Just 4 km away from Fira lies Vothonas, one of the quietest villages in Santorini, away from the island's crowded places. The village boasts traditional houses that had been carved deep into volcanic rock and lovely churches crowned with blue domes. Strolling along its narrow, cobbled streets will offer a visitor an insight into the past when skilled craftsmen would build the houses in such a way that they offered protection from stormy weather yet never compromising their authentic Cycladic look. The uniqueness of the architecture and the peaceful atmosphere make this village an undiscovered jewel that truly shows the essence of Santorini.
Vothonas with its blend of history, architecture, and tranquility, provides a truly authentic experience! So, let’s explore all the must-see attractions and things to do in the village, below:
1. Uncover Santorini’s Wine History
![Koutsogiannopoulos Wine Museum]( "Koutsogiannopoulos Wine Museum")
Journey through the rich winemaking history of Santorini at the Koutsogiannopoulos Wine Museum
Just outside Vothonas, one can find the Koutsogiannopoulos Wine Museum, which offers a window into Santorini's wine history. It’s an underground museum, 300 meters long, that was founded in 1870, which shows the progress of winemaking in Santorini from the late 1600s to the mid-1900s, through a collection of ancient tools and exhibits. It also illustrates the traditional procedures of winemakers in Santorini, showing examples of antique grape presses, distillation machines, and bottling equipment. The museum emphasizes the unique wines produced by local winemakers, with grape varieties such as Assyrtiko, Athiri, and Aidani, while a visit there also offers the chance for visitors to meet the unique taste of these famous wines through wine-tasting experiences.
2. Visit the Village’s Churches
![Panagia Sergena Church]( "Panagia Sergena Church")
Nestled in the cliffs of Vothonas, the Panagia Sergena Church is a hidden gem carved into volcanic rock
Vothonas has several excellent churches and chapels, each with its unique architecture and historical significance. Saint Anna, the village's oldest church, dating back to 1827, boasts a charming, pebbled courtyard, and an impressive bell tower with nine bells at three levels, which give it a traditional charm. Additionally, close to the village lies the beautiful Church of Panagia Sergena, carved into an enormous rock of volcanic origin, creating an exquisite and exceptional setting. This cave-like secluded sanctuary was used as a refuge, which adds to its mystique and cultural significance.
![Monolithos Beach]( "Monolithos Beach")
Relax and unwind on the sun loungers at Monolithos Beach.
Vothonas is an inland village, but very close to some of the world-famous beaches in Santorini. Monolithos Beach is just 4 kilometers away from it and is marked by beautiful shallow waters and a flat sandy and pebbly area, perfect for a family vacation as it's not as crowded as the other beaches on the island. If you are looking for a livelier beach, this is Kamari Beach, located slightly farther out at about 5 kilometers distance. The beach does have a lively atmosphere with a variety of restaurants, and beach bars situated right on the black sand beach, making it an ideal choice for a getaway with friends or family. Both beaches are easily accessible from Vothonas and both share the advantage of resting in the outstanding view of the Aegean Sea, therefore, either one you choose, your day at the beach will be memorable. For more of Santorini’s beaches, you will need to travel to the south part of the island, where the famous Perissa Beach and Red Beach are also worth visiting.
![To Vothonaki Restaurant]( "To Vothonaki Restaurant")
Experience authentic Santorinian bites at To Vothonaki in Vothonas
Vothonas is a small and quiet village, and while there isn’t a wide range of restaurants to select from, the village does have a couple of pleasant ones. Tsiftedelis Cafe/Restaurant is the local favorite, serving traditional Greek dishes made from fresh, high-quality ingredients in a cozy, intimate setting. Another option is To Vothonaki, a quaint little cafe/restaurant serving delicious homemade-style small dishes(meze) and offering a real, laid-back dining experience. As an added option, visitors can visit the neighboring village of Exo Gonia, which is extremely close to Vothonas, and have lunch at Metaxi Mas Restaurant which offers a creative twist on Greek cuisine and a comfortable atmosphere.
Bars & Nightlife in Vothonas
Vothonas is a peaceful village with no wild nightlife to mention, offering a more low-key atmosphere for visitors seeking a relaxing vacation. Visitors can, nevertheless, enjoy a casual dinner, a coffee, or a drink at To Vothonaki, a charming cafe/restaurant, while for a more vibrant nightlife, Fira, just 4 km away, offers a variety of bars and clubs where visitors can enjoy a more energetic night out.
![Margo Houses]( "Margo Houses")
Escape to the charming Margo Houses in Vothonas, Santorini
Vothonas offers a tranquil and untouched Santorini holiday, for tourists looking to escape the more developed areas of the island. There, one can find plenty of options in accommodation styles, from cozy residences to trendy boutique hotels, or historic guesthouses, many of which are quite literally carved into the volcanic stone, all these offer guests a personal relaxing experience. Whether your preference is simple or luxurious, Vothonas has rooms that blend tradition and luxury.
Whether by sea, air, or land, there are a number of ways through which you can reach the village, as listed below:
1. Santorini Airport (JTR) to Vothonas
The airport of Santorini is located 3 kilometers (1.86 miles) away from Vothonas and the ways to reach the village are as follows:
• By Taxi or Private Transfer: You can take a 7-minute taxi ride from the airport to Vothonas or arrange a Private airport transfer, that ensures a smooth, comfortable travel with the benefit of flexibility to schedule your arrival time. The prices for a private transfer vary depending on the provider, but it is a perfect hassle-free choice.
• By Bus: From the airport, there is a bus to Fira. From there, you will need to board another one with direction to other Santorini villages, that make a stop a little outside Vothonas. This is an inexpensive option but not as direct or quick as a taxi or private transfer.
2. Santorini Port (Athinios Port) to Vothonas
Athinios is the main port of the island, located about a 7-kilometer (4.3 miles) distance from Vothonas. Here are the options in order to get to the village from this port:
• By Taxi or Private Transfer: A 15-20-minute taxi ride will drop you at Vothonas immediately, while for maximum comfort and convenience, private transfers can be booked to take you from the port to Vothonas. This is a more personalized experience with door-to-door service and a good option for people with luggage as everything is pre-arranged and there is no need for a last-minute taxi search.
• By Bus: There is a bus from the port to Fira, and from there you will transfer to a local bus with direction to other villages, which makes a stop close to Vothonas. This option is less expensive but takes more time due to transfers.
3. Fira (Satorini’s Capital) to Vothonas
Fira is around 4 kilometers (2.4 miles) away from Vothonas. You have the following options in order to reach the village from Fira:
• By Taxi or Private Transfer: A quick 10-minute taxi ride from Fira to Vothonas is a convenient option, while to travel in style and comfort, you can book a private transfer which will come with flexibility as well as a better service.
• By Bus: Public local buses regularly run between Fira and the villages that pass near Vothonas, offering a less-expensive alternative.
4. Car Rental in Vothonas
Having your own rental can prove useful not only for accessing the village easily but also for a visit to the rest of Santorini independently. There aren’t any car-rental shops in the village but there are at the airport, the port or Fira town. Renting a car is a convenient way to make the most of your Santorini vacation, letting you discover hidden locations off the tourist trail.
Parking options in the area
Vothonas is a hidden gem in Santorini that offers a peaceful retreat while still being close to the island’s top attractions. It provides an authentic Greek island experience that is truly worth discovering!
