Pyrgos is an enchanting hilltop village that captures the charm of a bygone era. Get lost in a maze of cobbled alleys and admire whitewashed churches topped with sky-blue domes. Rolling vineyards surround Pyrgos and produce some of the best white wine in Greece.
Things to do in Pýrgos
Pyrgos is perched on one of the highest points of Santorini. The views are spectacular and stretch to neighbouring villages like Oia and Thera. Climb up to Pyrgos Castle for an even better outlook. It’s one of several Venetian strongholds on the island and commands dizzying views over the island. The sunsets are epic and rival what you’ll see in Oia.
Learn about local island life at the Cultural Village. The museum is housed in a traditional whitewashed building and features rooms filled with Cycladic antiques and historic photographs. Admire authentic folk costumes and see enormous wooden barrels used by the island’s winemakers.
It’s easy to lose track of time in the winding streets of Pyrgos. Stroll along narrow alleys lined with whitewashed buildings and browse hand-painted pottery and colourful trinkets sold at souvenir shops. Cafes and tavernas spill onto the tree-lined main square, which is a great place to sip coffee or enjoy a glass of ice-cold ouzo. Even better, order a meze platter and a bottle of Assyrtiko white wine.
Book a guided tour of the postcard-perfect vineyards that surround Pyrgos. Learn about the grape-to-glass process and sample Assyrtiko, the island’s signature grape. It’s crisp, refreshing and has a distinct minerality created by the volcanic soil.
Getting around Pýrgos
Pyrgos is compact and easy to get around on foot. Cars, motorbikes and ATVs offer the freedom to visit Pyrgos and explore Santorini at your own pace. Local buses are a fast and affordable way to visit Pyrgos. The village is a 10-minute drive from Thera and 30 minutes from Oia. Santorini Airport is a 10-minute drive away.