10+ Best Things to do in Oia, Santorini

Last Updated on 11th May 2024 by Sophie Nadeau

Even if you’ve never heard of the name ‘Oia’ or ‘Apano Meria’ before, then I can guarantee that you’ll have at least seen a photo of this gorgeous Greek destination. A little village in the north of the Island of Santorini, Oia is characterised by its gorgeous views, world-famous sunsets, and pretty old town. Here’s your guide to the very best things to do in Oia!

Where is Oia?

The town of Oia can be found on the northwestern tip of Santorini, about 22km north of Santorini Port in Athinios. The easiest way to get to Oia is probably by taxi, but you can opt for a bus if you prefer! Alternatively, you can rent a car to explore Santorini (though the traffic is pretty horrible and the prices are expensive so I would avoid this if possible). Check here for car rental comparison prices.

What is the best time to visit Oia?

The best time to check out Oia is early in the morning! The earlier the better if you want to avoid crowds. There are lots of people visiting specifically to see this picturesque postcard town so arriving before, say 9am, allows you to have the cobbled paved streets and viewpoints all to yourself.

That being said, you will want to see Oia’s majestic sunset which is an absolute must when visiting!

Generally the best time to visit Santorini is during the months of April to May and September to October. Although the Mediterranean climate won’t be at its peak heat, you will be able to enjoy the island without the hustle and bustle of people.

The summer has the best weather but is also the the most expensive and busiest time to visit, meaning that you’ll want to book popular activities well in advance.

Getting around Oia

Like many Greek towns (and indeed historic towns scattered across the Mediterranean), the old centre of Santorini is pedestrianised and no cars are allowed within the meandering pathways and smattering of cobbled lanes.

As a result, one of the only ways to explore is on foot and so be sure to wear comfortable shoes to get the most out of your visit. If it’s your first time in Santorini, check out our suggestions for the best things to do in Santorini and how to spend the perfect 3 days in Santorini.

Best things to do in Oia

Enjoy the sunset in Oia

Of all the free things to do in Oia, one of the most breathtaking is simply to watch and wait in the town for sunset. There’s a reason that this town has featured on many a postcard of Greece. Imagine the sky turning all shades of candy, as the sun dips below the horizon, and the Mediterranean Sea glitters.

Some of the best places to enjoy the sunset in Oia include on the road alongside the Blue Domes of Santorini, as well as just below the ruins of the Venetian Castle of Agios Nikolaos.

Admire the blue domes of Santorini

Of course, you can’t visit the island of Santorini and miss the blue domes of Oia! Picture perfect and well worth snapping a photo of on any trip to the island, these three churches are held dear by the locals and serve as a symbol of the island’s charm and rich cultural heritage.

Shop in the Atlantis Bookshop

Located in the very heart of the old town, you’ll stumble across a dream that soon became reality, the treasured Atlantis Bookshop.

In 2002, what started out as just a wild wine-fuelled idea by two college students vacationing on the island, this enchanting little shop has become everything you could hope for and more!

Scrawled on the walls are famous quotes from literature, and visitors can browse the wonders that overflow the shelves. Books of all languages, both second hand or new, you can find fiction, non-fiction, selections of poetry, philosophy, art and all things Greek.

In recent years Atlantis Books have started selling rare antiquarian books and first editions, as well as printing their own books in the back and hosting bookbinding classes and film screenings!

Admire the captain’s houses of the old town

Once upon a time, the wealthiest residents of the villages, (who were the ship captains) built large decorated houses, boasting direct views of the Aegean sea and the world-famous Santorini caldera.

Dotted around Oia you will see architecture similar to that of neoclassical mansions, these beautiful two-storey buildings are surrounded by grand walls and usually have gardens blossoming with flowers.

Located in the heart of Oia you can find the 1864 The Sea Capitains House, a traditional mansion fully restored to welcome guests so they can experience the height of Oian luxury on their stay.

Eat at the Red Bicycle Restaurant

Before I get into this, I want to make clear that you come to Oia for the views, and the restaurants in town are no different/ Hands down, the best place to eat in Oia has to be the Red Bicycle. Located at the tip of the village this restaurant is housed in a 19th century Santorini mansion, with views to die for!

Taste delicious traditional Mediterranean cuisine with a creative twist, this restaurant uses the freshest local produce of Santorini to give its diners the highest quality of dishes.

This rooftop eatery also has some of the best authentic Greek dishes, including homemade dolmades, fava beans and of course Greek salad! You definitely pay a premium for the view, but the experience is one you’ll definitely remember for years to come.

Shop at the little boutiques across Oia

One of the best places to go shopping is the iconic Nikolaou Nomikou Street, lined with boutique shops, bars and cafes this is the main street of Oia and runs along the whole town, offering beautiful views as you shop.

For the more curious shoppers, nestled in the Platsani Church lies a hidden treasure of eclectic things, Epilekton. Here, you can find an array of antiques and unique objects, as well as original artworks by both local and international artists!

Explore old town Oia

Truth be told, one of the very best things to do in Oia is to simply wander around, allowing your feet to take you where they will. There are plenty of churches to visit, the most famous being Church of Panagia Platsani (as mentioned above, it even has a hidden treasure to shop at!).

Relax into the vibe of Oia and walk the historic cobblestone streets as you tuck into a gelato, there’s so much beauty to admire just from looking and letting yourself get lost in the town.

Seek out the windmills of Oia

Of course, one of the most famous landmarks of the town is, the windmill of Oia, adding charm to its surrounding area this picture perfect windmill is iconic!

The Cycladic islands are known to be windy, so windmills were used to harness this energy, for example grinding flour. Santorini is home to about 70 historic windmills, some of which have been built as early as the 14th century!

Want to know more about the fascinating history of windmills in Santorini and how to visit? Check out our guide to the Santorini windmills.

Church of Panagia Platsani

One of the most impressive churches on the entirety of Santorini can be found in the form of Panagia Plastani, which boasts no fewer than five domes and a bell tower in the form of a pyramid. The original church was actually located within the walls of the Venetian castle, but was moved following an earthquake in the 1950s.

Embark on a sunset Catamaran Cruise

One of the best ways to experience the sunset in Santorini is by enjoying it from the water, watching the sun melt into the sparkling sea, how romantic!

Sunset Oia is a boating agency that offer shared or private excursions on the water for visitors to experience the true beauty of Santorini’s famous sunset, where you can take in the view of the whole island from a distance. Book a sunset with dinner cruise here in advance.

Explore the Agios Nikolaos Castle

One of the very best views in Oia, (as mentioned earlier particularly at sunset!) is by the ruins of the venetian castle, the Castle Agios Nikolaos.

Dating back to the 15th century, the castle was built to protect the town from pirate raids, but was partly destroyed in an earthquake in 1956, so only the watchtower remains of the once grand fortification. 

Standing tall at a peak of Oia, the castle acts as the perfect observation point, and boasts of breathtaking views at all times, but especially sunset!

Hike between Oia and Fira

The capital city of Santorini, Fira is only 11km distance away (which may sound like a lot) but the path from Oia is an easy one to follow and one of the most beautiful walks of the island, suitable for even the most beginners of hiking.

Taking in the natural beauty and stunning views, you’ll also pass through Firostefani and Imerovigli, so you can grab a bite to eat and explore these quaint little villages along the way!

Where to stay in Oia

If you’re travelling on a budget, then frankly I would avoid Santorini altogether (or at least head to some of the less touristy parts of the Greek island). Anywhere you stay in Oia will be pricey, and this is especially so for those places which have a particularly good view or an amenity like a hot tub. Nevertheless, here are some of the best places to stay in Oia (based on location and web-reviews):

Pearl of Caldera Oia – Boutique Hotel: This luxe hotel boasts highlights such as an outdoor swimming pool, a terrace, and a bar. Bicycle rental is also available onsite. Check prices and availability here.

The Museum Project Oia: Located in the Oia Caldera district (close to the blue domed church), this hotel has an outdoor swimming pool, free WiFi throughout the property and a garden. Check prices and availability here.

Katikies Santorini – The Leading Hotels Of The World: For an unforgettable stay during your time in Santorini, you’ll want to book yourself into this five-star hotel which boasts amenities such as an outdoor pool, a spa and wellness centre, and three restaurants. Breakfast is also included. Check prices and availability here.

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Charlotte is a photographer, cat lover and an avid knitter. When she’s not curled up on the sofa with her newest knitting project (and Rico her cat!) you can find her out and about on long walks. Currently living in the magical city of Edinburgh, she looks forward to travelling and seeing more of the world!