Santorini Island Travel Guide. Oia + Imerovigli

Santorini is truly the ultimate dream destination if you’re looking for an unforgettable romantic getaway. Endless whitewashed houses, blue-domed churches, lovely Greek taverns, and spectacular sunsets will leave you speechless and give an amazing experience for the rest of your life. This year we made it to Santorini to cross off this unique place from our bucket list.

Where to stay

We consider Imerovigli, Oia and Firostefani the best places to stay in Santorini, especially for the first time. Why? These areas are located along the caldera rocks, offering panoramic sea and volcano views.

Tip: We highly recommend staying in Imerovigli, the so-called ‘balcony to the Aegean’. Just leave your cell phone behind, take your beloved one’s hand and enjoy a truly unique sunset. Those moments will give you a memorable life experience.

Imerovigli

Stay details: Altana Traditional Houses and Suites (view of the church of Ai-Stratis); Sophia Luxury Suites (view of the caldera and Skaros Rock).

Imerovigli was our first stop in Santorini and this small village charmed us. This picturesque village is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Oia. Its favorable location along the highest point of the caldera cliffs made Imerovigli also known as “The Balcony of Santorini”. Once you reach the highest point of the island, you are treated to a beautiful panoramic view over the caldera.

It took us five days to explore the tiny streets, numerous churches, and chapels in typical Cycladic architecture style, scattered all over the village. The most recognized and completely beautiful among them is the Ai-Stratis church. The main attraction that will make you fall in love with Imerovigli is slowly exploring the alleyways, stopping to listen to the bells ringing from the church tower. Our hand-picked collection of places to stay: Chromata, Grace Hotel Santorini, Cavo Tagoo Santorini.

Oia

Stay details: Ducato Di Oia (excellent breakfasts and location).

Oia is the true heart of Santorini, having preserved its ancient charm. Since Oia is reputed to be a must-visit place, you can’t be alone here even in the early hours of the morning. The village is known for its blue-domed churches, and around here are located the most expensive and luxury hotels on the island. This is a place that you’ve seen in pretty much everyone’s Instagram and Pinterest — and now you’re finally here.

During peak season, Oia pulsates with a crazy rhythm. On days when cruise ships arrive at the port of Santorini, within an hour the streets will be packed with dozens of tourist groups.

Tip by Locals: OIA is pronounced “EEA”, and FIRA is pronounced “FEERA” with the tone at the end. Just before the sun dips below the horizon, people from all over the island start to gather in Oia. If you want to be part of it, come a few hours before the show starts. Choose one of the various Greek taverns along the sunset side, have a drink and enjoy the magical scenery. From the Kastro Oia Houses, take 300 steps down to Amoudi Bay at the bottom of the caldera, where you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful view over the water and surrounding cliffs.

Where to shoot

With just a quick scroll through Instagram, you’ll see tons of gorgeous photos from Santorini — but most people have no idea where these famous postcards are taken. Here are some of the most Instagram-worthy places to shoot:

• The church of Ai-Stratis, Imerovigli — our favorite place, near Anastasi Church.
• Three Blue Domes, Oia — the most famous sight of Santorini. Note that this area is marked private.
• Oia Church Bells, Oia — works great at sunrise; come at 6 am and you’ll have it all to yourself.
• Kastro Oia Houses, Oia — a beautiful pink house with blue doors, with a stair leading down to Amoudi Bay.
• The Old Church in Thira and Agios Ioannis Katiforis are also worth your lens.

Time to Visit

The main season runs from late May to early October. For fewer crowds and lower prices, aim for May, June, September, or October.

How to get there

You can fly from Athens (about 45 minutes) or take a ferry from Piraeus or Rafina (roughly 5 to 8 hours depending on the vessel). Book ferries in advance during high season.

Explore

Rent an ATV for a day to tour the island, hike the famous trail from Fira to Oia, wander through Fira, visit the beaches, and see the Akrotiri Lighthouse.

Getting Around the Island

Taxis are limited and pricey, cars give the most comfort, and ATVs are the fun, flexible option. There is free parking in Imerovigli.

Where to eat

For seafood, head to the Ammoudi Fish Tavern down in Amoudi Bay. For casual local food, Lucky’s Souvlaki is a reliable favorite.

Travel Tips

Be sure to wear comfortable shoes — there is an infinite number of stairs and narrow streets that can only be overcome on foot. If you want to stay in one of the best hotels in Santorini, book well in advance, especially for summer. To watch the Oia sunset, get there a few hours early to claim a good spot. You’ll fall in love with Santorini — the beauty of this island is in its simplicity, tiny charming streets and welcoming locals.