Off the Beaten Path in Santorini: For Return Visitors, Slow Travelers & Digital Nomads
You’ve seen all the main sights and attractions of Santorini, but now you’re ready to dive deeper.
Whether you’re a Santorini enthusiast returning year after year or a digital nomad spending more than just a few dayson the island, this guide is for you. Santorini isn’t only about sunsets and cliffside views—it also offers hidden gems perfect for curious travelers and slow explorers.
Take a Day Trip to Thirassia Island
Did you know that Santorini is actually a group of five islands, only two of which are fully inhabited? What most people call “Santorini” is technically the island of Thira. Its smaller, quieter sister Thirassia lies just across the caldera.
You can visit Thirassia in two main ways:
- Join a day trip with Santorini Experts, which includes guided exploration and insight into local life.
- Or, book a boat trip directly at our reception, which stops at Korfos port—perfect for a lunch break by the sea.
- Independently
If you’re heading to Thirassia independently, catch the small ferry from Ammoudi Bay (below Oia) at 8:00, shortly after 12:00, or 17:00. The boat arrives at Riva port, from where you can walk 45 minutes uphill to the main village of Manolas.
If you’ve ever wondered what Santorini looked like before the tourism boom, this sleepy hilltop village gives you a glimpse into the past. Have lunch at Taverna Panorama, take a walk along the nearby cliffs, or visit a local chapel. From Korfos port (located just below Manolas), you can return via boat or relax at one of the simple seaside tavernas.
🧳 Digital Nomads Tip: Thirassia is a peaceful, disconnected place—ideal for those needing a creative reset away from Wi-Fi and distractions.
Discover the Hidden Charm of Emporio
We all know the famous black sand beach of Perissa, but have you ever explored what lies inland?
The bus to Perissa makes a stop at a simple village bus stop, and from there, you’re just steps away from the heart of Emporio village. It’s a surprisingly extensive maze of narrow alleys, whitewashed homes, tiny chapels, and even remnants of an old castle (Kastro).
Wander at your own pace, enjoy a coffee at one of the quiet local cafés where time seems to stand still, or browse Amoni, a local silversmith’s shop known for handcrafted, one-of-a-kind pieces.
Our favorite lunch spot? The Old Barber’s Shop—a quirky café-restaurant set in a converted barbershop. It’s just as charming as it sounds.
💻 Digital Nomads Tip: Emporio is a great village to explore if you’re staying longer on the island. It has local life, fewer tourists, and a relaxed atmosphere—ideal for slow mornings or working afternoons in a peaceful café.
Hike Up to Ancient Thira
Looking for a hike with spectacular views and fewer crowds than the classic Fira-to-Oia trail?
Take the bus to Kamari, get off at the last stop, and begin the steep 45-minute hike up to Ancient Thira. The path offers constant photo opportunities, and halfway up you’ll find a quiet little chapel tucked into the rocks.
At the top, you can:
- Purchase a ticket to explore the archaeological site (check hours/days in advance),
- Continue downhill to Perissa, or
- Take the longer, winding road back to Kamari without retracing your steps.
Don’t forget to bring water and a snack, as the hilltop canteen is open only seasonally.
⌨️ Digital Nomads Tip: This hike is perfect for an early-morning escape before settling into a work session—or a weekend adventure to explore Santorini’s ancient roots.
Why We Love These Hidden Spots in Santorini
If you’re a digital nomad in Santorini, you already know it’s more than just a postcard destination. These lesser-known places—Thirassia, Emporio, and the hike to Ancient Thira—offer the kind of authentic, slow experiences that make long-term travel meaningful.
Whether you’re journaling in a quiet café, wandering ancient streets, or soaking in the silence of a hilltop ruin, these are the moments that connect you to the soul of the island.