| Reviews and photos of Oia attractions posted by real travelers and locals. The best tips for Oia sightseeing. Oia Map |
 | Oia Things To Do | Tips 1 - 10 of 150 |  | "My heart must not be silent... It must take part in everything that verges..." Pablo Neruda (1904-1973, the famous poet of Chile, who had also won the Nobel prize in literature in 1971). Enlarge the picture to see it all... I had noticed this slogan inside the courtyard of the elementary school, the war in Iraq was still present... Leave a Comment
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Yes, I know this sounds like an obvious tip, but really, this is something of an event that everyone does in Oia. You want to the very edge of the rim, to where there is nothing but ocean ahead. Thousands of people line the little walk ways and terraces to enjoy the glorious spectacle of sunset over the aegean. When Mr. Sun does his thing, the crowds gets hushed and dare I say, reverential. it's kind of nice. There's even a round of applause for our friend's performance. Sure, you may say it's touristy, but it's quite nice, and kind of charming all these people gathered together like this. (Plus, you're in Oia, not roughing it in Sierra Leone, so quite grandstanding and enjoy it) * It's pronounced eeya.
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OIA is the 2nd largest town in the island of Santorini. Famous for its sunsets & charming shophouses. It's pretty & everyone loves it! So do I! On this trip, I was based in THIRA though. So, I took the hourly bus for 85 cents & got there in about 20 mins. Along the way, the bus drives through small villages by the sea & beautiful terraces lining the valley. It's truly a picturesque ride! Leave a Comment
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After the introduction, it is obvious. You can NOT miss sunset in Oia. Even if it is crowded. Buses leave Fira in the afternoon to arrive to Oia for the sunset and return 30 minutes after sunset. It is worth... even in high season. Find a place to seat in the old castle, near to the mill, or in any of the streets right in the cliff, and just relax, and enjoy... Leave a Comment
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Looking back at Fira from Oia you can see how beautiful the hike between the two villages could be. The trail leads from Fira an then over the cliff and across the rocks until you reach the entrance to Oia. It does appear beautiful and awesome. However I still had no regrets that I took the bus. If your a little younger than me or maybe a little more adventureous you can take the hike. I'll meet you at the bus station! Leave a Comment
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Richie goes into churches to shelter from rain. I go into shops to shelter from the heat! This one I went into is very interesting. It's called Tefra Art Gallery & has many crafts from neighboring islands like Crete which appeal to me. I like these dolls but due to my long journey (I was heading for Paris & Tours after Oia) I couldn't get them as I've no desire to lug them all over France. May be next time. :-) Leave a Comment
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I strongly suggest go a little early before the sunset to really enjoy Oia. Take some time to walk the narrow streets, see the blue domed churches and just enjoy the traditional beauty of this village. Although its not as touristy as Fira, once the crowds start arriving for the sunset the village looses its traditional charm. Go early. Leave a Comment
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From the roof top of Pelekanos Cafe, you get this marvelous view. Relax & talk to Pamagiotis. He made excellent coffee frappe :-) Nice chap, took lots of pictures for me & we shared some travel stories. There wasn't anyone at the rooftop even though it has the best view of the crater. Magnificent! I had the entire paradise to myself! Now, I have memories of calling my loved ones up here, writing postcards to friends & spending lovely moments up here, on the top of Oia! Leave a Comment
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From the same shop (Tefra Art Gallery). I've to buy something for special people. So, I bought! These ceramics pieces are designed by M. & M. Patramanis & they are handcrafted. These items (presumably monks) reminded me of one of the Star Wars series... Leave a Comment
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Not as charming as the evening but still a very special place. It has this shades of blues which you'll never ever forget after leaving. I could never envision Oia in the rain... afterall, it was so sunny while I was there ... eternally hot in my mind. That's Oia for me :-) Leave a Comment
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