Megalochori, a Picturesque Traditional Village in Santorini

Have you ever heard of Megalochori? It is a small traditional village, located about 9 km south of Fira, the capital of Santorini. Here you will find white Cycladic-style houses, winding streets and picturesque blue-domed churches. It is one of the oldest villages on the island, with a history dating back to the 17th century. If you’ve never been there yet, it’s time to add it to your bucket list.

The History of Megalochori

The origins of Megalochori are not known, although it is believed that the first dwellings date back to the 17th century. The village probably arose as a refuge from pirate raids as evidenced by houses built with thick walls and massive doors designed to resist attacks.

While initially the inhabitants of Megalochori engaged in agriculture and animal husbandry, taking advantage of the island’s natural resources, over time, Megalochori became one of Santorini’s major wine centers. This is due to the climatic conditions and volcanic soil that facilitate the cultivation of vines.

With the development of tourism in Santorini, Megalochori also began to attract visitors interested in discovering the authenticity of the village and tasting local wines. Today, the village has managed to keep its traditions intact while adapting to the demands of tourism.

Things to Do in Megalochori

Your visit to Megalochori must begin with a tour of its center. As you walk through the narrow streets you can admire the typical Cycladic architecture, with its characteristic white houses and blue-painted doors and windows. Megalochori’s main square is the beating heart of the village, where you can sit in one of the taverns, observe the daily life of the locals, and enjoy typical dishes such as fava, stifado, and fresh fish.

Small museums and craft stores allow you to discover more about Santorini’s history and traditional crafts. Also not to be missed are the churches, first and foremost the church of Agios Nikolaos.

We mentioned that Megalochori is famous for producing high quality wines, so the village is a stop on a Santorini wine tour. In town, several wineries offer tastings and tours of the vineyard, from where you can enjoy enchanting panoramic views.

Finally, if you like nature walks, you should explore the trails surrounding the village in search of the best vantage points to admire the caldera.

Useful Tips for a Trip to the Village

Getting to Megalochori is fairly easy. You can use the bus or cab, or rent a car, so you can explore the island on your own.

The best times to visit the village are spring and fall, when the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists.

What to See Nearby

Away from the crowds of tourist centers, Megalochori offers a more authentic and relaxing experience; the village is nestled in a beautiful landscape between vineyards and the sea, the local cuisine is delicious and there is no shortage of places to discover local history and traditions.

In addition, it is also a great base for exploring other wonders of Santorini. For example, the beaches of Perissa, Perivolos, and Vlychada are some of Santorini’s most famous beaches. Also not far away is the archaeological site of Akrotiri, an ancient city buried by the volcano eruption. Finally, consider a trip to Fira, Santorini’s capital, with its stores, restaurants, and views of the caldera, or to Oia, a village famous for its spectacular sunsets.