Monastery of Profitis Ilias
Rating: 4.3 (456 reviews)
Location: Moni Profitou Iliou, 3 km from Pyrgo Thira, Santorini, Greece
Top Attraction Rank: #1 of 2 things to do in Moni Profitou Iliou
Overview: Located at the highest point on Santorini, offering 360° panoramic views of the island and the sea.
The monastery itself is small, featuring a church and a quiet courtyard.
Popular with visitors for scenic vistas, photography, and hiking access.
Access is via a winding road; reachable by car or hiking.
Insider Tips
- Wear comfortable shoes—the area is rocky.
- Check opening hours; some reviews note limited access to the church itself.
- Bring a towel or cover-up if wearing shorts or tank tops for visiting the church.
- Great spot for sunrise or sunset views, though can be windy.
- Highlights from Reviews
“High point @Santorini – aerial vistas of the entire island, quite windy.” – Shruti-Pramod
“Tranquil with stunning scenery, lovely gift shop with souvenirs made by monks.” – Liam M
“Beautiful 360-degree view of the island; start/end point for several hikes.” – Ynk D
Nearby Attractions
- Perissa Black Sand Beach – 1.9 km
- Kamari Beach – 2.3 km
- Ancient Thera – 1.5 km
Tours & Experiences
- Private tours and custom Santorini tours often include the monastery as a scenic stop.
- Some tours combine it with wine tasting, hiking, or photo opportunities.