Last Updated on March 3, 2022 by
Pyrgos is a little gem in the heart of Santorini. Rich of medieval charm and breathtaking views this place is a real hidden gem. Probably not as picture-perfect as Oia but equally charming for its genuine untouched and traditional beauty. In this guide you will discover the best things to do in Pyrgos for a perfect day trip in Santorini.
Already been to Pyrgos? Why not visit Megalochori or Akrotiri?
Table of Contents
Pyrgos the medieval gem of Santorini
Pyrgos Kallistis or simply Pyrgos ( in Greek Πύργος Καλλίστης), is situated in one of the highest points of Santorini. Located at about 5 km from Fira, Pyrgos Kallistis ancient Greek name means “castle”. In fact, during the Middle Ages Pyrgos was one of the most important fortified areas of Santorini. In this regard, Pyrgos was also the former capital of Santorini before Fira. At the time of the Venetian domination, during the 15th century, Santorini had 5 castles. Pyrgos, together with Akrotiri is one of the last remaining.
The village you can visit today, is built amphitheatrically around the former fortified area. For this reason, it is full of cobbled, narrow alleys leading to fascinating forgotten corners of the island through hidden passages and labyrinthine streets .
Best things to do in Pyrgos
Climb up to the Kasteli Castle
The castle of Pyrgos called also “Kasteli” is situated in the highest point of the village. Venetians built the castle during the 15th century to protect the island from the pirates. Because of its defensive purpose, the castle has only one main entrance. Historians say it was very similar to the fortress of Skaros, built on the other side of the island.
Within its walls, there was an observation tower called “Goulas”. This was demolished to built the current church of Agios Georgios. The castle, suffered heavy damages after the earthquake of 1956. Nevertheless, this is still one of the best preserved fortress of Santorini. To reach the castle you have to hike up the entire village till the highest point. However, the 15th-century foundations of the old multi-story houses are visible immediately after the first two staircases. It is advisable to wear comfy shoes and to go at early morning because the hike is a little steep and the sun can be very strong during the summer months.
Have a stop at the Profitis Ilias Monastery
At less than 3,5 km from Pyrgos, at the top of the Profitis Ilias Mount, lies the Profitis Ilias Monastery. This dates back to 1711 and known for the profitable cultural activities and its school of Greek language and culture.
Nevertheless, The monastery activities declined after 1860 but now it hosts a museum called “Icon and Relics collection of Pyrgos“. This museum exhibits an important collection of ecclesiastical items. Among these, books, relics and icons sculptures. The most famous, is a 16th-century portrait of Agios Georgeos belonging to the old church of the Kasteli.
Museum opening time
The museum is open from April until October
Daily : 10:00 – 16:00
Enjoy the Pyrgos open-air Theotokaki art exhibition
This is something you won’t find in any Santorini guide! However, by walking up and down the narrow alleys of Pyrgos, I cannot notice that the village is nothing less than a big open-air art exhibition! There are paintings everywhere, little shops selling local art and terraces exhibiting the works of their owners from paintings to sculptures to jewellery.
I have to say that walking and see local art was one of my favourite things! Especially because this is a thing very unique in Pyrgos and you can’t find it in any other village! One of the most original exhibition is the one called Theotokaki art. This can be found up in the hill going towards the castle.
Taste Vinsanto at Santo Wines
Santorini is famous for the production of Vinsanto. So, while getting around Pyrgos what better thing to do than a wine tasting with a spectacular caldera view? The most famous place where you can taste Santorini’s famous wine is surely Santo Wines. Open all-year-around Santo Wines is operative since 1947. The production of wines here is famous for its “preservation of the biodiversity through the operation of a nursery of autochthonous varieties, a solid base for study and trial cultivation of local grapes”. Santo Wines offers a wide variety of services including wineries tours, wine tasting and shop.
Where to eat in Pyrgos
When you arrive in Pyrgos, the piazza will welcome you with a mix of restaurants and traditional shops making you feel a typical Greek atmosphere. As many other places around Santorini, also Pyrgos offers a wide choice of restaurants and cafes. The only thing to do is picking the one suiting your needs! The most famous restaurant, is probably Pyrgos Restaurant. This is known for its panoramic views and for being a perfect wedding location in Santorini.
If you are hunting a perfect sunset location without breaking your pockets, Franco’s cafe is the best choice. It offers spectacular views and tasty appetisers.
However, my favourite lunch place was, however, Brusco Wine Coffee Deli. Apart from being super cute, this place has the best selection of local cuisine, wine and coffee!
Pop back in time and visit the “Santorini of the Past” museum
Right in the heart of Pyrgos there is a lovely museum called “Santorini of the Past“. This is part of the company called Santa Irini, a local Santorinian society engaged in the promotion of cultural and historical activities since 1976. The Cultural Village “Santorini of the past” preserves important historical artefacts. Moreover, the space was thought as a contemporary cultural and gastronomic space in Pyrgos where visitors can experience the domestic, rural and traditional ways of life in the old Santorini.
For the most interested visitors, there is the opportunity to stay in one of the traditional Santorini houses inside the village. This is called Cultural House and hosts a series of fully equipped apartments where guests can have memorable experiences and direct access to the cultural centre activities.
At the Santorini of the past museum visitors can also have a gastronomical experience. In fact, inside the village you can find the restaurant Selene. This provide wine tasting and gastronomical tasting of traditional Greek products.
Where to stay in Pyrgos
Unfortunately, we personally did not stay in Pyrgos. We preferred to visit on a half day trip during our last day in Santorini. However, among the best places where you can stay there is Santorini Heights, a luxury hotel boutique with spectacular views. Or, if you are on a budget, Pyrgos 1870, A Restored Winery Hotel . The hotel is a restored winery on the top of the Pyrgos hill. Each room has a patio and can enjoy the outdoor seasonal swimming pool or a private Jacuzzi.
Pyrgos was one of my favourite place and I am definitely considering to go back and book a stay there! Despite it’s quieter than Oia or Fira, offers the same spectacular views and amazing food!
Things to do in Pyrgos Kallistis map
Practical Information
Distances
- Port: 5 km
- Fira: 8 km
- Oia: 17 km
- Airport: 6 km
- Santo Wines Winery: 300 m
- Perissa beach: 5 km
- Kamari beach: 7 km
How to reach Pyrgos
You can reach Pyrgos with local buses. The bus going to Perissa and Emporio have both a stop in front of the Pyrgos main square.
Pyrgos is at about 19 km from Oia and you will need a 27 mins drive to reach it from Oia by car or scooter. If you are driving from Fira, this is a shorter drive. In fact, Pyrgos is at 5 km from Fira (10 mins drive by car or scooter).
To note that central Pyrgos is totally car-free So, when you arrive, you must park outside the historical centre and proceed on foot. If you are coming by bus, this will leave you in front of the main square.
Read other Santorini guides
Want to discover more about Santorini? Read these other guides below! Click on the pictures to discover these amazing villages!
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