Santorini truly is one of the most photogenic places I have ever been to. The view of the contrasting white houses built on the dark lava cliffs surrounded by the bluest sky and sea is surreal. I made so many pictures there during my stay, both at the famous Instagram spots and lesser known locations. But don’t think it’s easy to take these epic shots. If you don’t want to wait in line to take your picture (yes, it is that crowded) and you want to be able to reach the epic places behind the “private area” signs, you need to wake up very early (before sunrise). That is the only way to have the most beautiful photo locations in Santorini all to yourself (together with a few other photographers and bloggers) and to be able to access the private areas in a discrete manner.* Keep reading if you want to discover where these beautiful photo locations in Santorini are!

The most beautiful photo locations in Santorini

Bells of Oia

When walking on the main street of Oia (from east to west), turn left between the little church and the jewellery store called Alexandros. Just follow the tiny alley and you will bump right into the bells of Oia.

3 blue domes in Oia

This is probably the most famous sight of Santorini. You can’t miss it once you found the bells of Oia. You can also take pictures from the other side where you will be able to see the pink bells of the church way better. This complete area is private, so be respectful and discrete.

Londsa Castle in Oia

This place offers a lot of incredible views of Oia’s cliffs and the sunset. But be aware you won’t be alone! The crowd at sunset is terrible! So I decided not to join all the sheep people and found my own quite spot to enjoy the sunset a little below the castle.

Pink house in Oia

This house can be found on the way down to Ammoudi Bay.

Church bells at the playground in Oia

A little outside the bustling town center of Oia you will find a playground with these beautiful church bells.

Any path down from Oia’s main street

There are so many tiny alleys starting from Oia’s main street going down to fantastic caldeira and cliff views. Just try them all and discover more epic photo spots in Oia!

Skaros rock at Imerovigli

This impressive black rock of solidified lava is impressive to photograph but climbing it offers a lot of incredible views of Santorini’s caldeira.

Anastasi Church in Imerovigli

Another pretty blue domed church you can’t miss on your photo mission!

Church bells in Thira

Near the fantastic restaurant Mama Thira you will find the famous bells of Thira. You should go eat at that restaurant by the way!

The “other dome” of Firostefani

I call it that way because I can’t find any other name for it! 🙂 You will find it walking from Thira to Imerovigli.

The little boat in Thira

This place is fantastic to watch the sunset without the crowds.

The churches and alleys of Megalochori

Like stated in a previous post this is a true hidden gem of Santorini. Don’t miss this place while road tripping Santorini, since I really think this was one of the most beautiful photo locations in Santorini.

Red Beach near Akrotiri

This was the first red beach I’ve ever seen. It was very crowded so I didn’t stay for too long. Come here early when in Santorini!

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* I’m not a fan of tresspassing and disrespecting signs. But if it is only me, being quiet and careful not to mess anything up, I don’t think I’m doing anything wrong. As soon as I heard others approaching I went back, because I didn’t want to encourage too many people to do the same. The people living in those houses would wake up and be disturbed. 

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Don’t hesitate to leave your comments down below! I’m sure you got some favorite photo locations too in Santorini! I didn’t visit the complete island so please share them below!