Santorini is an island of transcendental beauty. The architecture makes the whitewashed houses hang from the cliffs. Due to the intense volcanic activity on the island in the past, the fierce caldera has emerged from the Aegean. Steep rocks of black color, where the cobalt blue waves crush! And then there is the people – Oh the hospitable, warm locals! Greek hospitality finds its place in Santorini. If you add the eternal Greek sunshine, the fabulous landscapes and the delicious food, how can one argue with the producers of these movies shot in Santorini?
Here is a list with some of the most famous films ever made on this gorgeous island. Some of them you know, while others will come as a surprise!
Lara Croft Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life (2003)
This film was a huge success, starring Angelina Jolie. Some of the scenes were filmed in Santorini. The endless blue of the Aegean, the marvelous filming of the caldera from below and the Greek celebration…these are all elements typical of Santorini! Of course, there is no historic accuracy in the plot. But nobody seems to care, as the film never claimed to be a documentary!
The Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants (2005)
In this film, four teens share their blue jeans and send a package all over the world. Yes, it is the adaptation of a novel for teens. If you want to watch Blake Lively in her career baby steps, this is a great opportunity. Plus, you will get to see some of the most beautifully depicted scenes the island. One of the girls, Lena Kaligaris, comes from Santorini. So she visits her family and the adventure begins.
D’ Agostino (2011)
Well, this is definitely not the typical Hollywood movie! In fact, this thriller is controversial and does not enjoy universal acclaim. It is about the life of a business man from London, who is fed up with his life. So what he does is find the true meaning in Santorini. Although everyone would agree with the ethereal side of Santorini, this is not the case in this thriller…
Summer Lovers (1982)
Traveling back in time now, this romantic comedy stars Daryl Hannah and Peter Gallagher. Have you ever listened to “I am so excited” by the Pointer Sisters? The song was in this soundtrack. The story is about a young couple from the US traveling to Santorini for summer vacations. Even though they have been a couple for many years, they will have their relationship tested on the island.
Santorini Blue (2013)
This story should not be left out of the list with movies shot in Santorini. Its name says it all! It was supposed to be “a story about love, heartbreak and passion”, according to the description. Unfortunately, fans were not satisfied overall. It is a pleasant story to watch, though. Santorini landscapes certainly add to the experience, without a doubt!
More Movies Shot in Santorini or Greece?
The island of Santorini has always been source of inspiration, as has Greece as a whole. Many poets, writers, directors and artists in general have found their Muse in Greece. So it is not rare a phenomenon for several film productions to use a dreamy destination like Santorini, Mykonos, Crete or even the emblematic Athens. Discover these movies, along with the unmatched beauty of Greece!