The northern village of Oia (pronounced “ee-a”) is undoubtedly the most popular place to watch the sunset in Santorini. One prime spot can be found near the old castle to the west, overlooking the iconic blue domes of the Agios Spyridonas and Anastaseos churches in the middle of town.
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The northern village of Oia (pronounced “ee-a”) is undoubtedly the most popular place to watch the sunset in Santorini. One prime spot can be found near the old castle to the west, overlooking the iconic blue domes of the Agios Spyridonas and Anastaseos churches in the middle of town.
Overall: if you want to see the sun setting behind buildings, then Oia is perfect. if you want to see the sun setting on the water, the angle of Fira will be better most of the year.
You don't need to go as far as Oia though, as Fira does a pretty good Santorini sunse of its own. It's also easier to find a quiet place – the busiest spot is the area in front of the Orthodox Cathedral but there are plenty of other sunset viewpoints.
Both Imerovigli and Oia have some views towards the west, but I think most will agree that the actual sunset from Imerovigli is a little better than Oia. It sits higher on the caldera, is directly facing west, and has unobstructed views. You can also have a view of Skaro Rock and Oia in the distance which is magical.
The hike between Fira and Oia follows the rim of the caldera. The views are stunning. It's easy to do the hike without a guide but a walking tour can make it more interesting.
Fira vs Oia – SummaryFira is the isalnd's capital and the livelier village of the two with much more nightlife and shopping. Oia is the more luxurious village with romantic restaurants and high-end shopping.
Oia is typically thought to be the more beautiful and romantic town on the island. I stayed there on my honeymoon and wouldn't have changed it. It was amazing at night to see all of hte people from the island come to the area around my hotel to see the sunset - when this was the view I had from my bed.
Oia is world famous for its spectacular sunsets. The cascade of whitewashed buildings, dotted with windmills and blue dome churches, form a stunning backdrop for photographers. As the sun goes down, these buildings glow in pinks and oranges and yellows.
It has become globally famous for its authentic Cycladic beauty, whitewashed houses, labyrinth-like alleys, and amazing hotels, even though the number one thing Oia is renowned for is its magical sunset.
The Kardashians stayed at Celestia Grand (back when it was part of neighboring Volcano View Hotel) in Santorini during their vacation in Greece. It's an awesome luxury villa collection, located south of Fira (about a 30 minute walk into town or an easy ride with a taxi or their complimentary shuttle).
Personally, I think you definitely need to visit Oia if you're in Santorini, but the larger question is whether that's where you stay. Oia has a LOT going for it… sitting on the edge of an extinct volcano, the town's many cliffside buildings all offer gorgeous views of the deep-blue ocean.
The walk through the narrow streets of Fira is a typical representation of the most common characteristic of the Cycladic islands, the small shops packed one next to the other, the pebbled streets, the traditional houses with the small blue and sun-burned verandas and of course the amazing view which distinguishes ...
Escape Oia and Fira.Get out of these hot spots and head to the lesser-known parts of the island: Emborio, Finikia, Colombo Beach, and Pyrgos all showcase the charm of Santorini without the packs of people.
Oia. Oia is Santorini's most picturesque town and has some of the island's best hotels. It's located at the northern tip of the island and is famous for its fabulous sunset views. The town is busy through the day up until sunset (when it's packed in high season) but then gets quiet quickly after the sun goes down.
The driving distance between Santorini Airport and Oia village is approximately 16.3 km / 10.1 miles. There are options to suit all budgets and needs, whether for an airport transfer or a trip around the island.
However keep in mind that it's not very big, in fact it's just small. You don't need much time to see it, a day is enough. It's nice for a short trip from somewhere else in Greece.