Oia
Oia, Santorini, 847 02
Perched on the steep edge of a caldera, looking out over the glittering Mediterranean, Oia is famed for its dreamy sunsets. It’s also one of the most picturesque villages in Santorini, with its striking white buildings, blue-domed churches, and atmospheric cave houses that burrow into the volcanic rock. Two historic harbors nestle below the village, which is the end point of the popular Fira–Oia Hike.
The Basics
Oia is a popular inclusion on Santorini sightseeing tours, shore excursions, and boat tours, and most excursions time their visit to catch the sunset. Combine a tour of Oia with nearby attractions like the archaeological site of ancient Akrotiri or the Monastery of Profitis Ilias, a visit to traditional villages like Pyrgos or Fira, or a Santorini wine tasting. Alternatively, set sail around Thirassia island, enjoy snorkeling at Red Beach, or take a soak in the hot springs on Nea Kameni island. Then, sail past Oia on a sunset cruise.
Things to Know Before You Go
Free Wi-Fi is available at most hotels and restaurants in Oia.
The hilly streets of Oia can be challenging for wheelchair users; it’s best to organize accessible transport and accommodation in advance.
Summertime temperatures can soar in Oia so wear sunglasses and sunscreen, and bring along plenty of water.
How to Get There
Oia is located at the northwestern tip of Santorini island, about 6.5 miles (11 kilometers) north of Fira. Without your own transport, the easiest way to visit Oia is with a guided tour. However, it’s also possible to arrive by taxi or take the local bus from Fira. Hikers can also walk the coastal trail between Fira and Oia, a scenic 3- to 4-hour walk along the top of the caldera.
When to Get There
There’s no doubt that the most atmospheric time to visit Oia is at sunset and the small village can be suddenly overrun by crowds at dusk. To experience the quieter side of the village, plan to spend a night at one of Oia’s boutique hotels or visit during the winter months, when you’ll have the sunset to yourself.
A Walking Tour of Oia Village
Oia’s beautiful architecture and vast ocean views are best enjoyed on a walking tour, and the maze of narrow streets are full of shops, art galleries, and cafés. Stop to visit the tiny Naval Maritime Museum, admire the historic captains’ houses, and explore the ruins of Oia’s Venetian Fortress, then follow the 300 steps from the top of the caldera down to the fishing port of Ammoudi.
Ways to explore
Oia is a popular inclusion on Santorini sightseeing tours, shore excursions, and boat trips, and most guides will time your visit to catch the sunset. Combine a tour of Oia with nearby attractions like the archaeological site of ancient Akrotiri or the Monastery of Profitis Ilias, a visit to traditional villages like Pyrgos or Fira, or a Santorini wine tasting. Alternatively, set sail around Thirasia (Therasia) island, enjoy snorkeling at Red Beach, or take a soak in the Santorini Hot Springs by Nea Kameni island. Then, sail past Oia on a sunset cruise, perhaps aboard a catamaran.
Accessibility
Santorini is a tough destination for travelers who rely on wheelchairs, and Oia’s hilly streets, steps, and cobbles are no exception. It’s best to organize accessible transportation and accommodation in advance.
Age limits
None
What to pack
If you’re cruising to the hot springs en route to Oia, pack a dark-colored swimsuit: Minerals in the water can stain whites and pastels.
What to wear
Summertime temperatures can soar in Oia, so wear sunglasses and sunscreen, and bring along plenty of water.
Not allowed
If you’re planning a flying dress photo shoot, avoid standing on house roofs unless the owner has given your photographer permission—and never stand on the roof of a church.
Address
Oia is located at the northwestern tip of Santorini island, about a 9-mile (15-kilometer) drive northwest of Fira.
Driving
Driving during high season in Santorini is nightmarish, with very limited parking in Oia. Guided tours are easy, or you can book a taxi, hire a driver, or try and find one of the island’s few rideshares.
Public transportation
Cheap, reliable KTEL buses link Fira and Oia; Simply pick up a bus from your village to Fira. Hikers can also walk the coastal trail between Fira and Oia, a scenic 3- to 4-hour walk along the top of the caldera.
Best times to visit
There’s no doubt that the most atmospheric time to visit Oia is at sunset, and the small village can be suddenly overrun by crowds at dusk. To experience the quieter side of the village, plan to spend a night at one of Oia’s boutique hotels or visit during the winter months, when you’ll have the sunset to yourself.
Best days to visit
Oia is slightly busier on weekends than during midweek.
Best months to visit
Plan your visit for shoulder seasons (late April to early June and mid-September through October) to enjoy all Oia’s attractions with fewer crowds than during high season.
Special events
Greek Orthodox Easter is a major event across Santorini. To experience a more traditional side of Oia, attend the magical midnight mass on Holy Saturday at the Church of Panagia.
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