Theotokopoulou Square
A bustling central square in Fira, Santorini, offering iconic caldera views, charming shops, and vibrant al fresco dining.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better sunset views
Theotokopoulou Square
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better sunset views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A bustling central square in Fira, Santorini, offering iconic caldera views, charming shops, and vibrant al fresco dining.
"The most beautiful place to watch the sunset in Santorini!"
🌅 Sunset Strategy
Arrive early for prime sunset spots, or visit after cruise ships leave for fewer crowds.
🚶♀️ Port Access Options
Choose cable car, donkey ride, or a steep walk to the old port. Donkey rides are 10e.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sunset Views
Iconic caldera vistas transform into a breathtaking spectacle as the sun dips below the horizon.
Charming Shops
Browse unique boutiques and souvenir shops lining the bustling square.
Al Fresco Dining
Savor delicious Greek cuisine at restaurants with stunning sea views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Sunset
Getting Around the Caldera
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Sunset Strategy
Arrive early for prime sunset spots, or visit after cruise ships leave for fewer crowds.
🚶♀️ Port Access Options
Choose cable car, donkey ride, or a steep walk to the old port. Donkey rides are 10e.
🍽️ Dining with a View
Enjoy al fresco meals at restaurants around the square. Barolo restaurant is highly recommended.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces. Wear comfortable shoes!
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Sunset Strategy
Arrive early for prime sunset spots, or visit after cruise ships leave for fewer crowds.
🚶♀️ Port Access Options
Choose cable car, donkey ride, or a steep walk to the old port. Donkey rides are 10e.
🍽️ Dining with a View
Enjoy al fresco meals at restaurants around the square. Barolo restaurant is highly recommended.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces. Wear comfortable shoes!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the spectacular caldera views and the vibrant atmosphere of Theotokopoulou Square, making it a must-visit for sunset. While it can get crowded, especially with cruise ship arrivals, the charming shops and numerous dining options add to its appeal. The accessibility to the old port via cable car, donkeys, or walking is a key feature.
"Came here twice as it's a very busy place with lots of walking. We split our 1st day with a town walk, cable car ride down to the old port which is 10e each, a bar visit which we found that is behind the main restaurants and then a donkey trek back up also 10e each. The main reason for that was when you get 3 cruise ships every day the place buzzes with hundreds of people and they queue for the cable car so our option was the ten minute donkey ride instead of waiting an hour for the cable ride. After sussing the best place to be for the sunset we decided to make it another afternoon visit as the ships start to depart and gets a bit quieter. Plenty to do before hand though."
Ian Silsbury
"Nice square with great views. The church maybe visited. Several hotels and shops around."
I.S.
"Very nice, not very crowded and a lot of shops and restaurants, it was my favorite town in Santorini, best place to watch the sunset."
Ricardo Romo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Theotokopoulou Square is the central hub in Fira, Santorini. It's easily accessible by foot if you're staying in Fira. If arriving from other parts of the island, local buses are a common and affordable option. Taxis are also available, but can be more expensive.
Parking in Fira can be challenging, especially during peak season. There are some public parking areas, but they fill up quickly. It's often easier to rely on public transport or walk if you're staying nearby.
The scenic hike from Oia to Fira is approximately 10 km and takes about 3-4 hours. It offers stunning caldera views but is quite strenuous. Theotokopoulou Square is at the Fira end of this trail.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Theotokopoulou Square itself is a public space and does not have an entrance fee. You are free to wander and enjoy the views.
Shops and restaurants around Theotokopoulou Square generally operate from morning until late evening, with hours extending into the night, especially during the tourist season. It's best to check individual establishments for specific times.
The cable car ride down to the old port typically costs around 10 euros per person, each way. It's a popular option to avoid the steep walk or donkey ride.
For popular restaurants, especially those with prime sunset views, booking in advance is highly recommended, particularly during peak season, to secure a table.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire square offers incredible photo opportunities of the caldera, the white-washed buildings, and the blue-domed churches. For sunset, find a spot with an unobstructed view of the horizon.
Yes, you can take photos of the donkeys, but be respectful and do not disturb them or their handlers. Remember that the donkey ride itself is an experience many capture.
The 'golden hour' just before sunset offers beautiful, soft light. Midday can be harsh, but the bright sunlight accentuates the white buildings and blue sea.
The architecture, with its Cycladic style, and the vibrant bougainvillea flowers are very photogenic. The unique artistic style of El Greco, a Renaissance artist, is also a point of interest for art enthusiasts.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find a wide variety of dining options, from traditional Greek tavernas serving local specialties to international cuisine and casual cafes.
While many restaurants offer caldera views at a premium, you can find more affordable options by exploring slightly off the main path or opting for quick bites from convenience stands.
Look for dishes like fava, tomato fritters (domatokeftedes), fresh seafood, and Greek salads. Many places also offer delicious gyros and souvlaki.
Absolutely! Many restaurants are situated along the caldera edge, offering spectacular sea views, especially during sunset. Barolo restaurant is frequently mentioned for its excellent food and views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
💖 Couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Experiencing the Caldera Views
When cruise ships are in port, the square can become quite crowded, impacting the tranquility of the views. However, as the ships depart, a sense of calm often returns, allowing for a more intimate appreciation of the scenery. The changing light throughout the day, from the bright midday sun to the soft hues of sunset, dramatically alters the mood and appearance of the caldera.
For those seeking the ultimate caldera experience, consider walking the Fira to Oia trail. This path hugs the caldera rim, offering continuous, unparalleled views. Theotokopoulou Square serves as a central point for accessing this trail and for resting afterwards.
Navigating the Old Port
The donkey ride is a traditional, albeit controversial, way to reach the port. These rides are also priced around 10 euros and are often chosen by those looking for a more unique, albeit less comfortable, experience.
Once at the old port, you can find boat tours, restaurants, and access to ferries. The journey back up is often the more challenging part, with many opting for the cable car or donkey ride to avoid the strenuous climb.
The Artistry of El Greco
El Greco was renowned for his distinctive style, characterized by elongated figures, dramatic use of color, and intense emotional expression. His work bridged the gap between Mannerism and Baroque art, influencing generations of artists.
Visiting Theotokopoulou Square offers a connection to this artistic heritage, even if indirectly. It serves as a reminder of the rich artistic history that has shaped Greek culture and continues to inspire.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit