After Dark in the Island Capital

Full Moon Parties and the Twinkling Lights of Fira.

Fira is the nightlife mecca of Santorini. A glittering spectacle of bars and cafes adorn the caldera, while overhead, the Aegean moon reflects across the water, touching the gloom of the waiting volcano.

On winding backstreet alleys and caldera paths, choices are many. Tango is known for full moon parties, great drinks and music, Tropical for its Halloween gatherings and friendly crowd. Enigma and Koo are classic dance clubs; both have indoor and outdoor spaces. Two Brothers is a small bar with a big party vibe, while Kira Thira, the oldest bar in Santorini, plays a mix of jazz, Latin and classics. Get on your party togs; you're going out in Fira.

Further Afield and Beyond. For The Eclectic Traveller.

High up on the mountain within the walls of Pyrgos Kasteli, you can find Franco’s Cafe.

Franco Colombo arrived in Santorini from Turin (Italy) at the end of the 1970s. He established and ran Franco's Bar in Fira for 20 years. Famously, he began the tradition of sunset watching with opera music, and in doing so, created his signature cocktail, 'Maria Callas.' In 2006, Franco retreated from the busy capital. No longer involved with Franco's (Fira), he chose the beauty and tranquillity of Pyrgos for his new venture and legendary style: sunset, cocktails, wine and opera at Franco’s Cafe.

Newsweek International named Franco’s in Pyrgos as one of the “World’s Best Bars.”

In the heart of the island, Alisachni Art & Wine Gallery, a wine bar in Megalochori village.

Alisachni is one of those places where Greeks go. Relaxed and intimate, on multi-level terraces with indoor-outdoor seating, Alisachni reminds you of what it is to be in Greece - on a Greek island. A tasty menu accompanied by Greek music, the playing of guitars, and the singing of songs make for an unforgettable evening. The place itself is a traditional cave house with an old canava (wine cellar.) An art gallery showcases the works of Natassa Nikoletou (owner) and other artists.

Parties and Summer Happenings Down at The Beach.

Comfortable loungers and tropical umbrellas line the beaches of Perivolos, Perissa and Agios Georgios. Most places are regular beach cafes, but some are a day-club scene. Wet Stories and Barkia Beach host happenings and friendly beach volley tournaments. Relative newcomer, East Breeze on Karterados beach, invites guest DJs and holds movie nights on the beach.

Many spots with umbrellas, sunbeds and wooden walkways are extensions of beachfront cafes, furnished and serviced by them. You are expected to order from the bar. There may be a surcharge for general use (ask before you sit.)

Bars + Clubs

Santorini's nightlife hails back to the Seventies, and some of the most popular places are the oldest: Kira Thira Jazz Bar opened in 1976, Enigma Club in 1979, Two Brothers Bar in 1983.