Megalochori Village is a place full of life and culture. The residents here are friendly and the cafes? A special treat to your taste buds! There are various cute shops, taverns, and cafes to spend your time and indulge in the local flavours of Greece. The village is surrounded by cobblestone paths and neoclassical homes, exuding a true vintage vibe. For travellers piquing interest in religious attractions will find several churches and chapels here, each with an interesting history. The surrounding vineyards give you a glimpse into the luxurious world of wine-making and impress avid explorers.
At this Santorini village, part of a Greece tour, there are two pristine beaches, Thermi and Plaka, which are famous for their therapeutic waters and hot springs. They are only accessible by foot and give you a distant glimpse of the volcanic promontory. Megalochori Village is also famous for its hospitality, bringing world-class resorts, villas, and luxury suites to stay.
Highlights
• Discover age-old homes, historical mansions, pirate hideaways, and much more at one of the most stunning places of Santorini, the Megalochori Village.
• Stroll through Megalochori Square to grab a quick cup of coffee and some snacks at the famous restaurants, cafes, and taverns.
• Take a quick tour of the famous vineyards at and around Megalochori Village including Gavalas Vineyard, Antoniou Winery, and Boutari Winery.
• Seek blessings and pay your respects at one of the many chapels and churches spread across Megalochori Village from where beautiful sunsets are also visible.
• Move a little ahead and stop at the Plaka and Thermi beaches; two of the delightful attractions in the village with therapeutic waters and hot springs.
How To Reach
- By Car: Megalochori Village is 7 km from Fira Town and is easily accessible via private car or cab. It will take merely 15 to 20 minutes to reach the destination.
- By Bus: You can find local buses running from southeast to Emporio or north to Fira and deboard at the Megalochori Bus Station. The exact distance and time will depend on your boarding point.
- By Shuttle: Megalochori Village is 6.3 km from Santorini Airport and is accessible via the shuttle service. It will take you approximately 10 minutes to reach.
Best Time To Visit
Megalochori Village is open to the public throughout the year.
- Best Season: Visit between April and June as the weather is quite pleasant and refreshing.
- Best Day in the Week: Visit on the weekdays to make the most of your trip and avoid crowds.
- Best Time of the Day: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to dodge crowded streets.
Other Essential Information
Visitor's Tips
- Carry water, wear a hat, apply sunscreen, and take breaks in the shade to stay cool.
- Plan a visit to one or more vineyards to learn about Santorini’s unique wine production and enjoy wine tastings.
- Take the time to enjoy a meal at one of the village’s tavernas and try traditional dishes like moussaka, fava, and freshly caught seafood.
- Consider visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes to explore the village without fatiguing your feet.
- Dress modestly when visiting churches and religious sites.
Visit the Traditional Village Square
Megalochori Square is the centre of the village and has an admirable sight. It is lined with cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, and cute cafés. This is where tourists and locals gather to enjoy Greek cuisine, coffee, and a breathtaking cityscape view. The neighbourhood is surrounded by bougainvillaea and creates an authentic Cycladic lifestyle with the traditional blue and white colour scheme.
Learn winemaking at the Gavalas Winery
Megalochori Village is famous for its vineyards and is one of the main attractions for every tourist. Explore the sprawling wine lawns like Gavalas Winery, Boutari Winery, and Venetsanos Winery. Learn about the winemaking process and try the local flavours, including Assyrtiko. These vineyards provide a unique chance to experience the rich wine culture of the village.
Spend some peaceful time at the Church of Agios Nikolaos
Although Megalochori Village is festooned with churches and chapels, one of the most famous out of the lot is the Church of Agios Nikolaos. It reflects the true heritage of Cycladic architecture through the blue domes and a bell tower. This church is located at a small distance from the village and is the perfect place for self-reflection and peace. It has whitewashed walls and a blue dome, making the place a quintessential Santorini sight.
Attend a show at Symposion by La Ponta
Symposion is a famous cultural centre and museum in the village. It is located in a 19th-century restored windmill. You can experience a heartfelt journey of Greek music and mythology. There will be exhibitions, performances, and workshops to indulge in. This experience is immersive and lets you play with traditional instruments. At the La Ponta Symposion, you can also learn about Greek legends and myths. Several cultural events are also hosted at the place, giving you a warm and unique experience.
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