Pyrgos Santorini: Things to do in Pyrgos village
Pyrgos Santorini is a gem of Santorini Island. Santorini Island does not need to be introduced anymore as it is one of the most iconic Greek island for a romantic European getaway. You have probably seen and heard so much about Santorini’s beauty and iconic sunsets. That said, if you would like to know more about Santorini and things to do in Santorini, you can check out my Santorini Travel blog post here.
If Santorini Island isn’t your jam, you might like Paros Island instead. Find out more about Paros Island and how to travel to Paros Island on a budget in the following Blog Post:
- The Ultimate Travel Guide to Paros Island
- Best Beaches on Paros Island
- Can you safely drink the tap water in Santorini?
Although Santorini Island is quite well-know, few people actually know about Pyrgos. Pyrgos is one of the hidden gems of Santorini. So let’s see what there is to do in Pyrgos.
About Pyrgos, Santorini
Firstly, Pyrgos, Santorini also called Pyrgos Kallistis is the former capital of Santorini Island. Secondly, it is a medieval village located in the centre of the island. Pyrgos is not very well-know of tourists who prefer staying in Oia and therefore remains pretty quiet. So, if you are looking for a break at an authentic greek village, Pyrgos is an amazing place to visit.
When getting to Pyrgos, Santorini you will find a free public parking lot by the town square. I would recommend spending about 3 hours to visit Pyrgos.
There are lots of small alleys with traditional whitewashed houses that you can explore as well. In those alleys, you will find lots of shops where you can buy souvenirs.
What to do in Pyrgos, Santorini
PANORAMIC VIEWS OF PYRGOS, SANTORINI
Pyrgos is the highest village on the island of Santorini. By the town square, you will find a set of stairs that will take you all the way to the top of Pyrgos. From there, you will have an incredible panoramic view on the whole island of Santorini and on the sea. Consequently, climbing all the way to the top of Pyrgos village is one of the fun things to do in Santorini.
THE CASTLE OF PYRGOS AND ST GEORGE CHURCH
Pyrgos castle was built around 1580 and is well preserved. You can climb all the way up to the Castelli of Pyrgos (aka the castle of Pyrgos). There, you will be able to check out some of the Castle ruins and churches. Pyrgos is the home of more than 40 churches! In other words, I recommend walking all the way up to St George Church. Don’t forget to bring your camera!
STOP AT FRANCO’S CAFE
When at the St George Church, you will find Franco’s Cafe on the side. Franco’s cafe offers everything you would want from a cafe: delicious food, an amazing view on the island and the sea, good service and a relaxed ambiance. Trust me, after climbing up all the stairs, having a snack and a drink at Franco’s Cafe will be extra nice.
ROAM AROUND THE ALLEYS AND THE WHITEWASHED HOUSES
Pyrgos, Santorini is a traditional town and therefore all houses have been built in the typical whitewashed style. So I recommend getting lost in all the small alleys and appreciating the calm of the end of the day. You will for sure find beautiful spots.
SOUVENIR SHOPS
Pyrgos, Greece, is also a rather small town and wouldn’t be the best place for shopping. However, while roaming around the alleys, you will see several souvenir shops on and around the stairs. Certainly, you will easily notice them by the number of cute kitties around them as the shops’s owners feed them. There you will find lots of little souvenirs to bring back with you.
Want to know more about the Greeks Islands? Check out some of our posts and itineraries in Santorini, Paros, Milos and more:
- Vlychada beach in Santorini
- Best Santorini beaches
- The unique moonscape of Sarakiniko
- Milos best beaches
Any questions on Pyrgos Santorini? Drop them in the comments or on insta and we will get back to you asap.
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We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home.
We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home. With over 10 years of experience in dating and traveling to romantic places, we share our favorite date ideas and romantic destinations to help couples level up their relationships. Having lived in and traveled through the USA, we also share our favourite things to do in the States.
With 70,000 monthly readers and 16,000 followers on social media, Be Right Back is your go-to resource for romantic trip ideas and couple activities at home and abroad.