Oia is a traditional settlement and most famous of all villages of Santorini. The village, which is located 150 metres above sea level, is known throughout the world for its quiet life and fantastic sunsets. It is certainly the most beautiful and picturesque village of Santorini. In Oia you will find charming houses in narrow streets, blue domed churches, and sub-bathed verandas.
You’ll discover that the pure white buildings with colorful roofs are typical of Greek architecture, and the village is situated on top of an impressive cliff, which offers a spectacular view over the volcano of Palia and Nea Kameni and the island of Thirassia.
When you arrive in Oia, take advantage of poking around the town. It’s streets have plenty of tourist shops, taverns, cafes, and other typical shopping centers. It is a special place, with mystic charm, favored by people from all over the world who come here to take in the breathtaking views. It’s heavily touristic, and yet, an oasis of peace.
Where To Eat
Lunch
Lucky’s Souvlakis
Don’t miss out on a delicious gyro from Lucky’s. Don’t let the hole in the wall look discourage you; Lucky’s is loved and recommended by many tourists as well as locals for the best gyros and souvlakis you’ll find in Greece – maybe even your life! Make sure to come hungry!
Melitini
Bet you’ve never tried authentic greek food like this – straight out of Greece! Choose from many traditional Greek meals, such as saganaki, grilled octopus, fava beans with caramelized onions and feta stuffed chicken, or greek tapas with fried potatoes with eggs and spicy sausage. You won’t be disappointed.
Dinner
Santorini Sunset Wine Tour
Sip your way around Santorini as the sun begins to set on a 4-hour wine tour of the island. You’ll visit 2 traditional wineries, learn about Santorini’s unique viticulture, taste at least 9 wines, and enjoy a spectacular sunset at the last winery!
Paradox Thai Food & Bar
Looking for a nice change from pace from the large consumption of Greek food? Paradox Thai Food & Bar is a perfect place to switch things up! Here you can try a variety of fresh thai foods, including tom yum soup, satay curry, pad thai, or chow mein just to name a few. With quick service as well as take away, Paradox sounds like the perfect meal for a night in with family.
Lauda Restaurant
Reserve this romantic restaurant for more of a special occasion, as it sets the perfect mood to be with that special someone. Take a chance with the Chef’s Table Menu, which serves a nine-course meal. Each dish is elegantly presented and incredible tasting just to your liking. End the night with a nice glass of wine and sit back and watch the beautiful sunset with your view.
Take a Donkey Ride
Donkey rides are the favored transportation means for the locals, and they are becoming increasingly popular among tourists too. On the donkeys you will be taken through the traditional volcanic path to Oia Village, exploring the black and red volcanic hills overlooking the caldera (flooded volcanic crater).
Caldera Sailing Cruise
Experience Santorini’s beauty, hot springs and beaches on a 5-hour catamaran cruise. Select a daytime or sunset cruise, and sail around the island and caldera on a deluxe boat. Stop to bathe in the Nea Kameni springs, swim, snorkel or unwind at beaches, and enjoy unlimited Santorini wine and Greek beer, plus a Greek meal prepared on board.
Amoudi Bay
For beautiful views of the caldera, descend the 300 steps from the northern city of Oia to the charming port of Amoudi Bay, known for its fresh seafood, Greek taverns, and clean clear blue water. Don’t miss out on this is a hidden gem while visiting Oia; it’s a view that is one in a million.
Where To Stay
Santo Maris Oia Suites
With sumptuous suites overlooking the sea, Santo Maris Oia Suites is the ideal choice for honeymooners. A modern, stylish take on the traditional Cycladic style, with rooms maximising on comfort and luxury. Unwind in the extensive spa or in private hot tubs before tucking into magnificent Greek cuisine on the terrace at sunset.
Esperas
Carved directly into the cliff face, the Esperas Hotel is a great option for families with kids over the age of 12. Charming rooms have splashes of art, kitchenettes, private balconies, and spectacular views. Located ten minutes from the centre of town and about the same to the nearest beaches, this property is a perfect catch for those looking for a relaxing stay in Oia.
Canaves
Perched on a cliffside with splendid sea views, Canaves is an all white property boasting traditionally Cycladic accommodation. All their suites come with private pools, whilst there’s also a splendid restaurant, wine tasting sessions, and you can even arrange to charter out a private yacht for the day!
- Oia is famous for beautiful sunsets. Make sure to secure a great spot around the castle ahead of time, as it will be filled with tourists trying to get their perfect spot to see the sun setting down into the amazing sea of the Caldera.
- The perfect time to visit Santorini is late September or early October. The weather is still fine and not too hot, the sea waters will still be warm, and most of the tourists would be gone.
- The currency of Santorini is the Euro. You can find hundreds of ATMs all over the island where you can actually use your Visa, Maestro or American Express card.
- Several people report the volcano tours to be overpriced for what you see. A recommended alternative is ride a tiny fishing boat and still see fantastic views.
- The easiest form of public transport that you could use on the island is the bus. The company that operates the buses on the island is called KTEL Santorini and they have a website with plenty of up to date information.
