Oia Greece 4 Day Itinerary

4-Day Oia Itinerary:

Where to Stay:

  • Luxury: Canaves Oia Epitome (stunning views, cave suites with private plunge pools)
  • Mid-Range: Mystique, a Luxury Collection Hotel (cave rooms with unique architecture and decor)
  • Budget-Friendly: Oia Backpackers (friendly hostel with social atmosphere, social spaces and panoramic sunset views)

Where to Eat:

  • Fine Dining: Ambrosia Restaurant (Greek cuisine with a modern twist, known for its innovative dishes and breathtaking views), 1800 Floga Restaurant (traditional Santorini dishes with a focus on fresh seafood)
  • Casual Eats: Lotza Cafe (delicious local food and amazing sunset views at affordable prices), To Kastro Oia (casual dining with traditional Greek fare and a lively ambiance), Ammos Restaurant (casual waterfront dining, great for lunch with a sea breeze)

Transportation:

  • Walking: Oia is a small village, so you can easily explore its charming streets and picturesque scenery on foot.

  • Bus: There are regular buses from the Fira bus station to Oia.

  • ATV/Scooter: A popular way to see the island, but be careful! Roads in Santorini are narrow and winding.

  • Car: Provides the most comfortable and flexible way to explore the island at your own pace.

Day 1: Exploring Oia’s Charm

  • Morning: Arrive in Santorini and take a bus to your accommodation in Oia. Enjoy the scenic drive and take in the beauty of the island as you approach the village.

  • Afternoon: Stroll through the charming streets of Oia, exploring its whitewashed houses, boutiques, and churches.

  • Evening: Witness the iconic sunset from the top of the caldera. Find a spot with a view and enjoy a picnic of local cheeses and wine (bring your own as it’s a popular activity).

Day 2: Ancient History and Volcanic Views

  • Morning: Visit the archaeological site of Akrotiri (the “Pompeii of the Aegean”) and explore the ancient Minoan city that was buried by volcanic ash.

  • Afternoon: Take a boat tour to the Nea Kameni volcano and hike around its crater.

  • Where to Eat:

    • Lunch: Enjoy a traditional Greek lunch with a stunning view at “Amara” in Oia.

  • Other Activities:

    • Hike along the rim of the caldera for breathtaking views.
    • Explore the Akrotiri Lighthouse, perched on the edge of the island.

Afternoon: Relax by the hot springs of Palea Kameni, another volcanic island accessible by boat from Santorini.

  • Evening: Indulge in a romantic sunset dinner at Ammos Restaurant, Oia (with a reservation for a spot overlooking the caldera).

Day 3: Wine Tasting and Sunset Serenity

  • Morning: Relax on the beach or by the pool at your hotel.
  • Afternoon: Enjoy a wine tasting experience at one of the wineries in Santorini’s volcanic caldera, renowned for its unique volcanic wines.
  • Evening: Catch the sunset from a quieter spot in a different part of Oia, like a rooftop bar with a view (and maybe a glass of that local wine!)

Day 4: Sunset Farewell and Memories to Take Home

  • Morning: Explore the picturesque streets and traditional architecture of Oia, discovering hidden alleys and charming shops.
  • Afternoon: Visit the unique Museum of Ancient Santorini for a glimpse into the island’s past.

Tips for a Better Trip:

  • Book your accommodation in advance, especially if you are visiting during the peak season (June-September).
  • Enjoy the sunset from a different location each night to experience its variety and beauty.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the island’s cobbled streets and villages.
  • Be prepared for crowds at sunset, particularly in popular spots like Oia’s main square.

Things to Do:

  • Hike from Oia to Fira: Enjoy a scenic hike along the caldera with stunning views of the Aegean Sea.
  • Visit the Archaeological Site of Akrotiri: Explore the ruins of this ancient city preserved by volcanic ash, offering a unique glimpse into life before the Minoan eruption.
  • Relax on the beach at Ammoudi Bay: Soak up the sun and enjoy the beautiful blue waters of the Aegean Sea.

Things to Consider:

  • Budget: Oia can be expensive. Accommodation, food, and drinks are all pricier than in other parts of Santorini.
  • Seasonality: Peak season is crowded and busy, but you’ll have fewer crowds and better prices in the shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October).

Things to Remember:

  • Bring cash for smaller purchases. Many shops and restaurants in Oia only accept cash.
  • Book tours at a local travel agency: This is often the best way to get a good price and find unique experiences.
  • Sunset seasonality: The sunsets are most spectacular during the summer months, but you can still enjoy them in the spring or fall, just be prepared for cooler temperatures.
  • Respect the island’s history: Remember that the Akrotiri archaeological site is a fragile historical environment and stay on designated paths.

Food and Drink:

  • Enjoy the local cuisine: While in Oia, try traditional Santorini dishes like fava beans, tomatokeftedes (tomato fritters), and white eggplant salad.
  • Visit during sunset hours: Many restaurants offer special seating with breathtaking views of the sunset.

Enjoy your time in Oia!