The Top 5 Alternative Destinations to Santorini

Santorini, with its iconic blue-domed churches and stunning sunsets, has long been a dream destination for travellers. However, its popularity has led to overcrowding and steep prices. For those seeking similarly breathtaking views and charming atmospheres without the crowds, there are several places like Santorini that offer equally enchanting experiences. Here are the top 5 alternative destinations that capture the essence of Santorini while providing their own unique charm.

#1. Milos, Greece

Milos, another gem in the Cyclades, offers the same stunning Aegean views as Santorini but with a more laid-back atmosphere. This crescent-shaped island is known for its dramatic coastal landscapes, colourful fishing villages, and some of the best beaches in Greece. Key attractions are:

• Sarakiniko Beach: A lunar-like landscape with white volcanic rocks contrasting against the turquoise sea.    
• Kleftiko: A series of sea caves and rock formations accessible only by boat, perfect for swimming and snorkelling.    
• Plaka: The island's capital, featuring traditional Cycladic architecture and narrow winding streets.

Milos provides a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and authentic Greek culture, making it an ideal alternative to Santorini.

#2. Procida, Italy

For those drawn to Santorini's colourful architecture, Procida in Italy's Bay of Naples is a delightful alternative. This tiny island boasts pastel-hued houses, picturesque harbours, and a relaxed Mediterranean vibe. Highlights include:

• Marina Corricella: A postcard-perfect fishing village with vibrant houses cascading down to the sea.   
• Terra Murata: The highest point on the island, offering panoramic views and home to the medieval Abbazia San Michele Arcangelo.    
• Chiaiolella Beach: A long stretch of golden sand perfect for sunbathing and swimming.

Procida offers the charm of the Amalfi Coast without the crowds, making it a hidden gem for travellers seeking an authentic Italian island experience.

#3. Kotor, Montenegro

While not an island, Kotor shares Santorini's dramatic setting with its stunning Bay of Kotor, often called Europe's southernmost fjord. This medieval town is surrounded by limestone cliffs and offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty. Must-see attractions are:

• Old Town: A UNESCO World Heritage site with well-preserved medieval architecture and winding cobbled streets.
• St. John Fortress: A climb to this hilltop fortress rewards visitors with breathtaking views of the bay.    
• Our Lady of the Rocks: A man-made island with a beautiful church, accessible by boat.

Kotor provides a perfect mix of cultural exploration and scenic beauty, reminiscent of Santorini's allure but with its own distinct Balkan charm.

#4. Madeira, Portugal

For those seeking dramatic landscapes and a year-round mild climate similar to Santorini, Madeira is an excellent choice. This Portuguese archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean offers lush scenery, stunning coastal views, and a rich cultural heritage. Key experiences are:

• Funchal: The capital city, known for its gardens, historic sites, and the famous Monte Palace Tropical Garden.    
• Pico do Arieiro: The third-highest peak on the island, offering spectacular views above the clouds.    
• Levada walks: A network of irrigation channels turned hiking trails that wind through the island's lush interior.

Madeira combines natural beauty with a sophisticated atmosphere, making it a perfect alternative for those who appreciate Santorini's blend of nature and culture.

#5. Hydra, Greece

For a taste of Greek island life without straying too far from Santorini's allure, Hydra is an excellent choice. This car-free island in the Saronic Gulf is known for its preserved architecture, artistic atmosphere, and beautiful port town. Highlights include:

• Hydra Port: A picturesque harbour lined with 18th-century mansions, shops, and cafés.    
• Beaches: While not sandy, Hydra's pebble beaches and crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming.
• Profitis Ilias Monastery: A hilltop monastery offering panoramic views of the island and surrounding sea.

Hydra's charm lies in its simplicity and preservation of traditional Greek island life, offering a more authentic and less touristy experience compared to Santorini.

Wrap Up: The Top 5 Alternative Destinations to Santorini

While Santorini remains a bucket-list destination for many, these five alternatives offer equally captivating experiences without the overwhelming crowds. Whether you're drawn to dramatic landscapes, rich history, or authentic local culture, each of these destinations provides its own unique charm. Milos offers a perfect blend of stunning beaches and traditional Greek atmosphere. Procida captivates with its colourful architecture and laid-back Italian vibe. Kotor impresses with its fjord-like bay and medieval old town. Madeira entices with its lush landscapes and year-round mild climate. And Hydra charms with its car-free simplicity and preserved Greek island lifestyle. By choosing one of these alternatives, travellers can enjoy similarly breathtaking views, rich cultures, and unforgettable experiences that make Santorini so popular, but with the added benefit of fewer crowds and often at a lower cost. These destinations allow for a more intimate and authentic travel experience, where you can immerse yourself in local life and create lasting memories.

So, the next time you're planning a Mediterranean getaway, consider venturing beyond the well-trodden path of Santorini. You might just discover your own piece of paradise in one of these equally enchanting destinations! (Photo by Linda Gerbec on Unsplash)

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We overland. We eat plants and fungi. We live outside as much as possible. We are all connected. A female travel blogger overlanding and writing about ecotourism, ethical and sustainable travel, socially conscious travel and housesitting. An online travel magazine since 2015.