Perched on Santorini's northern tip, the village of Oia curves back towards the island’s crop of cliff-hugging whitewashed towns, promising mesmerising views of the rocks and the glittering Aegean Sea. The arc of the island’s volcanic caldera is unmissable, seen from many of the balconies, infinity pools and gourmet eateries of the best places to stay in Oia. Tranquil and laid-back, this is a lovely destination for honeymooners, families and groups of friends alike.

Carved into the steep slope of the caldera’s cliffs, Oia is a fascinating little town of white-painted houses cut into ancient caves. The town has been gradually transformed into an upmarket destination, with boutiques, cafés and tavernas aplenty lining its narrow streets. Delve into its rich history at the Maritime Museum, or with a guided walking tour.

Hire a scooter to zip around town and along clifftop roads, or follow the walking path towards Fira for dramatic sunsets and beautiful vistas at every turn. Descend the 300 steps to Ammoudi Bay past the red cliffs and down to the beaches of the craggy coastline. Once you’re there, sailing trips come highly recommended — this is a very special way to see Santorini and the Cyclades. Alternatively, hide out at one of the best places to stay in Oia, sinking into your plunge pool and feasting on cracking Greek cuisine with loved ones.

The Best Places to Stay in Oia

For In-Town Explorers

• 1864 The Sea Captain's House has just four suites, three of which have four-poster beds. A characterful and unusual small hotel in Oia town, this spot charms with its antique furniture, whitewashed walls, original artwork and prettily embroidered textiles.
• Ikies Traditional Houses is made up of 13 suites, each with a different shape, size and character. Hewn into the rock, these spaces are sleek and minimalistic, encouraging the spellbinding caldera views to take centre stage. Breakfast is served on your terrace each morning, and most suites also have a private hot tub. You're well placed for exploring Oia town — though it's very tempting to simply stay put.

For Romance

• Santo Pure Oia Suites & Villas is a magnificent seaside hotel, with elegant and indulgent interiors, an extensive spa and private hot tubs. Honeymooners will adore tucking in to terrific Greek cuisine on the terrace after sundowners. A honeymoon haven.
• Santorini Secret Suites & Spa has white and soft grey rooms with modern art pieces, handwoven rugs, designer fittings and sea-facing terraces. With a superb spa, gourmet restaurant and refreshing pool onsite, there's little reason to leave! Very romantic.
• Kirini Suites & Spa, with its cascade of whitewashed terraces and balconies and two gorgeous infinity pools, is nothing short of spectacular. Elegant rooms are cool and airy, the service is impeccable and the Greek restaurant is marvellous.

For Families

• Esperas has reasonably priced suites, studios and houses carved directly into the cliff face. One for families with older kids, the hotel is just 10 minutes from the centre of town and various beaches. A member of the Historic Hotels of Europe, it has real character — and that charming blue and white colour palette.
• Vino Houses, in the quiet village of Finikia, is a lovely choice for a trip with family and friends. The three villas each sleep up to four guests, and have fully-equipped kitchens, terraces and dining areas. Breakfast is brought to your villa each morning, and there are plunge pools for refreshing dips after your beach excursions. A gem.

For Absolute Luxury

• Perivolas Traditional Houses is a stunning collection of 300-year-old traditional cave houses. A sensational luxury experience, the hotel has whitewashed interiors with vaulted ceilings and curved arches. Bold pink and purple textiles create a playful feel, and many of the suites have private plunge pools with dreamy sea views. Exceptional.
• Andronis Luxury Suites are also wonderfully luxurious, but they have a more classic feel. Think stonewashed bathrooms and a nautical colour palette, plus suites opening onto a sea-facing infinity pool. The sleek spa and clifftop restaurant will delight honeymooners and romantics. An adult-only hideaway.
• Canaves is a magical example of Cycladic style, with unusually shaped private pools framing white-on-white suites. With a splendid restaurant, wine tasting sessions and private yacht charters, this is a very special holiday choice.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Athens International Airport, and hop aboard a ferry from Athens' Piraeus or Rafina ports (via Naxos or Paros), or catch a flight directly to Santoríni International Airport. You can then travel 16km to Oia by bus or taxi.
• There's plenty to see on Santorini! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Expect hot summers, with temperatures reaching around 33°C between June and August, which is also peak season. For fewer crowds and cooler weather travel in April, May or late September, when you can also find great hotel deals.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Fira.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Santorini.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Oia