WHAT TO DO IN PYRGOS, SANTORINI
We all have stunning pictures of Oia and even Fira in our heads when we think about Santorini. But of course, there is more to Santorini than these two most famous villages. Let’s talk about a less famous, yet absolutely cute, place named Pyrgos Kallistis – visiting Pyrgos is a must-do in Santorini.
Pyrgos is the highest village on the island – while I would not say it is a hidden gem necessarily, it is quite underrated even though it is an absolutely adorable village to visit and a top place to see in Greece.
TRAVEL TIPS FOR PYRGOS KALLISTIS
HOW TO GET TO PYRGOS
- The bus ticket is cheap (around 2€, in cash) and you get dropped off directly in Pyrgos (it takes about 20 minutes from Fira).
WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK IN PYRGOS
Though I did not stay overnight, I had lunch and a coffee in Pyrgos, and here are my recommendations.
For a coffee with a view, head to Penelope’s Ouzeri Pyrgos Santorini.
The views were lovely. There is also an outdoor terrace next to Kasteli (fortress) named Franco´s Cafe.
For lunch, I went to a restaurant near the bus station – Pyrgos Square – which also offers vegan dishes. Unfortunately, I did not write down the name of the place but there are only a few restaurants to choose from.
WHERE TO STAY IN PYRGOS
I did not stay overnight but while I was roaming Pyrgos, I spotted this very cute place that offers accommodation. This would probably be my first choice. With the permission of the owner, who just walked by, I took a couple of pictures.
She, apparently, did not know that I was a blogger, but she smiled and said “Feel free to post in on social media”. While I have not shared it on Instagram, I share it here as a tip on where to stay in Pyrgos.
- Check out prices for Valsamo Suites.
FUN THINGS TO DO IN PYRGOS
And here are a few pictures to show you what I am talking about. So, from Pyrgos Square, head toward the fortress “Kasteli” (there is a sign and it is easy to find).
ROAM THE STREETS OF PYRGOS
Make sure to check out “all” streets along the way up to the fortress. There are not many streets, but you might easily miss a few cute spots if you do not check out each street. Take your time!
GO SHOPPING
I stopped buying unnecessary items years ago. If you have to (or want to) buy souvenirs, I suggest buying them here rather than in the main villages, to support smaller businesses that do not see that many tourists.
Castle of Pyrgos/Kasteli of Pyrgos
To get the best panoramic views, get to the castle of Pyrgos. Pyrgos is the highest village in Santorini – and the castle is on the highest point of Pyrgos – so, it is about the panorama!
This castle and the walls were probably built around 1580. It is well-preserved and you can stroll its alleyways without any entrance fee.
VISIT CHURCHES
No matter how small a Greek village is, you will always find a couple of churches. And this is also true for Pyrgos. And admittedly, the churches here are really unique. Look at this tiny church in this picture (Saint Dimitrios).
Close to its entrance of the Kasteli lies the church of Agia Theodosia. And there are two churches inside the castle; the church of Koimisis of Theotokou (one of the oldest churches on the island) and the church of Eisodion of Theotokou (built at the highest point of the castle).
Visit the church itself but also make sure to walk around it for great views.
ENJOY A DRINK WITH A VIEW
As mentioned previously, the drinks can come with a view. So, make sure to not only come here for a quick sightseeing tour but also plan in some time to take breaks and just soak in the views.
As you can see, there is not that much to do in Pyrgos – however, it is a beautiful village that should be on your Santorini itinerary. So, whenever you plan a Greece trip – make sure to visit Pyrgos as well.
Check out my Greece itinerary.
Is Pyrgos Worth Going?
Is Pyrgos worth visiting? Yes, Pyrgos is worth visiting! Pyrgos is beautiful! Pyrgos is cute! Pyrgos is authentic! Pyrgos is less busy and crowded than Oia or Fira! Pyrgos is easily accessible – even with public transportation. So, yes Pyrgos is worth it and I enjoyed my day trip to Pyrgos to the fullest.
TIP: If you are short on time and want to add more stops to your day in Santorini, check out this Santorini tour with a stop in Pyrgos.
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