Unlike the overcrowded tourist hubs of Fira and Oia, Exo Gonia offers a serene atmosphere, and it is an ideal place for visitors who do not want to be amidst crowds and enjoy picturesque surroundings. It stands on a hill, therefore, it offers spectacular views of the island, vineyards, and the radiant blue horizon of the Aegean Sea.
While Exo Gonia is a small village, it provides some enriching activities that allow you to explore Santorini's culture, history, and natural beauty, while it is also a great base for exploring the rest of the island. Here is a selection of some of the best places to visit while in this village:
1. Explore the Art Space Winery & Art Gallery
![Art Space Winery & Art Gallery]( "Art Space Winery & Art Gallery")
Art Space Winery & Art Gallery offers a unique blend of exquisite wines and inspiring artworks in a stunning setting
Art Space Winery stands out as one of Santorini’s most distinctive attractions, combining history, art, and winemaking. Located in a magnificently renovated 19th-century winery, it invites guests to experience the history of winemaking as it developed on the island. The underground wine cellars, built from volcanic stone, have been converted into a modern art gallery, showcasing works by Greek artists, including paintings, sculptures, and installations.
There, visitors can wander through the exhibition spaces before enjoying a wine tasting of Santorini's renowned wines, especially Assyrtiko wine, a dry white characterized by mineral notes, and Vinsanto, a sweet dessert wine. Whether a wine lover or an art supporter, the Art Space Winery guarantees a memorable experience.
2. Visit the Church of Saint Charalambos
![Church of Saint Charalambos, Exo Gonia]( "Church of Saint Charalambos, Exo Gonia")
The Church of Saint Charalambos in Exo Gonia captivates with its serene beauty, traditional architecture, and beautiful views
(credit:
commons.wikimedia.org)
Situated on the hills of Exo Gonia, the Church of Saint Charalambos stands as a lasting landmark of Greek Orthodox tradition. Built around 1705, this historic church used to operate as a male monastery, while today, it ranks as one of the largest on the island. A particularly captivating aspect of Saint Charalambos is its serene courtyard, offering stunning panoramic vistas of the Santorini landscape. The inside of the church features stunning Byzantine-style frescoes and intricate religious icons, making it a fascinating destination for those who appreciate religious art and history. However, even if you are not interested in religion, the calming ambiance and beautiful scenery make this church a standout feature of Exo Gonia.
3. Experience Wine Tasting at Artemis Karamolegos Winery
![Artemis Karamolegkos wine shop.]( "Artemis Karamolegkos wine shop.")
Artemis Karamolegkos wine shop.
The specialized volcanic soil and unusual Santorini climate create some of the most one-of-a-kind wines around the world, and Artemis Karamolegos Winery is an ideal venue for wine tasting. Located just outside Exo Gonia, this family vineyard has earned a worldwide reputation for its exceptional wines. There, guests are able to take a tour with a guide while learning about the ancient winemaking traditions and the modern innovative techniques used nowadays. There are also different wine-tasting sessions allowing guests to taste the wine varieties of the island, combined with small local bites such as cheese, olives, and the small Santorini tomatoes.
In addition to it, there lies the award-winning restaurant Aroma Avlis, which provides a complete meal experience along with wine tasting. Visiting both the winery and the restaurant is a must for wine lovers, while it is also interesting for the first-time visitor to Santorini looking to see some of the rare grape varieties of the island.
![Kamari beach, Santorini]( "Kamari beach, Santorini")
Kamari beach welcomes you with its black sand, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking views
The position of the village offers easy access to some of the finest beaches in Santorini. One of them is Kamari Beach, just a 10-minute drive away, one of the most renowned beaches on the island, featuring black volcanic sand and a deep blue sea. Its vibrant location is well-structured, providing sun loungers and shade, along with various traditional restaurants, bars, and local gift shops, making it an excellent place to enjoy the whole day.
Other than Kamari Beach, a little further lie Exo Gialos Beach and Monolithos Beach, which offer a serene beach atmosphere. The eastern shoreline of Exo Gialos boasts a wild beauty with its dark sands and striking rock formations. Therefore, if you want to find peace and appreciate wild scenery, this is the destination for you. Additionally, Monolithos Beach, located 6 km from Exo Gonia, offers a family-friendly setting with gentle waters, soft black sand, and a tranquil vibe.
![Aroma Avlis Restaurant, Exo Gonia]( "Aroma Avlis Restaurant, Exo Gonia")
Aroma Avlis Restaurant in Exo Gonia, where tradition, Greek flavors, and world-class wines come together in a stunning setting
Exo Gonia, even though a small village, boasts a few beautiful restaurants blending classic Greek cuisine with contemporary twists, and creating menus that will please both traditionalists and adventurous diners. The ambiance of the restaurants varies from charming, picture-perfect country taverns featuring lovely courtyards, to upscale fine-dining venues with views of vineyards and the Aegean Sea. Therefore, whether for a romantic dinner, or a leisurely lunch featuring local wines, Exo Gonia restaurants, guarantee an unparalleled culinary experience.
Bars & Nightlife in Exo Gonia
Exo Gonia is a tranquil village, an ideal spot for those seeking a calm and authentic experience of Santorini. Unlike many tourist spots on the island, the village lacks bars or nightlife venues, preserving its pleasant, relaxed atmosphere. Nonetheless, those who wish to enjoy the night scene do not need to drive far, as Kamari is just a 10-minute drive away. There, one can find trendy cocktail bars and seaside taverns that stay open into the late evening. Additionally, there is Fira, the capital of Santorini, located a 15-minute drive from Exo Gonia, offering a selection of clubs and rooftop lounges for anyone looking to celebrate throughout the night. Exo Gonia may not be the greatest option for nightlife, yet its central location ensures a short drive to all the lively spots in Santorini.
![Serapias Suites, Exo Gonia]( "Serapias Suites, Exo Gonia")
Serapias Suites in Exo Gonia, Santorini, where elegance meets breathtaking island views
Exo Gonia is an ideal location for relaxation and travel lovers eager to experience a truly genuine Santorini. There, one can find magnificent independent villas and boutique hotels with breathtaking island views and pool access, while most of the accommodation options in the village are crafted to harmonize modern features with Cycladic style, providing amenities such as jacuzzis, private terraces, or private balconies that gaze upon stunning vineyards and the Aegean Sea. Whether it's a romantic getaway, family holiday, or a secluded vacation away from crowds, Exo Gonia offers a peaceful alternative to the bustling areas in Santorini, while still being conveniently close to the island's main attractions.
Several transportation choices are available for getting to Exo Gonia from the primary arrival locations in Santorini. Regardless of whether you arrive by plane, ferry, or visit it from a nearby village, below are the ways to reach it:
1. Santorini Airport (JTR) to Exo Gonia
The distance from Santorini airport to Exo Gonia is 4 km (2.5 miles), and you can get to the village from there by using the following means of transport:
• By Taxi or Private Transfer: There are plenty of taxis available at the airport, and reaching Exo Gonia takes roughly 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. On the other hand, reserving a private transfer in advance creates a more laid-back and stress-free travel experience, although it is pricier than a regular taxi.
• By bus: There is no direct bus service from the airport to Exo Gonia. Therefore, you will first need to take a public bus from the airport to Fira, the capital of Santorini. Then, you will need to catch a bus to Pyrgos, which stops at Pyrgos central square, and walk to the village (just remember that it involves quite a bit of walking). As an alternative, you can catch a bus to Kamari, which will drop you outside Exo Gonia, and then walk to the village.
2. Santorini Port (Athinios Port) to Exo Gonia
Athinios Port, which is the primary port of Santorini, is situated 7 km (4.3 miles) from Exo Gonia. You can reach the village by the below ways:
• By Taxi or Private Transfer: Your trip from Athinios Port to Exo Gonia will take about 20-25 minutes by taxi, while taxis are available at the port. Private transfers can be scheduled in advance, though, to ensure a more comfortable journey.
• By Bus: You can catch a public bus from the port straight to Fira and then transfer to another bus heading towards Pyrgos or Kamari. The Pyrgos bus stops at the central square, from which you'll stroll a brief way to Exo Gonia. The Kamari bus stops right outside the village, requiring a short walk.
3. Fira (Santorini’s Capital) to Exo Gonia
The distance from Fira to Exo Gonia is merely 5 km (3.1 miles), making it a direct and brief trip. Here’s how to reach the village from Fira:
• By Taxi or Private Transfer: The journey from Fira to the village will take approximately 10-15 minutes by taxi, which you can find at the central station. Additionally, you can arrange a private transfer for extra convenience if necessary.
• By Bus: Buses run frequently between Fira and Pyrgos or Kamari, stopping outside or near Exo Gonia. Using this means of transport will take about 20 minutes, while it is a low-cost option.
4. Reaching Exo Gonia via Car or ATV
For someone who wishes to be independent, the ideal choice is to rent a car, ATV, or scooter. Online rental booking is offered while there are also agencies in Fira, the airport, or the port. What is more, there are clearly marked roads allowing you to reach the village easily.
If you intend to visit Santorini and wish to explore more than the iconic caldera views, then a trip to Exo Gonia is the perfect opportunity to discover some of the island's hidden gems.
