Holidays to Monolithos bring you fresh seafood, traditional whitewashed buildings and shimmering seas – just about as Greek as can be.

The quiet side

Perched on the east coast of Santorini, Monolithos is a real leap off the grid. Despite being on one Greece's most popular islands, this pocket-sized village manages to keep its peaceful feel, and has hardly changed since the day it was built. Yet it has all the essentials – a sandy beach and seafront tavernas.

Beach-based bliss

The beach here sees much less foot traffic than its more famous west-coast cousins, which makes it a great pick for some R&R. You'll find deep and shallow areas off the shore, and a few bars and eateries serving up snacks and cold drinks as the day creeps closer to sunset.

Coast to coast

You can drive from one side of Santorini to the other in around an hour. At the top of the half-moon caldera sits Oia, the poster child of Greek island villages – think blue-domed roofs and whitewashed houses. On the southern end you'll find Akrotiri, home to ancient ruins and dramatic red cliffs.

At a Glance

  • Go back in time in a village steeped in tradition
  • Escape the crowds at Monolithos Beach
  • Snack on seafood in nearby Kamari