10 Santorini Instagram Spots – The Best Photo Locations

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Last updated: 14th June 2024

We’ve always wanted to visit Santorini together – the dreamy Greek picture perfect island, but without the crowds. So we went on holiday in May – the quieter shoulder season to see Santorini’s famous blue and white clifftop towns and witness Santorini’s famous sunset across the glittering Aegean Sea. We love travel photography, especially Garth, and we’ve found the best Santorini photography locations which we’ll share in this post with our top 10 Santorini Instagram Spots.

 

About Stunning Santorini

Santorini is the southernmost island of the Cyclades – a group of 220 Greek islands. What you see today was created by a volcanic eruption 3,600 years ago. The centre of the island submerged and left behind a lagoon of seawater surrounded by cliffs on 3 sides, known as the ‘caldera’.

The landscape is dramatic where patchworks of blue and white towns appear to tumble down cliffside edges. Dotted around the island you’ll find Santorini’s iconic blue domed churches, tavernas, and black volcanic sandy beaches. No wonder Santorini is a magnet with honeymooners and cruise day trippers, but be warned it gets especially crowded in the bustling summer months.

 

 

Photographing Santorini

Santorini is known as a much-photographed hotspot and one of the world’s most Instagrammable islands. We loved our holiday in Santorini and think it’s one of the most photogenic Greek islands. Simply because the Cycladic architecture is so clean and minimal, it has a gorgeous aesthetic. The villages are lovely and traditional and the coastal towns look spectacular built into the cliff edges.

Garth was super excited about photographing the island’s iconic churches, vibrant colours, and textures whilst looking to find the best photographic spots on Santorini. The island really is a photographer’s dream. The churches whether they be Greek Orthodox or Catholic have imposing domes and bell towers usually painted in white and blue. Their uniform colour has made them incredibly photogenic and an icon of Santorini.

 

 

10 Santorini Instagram Spots

Are you looking to take home the best photos from your Santorini holiday? Do you want to capture the romance of a Santorini sunset or the rustic beauty of its villages? We’ve got you covered as we’ve done all the work after spending 4 days in Santorini exploring the island.

Follow our guide to our favourite Santorini Instagram spots – and we’ll show you the best photo locations and how to find them.

The best time to take photos is in the shoulder seasons, April to mid May and September to October when Santorini is quieter. We flew with Jet2 in May from Manchester. Jet2 have lots of flights from Manchester to Santorini.

 

 

1. Oia – Three Blue Domes

Top of our list of Santorini Instagram spots is the iconic and quintessential picture of Santorini – the ‘three blue domed churches’ in Oia. The blue domes are from two churches – Agios Spiridonas (Saint Spyridon) and Anasteseos (the Church of the Holy Resurrection). This photo spot doesn’t get any more ‘Greek’ because it has has everything – blue domed churches, white washed homes, dazzling Aegean Sea and a beautiful view of the caldera.

How to find the blue domes of Santorini location is a little bit of a treasure hunt to be honest. Start at the main square with the big Ekklisia Panagia Platsani church behind you. Turn right and walk down the main pedestrian road Nik. Nomikou and turn then left down the pathway next to the Alexandros jewellery shop. Follow the path until you reach the fork in the path at the ‘floating’ brown door. Turn right and start snapping! you’ve found our first Santorini photo spot. Check out our map at the end of this post for the exact location.

You will have to queue for this photo spot, but it’s totally worth it. Get here early morning like we did because after 10am this place will be super busy. We got to Oia at 7am and joined the queue at 7.15, waited about 35 minutes. By the time we left the queue was 4 times as long!

You won’t be able to get up close to the churches as it’s private property and you’ll be trespassing if you cross the rope. You might have seen pictures of people standing on roofs of churches which is strictly forbidden and totally disrespectful.

TIP: Oia is the most popular town in Santorini, so getting here early morning is key to getting iconic shots without having to queue for long. Also by late afternoon the blue domes scene will become mostly backlit.

 

 

2. Oia ‘Pink’ Church

Our 2nd Santorini Instagram spot is the opposite side of the churches. Here you’ll find the location of the famous steps with the blue domes view that you’ll have seen in magazines and on Instagram. This popular photography spot has a beautiful view across the deep blue Aegean with a little bell tower in the foreground. The front of the church is painted pink. So this photo spot is sometimes referred to as the pink church.

To get to this photo location head back to the main street, turning left onto Nik. Nomikou. Then opposite the Poniros jewellery shop head down the narrow pathway next to the Minerali shop to the steps.

In the summer months you will have to queue and wait in turn to get your photos. We visited in May at 8am and waited only 10 minutes. Interestingly local photographers have priority and can jump the queue but don’t worry they take their photos very quickly.

We thought the whitewashed steps all around Oia resembled dots on a map, linking quaint homes and boutique hotels seamlessly. Everywhere is painted blue and white, mirroring the Greek flag. It’s because of a law that was passed in 1974. Under the dictatorship’s decree, this iconic colour scheme was enforced to evoke patriotism and symbolise Greek national pride.

TIP: Once you’re done taking your photos go to the Blue Domes Cafe. We bagged a perfect table right on the edge of the high-roof terrace with a perfect view overlooking the blue domes.

 

 

3. Oia Windmill

Whilst the blue church domes are Santorini’s iconic landmarks, windmills are equally as famous across Greece, Santorini has around 70 across the island and you’ll find 2 of them in Oia.

The Oia windmills used to grind flour, just like Dutch windmills but they are no longer in use. The ones in Oia are private property belonging to the Charisma Suites. Even though we weren’t guests of the hotel it’s possible to get a nice photo outside.

This is our number 3 photo location in Santorini. Simply walk to the Sunspirit bar where you can relax, enjoy the view with a drink first. Garth tried a local beer, Yellow Donkey and then took some great photos from their terrace overlooking the windmill. Check out our map at the end of this post for the exact location.

The windmill’s cylindrical form and stark whitewashed exterior contrast beautifully against a vivid blue sky. The Santorini windmills reminded us of the many we saw and photographed in Mykonos.

Oia, pronounced ‘ear’ is incredibly picturesque so it’s hard not to take a bad photo here, you just might need to wait for people to clear your shot. As you wander the maze of narrow streets stop and take photos against some of the pretty blue and white doors.

TIP: This photo spot looks best from 12 noon and is especially good at sunset.

 

 

4. Oia Castle

A trip to Oia wouldn’t be complete without visiting the remains of the old castle. It’s the best spot to soak in the view of Santorini’s gorgeous Cycladic architecture – an amazing patchwork of buildings. Phil being a pool-boy loved all the little swimming pools glowing bright blue next to all the white hues.

In the summer months, it becomes the most crowded spot in Oia. You’ll be fighting for a view as everyone grabs a spot. So do what we did and visit Santorini in May with Jet2, when it’s warm and quiet. Jet2holidays have lots of deals for last-minute holidays.

As night falls Oia Castle is a very popular place to witness Santorini’s famous sunset across the Aegean Sea. However, if you want to see the sunset from here you need to get here early around 6pm, and wait for all the pretty lights to turn on, twinkle, and illuminate the town.

Garth has done this before and says it’s not a romantic spot because it’s so busy with people, but still a magical experience. There is a nearby alternative location. Head down the Oia Steps that go to Ammoudi Bay, the steps are just beneath the castle. You should be able to find a quieter spot and maybe even frame yourself in the photo. The view is very similar to the one from the castle, where you can still see the whole caldera. Or go to other parts of the island to see the sunset like the Akrotiri Lighthouse where there are very few people.

Tip: Oia Castle has lots of steps to navigate, some are super slippery, so be careful if you’re just wearing flip flops!

 

 

5. Ammoudi Bay

Our 5th Santorini Instagram photo spot is Ammoudi Bay nestled at the base of the cliffs just below Oia. To get here you can take a 20-minute walk down the Oia Steps, but remember you’ll need to walk back up, all 290 of them! Garth was a bit sad to see donkeys being used to carry tourists, it must be torture for them in the heat. Alternatively, you can drive down the super steep narrow road to the fishing harbour, but parking is really limited.

Photogenic Ammoudi Bay is a photographer’s delight! this fishing harbour and port is colourful, traditional and picturesque. The crystal-clear water is lined with tavernas and around the corner is an area for cliff jumpers to take the plunge. There’s also a rocky island you can swim out to with a tiny church and a platform for jumping into the sea.

The best photo spot is to wander through all the tavernas and find the spot on the widest part of the pathway. From here look back on Ammoudi Bay and capture the cute wooden boats bobbing around in the harbour water with the towering red cliffs behind. If you want to take photos looking out to sea, then photograph a wine glass or food in the foreground on your table.

When you’re done taking photos, stay for lunch. We ate seafood linguine and fried fish of the day in celeriac sauce at the classy Ammoudi Fish Tavern, which serves freshly caught seafood and Greek dishes right next to the water. It’s a really romantic setting and we really enjoyed it here because of the wonderful views. It’s open daily from 11am to 11pm.

TIP: The best time to photograph Ammoudi Bay is during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. However early morning or late afternoon offers much fewer crowds, allowing you to capture the charm of Ammoudi Bay easily.

 

 

6. Imerovigli – Anastasis Church

We’re now heading to Imerovigli village to see a church next to a beautiful pink bougainvillaea tree – it’s our 6th Santorini Instagram spot. The blue-domed church is called Anastasis Church of the Resurrection of the Lord. It’s a big classic whitewashed Orthodox church with a striking bright blue dome adorned with studs, accompanied by a separate, impressive bell tower. We thought it was a beautiful photo spot in Santorini because it’s high up with stunning views of the caldera.

To get there we made our way from the main road right up the hill through the maze of narrow streets and boutique hotels. The best photo spot is on a ledge along a pathway above the Church close to the Cilon Suites Hotel (follow our Google Map at the end of this post for directions).

Imerovigli is lovely tranquil and free from crowds. However, you might have to wait your turn as local Santorini photographers like to use this photogenic spot for its breathtaking view. We only waited a couple of minutes and then had the area to ourselves. When you’re ready just frame up your shot with pink bougainvillea flowers, the church and the caldera for some stunning photographs.

Tip: The best time is morning to early afternoon, as this location is a popular spot at sunset. If you decide to hike the Fira to Oia walking trail you can’t miss it. It’s closer to the Fira end.

 

 

7. Firostefani – Three Bells of Fira

The Three Bells of Fira is 7th on our list of Santorini Instagram spots. This iconic church is officially known as ‘The Catholic Church of Koimisi Tis Theotokou’ and was built in 1757. It’s located in Firostefani, just a short distance from Santorini’s capital city Fira, also known as Thira (which is actually Santorini’s official title).

We liked this picturesque photo spot because the whitewashed bell tower contrasts beautifully with the glittering blue water of the Aegean Sea and you can get the Nea Kameni island in the middle of the caldera in your shot.

You’ll need to get to road above the church where there’s a small car park. If you walk up from the centre of Fira, it will take you around 15 minutes.

It’s pretty busy during the day with cruise trippers making quick stops for photos but after 5pm it’s quiet here. Compared to Oia, there’s enough space here to get a good shot. Try a few different poses on the small ledge and the lower walkway to get a variety of nice photos. The best thing is because you are looking out to sea, you won’t have to worry about other people being in your pictures.

TIP: The best light is in the afternoon after 4pm. We took our photos at 5pm.

 

 

8. Megalochori – Bell Tower

Our 8th Santorini Instagram Spot it’s the picturesque village of Megalochori, surrounded by Santorini’s many vineyards and wineries. It’s Santorini’s hidden gem and just waiting to be explored. Garth was in his element photographing the traditional whitewashed buildings and cobblestone streets.

We really enjoyed it here, because Megalochori is authentic Santorini where we found ourselves exploring with just a handful of other tourists. It’s fun wandering around getting lost in the labyrinth of streets, as they reveal hidden courtyards, quaint cafes, and of course more ancient churches, Santorini has so many! (officially 1,256) We loved Megalochori’s tranquil atmosphere.

Our photo spot is outside Megalochori’s impressive three-tiered Bell Tower. It forms a gate with an archway over a narrow street which leads to the main square. The bell tower is adorned with intricate decorations, including dove motifs and boasts six bells. It’s part of the nearby church dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary (Panagia ton Eisodion).

TIP: You can also visit for free some traditional cave houses dating back to the 1700s – just look for the sign, near the main square. The homemade ice-cream at Mr.Scoop is amazing too!

 

 

9. Pyrgos – Blue Domed Church

A 10-minute drive from Fira, located in the middle of the island and high up in the mountains is the island’s former capital, Pyrgos. It has to be one of Santorini’s prettiest villages because it’s so well-preserved and off the beaten tourist path. Pyrgos manages to retain the traditional character of old Santorini, which we really liked. We only saw a dozen or so tourists when we visited in May.

Pyrgos is 9th on our list of Santorini Instagram Spots. Our photo spot is at the back of the Church of Saint (Agia) Theodosia. To get there walk up from the main road, and head up all the steps towards the castle. You’ll walk through some narrow whitewashed streets and stairs, and charming boutique shops. It’s all very picturesque.

Pyrgos is a fairly big village, with lots of medieval homes and a staggering 56 churches. Because Pyrgos is the highest village and it offers panoramic views of the island.

TIP: We ate at the Kantouni Restaurant which we recommend for some traditional Greek dishes in a cozy atmosphere under the shade of the pine trees. It’s just off the main road at the base of Pyrgos. However, for a more spectacular location try Penelope’s Ouzeri.

 

 

10 Pyrgos – Castle Area

Our final Santorini photo spot is also in Pyrgos on some steps just before you reach the top of the castle ruins. It’s right next to the entrance of Franco’s Cafe. Make your way to the castle through the archway (it’s all signed Franco’s) turn around and you’ve found it. (See our map below for the exact location)

Once you’ve taken your photos head up to the ruins of the old castle, ‘Pyrgos Kasteli’ – it’s one of 5 castles built by the Venetians in the 15th century. It’s well worth the hike as you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views across Santorini.

 

 

Santorini Instagram Spots Map

Bookmark or save this Google map to find all the locations to our 10 Santorini Instagram Spots:

 

 

Santorini Travel Advice & Useful Information

How We Did It

• We travelled with Jet2 Holidays in the middle of May – Flights to Santorini are cheaper because it’s shoulder season, just before it gets busy in the summer months. It means the island is quieter without the summer peak crowds. Temperatures are still excellent. It was a warm 28ºC most days when we stayed.
• We stayed at the Orama Hotel & Spa – a gorgeous 4 star hotel in Fira. Just a few minutes walk into the town centre. Read our full hotel review here.
• To get around the island we hired a car with Budget for 5 days.

 

 

Our Jet2 Experience & Flight from Manchester to Santorini

There are plenty of options for holidays to Santorini with Jet2holidays. We can honestly say we absolutely love a Jet2 holiday, we previously booked trips to Paphos, Madeira and Vienna. We like Jet2 because everything is so easy from checking in on the app, to boarding flights and the transfers. Our experience of a Jet2 package holiday has always been good and having a generous 22kg of luggage each included is great, not getting stung for luggage costs. FYI if you order food it’s served within 40 minutes after take-off.

We especially love that moment boarding the aeroplane and that Jess Glynne Hold My Hand song kicks in! It’s at that moment we know we are on holiday! The staff are always super friendly too, which is nice.

 

Phil and Garth’s Top 5 Santorini Tips

• Tip #1: Santorini’s picturesque walkways and terraces have very low barriers and balustrades, so take extra care.
• Tip #2: Observe ‘private property’ signs and don’t trespass when taking photographs.
• Tip #3: Give locals space to go about their daily lives, don’t hover around when taking photos.
• Tip #4: The Oia steps to Amoudi Bay are super slippery so wear decent shoes.
• Tip #5: Roads are narrow and some cling the edge of clifftops with no barriers, so take extra care driving at night.

 

Santorini Frequently Asked Questions & Fast Facts

• When is the best time to visit Santorini to avoid the crowds? Shoulder season which is April to mid May and September to October.
• When is Santorini peak season? June to early September.
• What is the Santorini airport code? JTR – Santorini (Thira) International Airport.
• How long is the Manchester to Santorini flight with Jet2? 4 hours.
• What is the time difference on Santorini? +2 Hours GMT.
• What currency is used in Santorini? Euros €.
• What language do people speak? Greek, English is widely spoken.
• What electricity plugs are used on Santorini? Plug types C & F . Voltage is 230V / 50Hz.
• Can you drink Santorini tap water? No drink bottled water.
• Is Santorini expensive? In one word YES!
• Which side of the road do you drive on? Santorini drives on the right-hand side.
• How long does it take to drive from one end of Santorini to the other? 45 minutes.
• Can I flush toilet paper in Santorini? No, sewage pipes are really small, so toilet paper should be binned.
• How many days should I spend in Santorini? We stayed for 5 nights, which was perfect.
• What are Santorini’s hottest months? July and August. Average 30°C.
• What month does Santorini get the worst weather? January. It’s cold, windy and the rainiest month.
• What are Santorini’s trademarks? Blue domed churches, dramatic clifftop towns and black beaches.
• What are Santorini’s local dishes? Fava – a local broad bean, Melitinia – a local cookie.
• Santorini trivia fun fact? The lost city of Atlantis is said to lie here beneath the Aegean Sea.
• What TV & Films have been filmed in Santorini? Lara Croft: Tomb Raider 2, The Cradle of Life.
• What’s a Santorini’s hidden gem? Hot volcanic springs at Palla Kameni, a small island in the middle of the caldera.
• The best Santorini souvenir to take home? Volcanic pumice stones.

 

Disclaimer: We were hosted by Jet2 Holidays with flights and 5 nights at The Orama Hotel & Spa, Santorini. As always opinions are our own and this is not a sponsored post. We only accept offers from companies we use and believe in their service or products.

 

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Have you been to Santorini? Let us know if you have any tips in the comments below.