17 Things to Do in Oia, Santorini’s Most Beautiful Town!
Tucked on the northern tip of Santorini, Oia is a tiny, pedestrian-only town with some of the most iconic views in all of Greece.
But don’t let the size fool you, Oia is packed with charm and more things to do than you’d expect! After spending 3 days on Santorini with my best friend, we fell in love with Oia! We actually decided to stay in Oia to explore it as much as possible.
So what is there actually to do in Oia besides take in the incredible views of the sea and pretend you’re in Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants?
Below, I’ve put together a list of all the incredible things Oia has to offer, including shops, photo ops, cooking classes, and some hidden gems, plus tips to avoid the crowds! (And yes, there will be crowds).
Keep reading to discover why this postcard village should be on your Greek Islands bucket list!
Santorini Mini Planning Guide
Don’t have a lot of time? Here’s a quick mini guide to the island of Santorini to help plan your epic adventure!
🗺️ Where to Stay:
– Oia for views
– Fira for nightlife
– Imerovigli for romance
Read my full Where to Stay Guide!
📅When to Visit:
– I recommend shoulder season (early May or late September)
– Summer (June – August) is peak
– Winter is off-season and not recommended
🛵 Getting around: Rent an ATV, bus can be slow, taxis are expensive
🌊 Things to Do:
– Explore the unique beaches!
– Hike from Fira to Oia
– Book a sunset catamaran cruise
Quick Overview of Oia
As mentioned, Oia sits at the northern tip of Santorini (see map below) and is hands-down the most photographed town on the island.
Its whitewashed buildings, blue-domed churches, and narrow walkways perched along the edge of the caldera have made it one of the most iconic spots in all of Greece.
And yes, that popularity has led to crowds, and a lot of them. I still think Oia is worth visiting despite the crowds, but more on that later!
Below is a map of Oia to help you get better acquainted with the town and the spots on this list of things to do!
Oia is very small, and you can walk from one side to the other in less than 30 minutes.
In fact, it’s a pedestrian-only village! You can drive up to the outskirts of Oia, but once you are in the heart, the only way to get around is to walk.
The winding pathways were made of large, smooth stones. However, Oia sits on the edge of a cliff, so there are stairs everywhere if you want to explore beyond the main pathway (named Nik. Nomikou).
To see what I mean, zoom into the map above. Everything south of Nik. Nomikou in the tan area is accessed via stairs down!
Should You Stay in Oia?
It’s no surprise that Oia is the most expensive part of the island. And yet, we still decided to stay there…
But I don’t regret it one bit.
A lot of people only visit Oia for a few hours to catch the sunset, or see it during the middle of the day in the peak of cruise crowds.
But staying in Oia means you get to enjoy the quiet early mornings and late nights after everyone has left for the day. Those moments are what made me really appreciate Oia (not elbowing my way through crowds after sunset).
There are plenty of great places to stay on the island of Santorini, but in my opinion, the views in Oia are some of the best on the island.
And depending on how many days you have in Santorini, you could also choose to split your time between Oia and another part of the island.
We personally chose to stay at Kaleidoscope Cave Houses, which was the perfect balance between affordability and luxury.
We were central enough to most restaurants and photo spots but still far enough away from the crowds around the castle. And, we had a private hot tub on our balcony overlooking the sea, as well as an adorable terrace where breakfast was served every morning.
Staying in a hotel where you can escape the crowds and still enjoy the dreamy views is one of my top tips for visiting Oia!
Just keep in mind that most hotels will require some stairs, and you’ll want to double-check how far your room is from the main pathway if you’re bringing large luggage. (Luckily, our amazing hotel owner carried both of our giant checked bags for us!!!).
17 Things to Do in Oia, Santorini for First-Time Visitors
#1. Wander the Streets
One of the best ways to start your time in Oia is by simply walking through the village!
This is my personal favorite way to start any trip, by exploring the neighborhood around your hotel. Luckily for you, Oia is quite small, so this won’t take long!
As you walk, you’ll quickly get a sense of how the village is laid out and where the main landmark spots are. You’ll start to notice where the prettiest viewpoints are, which shops you want to come back to, and which cafes or restaurants you might want to try later in your trip.
It’s also a good way to spot photo locations you can come back to at sunrise when the lighting is better (and the crowds are smaller). I cover this more in the next section!
On our first day in Oia, we wandered around aimlessly for a few hours and just took in the views. This was our first time in Santorini (and in Greece in general), so we were completely awestruck by Oia! It’s easy to see why they print postcards of this place.
Note: I highly recommend packing comfortable shoes when you’re exploring Oia! The stones can get a little slick, so something with a good grip on the bottom is definitely preferred. While most people opt for sneakers, I love my waterproof Reef sandals! Read more in my full guide on What to Pack for the Greek Islands!
#2. Take Photos at Sunrise (not Sunset!)
Oia is known around the world for its sunsets, but what most people don’t realize is that sunrise can actually be the better time for photos. The lighting is soft and golden, but more importantly, you won’t be elbowing your way through a crowd just to get a clean shot.
When we were there, we made the call to skip the sunset crowds one evening and instead wake up early the next day to take our photos at sunrise.
It was still a little busy, but nothing compared to the mob of people that show up at sunset. We were able to move around freely, take our time, and actually enjoy the process instead of feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
Empty photo spot at sunrise! A line of people waiting at a photo spot before sunset
You’ll find the most iconic photo spots near the blue-domed churches and the castle ruins, but some of the best ones are tucked away from the crowds and have to be found on your own!
It’s important to know that there will be lines of people at the most popular photo spots. Be prepared to wait your turn if you want “the shot”! Arriving early in the morning will help you avoid this.
Overall, if photos are important to you, sunrise is 100% worth setting your alarm for. Walking around early also gives you a chance to take in the quiet side of Oia, before the cruise ships and day tours show up.
#3. Swim and Cliff Jump in Ammoudi Bay
One of our favorite experiences in Oia (and honestly our entire Greece trip) was swimming in Ammoudi Bay, a small fishing port tucked at the bottom of the cliffs. It’s a bit of a hike down (and back up), but 100% worth it.
To get there, you’ll walk down a long set of steep steps that start near the castle ruins. Some people opt to ride donkeys down, but I don’t personally recommend it.
It’s a steep but short walk down (maybe 10 to 15 minutes), but keep in mind that the climb back up is intense, especially in the heat. If you don’t want to walk back up, taxis are available, but they’re a bit expensive.
Once you’re down at the port, you’ll see a few restaurants and fishing boats (more on that later). To reach the swimming spot, turn left and walk through Ammoudi Sunset Tavern until you reach the rocky pathway along the water.
Note: The path is uneven and a little rugged in some spots, so make sure you have good footwear. I wore my Reef sandals and was fine!
After about 5 minutes, you’ll reach a flatter platform that leads to a calm swimming area tucked along the coastline. Across the channel from this area, there is a large rock outcrop (called St. Nicholas Island) that you can climb up and jump off of!
Not going to lie, it was pretty scary once I got up there, but I was so glad I did it! You also have epic views of Oia from the island.
If you don’t want to partake in cliff jumping, you can just swim in the sea and enjoy the beautiful waters of the Aegean. We visited in late afternoon (about 3 hours before sunset), and it was perfect!
#4. Sunset Dinner in Ammoudi Bay
Another incredible thing to do in Oia is have a sunset dinner (this also helps you avoid the crowds watching the sunset!).
While there are plenty of places to do this along the cliff’s edge in Oia, I actually recommend heading down to Ammoudi Bay one night as well.
After we were done swimming in the sea at St. Nicholas Island, we headed back along the path to the port of Ammoudi, where we had a dinner reservation at the wonderful Sunset Ammoudi.
Note: If you are visiting in the summer months, I highly recommend making a reservation here when you arrive in Oia, especially if you want a table right on the water! Do this on your first night in case they are booked up a few nights in advance.
We had an incredible dinner at Sunset Ammoudi right on the water’s edge, complete with fresh grilled octopus (a staple), calamari, and traditional Greek wine! Watching the sun sink into the sea from here was absolutely unreal.
Even better, we made the climb back up to Oia after the sun had set, so it wasn’t as hot. Plus, the view of Oia right after sunset with the twinkling lights along the caldera is simply magical.
The entrance to Sunset Ammoudi tavern Ammoudi Bay just after sunset, taken from the back path up to Oia
#5. Watch the Sunset from the Castle Ruins
If you want to catch a sunset in Oia from land (while not eating dinner), chances are you’ll end up at the castle ruins—it’s the most famous viewing spot on the island.
From here, you’ll get an unobstructed view of the sun dipping into the sea, with the white buildings and windmills lighting up in golden hour glow.
But fair warning: it gets packed here. Like shoulder-to-shoulder, standing-room-only packed. If you want a front-row spot, you’ll need to get there well in advance—sometimes over an hour early during peak season.
It’s still a great experience, especially if it’s your first time in Santorini, but don’t feel like you have to fight the crowds every night.
Personally, we did it once for the experience and then opted for other, less chaotic spots the rest of our trip, like watching from our hotel jacuzzi or grabbing a dinner reservation at one of the cliffside restaurants.
If you do decide to go, you can also wander around to less-packed destinations near the castle ruins for similar views without the crowds!
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#6. Take a Sunset Cruise
Okay, last sunset item – I swear! Another great way to enjoy the famous Santorini sunsets without the crowds is by taking a sunset cruise.
You’ll get incredible views of the island from the water, plus a more relaxing atmosphere compared to the packed castle ruins!
Personally, I would book this Santorini Gold Sunset Cruise that leaves at 3:00 pm! It includes pick-up and drop-off from your hotel, unlimited drinks, plus dinner!
After boarding the boat, you’ll get to visit the famous Red Beach for swimming and snorkeling (gear is included) and then sail around the Santorini coastline.
Come sunset, you’ll be spoiled with a full buffet dinner and unlimited white wine!
We unfortunately didn’t have time for a sunset cruise on our trip, and I really regret it!
So, it’s at the top of my list for next time. Watching the sunset from the water while sipping wine sounds like the ideal way to end a day in Santorini.
#7. Drink a Freddo Cappuccino
If you’re a coffee lover, you have to try a Freddo cappuccino while in Greece! It’s basically an iced espresso topped with a thick layer of creamy frothed milk, sooo good.
You’ll find it everywhere in Greece, and Oia is no exception. We got one almost every morning with breakfast before starting our day exploring.
It’s also the perfect pick-me-up when you’re walking around in the heat or need a little caffeine before dinner. You’ll find it on nearly every café menu, but we especially loved grabbing one from Melenio Pastry, which also has epic views!
#8. Try Baklava at Melenio (Or Anywhere!)
Speaking of Melenio, we also returned here to try their incredible desserts!! You will probably notice this cafe as you walk through Oia. They (smartly) have a window where you can see down into the bakery from the street.
It 100% worked on us, we immediately went in and grabbed a few desserts. The highlight, of course, was the baklava – super flaky and not overly sweet. They also have a rotating selection of cakes and other Greek pastries!
We got ours to-go, but as mentioned above, they have an incredible view of the caldera and ocean where you can enjoy your sweet treats and coffee!
#9. Relax in a Hot Tub or Infinity Pool with a Caldera View
One of the best parts about staying in Oia is the chance to unwind in a hot tub or infinity pool overlooking the sea.
Many hotels offer private jacuzzis or plunge pools in your room, while others will have a shared infinity pool for all hotel guests. And some have both!
Having this option is one of the best ways to enjoy the scenery without having to deal with the crowds! Our room at Kaleidoscope Cave Houses had a private jacuzzi on the balcony, and it ended up being one of our favorite parts of the trip.
Although it was a little hot during the daytime, lounging in the evening with a glass of wine while looking out at the ocean and whitewashed buildings was such a dream!!!
Dreamy infinity pool at Maregio Suites 
Private hot tub cave room at Maregio Suites
If I were to return, I’d definitely try to book a room with a plunge pool or infinity pool instead, just because you’d get more use out of it during the day! I am eyeing the rooms at Maregio Suites for our next trip!
Just make sure to book early! Caldera-view rooms sell out fast, especially in peak season.
If you’re trying to decide whether it’s worth the extra money, my vote is yes. It’s not something you get to experience every day, and it really makes your time in Santorini feel extra special!
P.S. You can read more about the different hotel options in my guide on Where to Stay in Santorini!
#10. Shop for Unique Souvenirs
Oia might be small, but there are tons of shops on every corner to check out. You’ll find everything from handmade jewelry and ceramics to locally made beauty products, olive oils, and textiles.
There are also plenty of art galleries and boutique clothing stores if you’re looking for something more unique than a fridge magnet.
One of the best parts about shopping in Oia is that most of the shops are independently owned, so you’re supporting local artisans instead of picking up mass-produced souvenirs.
It’s also a nice way to break up your day if you’re not in the mood for sightseeing or hiking.
Even if you’re not looking to buy much, it’s fun to pop into a few shops while you’re walking through the village.
I personally bought one of the adorable mini church figurines – complete with a windmill and blue-domed roof!
#11. Eat the Best Gyros on the Island
If there’s one casual meal you can’t miss in Oia, it’s Pitogyros. This tiny spot near the Oia bus stop had the best gyro I’ve ever eaten in my life!!!
The best part is it’s nothing fancy, just a few tables outside and quick counter service. But the food is absolutely incredible and SO cheap.
We both got the souvlaki in pita, which has French fries inside of it, and it was life-changing. We even went back on our last day for round 2!
Note: This place is very popular and gets busy. I recommended arriving 5-10 minutes before they open so you don’t have to wait in a huge line. Or, come later in the day after the lunch rush.
We ate this after hiking from Fira to Oia, and it was the perfect post-hike lunch! Don’t miss this spot in Oia.
#12. Hike from Fira to Oia
Speaking of our hike, if you’re up for a little adventure during your time on Santorini, the hike from Fira to Oia is one of the best things to do on the island!
This hike takes you along the caldera and offers some of the most incredible views of the island and the sprawling Aegean Sea.
The trail is about 6 miles (10 km) and takes around 2 to 4 hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop for photos—which you will, because the views are unbelievable!!!
I recommend doing the hike from Fira to Oia, not the other way around. The path is mostly downhill or flat this way, and all the best views will be right in front of you. We took the first bus leaving Oia down to Fira!
Plan to start first thing in the morning (I recommend around 8-9am) so you’ll beat the heat and the crowds. Plus, if you start first thing in the morning, you’ll end up back in Oia just in time for lunch.
There is little to no shade along the way, so make sure to bring a hat, sunglasses, plenty of water, and wear sunscreen!
The hike is moderately challenging, so definitely make sure you have the proper footwear. I wore Converse and could definitely feel the gravel and rocky ground at some points throughout the hike.
Along the hike, you’ll pass through Fira and then make your way through the smaller villages like Imerovigli and Firostefani, with panoramic views of the caldera the entire way.
We loved getting to see other parts of the island from this viewpoint. Definitely don’t miss this when visiting Santorini!
#13. Take a Greek Cooking Class
One of my favorite things to do in a new country is to take a cooking class! Unfortunately, we didn’t get to do this during our time in Greece, but it’s 100% on my list for the next trip!
Santorini has some incredible flavors—fresh vegetables, olive oil, herbs, cheeses, seafood—and a cooking class gives you the chance to learn how to make a few traditional dishes yourself!
This cooking class in Oia is with a local grandmother (yiayia) named Areti, who will teach you all her expertise after living on Santorini her whole life!
You’ll spend 3 hours preparing and eating a 4-course Greek meal, which includes appetizers, salad, a main course, and dessert. Of course, a glass of wine is also included.
This seems like the most fun activity in Oia for all types of travelers, and I’ll definitely be booking it when I return to Santorini!
#14. Visit Atlantis Books
Atlantis Books caught my eye every time we walked past it, so I had to include it on this list of the best things to do in Oia.
Right off the main walkway, this tiny, independently owned bookstore is worth popping into when you’re strolling the streets of Oia.
Inside, you’ll find shelves stacked floor-to-ceiling and a quirky, cozy atmosphere. The space is packed with books in multiple languages, handwritten signs, vintage decor, and little nooks that make you want to linger.
Even if you’re not planning to buy anything, it’s worth stopping in just to soak up the vibe. It’s a quiet break from the crowds and a fun way to support a local business!
#15. Taste Local Greek wine
Another fun thing to do in Oia that most people miss is a wine tasting!
The island of Santorini is known for its volcanic soil and dry, windy climate, which creates bold, crisp wines, especially the local white variety Assyrtiko. If you’ve never tried it before, this is the place to do it!
If you don’t want to journey far, you can check out Sphinx Wine Restaurant right in Oia, which has an incredible rooftop balcony overlooking the ocean, as well as a large collection of Greek and international wine.
Or, if you want to visit an actual winery, there’s Domaine Sigalas, located just 10-minutes outside of Oia.
This award-winning winery has both an indoor tasting room and an outdoor patio where you can sample delicious Greek wine. They also offer a special tour of the vineyard and gastronomy.
Lastly, those wanting to visit several wineries in one day should visit a winery tour like this one.
While it is a bit pricey, this private winery tour includes tastings at 3 different local wineries throughout Santorini, as well as transportation, entrance fees, and snacks!
No matter which you choose, don’t miss the chance to try the local wine when visiting Oia.
#16. Indulge in Gelato
After spending all day walking, climbing stairs, and exploring, sometimes you just need a sweet treat!
Ending our evenings in Oia with a scoop of Gelato became something of a ritual during our time in Greece, and I recommend you do the same!
There are several little gelato shops tucked along the main paths. We tried most of them, but our favorite was definitely Lolita’s Gelato!
#17. Rent an ATV and Explore Beyond Oia
To wrap up this list, I wanted to encourage you to journey beyond Oia during your time on Santorini!
Oia is stunning, but there’s a lot more to Santorini worth exploring, and one of the easiest ways to do that is by renting an ATV.
This will give you the flexibility to get out of the village and check out other parts of the island at your own pace without having to rely on buses or pricey taxis (ask me how I know…).
Most rental shops are located in Fira, but you’ll also find a few in Oia. Just double-check what kind of license is required. Some places may ask for an international driver’s permit, depending on what you’re renting.
We didn’t rent an ATV on Santorini (but we did on Milos), and I definitely regret it!
Instead, we relied on the buses to get around Santorini, which were cheap but took sooo long! Having our own ATV would’ve saved us a ton of time and allowed us to see even more of the island.
Some areas I highly recommend checking out are the black sand beaches, Kamari and Perissa, the red sand beach, Akrotiri Lighthouse, and Santo Wines!
P.S. You can read more about the different transportation options and things to do beyond Oia in my 3 Day Santorini Itinerary!
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days should you spend in Oia?
If you’re not staying in Oia, you should dedicate at least one full day to exploring the entire village. This will give you time to wander through the town, have lunch with a view, and then make your way down to Ammoudi Bay for swimming and dinner at sunset! However, if you are staying in Oia, you’ll be able to tackle most of the things on this list over the course of a few days while still enjoying other parts of the island too. Make sure to check out my post on How Many Days in Santorini for a full breakdown of what to plan based on your travel style.
Is it better to stay in Oia or just visit?
Personally, I think staying in Oia is totally worth it, especially if you want to enjoy the early mornings and late evenings without the day-trip crowds. But it depends on your budget and priorities. If you’re looking to avoid crowds and relaxation is your main goal, check out the nearby Imerovigli. If you want to be in the thick of the action with nightlife options, you should stay in Fira. You can read more about how Oia compares to other parts of the island in my post on Where to Stay in Santorini!
What other islands should I visit with Santorini?
If you have time to explore other islands beyond Santorini, you absolutely should. While most people pair Mykonos and Santorini, I recommend checking out a lesser-known island like Milos or Paros. You can read about our time in Santorini and Milos more in my One Week Greek Islands Itinerary.
Do you need a car in Oia?
Not really. Oia is a pedestrian-only village, so you won’t be driving inside the town. If you’re planning to explore the rest of the island, you could rent an ATV or scooter for a day or two, but it’s not necessary for enjoying Oia itself.
Are there grocery stores or places to grab snacks?
Yes! There are a few small mini markets and bakeries scattered around the village where you can grab drinks, snacks, or simple breakfast items. You’ll also find cafes and restaurants around every corner.
Final Thoughts
For such a tiny town, Oia certainly packs a punch when it comes to all the different activities! Even if you don’t stay in Oia, it’s absolutely worth visiting for at least a day to experience its charm.
Few places have taken my breath away like Oia did. From the moment we arrived, I was awestruck by the incredible views and dreamy atmosphere. I can absolutely see why it’s captured so much on postcards and screensavers!
I hope this list has been helpful for planning your trip to Oia and beyond.
Now that you know all the incredible things to do in Oia, make sure to check out my guide on How to Get to Milos to continue planning your Greek Island vacation!
Or, read more blog posts about the Greek Islands below! ⬇️🇬🇷
The ULTIMATE One Week Greece Island Hopping Itinerary
A Perfect Santorini Itinerary: 3 Days in Santorini, Greece!
How Many Days In Santorini? 1, 2, And 3-Day Itineraries
Where to Stay in Santorini for First Time Visitors
17 Things To Do In Oia, Santorini’s Most Beautiful Town!
How To Get To Milos, Greece: A Complete Breakdown
A PERFECT Milos Itinerary: 3 Days On Milos, Greece!
Where To Stay In Milos, Greece: Best Hotels, Areas, & More
16 INCREDIBLE Things to Do in Milos, Greece
Top 10 Beaches In Milos, Greece: A Complete Guide
BEST Boat Tours in Milos, Greece (To Kleftiko and Beyond!)
What To Pack For The Greek Islands (Downloadable Guide)!
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