Emporio

The village of Emporio is one of the most southern of Santorini – it is located 12 kilometres from Fira, on the slopes of the Prophet Elias mountain – and together with Akrotiri is an excellent starting point for exploring the beautiful southern beaches such as Red Beach, White Beach and Perissa Beach, to name but a few.

Built in the middle of the large plain in the southern part of Santorini, Emporio has a magnificent view of both the caldera and the east coast and is popular with tourists who can find excellent hotels, rental flats, and resorts here, all catering to the needs of every traveller.

Emporio is also one of the largest villages on the island and has a strong medieval character. Most of the houses from that period are fortunately well preserved, while only the ruins of the fortress, a square building dating back to 1400 in the northern part of the village called Goulas, are visible today.

The old part of the village is criss-crossed by narrow, picturesque streets while the houses climb the hillside. A sight not to be missed!

Visit the chapel of Agios Nikolaos Marmaritis, which houses a small, square-shaped marble temple dating back to the 3rd century BC and dedicated to the goddess Vasilia.

Staying in Emporio

Choosing Emporio as a base for your stay in Santorini offers several advantages over the more touristy and expensive resorts in the caldera.

Firstly, the village’s central location makes it easy to reach both the beaches on the east coast and the main tourist centres such as Fira and Oia. Distances on the island are short and with a means of transport one can explore Santorini in comfort.

Another significant advantage is the more affordable prices for accommodation. Emporio offers a variety of accommodation options, from hotels to traditional houses, at much cheaper rates than the facilities overlooking the caldera.

Staying in Emporio also means a more authentic experience of the island, in contact with the locals and away from the mass tourism that crowds the more famous centres, especially during the high season.

Recommended hotels in Emporio

Things to do in Emporio

The medieval Kasteli, one of the island’s five fortified castles, dominates the centre of the village with its 80 traditional houses fused into a single defensive system. Explore its labyrinth of narrow alleys, arches and tunnels opening onto hidden courtyards, evidence of Venetian architectural ingenuity.

To the north of the town, the majestic 15th century Goulas Tower stands imposingly with its distinctive pyramidal structure. There is no shortage of churches with characteristic blue domes, such as the large Panagia Mesani in the lower part of the village and numerous chapels scattered around the old town.

Finally, approaching from the west, be enchanted by the ancient windmills that dominate the surrounding hills, which have been perfectly restored and have become an iconic symbol of this authentic corner of Santorini.

Beaches around Emporio

Emporio is strategically positioned to explore some of Santorini’s most beautiful beaches, all located within a short distance from the village.

Perissa Beach, famous for its distinctive black volcanic sand, is located a few kilometres east of Emporio. This long shoreline is well equipped with bathing establishments, restaurants and bars, and is considered one of the best places on the island for water sports.

Continuing south from Perissa, one reaches the beach of Perivolos, also characterised by black sand and crystal-clear waters. The shoreline is less crowded than in other tourist areas of the island and offers a more relaxed atmosphere.

Not far away, the beach of Agios Georgios is another interesting option. Wide and well served, this beach is perfect for a day of relaxation alternating with a visit to the village.

For lovers of unique views, the beach of Vlychada, located on the southern tip of the island, is worth the trip. This beach is distinguished by its spectacular rock formations eroded by wind and water, creating an almost lunar landscape.