring Santorini and discovering the enchanting villages of Fira, Oia, and Imerovigli, you might be wondering, How to get around Santorini? Well, the island is quite petite, and these iconic Santorini villages are not only famous but also conveniently compact. This means that strolling through them on foot is an absolute breeze.
Additionally, it’s worth noting that certain areas are entirely car-free, so if your goal is to wander through the charming old town, you’ll need to find a suitable parking spot for your vehicle and then embark on your exploration on foot. Santorini offers a variety of transportation options to help you navigate between the villages and access its most picturesque spots. Here are ways on how to get around Santorini:
Rental Car
Our preferred choice is opting for a car rental. This provides you with the freedom to explore Santorini at your own pace and convenience, making it especially handy if you intend to bring multiple outfits for photo shoots across the island.
In our experience, we decided to rent from Kronos Rent A Car, conveniently picking up our vehicle at the ferry port. Our rental experience with them was exceptionally satisfying. Having a car at our disposal allowed us to swiftly navigate the island, ensuring we could effortlessly reach Santorini’s most Instagram-worthy locations.
We highly recommend booking your rental vehicle in advance because the availability of car rentals on the island is limited, and once they’re all reserved, you may find yourself without options.
Public Transport
Another transportation option to access all the sought-after Instagram spots in Santorini is by utilizing the island’s bus system. Santorini boasts a well-connected and dependable public transport network that efficiently links you to all the major villages. The longest bus routes typically span around 30 minutes, with service running from approximately 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Bus fares vary, ranging from EUR 1.80 to EUR 2.50 depending on your destination, and you can purchase tickets directly from the bus driver. It’s important to have sufficient cash on hand, as card payments are not accepted. Additionally, it’s advisable to check the bus schedule in advance, especially during the peak season, as public transport can become quite crowded.
Be prepared for the possibility of waiting for a bus or two until there’s enough space for you to board. While this is likely the most budget-friendly option for traveling between Santorini’s most Instagram-worthy locations, it may require a bit more time.
Taxis
If you prefer not to rent a car or use public transportation, another option for getting around is to take a taxi in Santorini. It’s worth noting that Santorini does not have Uber or Lyft services, and all taxis on the island are grey Mercedes vehicles.
The central taxi hub is located in Fira, and if you need a taxi, you’ll have to make a phone call to request one. Typically, taxi fares in Santorini should not cost much, but it’s a good practice to confirm and agree upon the fare with the driver before entering the taxi.
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Photo Etiquette in Santorini
When it comes to photo etiquette in Santorini, this Greek island stands out as one of Europe’s most sought-after destinations, thanks to its picturesque cities and breathtaking ocean vistas. Strolling through Oia or Imerovigli, virtually every corner beckons to be captured for your Instagram feed.
However, amidst this photogenic paradise, it is crucial to uphold a sense of respect for the environment and the locals. In your quest for that perfect shot, be mindful of private property signs, specific “do not climb” warnings, or protective fences that may dot the landscape.
Respecting other people’s property is not only courteous but also ensures the sustainability of this stunning location for future travelers. Bear in mind that Santorini enjoys immense popularity among travelers and content creators alike. Consequently, you’re likely to encounter fellow photographers vying for the same captivating scenes.
Exercise patience and consideration for others who share your passion for capturing Santorini’s beauty. To optimize your photography experience, consider arriving early at your favorite Santorini photo spots.
This strategic timing ensures you have ample opportunity to compose the envisioned photograph in the serene morning light before the crowds descend. Embracing these guidelines for photo etiquette in Santorini not only guarantees memorable snapshots but also contributes to the island’s preservation and the enjoyment of all who visit.
When it comes to discovering the great cities to visit for an outdoor self-care getaway, our blog post is your ultimate guide, offering insights into serene urban destinations that cater to both relaxation and outdoor adventure.
Final Thoughts
Santorini Greece truly stands as a haven for photographers and travelers alike, with its enchanting allure and breathtaking landscapes. As you embark on your journey to discover the most Instagrammable spots in Santorini Greece, you’ll not only capture stunning images but also create lasting memories.
From the iconic blue-domed churches to the sunsets that paint the sky with hues of orange and pink, this Greek gem offers a visual feast at every turn. So, if you’re seeking to elevate your Instagram feed with the beauty of Santorini, our comprehensive travel guide will be your trusted companion. Prepare to uncover hidden gems, embrace the island’s rich culture, and immerse yourself in its undeniable charm.
Santorini, with its timeless beauty, remains a destination that will leave you awestruck and inspired, making it a must-visit for anyone in search of the most Instagrammable spots in Santorini Greece. Pack your camera, bring your sense of wonder, and let Santorini’s beauty unfold before you like a masterpiece waiting to be captured.
Have you been to Santorini, Greece and are we missing anything on this list? If so, what are the most instagrammable places in Santorini in your opinion? Let us know in the comments below.
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