a white building with blue doors
Off the Postcard Path: Unique Ways to Explore Santorini

Step beyond the crowds and discover a side of Santorini few ever see-quieter, more authentic, and full of unexpected variety. These are the top off-the-beaten-path experiences to add to your next trip.

a white building with blue doors

6. Wander the Unrestored Village of Emporio

Emporio's maze-like alleys are refreshingly untouched. Wander through its Kasteli (castle quarter), where stone houses and arched pathways make you feel like you've stepped into a medieval film set. Very few tourists bother to explore it-those who do are richly rewarded.

a person riding a bicycle on a path near a body of water

7. Bike Through the Island's Heartland

Santorini is small but hilly-perfect for e-biking. Join a cycling tour that winds through vineyards, small chapels, and quiet backroads between Megalochori, Akrotiri, and Perissa. It's a surprising way to feel the island's pulse beyond the cliffside glamour.

a tall stone tower

8. Visit the Tomato Industrial Museum

Yes, it's a real thing. Located in Vlychada, the Tomato Industrial Museum tells the fascinating story of Santorini's once-booming tomato paste industry. Set inside a restored factory, it's quirky, informative, and a window into a forgotten chapter of island life.

a table with glasses of wine

9. Sample Volcanic Wines at Offbeat Wineries

Santorini's volcanic soil produces some of Greece's best wines-but skip the big names and head to smaller, family-run wineries like Gavalas, Hatzidakis, or Koutsoyannopoulos (which also has a wine museum in a cave). You'll taste rare varietals like Assyrtiko and Mavrotragano-and meet the winemakers themselves.

a white building with a dome on top and a small tree in front

10. See Ancient Thera at Sunrise

Most people rush to Akrotiri, but few visit Ancient Thera, the hilltop ruins of a city inhabited by Romans, Byzantines, and more. The view alone is worth the early hike. Go at sunrise for cooler temps and total solitude-it's magical.