Villa Calpina

Perched on the northern tip of the mesmerising Greek island of Santorini, Oia is a charming village that captivates visitors with its enchanting beauty and stunning sunsets. This picturesque village is renowned for its traditional white-washed buildings, narrow winding streets and breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. Oia's iconic architecture is a quintessential representation of the Cycladic style, with cubic-shaped houses adorned in brilliant white, accentuated by vibrant blue domes and shutters.

The village is a maze of cobblestone streets that wind through a labyrinth of shops, cafes and art galleries. As you stroll through Oia, you will encounter charming squares and hidden corners, each offering a unique perspective of the village and the surrounding sea.

One of the main draws of Oia is its unparalleled sunset views. Crowds gather at the Castle of Oia, a medieval fortress, and the surrounding cliffs to witness the sun dip below the horizon, casting a warm glow across the village and turning the sky into a palette of vivid hues. The experience is nothing short of magical, making it a must-see for any visitor.

In addition to its captivating scenery, Oia offers a range of activities and attractions to suit varied interests. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the numerous galleries showcasing local and international talent. One highlight is the Maritime Museum, which provides insight into Santorini's nautical history through its collection of maritime artefacts and models.

For those seeking relaxation, the village boasts a selection of luxury spas, where you can indulge in rejuvenating treatments while enjoying panoramic views of the sea. Oia's quaint shops offer a chance to purchase unique souvenirs, handmade crafts and local products, making it a shopper's paradise.

Oia is not just a feast for the eyes, it also caters to the gastronomic desires of its visitors. The village is home to a diverse array of restaurants and tavernas serving authentic Greek cuisine. You can pair your delicious feasts with a glass of Assyrtiko, a crisp white wine indigenous to Santorini, for a truly immersive culinary experience.

Venturing beyond Oia, travellers can explore the nearby towns and villages that contribute to the rich tapestry of Santorini. Fira, the island's bustling capital, offers a lively atmosphere with its vibrant nightlife, diverse dining options and cultural sites such as the Archaeological Museum of Thera.

A short drive south leads to the ancient ruins of Akrotiri, a Minoan Bronze Age settlement preserved in volcanic ash. History enthusiasts will appreciate the archaeological wonders, including well-preserved frescoes and intricate pottery.

For a taste of local life, you can venture to the charming village of Pyrgos, known for its medieval castle and panoramic views from the hilltop. Pyrgos offers a more tranquil alternative to the bustling Fira and Oia.

Oia is a destination that seamlessly combines natural beauty, cultural richness and gastronomic delights. Whether you are savouring a sunset, exploring historical sites or simply getting lost in the charm of its streets, Oia promises an unforgettable experience for every traveller.

Read more about Oia and the Caldera

Capture that picture-perfect shot of white-washed houses, windmills and terraces backed by the incredible caldera. Fairytale style Oia is on the north-western tip of Santorini Island and is also famed for its romantic sunset as the charming village glows in hues of pink, purple, orange and yellow.

In a perched position with rugged cliffs below, the pedestrianised village of Oia is utterly enchanting. Explore the narrow lanes with boutiques, souvenir shops, cave houses and taverna terraces, follow twisting cobbled staircases and come across glimpses of the famous blue domes of Agios Spyridon Church, the ruins of Agios Nikolaos Castle and the glistening water.

The most energetic of guests can brave the steep steps down to Ammoudi Bay, a charming little fishing village with tavernas serving fresh seafood by the water’s edge. There’s a little rocky bay within a short hike where you can sit and watch courageous tourists jump from the cliffs as yachts sail by.

Visitors from across the island gather on Oia’s iconic terraces at sunset. To avoid the crowds, there are many other beautiful places where you can get the perfect photo as evening nears – book a sunset cruise or a kayaking excursion, venture up to Mávro Vounó Hill or discover another spot along the rugged western coast facing the caldera and its islands.  

Beyond Oia, discover the most stunning vistas of the caldera by following the 10km long hiking path to Fira, walking along the rim of the caldera with the steep volcanic cliffs below, gazing out towards the volcanic islands. The sunken caldera is one of the oldest natural wonders of the world, formed during a devastating volcanic eruption in the Minoan era. Pack good walking shoes (some parts of the trail are more challenging than others), plenty of water and head off early or late to avoid the heat of the midday sun – the scenery is absolutely incredible (especially heading back towards the north-west at sunset).

As you approach the end of the hike, stop off in Imerovigli and climb the village steps for views of domes, belltowers and bougainvillea-clad terraces, again backed by the captivating caldera, then continue on to Fira, the welcoming capital of Santorini Island.