Famous for its traditional Cycladic architecture and tranquil surroundings, Finikia is much more genuine, and quieter compared to some of the island's more touristy parts. The village, with narrow streets, and whitewashed houses is quaint and keeps much of its rustic charm, encouraging visitors to wander around and enjoy the Santorini culture and natural beauty. While it is quiet, it is still near enough to Oia, allowing one to enjoy the main attractions, yet far enough to offer a peaceful retreat.
The quiet village of Finikia will spellbind every visitor with its picture postcard streets, traditional houses, and tranquil ambiance. There, one gets the chance to see beautiful views and taste traditional Greek cuisine, while its pedestrian streets, allow for easy and quiet walks, adding to the feeling of serenity that it emits. Following are some of the best things to do in the village, that will make your visit to this hidden gem truly unforgettable.
1. Wander Through the Narrow Streets
The narrow streets in Finikia are lined with traditional whitewashed houses, colored shutters, and lush greenery, making this village a real pleasure to be explored on foot. As one walks through the stone pathways, they will come across unexpected views, totally worth making a stop and taking glimpses of the surrounding vineyards and the sea in the distance.
Every turn in Finikia offers a visual treasure, making the area a haven for those in search of genuine Greek island life. Whether you wander along its shaded alleyways, admiring handcrafted details on old wooden doors or simply enjoying the hum of daily life, a walk through Finikia is truly magical. What is more, its quiet streets are a big plus compared to the loud tourist parts of Santorini and give one the chance to enjoy the beauty of the island in its most natural form.
2. Visit the Church of Panagia Marouliani
The church of Panagia Marouliani is a small church devoted to the Virgin Mary and stands as proof of the deep faith and architectural Cycladic charm of the village. Even without the fancy blue dome associated with Santorini churches, Panagia Marouliani exudes elegance with a mix of white-washed and yellow-hued walls and the traditional Aegean design that seamlessly blends with the surroundings.
The church is located at the heart of the village, and a visit to it will give the opportunity to one to appreciate the serenity of the surroundings, the church itself, as well as the quaint village pathways leading to it.
3. Explore the Local Vineyards
![Domaine Sigalas Winery]( "Domaine Sigalas Winery")
Savor the flavors of Santorini at Domaine Sigalas, one of the island’s finest wineries
One of the most famous parts of Santorini, aside from its unparalleled beauty, is its vineyards, which produce world-renowned volcanic-origin wines. One of these vineyards can be found in Finikia which grows some varieties that make Santorini wine so famous, such as the Assyrtiko wine. Additionally, several vineyards close by offer tours, during which one may learn interesting facts about the history of winemaking on the island and the techniques they used, while also tasting the best wines in the area.
Close to Finikia one can find the famous Domain Sigalas Winery, highly appreciated for its exquisite wines. While there, one may take a tour of the vineyards and cellar, combined with a tasting session featuring some of its best bottles, including Assyrtiko and other local varieties.
4. Walk to Saint Matrona Church
A peaceful, scenic walk from the village brings you to Saint Matrona Church, a very small but handsome church dedicated to Saint Matrona, which used to be quite important for the farmers and vineyard workers of this area. Perched in an elevated position, the church emits a great atmosphere of stillness and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
On October 20 every year, the church hosts its feast of Saint Matrona, one of the most classical and vibrant parties on the island, when all the underground wineries/wine cellars in the area get filled with people, and the narrow streets, become jammed with visitors from all corners of the island. There, the feeling of joy and celebration combined with music brings everyone together until early morning.
Activities and Things to Do Nearby
1. Watch the Sunset in Oia
![Oia Sunset]( "Oia Sunset")
Witness the magic of the mesmerizing Oia sunset
Oia, which is located a short distance from Finikia, is one of the most famous places in Santorini to watch the island's mesmerizing sunset. The views from Oia are absolutely magical, with the sun dipping into the Aegean Sea creating vibrant colors across the sky. While this area can get quite crowded at times, there are several quieter spots near Finikia that offer the same breathtaking sunset experience. For those that want to find their moment of peace, hiking into the highest areas of Finikia or going just out of Oia town offers a truly breathtaking view of colors filling in the sky, perfect to conclude any day. Whether it is from the famous castle ruins in Oia, a secluded rooftop, or a hidden spot near Finikia, this enchanting show is an experience one will always remember.
2. Join a Catamaran Cruise from Ammoudi
![Catamaran Cruise in Santorini]( "Catamaran Cruise in Santorini")
Set sail on a Catamaran Cruise from Ammoudi port and discover locations of unparalleled beauty
Ammoudi Bay, not too far away from Finikia, hosts one of the most unforgettable Santorini experiences: a catamaran cruise around the breathtaking coastline of the island. These cruises offer a great combination of relaxation, adventure, and breathtaking scenery as you sail across the deep blue waters of the Aegean Sea. As you cruise around the island, beautiful views of Santorini's most famous landmarks await, including the dramatic cliffs of the caldera, the vibrant Red and White Beaches, and the therapeutic volcanic Hot Springs.
For an even more magical experience, take an evening cruise to view the legendary Santorini sunset from the sea. As the sun falls beneath the horizon, it paints the sky in pink, orange, and golden colors, creating a mesmerizing view and a romantic moment, one of those perfect moments shared with loved ones and a well-spent ending in the day.
![Baxedes Beach]( "Baxedes Beach")
Escape the crowds and unwind at Baxedes Beach (credit: Jarek Bartnik)
Although Finikia itself doesn’t have a beach, there are some beautiful beaches and places for swimming not more than a few miles away. Baxedes Beach (5 minutes by car) is the closest option and is a quiet, black-sand beach ideal for those seeking a natural, peaceful setting away from the crowds. Additionally, Koloumbos Beach (10 minutes away by car) is situated near Baxedes Beach, offering crystal-clear, calm waters and special volcanic rock formations, making it ideal for quiet relaxation.
Ammoudi Bay (10 minutes by car or 30 minutes walking through Oia) is a dramatic small port below Oia, offering a beautiful swimming experience in its waters. Not a sandy beach, but with deep turquoise waters and wild cliffs, it offers breathtaking scenery, while further on, there is a famous spot for cliff jumping. Another beach before Ammoudi, is Katharos Beach (10 minutes away by car), a small, virgin beach with dark volcanic pebbles and crystal-clear waters.
Those in search of a more vibrant beach should not miss Perissa, Red Beach, and Kamari Beach. In order to reach the beaches travelers have to get to Fira town first, where they can board one of the numerous buses that lead to these beaches or arrange private transfers, which will ensure a hassle-free and comfortable experience.
![Meze Meze Restaurant]( "Meze Meze Restaurant")
Savor the authentic flavors of Santorini at Meze Meze Restaurant
Finikia has a few charming tavernas offering traditional Greek cuisine in really tranquil settings, the perfect combination for a quiet dinner. There, traditional dishes made with fresh seafood, plus other local specialties, are prepared with the finest ingredients, making them a perfect choice to enjoy the flavors of Santorini and indulge in the relaxed pace of life that characterizes the village. Some of the taverns in the village also offer a great sunset view from their terraces, while those who would like to eat with a view of either the caldera or sunset will find that Oia, nearby, is a great alternative.
Bars & Nightlife in Finikia
Finikia is a quiet and peaceful village, and more attention is paid to relaxation and the enjoyment of the tranquil surroundings rather than vibrant nightlife. There are a few cozy spots where one can enjoy a quiet evening meal along with a drink, but as far as bustling bars or clubs, this area does not offer those amenities like Fira or Oia do. Those in search of a vibrant night will have to get into the nearby towns offering more bars, clubs, and entertainment.
![Elysian Santorini Hotel]( "Elysian Santorini Hotel")
Take in the breathtaking view of Finikia from Elysian Santorini, where traditional charm meets serene beauty
There are different types of accommodation available in Finikia, where guests can experience Santorini in serenity. Those include boutique hotels, traditional cave houses, and guesthouses fitted with characteristics typical of the Cycladic architecture usual on the island. Many of them also have stunning views out to the vineyard-covered surroundings, while some offer private pools or terraces to take it all in. Accommodation in Finikia caters to various tastes, whether for a more conventional stay or a more modern one, offering its guests a quiet and comfortable base from where they can explore the island.
Reaching this tranquil village from the main points of arrival in Santorini is quite easy. Traveling options include the following:
1. Santorini Airport (JTR) to Finikia
Finikia is around 16 kilometers (9.9 miles) away from the airport, and some of the transfer options are as follows:
• By Taxi or Private Transfer: Taxis can be found at the airport, and it takes around 25-30 minutes to get to Finikia, depending on traffic conditions. What is more, there is usually a fixed fare, depending on the season. In alternative, and for more comfort and convenience, private transfers are available upon request in advance. Private transfers tend to be quite a bit more expensive but very hassle-free.
• By Bus: Public buses leave the airport for Fira, where you need to change to a bus heading towards Oia, which makes a stop near Finikia. The total journey takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the traffic flow.
2. Santorini Port (Athinios Port) to Finikia
Athinios Port, the main port on this island, is about 23 kilometers (14.2 miles) away from Finikia. To go to the village from the port, follow these options:
• By Taxi or Private Transfer: A taxi ride to Finikia takes about 35-40 minutes, depending on the traffic. Private transfers can be booked in advance for a more comfortable journey, though these may be more expensive than a regular taxi.
• By Bus: At Athinios, you will need to take the public bus to Fira. There, you will need to wait for a bus that will take you to Oia, which makes a stop near Finikia along the way. This may totally take about 1-1.5 hours.
3. Fira (Santorini's Capital) to Finikia
Fira is the capital of Santorini, and it is located just 12 kilometers (7.4 miles) from Finikia. It will not take you long to reach the village from Fira, and you can get there by the following means:
• By Taxi or Private Transfer: The drive from Fira to Finikia takes approximately 15-20 minutes by taxi or private transfer. Taxis can be found at the local station, although you can also book a private transfer in advance for added comfort and ease.
• By Bus: Public buses from Fira operate regularly to Oia, with a stop near Finikia. The journey altogether takes 30-40 minutes and is budget-friendly.
4. Getting to Finikia by Car or ATV
Those who wish to have more freedom can book a car or an ATV from the airport or port, as they will be able to tour the island at their own pace. Apart from the port and the airport, there are agencies operating the rentals in Fira or Oia, but one can also book the vehicle over the Internet in advance.
Parking options in the area
Finikia offers a combination of tradition, tranquility, and easy access to the main highlights that Santorini has to offer, making it a must for travelers looking for an authentic Greek island experience!
