Its sunset, of course. Its magnificent, glorious, fascinating, most photographed sunset. This is the first thing anyone who knows anything about Oia will tell you. But there are so much more to do here, to see, to feel, to smell, to experience!
Literally hanging from the cliff, perched at the very edge of Santorini’s Caldera, the captivating Oia is located at the northwest part of the island. Rich in history and tradition, with its white-washed cave houses and captain houses and its picturesque alleyways, Oia has deservedly earned the title of the most cherished destination on Santorini. Thanks to its unique location, it offers you a rare gift: the breathtaking vista of the whole of the Caldera. Let your soul and your senses savor the blue vastness of the Aegean Sea; the villages Imerovigli, Firostefani, Fira, Pyrgos; Athinios port, Akrotiri and Pharos; the volcano – Palia and Nea Kammeni; the island of Thirassia and the beautiful little church, St Nicolas, built on a tiny island at Ammoudi. This vista is gloriously changing with every hour of the day, from the spectacular sunrise to the glorious sunset and beyond, into the velvet of the night, under the sparkling stars and the glimmering lights of the other villages on the top edge of the Caldera
So what are some of the things you don’t want to miss once you get there?
Stay in a cave house
The best way to get the true feeling of Oia is to stay in one of its cave houses, the most traditional building structures of Santorini, literally carved into the rock. Simple and unique, these old cave houses, now turned into comfortable and luxurious accommodations, will give you the quintessence of Oia.
Explore the village itself
First of all, let yourself relax and stroll in Oia’s many narrow, winding alleyways and staircases that make you feel like you are the first to discover the next alley, the next picturesque house. Spend time just to wander, and you will be rewarded with amazing images, sounds and feelings, awaiting you at every turn. Visit the various shops and small galleries and enjoy the atmospheric cafes, bars and restaurants. And from time to time, wherever you are, stop to breath in the fascinating vista of the Caldera opening below and to the end of the horizon.
Discover Ammoudi Bay
Traditional taverns by the water, painted in vivid colors, await you here, offering delicious local food. There is a small path leading to crystal waters for diving, with the Caldera and the houses of Oia hanging over you.
Visit the Naval Maritime Museum
A 19th century restored captain house hosts this museum, which houses one of the richest collections in Greece, providing valuable information on the fascinating evolution of Greek shipping as well as insight on Santorini’s naval history.
Enjoy the castle of Agios Nikolaos
The castle, dating back to the 15th century, is situated in a location with breathtaking view. The castle’s remains are fascinating to explore, witnessing a part of the island’s past. It is a very romantic place with great atmosphere, the ideal spot to experience Oia’s sunset – oh, the sunset!
Last but not least, immerse into the atmosphere of Oia and let it whisper its secrets to your ear. There is a lot more for you to discover here!
