Venetian Castle of Emporio — Attraction in Municipality of Thira

This is one of the five Venetian castilles (more of a fortified town than a castle) on the island. We were on a tour of the island and our guide, Christopher, was a local from the town. He was so passionate about the town itself and especially the fortress. Some of the buildings are in their original condition which is fascinating to see and others are being refurbished and made into Airbnb accommodation. The streets are typically very narrow and twisty with low arches and very small doors up narrow, steep stairs, all with the purpose of slowing down any marauding pirates or armies that were attacking. With only one entrance accessible from the outside it was difficult to see how anyone would get in. Each of the fortresses is in direct sight of the next one on the island so they would light beacons to warn the others that there was trouble. The town and the streets were immaculate as usual with whitewashed walls and blue windows and roofs. Take water with you if you go, it's quite a climb and it's very hot but so...

Visiting the Venetian Castle in Santorini is like stepping into a storybook. Perched above the village of Emporio, this historic gem offers not just a glimpse into the island’s medieval past, but also breathtaking views along the way. The walk up to the castle is a highlight in itself — winding through narrow alleys, charming houses, and traditional blue-domed chapels, each corner more picturesque than the last.

Once you reach the castle, you're rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and sea. The architecture of the castle is fascinating, with remnants of ancient towers and walls still standing strong. It’s peaceful, not overly crowded, and a perfect spot for photography or quiet reflection.

If you’re in Santorini, don’t miss this hidden treasure. The journey there is just as magical as the...

Hidden in the heart of Emporio, the Venetian Castle feels more like a living maze than a typical tourist site. You’ll need to park nearby and walk through narrow alleys to enter. Once inside, you can’t really capture a full view of the castle from outside—it’s integrated into the surrounding homes and paths. Almost no tourists were around when we visited, giving it a quiet, mysterious vibe. It feels more like an adventure than a sightseeing stop. Definitely worth a visit if you enjoy history and exploring...