4 Greek Islands That Are Excellent Alternatives To Santorini

Santorini is worldwide famous for its sunsets. But if you have already visited the island and want to see another island in the same vein, you will find other destinations in Greece that will steal your heart. What if we told you that some alternatives to Santorini are equally beautiful, picturesque, and romantic? Keep reading, and you will learn about 4 outstanding options for Santorini.

1. Milos

Milos is located in the southwestern Cyclades and is a top alternative to Santorini, as it has many similarities. The island has equally volcanic activity, which means it has rich mineral wealth, mysterious rock formations, and moon-like landscapes. The most famous of these is Sarakiniko beach, where the rocks around the beach are reminiscent of a lunar landscape.

Apart from the volcanic activity, the island strongly exudes the element of romance, making it an excellent alternative to Santorini. Walk through the picturesque cobbled streets of Plaka, be enchanted by the smell of bougainvillea wafting in the air, and enjoy your coffee with a stunning view of the Aegean Sea.

In Milos, you will also find places to enjoy the sunset. The most famous sunset spots on the island are the little fisherman’s village Klima with colorful houses and the church of Panagia Theotokou in Plaka.

Extra tip: For instagrammable shots, don’t miss the windmills over Trivasalo.

☞ Related: The Best Things To Do In Milos For Summer

2. Sifnos

Close to Milos is another island that is an excellent alternative to Santorini. Sifnos belongs to the Western Cyclades complex and is a perfect choice for anyone who wants to combine natural beauty and tranquil surroundings.

Wander through the alleys of Chora, enjoy your meal in one of the picturesque taverns of Artemonas and admire the view of the Monastery of Chrysopigi. One of the island’s significant must-sees is the Kastro settlement, built over the ruins of ancient Sifnos. There is the church of the Seven Martyrs, which stands imposingly on a rock. It is worth walking up the steps and enjoying the spectacular sunset there.

At the same time, there is a chance for wine tourism in Sifnos. The Votsaris Winery is waiting to show you around the area and the flavors of the local wines.

☞ Related: 20 Mind-Blowingly Interesting Facts About Santorini

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3. Kythira

Kythira is located in the southernmost part of the Ionian Sea. This small island is dominated by various architectural elements of the Venetian and Byzantine periods combined with the characteristic white and blue architecture. Kythira is not part of the Cyclades complex, yet this little island is an excellent alternative to Santorini. The reason is the countless natural beauties of the island combined with the slow-living lifestyle.

Chora of Kythira is the perfect choice for a stroll through the alleys without the crowds that one encounters in the paths of Oia, while the island’s countless crystal clear beaches entice visitors. For lovers of the Cyclades, a must-visit is the traditional settlement of Aroniadika, where the white and blue backdrop of the Cyclades dominates and is the perfect choice for walks at dusk. Furthermore, for extra romance, the picturesque village of Avlemonas is built around a bay reminiscent of Scandinavian fjords and is the perfect choice for a romantic dinner.

Kythira could not be a worthy substitute for Santorini without stunning sunset spots. One of these is the Lighthouse of Moudari, which was built in 1857, and is one of the world’s most beautiful sunset spots. The Castle of Kythera, which once served to protect the island from pirates, is now a stunning spot to enjoy the sunset.

4. Astypalaia

The most famous attraction of Astypalaia is the Venetian Castle, which has stood above Chora since the 13th century. The Castle is the perfect sunset spot for locals and visitors to the island. The ideal time to visit the Castle is early afternoon to wander around its walls and enjoy the sun diving into the Aegean Sea. Many bars and restaurants offer local cuisine in the area of Kastro.

An extra tip for Instagram lovers is the windmills of Astypalaia. The 8 windmills are located in the central square of Chora and are an incredibly stylish choice for your Instagram feed.

☞ Related: The 4 Real Reasons Behind Why Greece Has White Houses

The beauty of Santorini is known worldwide and is undeniable to everyone. But Greece is not just this. Alternatively, you can admire a stunning sunset in Milos, eat unique local delicacies in Sifnos, swim in the crystal clear waters of Kythira, and wander around the Venetian castle of Astypalaia.

On which of these islands would you like to spend your following holidays? Let us know in the comments below…