Incredible Oia: Our Guide to Santorini's Most Breathtaking Town
Located on the north-western tip of Santorini, Oia is a must-do for anyone travelling to the Greek Islands. Discover everything you need to know for a visit with our curated Oia guide.
You’ve seen it. We’ve seen it. Everybody’s seen it.
You know, the view of the traditional Greek buildings cascading down to the water, pops of blue from church domes, pretty windmills, colourful laneways, all shrouded in a golden glow of sunset.
You’ve got the picture in your mind now, haven’t you?
That world-famous Oia sunset. This is the place that people think of when they think ‘Greek summer vacation’.
But, Oia is so much more than its famous sunset.
It’s Santorini’s most beautiful town, with a myriad of colourful laneways, outrageous views, world-class food and wine, excellent shopping, and local adventures.
After exploring every inch of the town (seriously, our knees could take no more stairs!), we’ve put together this curated guide to Oia, showcasing the best things to do, the best restaurants and bars, how to avoid the crowds, and where to stay for all budgets.
Love our photos? They were all edited using our Europe Preset Pack, which you can purchase here!
OIA
SANTORINI
SNAPSHOT
WHERE | North-western tip of Santorini, Greece
HOW TO GET THERE | Bus from Fira, ATV or car rental
THINGS TO DO | Watch an Oia sunset, walk the colourful streets, visit Ammoudi Bay, visit Atlantis bookstore
WHERE TO EAT & DRINK | Melitini, Lauda, Ammoudi Fish Tavern, Pitogyros
OIA, SANTORINI TRAVEL ESSENTIALS
WHERE IS OIA, SANTORINI?
Oia is located on north-western tip of Santorini (officially known as Thera), around 12 km (20 mins) from the island capital, Fira (Thera) in the Cycladic archipelago, Greece.
Santorini itself is located 200km southeast of Athens and the mainland and is the most southern of the Cycladic Islands, with Ios and Anafi as its neighbours.
THE BEST TIME TO VISIT OIA, SANTORINI
Santorini is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the world, and as such, is super busy during summer (July and August). And we mean bussssssy!
Most of the tourists descend on Oia due to its undoubted beauty and famous sunsets, so it can feel a little like a theme park here. As a result, we feel like you should avoid visiting in summer.
Despite visiting Santorini just after lockdowns were lifted in early June, the Island felt completely overrun, and this was without the cruise ships which have since made their way back to these waters.
Therefore, we suggest visiting Oia, Santorini between late April - early June, or mid-September - October, otherwise known as shoulder seasons (either side of the peak seasons).
During this time, the days are still long and the weather and sea are warm, but the crowds are smaller and more manageable, making the Oia far more pleasant.
What's more, the price of accommodation, food and drinks is cheaper during the shoulder period - and you’re helping reduce the environmental impact while extending the tourism season to locals.
BEST TIME OF DAY TO VISIT OIA
EARLY. MORNING.
We’ll shout it again... EARLY MORNING!
Jokes aside, visiting Oia in the early morning, before the crowds begin to arrive from 9 am, is wonderful. At this time of day, silence and stillness hang over the town, giving it an ethereal quality otherwise not felt on Santorini.
You’ll have the attractions, laneways and viewpoints all to yourself (save for photographers), you’ll watch a magical sunrise over the caldera, and you’ll escape to your hotel (or to the quieter parts of Santorini) before the throngs arrive.
Trust us on this one.
That being said, you will want to watch a famous Santorini sunset, so that will mean fighting the crowds and finding your vantage point (more on that below). It is worth it, but just once!
WHERE TO STAY IN OIA, SANTORINI
Wondering where to stay on Santorini? Read our curated accommodation guide here, including our area recommendations.
LUXURY
THE SAINT HOTEL | The indulgence level at the Saint Hotel is truly ethereal. Think opulently furnished whitewashed rooms carved into the cliffs of Oia. Private plunge pools overlooking the caldera.
| Check prices and availability
BLUE DOMES & BOUGAINVILLEA | Blue Domes & Bougainvillea is a private villa that sleeps six. It has all the amenities for an unforgettable group getaway: two big rooms, two bathrooms, a full kitchen, characteristic volcanic stone features amidst whitewashed…well, everything.
| Check prices and availability
MID-RANGE
KASTRO OIA HOUSES | Oia Houses are quirky, comfy and compact. There’s a good blend of traditional inspiration and modern decoration. Plus, most suites have a jacuzzi, and the ocean views over Ammoudi Bay are indescribable.
| Check prices and availability
MR & MRS WHITE SANTORINI | Minimalist and modern, with premium amenities and a long list of mod-cons that make Mr & Mrs White the place.
| Check prices and availability
BUDGET
AETHRIO SUNSET VILLAGE | Aethrio caters more to individual travellers and couples on a budget wanting to stay in the heart of Oia, a short distance from the main square.
| Check prices and availability
VOLCANIC ARC SUITES | Volcanic Arc Suites exudes affordable, laid-back luxury. The three private suites are decked out with super comfy eco-inspired furnishings, air conditioning (a blessing in summer), and breakfast served in a picnic basket.
| Check prices and availability
THINGS TO DO IN OIA, SANTORINI
WATCH THE FAMOUS SANTORINI SUNSET IN OIA
Whether viewed shoulder-to-shoulder with thousands of others at the ruins of Oia Castle, from the infinity pool of your bougie hotel, or from the deck of your sunset cruise, Santorini's Oia sunset is world-famous for a reason: it's pretty bloody spectacular.
Witnessing the white-washed, blue-domed traditional town of Oia and the dramatic Caldera cliffs illuminated by pink, purple, and gold pastel light as the day draws to a close is a breathtaking experience, even if you are sharing it with what feels like a million other people.
You're pretty much guaranteed a good view of the sunset no matter where you are in Oia, but the main places to catch the show are:
OIA CASTLE
It's the most famous spot on the island (and maybe the world) to watch the sunset, so don't be surprised if you're jostling shoulders and elbows with thousands of others for prime position.
Be prepared to get there early to stake your place, take some water (or a beer!), and chat with those around you as you wait!
NEAR THE BLUE DOME CHURCHES
There are lots of lovely public laneways near the two famous blue-domed churches that make for great vantage points as the sunsets.
Although, a caution to please not trespass around the famous Santorini 'Blue Domed Churches' (aka Agios Spiridonas and Agios Anastasis) - much of the area around here is private property, so please respect the signs.
AMMOUDI BAY
Ammoudi Bay is incredible (more on that below), but at sunset, it’s a whole other level. The rustic tavernas and sunset bars are the perfect place to watch day turn to night, and enjoy one of the most unique Santorini sunset experiences.
GO ON A SUNSET SAIL
There aren't many things better than sailing Santorini's caldera.... except maybe watching the sunset over Oia from the deck of your own catamaran!
Okay so technically this one isn't in Oia but on the water, but it's a pretty romantic option for those looking for their sunset view with a side of salty air too.
You get drinks, food and endless adventures.
BOOK | Santorini sunset cruise
We have to be super honest and say that having done both Oia Castle at sunset and exploring the town at sunrise, we much preferred sunrise in Oia, both for the soft morning light and the absence of crowds.
If you have the option, we'd recommend also visiting in the wee hours to enjoy the peace and quiet!
RELATED | Our guide to the best Santorini sunset locations
WALK DOWN TO AMMOUDI BAY
Any closet Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants fans in the house? Because one half of this travelling duo was more than a little excited to see Ammoudi Bay and relive the famous scene where Lena tumbles into the sea and is rescued by strapping young fisherman Kostas — who woos her by throwing small fish back into the sea. A love story for the ages really.
In all seriousness though, Ammoudi Bay is a quaint former fishing village nestled into the red cliffs right underneath Oia.
The two are connected by about 300 steps from Oia Castle, though you can also drive down to the bay itself (which we did).
The bay is lined with gorgeously rustic fish tavernas where water laps right at the table's edge and the day's octopus hangs in the sun to dry. The walking path weaves through the taverna patios; Ammoudi Fish Tavern is the most popular.
If you take the stairs, please do not take the donkey rides back. The issues around their mistreatment are well documented and supporting animal tourism is always unethical in our view (read our guide to responsible travel here). You can organise a taxi back up to Oia for €10.
THE DETAILS
Where | Ammoudi Bay (Órmos Ammoúdi), Santorini
READ MORE | Our short guide to Ammoudi Bay
FIRA TO OIA HIKE
The hike from Fira to Oia (via Imerovigli) is a breathtaking 10.5 km hike along the spine of the Caldera, passing through famous white-washed villages, dramatic clifftop scenery and the never-ending blues of the Aegean Sea below.
On an island that often feels packed and chaotic, this trail is a welcome oasis of tranquility and natural beauty.
Walking direct, the hike will take you anywhere between 2.5 - 3 hours to complete one way. But given the trail takes you past some of the nicer villages (Imerovigli), fancy hotels, and Santorini sightseeing stops (like Skaros Rock and a number of pretty churches) along the way, you absolutely could turn this into a whole day's adventure with meal stops and exploring included.
The Fira to Oia hike can be taken in either direction you choose, although our biggest tip would be to get it started as early as you can in the morning to avoid the midday heat. There isn't much shade on Santorini generally, but particularly along the trail, and the sun basically beats down ferociously on you for most of the day. Lots of water, a hat, and sunscreen are essential for this hike!
After you've completed your hike, you can take the bus from Oia to Fira (or vice versa) again for about €1.80.
GET LOST IN (AND PHOTOGRAPH) OIA'S BEAUTIFUL STREETS
Oia might be famous for its sunsets and being the main tourist hub on the island, but there's plenty more to the village than just those two things.
There's a reason it's become the place to visit in the Greek Islands; the traditional buildings cascading down to the water, pops of blue from church domes, pretty windmills and world-class shopping and food are breathtaking to see and a charm to explore.
The main thoroughfare can get shoulder-to-shoulder busy, especially through the early evening, but duck off the main stretch and it's not hard to lose yourself in quiet, hidden alleyways.
The most popular places for sightseeing (and photographing) in Oia are:
Amoudi Bay | Amoudi is a rustic old fishing village and the port area directly underneath Oia
Oia Castle | As mentioned, a popular sunset spot!
Oia Windmills | The Oia windmills are just a couple of the handful of traditional windmills left on the island, historically used to mill flour.
Atlantis Bookstore | One of our fave book stores in the whole world! Full of cosy nooks, a great selection of books, and a beautiful deck with epic views over the caldera
The area around the famous 'blue domes' of Santorini | The churches of Agios Spiridonas and Agios Anastasis are some of the most recognisable Greek island icons, and the many laneways and alleys around here are gorgeous to get lost in.
Kastro House | These gorgeous rust-coloured apartments will have been all over your IG feed already and for good reason - they're super cute!
The Church of Panagia Platsani | You can't miss this famous Santorini attraction - it's in Oia's bustling main square in the heart of the town
That said, Oia's insta-popularity does precede it, and with great fame unfortunately often comes great douchebag behaviour.
Oia might feel like a fairytale, but people do still live here as they've done for centuries, so climbing on roofs (especially churches), over fences and signs marking private property, and generally just being obnoxious and inconsiderate to get your Instagram shots isn't cool.
GO SHOPPING
If you’re a lover of all things fashion, jewellery, ceramics and interior pieces, and have a decent amount of disposable income, Oia is the perfect place to go shopping.
There is a huge range of stores throughout Oia, especially on the main laneway (Nik. Nomikou) that makes its way through Oia town - best of all are the jewellery stores, which sell a range of amazing pieces from local designers and well-known brands.
The fashion stores are also amazing, although have prices to match.
Of course, there are also a range of wonderful ceramics stores too, which sell everything from plates to vases. It’s fair to say we would’ve bought quite a few had we, not another month travelling around Greece.
As always, try to buy as local as possible - it helps support artisans and designers and keeps money in the local community.
EXPLORE THE CRUMBLING OIA CASTLE
Set amongst the red cliffs above the white-washed homes and caves of Oia is Agios Nikolaos.
You wouldn't know it to look at it now, but the ruins of the Oia Castle (Castle of Agios Nikolaos) are all that remains of the watchtower of a 15th-century Venetian castle that stood guard against marauding pirates in the area.
The castle was ruined in an earthquake in 1956, and these days the only 'pirates' who breach the walls are the thousands of tourists who flock here to watch the sunset each day.
Yep, this historic place is now how to the most famous sunset of all, where the magic happens just about every night of the year.
To fully appreciate the ruins, we suggest visiting during the day when the crowds are somewhat more subdued, before returning in the early evening for said magic sunset.
THE DETAILS
Where | Oia Castle, Santorini
STEP INSIDE THE AMAZING ATLANTIS BOOKSTORE
“Great things are done by those when men and mountains meet...This is not done by jostling in the street”.
The words that adorn Atlantis Bookstore couldn’t be more apt, given the marble laneway in which the bookstore is situated might just be the busiest in all of Santorini.
Step inside though, and you’ve transported a million miles away from the hustle and bustle, and into a world of wonder.
Set up in 2002 overlooking the Aegean sea, Atlantis might just be the most beautiful bookstore in the world (although Porto’s Livraria Lello might have something to say about this).
The wooden, cavernous space is covered in books, ranging from rare first editions through to contemporary new releases, while the courtyard at the rear provides perhaps the greatest viewpoint to sit and enjoy the pages of Hemingway - with sweeping views over the famous caldera.
Given Mim’s deep love of books, we decided to grab ourselves a little treat from here instead of the tacky trinkets and magnets which line the laneways of Oia, and we suggest you do the same too.
If you’re interested in further reading, the story behind Atlantis is super interesting, which you can read about here.
THE DETAILS
Where | Oia, Santorini
Opening hours | As long as the owner wishes to stay open
Tips | It’s a bookstore, not a photoshoot location. Respect the store and others
SWIM AND CLIFF JUMP AT ARMONIO BEACH (AMMOUDI BAY)
Santorini, or more specifically, Oia, isn’t blessed with swimming spots, which we guess isn’t surprising considering most of the island is surrounded by towering cliffs.
Thankfully though, there is a place where you can get your cool your body and get a saltwater fix close to Oia.
Just past Ammoudi Bay, once you've reached the last taverna on your left, continue along the dirt track for about 5-10 minutes to reach Armonia bay, a super popular spot for swimming and cliff jumping.
There's no official beach here, in typical Mediterranean fashion, just throw your towel down on the rocks and you're set! The water is delightfully cool, clear and clean, however, be careful of the rocks which can be very sharp.
Best of all is the island across the bay which is home to Saint Nicholas Church, a true hidden gem that you have to swim to get to, and where the best cliff jumping spot is at.
If you’re planning to spend time here, you will definitely need to bring a towel, aqua shoes, and lots of water.
THE DETAILS
Where | Armonia Bay, Oia
Tips | Bring a towel, aqua shoes, and lots of water
ESSENTIAL OIA TRAVEL INFORMATION
HOW TO GET TO OIA
There are a few ways to Oia, although which one you should opt for kind of depends on whether you're planning to visit during peak season or not.
LOCAL BUS
Buses are by far the cheapest mode of transport on Santorini and the best way to get to Oia.
The network is reliable and tickets are affordable (tickets between major hubs generally cost around €1.80 and are paid in cash to the bus driver).
Most buses to Oia connect in and out of Fira, which is great if you’re staying in Fira, but a little inconvenient if you’re staying in Imerovigli (you’ll need to switch in Fira!).
Click here for Santorini bus schedules and routes. Find the Oia bus station here, and the Fira bus station here.
The buses themselves are decent; they're air-conditioned and comfortable, although in peak season they fill up seriously quickly and you may find yourself standing.
They run frequently, although the timings are sometimes a little limiting when you want to pack lots of Santorini's best things to do into a single day.
During the peak of summer, we'd recommend getting to the bus stop early and being prepared to queue for a while (it can also get pretty pushy!).
SCOOTER OR ATV
A scooter or ATV is the best option if you want more flexibility and freedom with your Santorini itinerary while not spending an absolute fortune on car rental.
We used an ATV during most of our time on the Island, and it allowed us to see as much as possible, especially arriving to Oia early for sunrise.
Here is the route from Fira to Oia, which takes around 30-40 minutes on an ATV.
In peak season, you'll want to be able to zip about more freely than you can in a car or by local bus.
We hired an ATV through Tony's in Fira, and we'd do it again in a heartbeat.
Genuinely the loveliest family-run business who really cared about the safety and comfort of customers — they picked us up from Imerovigli when we rented our ATV and wouldn't let us leave the premises without going for a proper test drive — and also had some of the best rates on the island.
NOTE | To rent a scooter in Greece you'll need to show proof of a motorbike license
BY CAR
Car rental is our least favourite option for getting around Santorini and to Oia, especially in peak season.
Car rental is hideously expensive, and mostly single-lane roads just choke under the level of traffic on them.
Plenty of locals talked about 30-minute drives stretching into traffic-clogged 2+ hours through July and August, something we witnessed at the beginning of our visit (and in a vastly reduced pandemic season, no less!).
It’s also tough to find car parking, especially in Oia, so if you can avoid it, personally we'd say don't bother hiring a car.
TRAVEL INSURANCE | STAY SAFE IN GREECE
If you can't afford travel insurance, you really can't afford to travel. As the current global situation has taught many people, things can go wrong anywhere in the world - and insurance is often the only way of mitigating any issues with minimal expense or stress for you.
For all travellers | HeyMondo - COVID-19 coverage, comprehensive travel + medical insurance, an app with 24-hour medical support, and no out of pocket fees. *Get 5% off your policy by booking through our link here.
For digital nomads | SafetyWing - COVID-19 coverage, comprehensive travel & medical, and policies can be purchased while already abroad.
Car Insurance | Insurance4CarHire - a great annual car insurance policy
*In normal times, we recommend using World Nomads travel insurance, but unfortunately they're not currently covering COVID-19 related claims right now.
PLANNING A TRIP TO GREECE SOON?
Check out these essential guides, travel tips, and more to help you plan your trip:
SANTORINI ATTRACTIONS | Our curated Santorini Travel Guide, The best of Santorini, Where to stay in Santorini, A curated guide to Oia, Santorini, Exploring the stunning Ammoudi Bay, Our guide to hiking Skaros Rock, How and where to find the best Santorini sunsets
THE BEST OF NAXOS | Top things to do on Naxos, Where to stay on Naxos Island, Things to do in Chora Town, A guide to the pretty town of Halki, A guide to Plaka Beach, & Agios Prokopios
EXPLORE PAROS | The best things to do on Paros, A guide to Naoussa town, A guide to Lefkes, A short guide to Parikia Paros, Where to stay on Paros
MYKONOS DREAMING | What to see and do on Mykonos
GREECE SAILING | This is what it’s like to sail the Greek Saronic Islands with Medsailors
PHOTOGRAPHY | Love our photography? Wondering what gear we use to get all of our photos around the world? Click here to view our detailed photography gear guide, as well as our top travel photography tips!
RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL | Responsible travel is important. REALLY IMPORTANT. Learn our top responsible travel tips to help you, your family and your friends travel more consciously around the globe
ECO-FRIENDLY PACKING ESSENTIALS | Don’t leave home without our favourite eco-friendly travel essentials
PLAN YOUR GREEK SUMMER WITH OUR USEFUL GUIDES
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