“As September unfolds, Santorini sheds its busy summer cloak, revealing golden vineyards, hidden village paths, and a deep connection to the island’s heritage. Visitors can stroll through grape-laden terraces, marvel this year at the Cycladitisses exhibition tracing women’s Cycladic histories, and experience the dramatic Ifestia fireworks show—recreating a volcanic eruption in the Aegean night sky. Here’s why late‑summer Santorini with Historic Hotels of Europe feels like discovering the island anew.”
Harvest Season & Vineyard Bliss
Late summer marks grape harvest time across Santorini. This is when the island’s famed Assyrtiko grapes are hand-picked and crushed in family-owned vineyards that blanket villages like Pyrgos and Megalochori.
Guests staying with Historic Hotels of Europe can take part in vineyard tours, private tastings, and even help with grape picking—an authentic taste of Santorini’s agrarian past and present.
Kykladitisses Exhibition (Until October 31st, 2025)
The standout cultural event of the season, the Kykladitisses exhibition at the Archaeological Museum of Thera in Fira, brings together 180 rare artworks—marble figurines, frescoes, coins, and ancient inscriptions—all spotlighting women of the Cyclades.
Photo: Αndreas-Santrouzanos-©-Museum-of-Cycladic
Don’t miss:
- The Kore of Thera, a colossal Archaic sculpture
- The “Women in the Sanctuary” fresco from Akrotiri
- The elegant Aphrodite adjusting her sandal
A free bilingual audio guide is available, offering rich context and personal insight into these stunning pieces.
Ifestia Volcano Festival – September 20, 2025
On Saturday, September 20, the Santorini caldera becomes a stage for the breathtaking Ifestia Festival. A nighttime spectacle of fireworks, music, and lights simulates the eruption of the island’s ancient volcano—seen best from Pyrgos, Fira, Oia, or the water. It’s one of Santorini’s most dramatic and unforgettable experiences.
Where to Stay: 3 Distinctive Historic Hotels
Villa Santa Croce – Pyrgos
Hidden in the island’s inland heart, Villa Santa Croce offers peaceful, panoramic views and easy access to harvest activity in surrounding vineyards. From here, guests can hike through Pyrgos’ winding alleys, visit historic churches, and enjoy direct links to local wineries offering exclusive tastings.
Ideal for: Wine lovers, walkers, and those seeking the ultimate private escape withing a very stylish serviced historical villa.
Aigialos Hotel – Fira
A neoclassical gem on the edge of Fira’s cliffs, Aigialos Hotel combines caldera views with walkable access to the Kykladitisses exhibition and the heart of Santorini’s cultural calendar. Book a stay over September 20 to enjoy Ifestia fireworks right from your private balcony.
Ideal for: Cultural travellers and guests wanting a front-row seat to the island’s festivities.
Hotel Esperas – Oia
Set in a quiet corner of iconic Oia, Hotel Esperas offers privacy, elegance, and the most iconic sunset views that need no filter. With fewer crowds in autumn, Oia regains its tranquil charm—making Esperas a perfect base for exploring local art galleries, enjoying cliffside dinners, and watching the caldera light up during Ifestia.
Ideal for: Romance, art lovers, and sunset seekers looking to escape the buzz.
Concierge Tips for an Unforgettable Autumn Stay
Vineyard Visit & Tasting
All 3 Historic Hotels of Europe properties can arrange for their guests a private tour with a local winemaker. You’ll stroll among volcanic soil vines, sample Assyrtiko, Nykteri wines and the famous Vinsanto sweet wine, and take in stories passed down for generations.
Exhibition Guided Visit
Request a curated visit to Kykladitisses with an expert guide. Combine it with a walking tour of Fira’s Old Town for a deep dive into Santorini’s multi-layered history.
Ifestia by Sea
Book a seat on a sunset catamaran or traditional kaiki to watch the Ifestia fireworks from the caldera waters—an unmatched vantage point.
Authentic Dining Reservations
Secure dining at the properties or reserve in advance at selective fine dining restaurants or hidden tavernas in Megalochori and Exo Gonia—far from the crowds, close to the authentic soul of the island.
Off-the-Grid Experiences
Ask the Historic Hotels of Europe hotels about wellness mornings in the vineyards, photography walks at sunrise, or quiet hikes along the Fira–Pyrgos–Emporio path.
