Stunning Oia is perched high on the clifftops of northern Santorini and will enchant you with its whitewashed houses and spectacular views over the Aegean Sea. It’s one of the most beautiful villages in the Cyclades archipelago, with its blue-domed churches gracing postcards across Greece.

You’ll love getting lost in the winding alleyways and staircases of Oia. Many of the traditional buildings house charming bookstores and gift shops where you can pick up handmade leather sandals, colourful paintings and designer clothes. Visit in the early morning or late evening to beat the crowds and enjoy Oia through a local lens.

Restaurants dot the clifftops and pair menus of delicious food with magnificent views. Save your appetite for grilled calamari, “saganaki” fried cheese and “domatokeftethes” tomato fritters.

There are 300 steps leading down to Ammoudi, a picturesque port where you can enjoy views of the rust-coloured cliffs and white houses. Fish taverns dot the shoreline and treat you to some of the best seafood on Santorini.

Getting there

Oia is located on the northern tip of Santorini, a 20-minute drive or bus ride from Thera. The town is compact and easy to get around on foot, with most streets pedestrianised. Santorini (Thira) International Airport is a 20-minute drive away.