15 Best Things to Do in Oia, Santorini
Oia is the place most people picture when they think of Santorini, with its blue-domed churches, whitewashed houses, and incredible caldera views. It’s also one of the busiest places on the island, so knowing what to see and when to visit makes a big difference.
Although Oia is relatively small, there’s much more to do here than watch the sunset. You can explore hidden viewpoints, walk down to Ammoudi Bay, browse independent shops, visit historic landmarks, and stop at some excellent cafes and restaurants.
This guide covers the best things to do in Oia, along with practical tips to help you avoid the biggest crowds and make the most of your visit.
Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link.
Quick Travel Planning Tips for Santorini
🏨 Where to Stay: Choose Oia for the iconic views, Imerovigli for a quieter stay, or Fira if you want to be close to restaurants, nightlife, and the island’s main bus connections. Some of my favorites hotels are The Saint Hotel and Kasimatis by La Perla for a luxury experience, or City Break for a budget-friendly stay.
🌟 Best Tours: Book a sunset catamaran cruise, join an exclusive wine tasting tour, or arrange a flying dress photoshoot.
⛴️ How to Get to Santorini: You can fly directly to Santorini or take a ferry from Athens or nearby islands such as Mykonos, Paros, Naxos, and Crete. Use Ferryscanner to compare routes, check schedules, and book your ferry tickets.
✈️ Airport & Port Transfers: Pre-book your transfer from Santorini Airport or the Ferry Port, especially during the busy summer months. It’s the easiest way to avoid waiting for a taxi or dealing with crowded buses when you arrive.
🚗 Getting Around: Renting a car gives you the most freedom, but you can manage without one if you stay in Fira and use buses or organized tours.
📱 Stay Connected: Use an eSIM from Airalo to stay online for maps, transport, and bookings without swapping SIM cards.
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Best Things to Do in Oia, Santorini
1. Watch the sunset from Oia Castle
Oia Castle is one of the most popular sunset spots in Santorini. Built in the 15th century, it was once used as a lookout point to protect the village from pirates and other attackers.
Most of the castle was destroyed during the 1956 earthquake, but the remaining ruins offer beautiful views over the Aegean Sea, the caldera, and Oia’s windmills. Watching the sunset from here is certainly one of the best things to do in Oia!
The castle becomes extremely crowded before sunset, so arrive early if you want to find a good spot. Watching the sky change color behind the whitewashed buildings is worth experiencing, but don’t expect a quiet evening.
For a similar view with fewer people, head to the lower ruins beside the path leading down to Ammoudi Bay instead of staying at the main viewpoint. You can find detailed directions in my guide to the best sunset spots in Santorini.
2. Take a cruise to the volcanic islands
A volcanic islands cruise is a great way to see a different side of Santorini and learn more about the landscape that shaped the island.
The tour first takes you to Nea Kameni, where you can hike across the volcanic terrain to the crater. You’ll then continue to Palea Kameni for a swim in the warm, sulfur-rich water before visiting the island of Thirassia and its main village, Manolas.
This is one of the more affordable boat trips available from Oia, although lunch and drinks are not included, so bring your own water and snacks. Hotel pickup is included, making it an easy day trip even if you don’t have a rental car.
3. Take photos of Oia’s iconic blue domes
Oia is home to some of the most recognizable blue-domed churches in Santorini. The two you’ll see in many photographs are the Church of Anastasi and the Church of Agios Spyridon, which sit close to each other overlooking the caldera.
They are undoubtedly one of the best Instagram spots in Santorini but whatever you do, please do not climb onto the roofs as it’s strictly forbidden.
Although you may have seen endless photographs on Instagram of this, the churches are actually located on private property and the only way to legally access them is to book a hotel in this area. Luxus VIP Suites, Cave Suite Oia, and Oia Spirit Boutique Residences are all great options!
That being said, after you enter the gate with the private property sign you only need to take 3 steps to get your photo, and honestly, nobody seems to mind. In fact, people usually line up to take their photos during the day!
We talked with a few locals and they all said that as long as you stick to the pathway, keep your voice to a minimum, and not climb on the churches, it’s fine. But if you want to be on the safe side, book one of the above hotels. It will be an unforgettable experience to wake up to these views for sure!
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4. Visit the windmills of Oia
Oia’s historic windmills are located at the western end of the village, close to the castle. They were once used to grind grain, although today most have been converted into hotels, restaurants, or private properties.
The largest and most photographed windmill now belongs to Charisma Suites and is well worth adding to your Santorini itinerary. You can admire it from the surrounding pathways or even stay inside by booking the hotel’s Windmill Suite well in advance.
This part of Oia also offers beautiful views over the Aegean Sea and becomes especially popular around sunset. You’ll find another smaller windmill nearby, which is usually quieter and easier to photograph.
5. Spend an afternoon on a catamaran cruise
Taking a catamaran cruise is one of the best things to do in Oia if you want to see more of Santorini’s coastline. This five-hour tour visits places that are difficult or impossible to reach by land while giving you plenty of time to swim and relax on board.
The route includes Red Beach, White Beach, and the volcanic hot springs, with stops for swimming and snorkeling in the Aegean Sea. Snorkeling equipment is provided, so you don’t need to bring your own.
A barbecue meal with grilled meat, vegetarian options, and salads is also included, along with unlimited wine and soft drinks. Choose the afternoon departure if you want to finish the cruise watching the sunset from the water.
6. Visit Ammoudi Bay
Ammoudi Bay sits directly below Oia, surrounded by red volcanic cliffs and clear blue water. The small harbor is lined with seafood tavernas, while fishing boats and catamarans come and go throughout the day.
The staircase begins near Oia Castle and has around 270 steps. Walking down is fairly easy, but the climb back up can be tiring, especially in the heat. Please avoid using the donkeys that carry visitors along this route. If you don’t want to tackle the stairs, you can reach the harbor by taxi or car instead.
There isn’t a traditional beach at Ammoudi Bay, but you can follow the path past the restaurants to reach a rocky swimming spot. You can also stop for seafood beside the water, join a boat tour, or stay until sunset.
7. Visit the Church of Panagia Platsani
Located in Oia’s main square, the Church of Panagia Platsani is easy to spot thanks to its blue dome, whitewashed facade, and six-bell tower. It’s one of the most recognizable attractions in Oia and worth seeing both inside and out.
The church is also known as the Church of Panagia Akathistos Hymn. It was originally located inside Oia Castle but was rebuilt in the center of the village after the 1956 earthquake.
Inside, you’ll find painted ceilings, religious icons, and an intricately carved iconostasis. The church’s most important treasure is an icon of the Virgin Mary, which, according to local legend, was discovered at sea. Remember to dress respectfully and avoid visiting during a service unless you plan to attend.
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8. Relax at Katharos Beach
Katharos Beach is the closest beach to Oia, located around a 20-minute walk or a short drive from the village. Its dark volcanic shore and towering white cliffs make it very different from the beaches you’ll find elsewhere in Greece.
The beach is usually much quieter than Oia, making it a good place to swim and relax for a few hours. However, the shore is rocky rather than sandy, so water shoes can be useful.
There are no sunbeds or facilities directly on the beach, so bring water and anything else you need. You’ll find a restaurant near the path leading down, but the final walk to the beach is steep and uneven, so wear suitable shoes.
9. Join a wine-tasting tour
Joining a wine tour is one of the best things to do in Oia if you want to experience more of Santorini beyond its caldera villages. The island has a winemaking history stretching back thousands of years, with vines grown in distinctive basket-shaped formations to protect them from the wind.
I recommend this small-group Santorini wine tour, which visits three wineries over approximately four hours. You’ll taste at least 12 local wines, including Assyrtiko and Vinsanto, accompanied by cheese, tapas, and other small bites.
Both daytime and sunset departures are available. If you choose the sunset option, the final tasting takes place at Santo Wines overlooking the caldera. The wineries included can vary, but hotel pickup and drop-off are provided, making the tour easy to join from Oia.
10. See Agios Georgios Church
Agios Georgios Church sits at the eastern end of Oia and is easy to recognize by its pale yellow facade, blue dome, and large courtyard. Its unusual color makes it stand out from the whitewashed churches found throughout the village.
The original church was built in the early 19th century but was almost completely destroyed during the 1956 earthquake. It was later rebuilt and remains one of the most distinctive Oia attractions.
The church is also known as Perivolas, after the neighborhood where it stands, and Apanomeritis, a reference to Oia’s former name, Apano Meria. It once housed a holy icon of Saint George that was brought to Santorini from Constantinople. If the church is open, step inside to see its decorated interior and religious artwork.
11. Explore Oia’s winding streets and shops
Set aside some time to explore Oia without heading directly from one landmark to the next. The main pedestrian street is lined with boutiques, galleries, cafes, and souvenir shops, while the smaller side streets reveal beautiful Cycladic buildings and unexpected caldera viewpoints.
For a more distinctive souvenir, stop at Mnemossyne Gallery near Oia Castle. The shop specializes in handmade minimalist jewelry, along with artwork and photography prints inspired by Santorini.
Oia’s streets become extremely busy during the day, so early morning is the best time to wander around at a slower pace. Keep an eye out for private property signs, as many of the prettiest-looking pathways lead to hotels or private homes.
12. Hike from Oia to Fira
The hike from Oia to Fira is one of the best things to do in Oia if you want to experience more of Santorini’s caldera on foot. The trail covers approximately 10 km and passes through Imerovigli and Firostefani before reaching Fira.
Most of the route follows the edge of the caldera, with views of the Aegean Sea, volcanic islands, and whitewashed villages along the way. You can also take a detour to Skaros Rock in Imerovigli, although this will add extra time and plenty of steps.
Allow around three to four hours for the hike, depending on your pace and how often you stop. The route includes paved paths, steep sections, and loose volcanic gravel, so wear proper shoes and bring plenty of water.
There is very little shade, so it’s best to start early in the morning, especially during the warmer months. Once you reach Fira, you can explore the town before taking the public bus back to Oia.
13. Visit the Maritime Museum
The Maritime Museum is housed inside a restored 19th-century mansion and explores Santorini’s long connection with seafaring and trade. It was founded in 1956, when Oia was still closely associated with the island’s prosperous shipping industry.
The collection includes historic maritime equipment, sailors’ chests, model ships, nautical charts, and rare photographs. There is also a small library containing documents and books related to the island’s naval history.
Visiting the museum is one of the more overlooked things to do in Oia, but it provides useful context about the village beyond its churches and caldera views. It’s also a good indoor activity when you need a break from the midday heat.
14. Try traditional Greek food
Oia has plenty of excellent restaurants, whether you’re looking for fresh seafood, traditional Greek dishes, or a quick gyro between sightseeing stops.
For a sit-down meal, try Armeni Restaurant, Laokasti Restaurant, or Roka Kafeneio Ouzeri. Armeni Restaurant sits beside the water at Armeni Bay and specializes in seafood, while Roka is tucked away from the main pedestrian street in a quiet courtyard. Reservations are recommended, especially during the summer.
For something quicker and more affordable, PitoGyros Grill House serves some of the best gyros in Oia. It’s extremely popular, so you may need to wait for a table during busy periods.
Melenio Cafe and Blue Domes Restaurant Oia are both lovely options for coffee with a view. For dessert, stop at Lolita’s Gelato, where you’ll find flavors such as banana, hazelnut, and stracciatella.
Baklava at Melenio Cafe 
Gyros plate at Pitogyros
15. Spend an afternoon at Lioyerma Pool Bar
Lioyerma Pool Bar is a great option if your hotel doesn’t have a pool or you simply want a break from sightseeing. Located at the western end of Oia above Ammoudi Bay, it has one of the largest swimming pools in the village and is open to outside visitors.
You can swim, relax on a sun lounger, and order cocktails, local wine, coffee, or snacks while enjoying the sea views. Access conditions can change, so it’s worth checking whether reservations or a minimum spend are required before visiting.
Lioyerma is also one of the best places to visit in Oia for sunset, with views toward the western horizon and a much more relaxed setting than Oia Castle. Arrive well before sunset if you want to secure a good spot.
Useful Info for Visiting Oia
Where to stay in Oia
Oia is one of the most popular places to stay in Santorini, especially if you want to wake up to the island’s iconic blue domes and caldera views. Staying here also allows you to explore the village early in the morning and later in the evening, when many day visitors have left.
However, Oia is also one of the busiest and most expensive parts of Santorini. Its narrow streets and numerous steps can make it less practical if you plan to explore the entire island or have limited mobility.
For a quieter stay with luxury hotels and caldera views, consider Imerovigli. Pyrgos and Megalochori offer a more relaxed village atmosphere, while Fira is the most convenient base if you plan to use public transport. The island’s main bus connections depart from Fira, and accommodation is generally more affordable than in Oia.
You can find a complete comparison of each area in my guide to where to stay in Santorini. If you decide that Oia is the right base for you, these are my top hotel recommendations for different budgets.
- Luxury: Santorini Secret Suites & Spa or The Saint Hotel
- Mid-Range: Kaleidoscope Cave Houses
- Budget: Stelios Rooms
The Saint Hotel 
Santorini Secret Suites & Spa
How to get to Oia
Once you arrive in Santorini by plane or ferry, you have several ways to reach Oia.
- Bus: Public buses are the most affordable option, but there are no direct services from Santorini Airport or the ferry port to Oia. You’ll first need to travel to Fira and change to a separate bus for Oia. Services run regularly during the main travel season, but buses can become crowded. Check the current timetable before your trip.
- Rental car: Renting a car gives you the most flexibility, especially if you plan to explore more of Santorini. Oia has several parking areas around the edge of the village, but they fill quickly during the summer. Arrive early if you’re visiting for the day. I recommend using Discover Cars to compare rental companies and availability.
- Private transfer: If you’re staying in Oia and don’t plan to rent a car, pre-booking a transfer is the easiest option. Your driver will meet you at the airport or ferry port and take you directly to your accommodation, saving you from changing buses in Fira.
- Taxi/Uber: Taxis are available from the airport, ferry port, and Fira, but there are limited vehicles on the island. Waiting times can be long during busy periods, so arranging a transfer in advance is usually more reliable.
How to get around Oia
This is the easiest part as once you get to Oia, you can walk pretty much everywhere. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and leave your heels at home as the walkways can be a bit slippery from time to time.
Also, Oia is kind of like a maze and most streets are only visible on the Satellite mode on Google Maps so make sure to turn this on for a better navigation experience. That being said, getting lost on the streets is actually one of the best things to do in Oia so if it happens (or rather, when it happens), just go with the flow!
The only place where taking a taxi might be a good option is Ammoudi Bay. There is a very long staircase with around 270 steps leading down to Ammoudi Bay so if you have mobility issues, it might be a better option to get in a taxi instead.
Word of warning: you’ll come across many donkeys on the stairs and locals offering donkey rides down to Ammoudi Bay but please do not use them! In this case, it’s better and more ethical to opt for the taxi.
Best time to visit Oia
As with the whole of Santorini, Oia is the busiest during the summer season so if you can schedule your trip for the shoulder months, you’ll be in for a much more relaxing experience. Late April, May, late September, and early October are arguably the best time to visit Oia.
If you want to see the flowering bougainvilleas in the town, June to September is your best bet whereas if you’re after swimming, the sea is the warmest in August and September.
