Oia

After writing about Fira, Imerovigli and Firostefani, is now the time to tell you about Oia.

Oia is the highest city on the Island of Santorini. Hence it is well known for the best views and sunsets. And while I loved Imerovigli, Firostefani and Fira and would return, I cannot but agree with the fact that Oia is very picturesque. First of all it feels more touristy than Firostefani and Imerovigli, but is definitely less busy than Fira. Moreover, as Fira it has many streets with shops, cafes and restaurants. Here, however, the prices are higher both in restaurants and boutiques.

And here is where you find the most expensive hotels.So unless you have a higher budget, although Santorini as a whole is a relatively expensive destination, you might want to stay somewhere else. But you must go to Oia at least once. I wished we had the time to go a second time. And if you go you should eat at Floga. I had the salmon ravioli and they were divine. The crispy prawns looked scrumptious too, and as you can see from the picture above the views are spectacular.

You might wonder why I haven't written yet about Amoudi bay, since Oia and Amoudi bay are usually visited together. We had planned to go around Oia and then go down the 300 stairs which lead to Amoudi Bay. But when we started the stairs, I told my husband I prefered not to go down because they were very slanted and slippery and I didn't want to break my leg the day before my birthday. Plus it was already late and we were both very hungry. So next time we go to Santorini, we will definitely take a taxi to Amoudi bay. And you should too since the restaurants there are well renowned for their fresh fish.

The journey to Oia was really interesting. On the way there we saw many new developments of hotels and villas being built. The roads were also very narrow and the bus was full, so we had to stand all the time each way. So you might prefer catching a taxi, which should cost you around 20 euros each way for 2.

One last thing I would like to say is that Oia would be the perfect place for those looking to relax in a hotel, and going out at night around the hotel without having to walk a lot or take a taxi. Also this is the best option for people who don't like crowds, as Fira gets very crowded. But if you prefer being closer to Fira, then staying here is not advisable in my opinion since it takes about 3 hours to walk to Fira.

Have you visited Oia? Did you prefer it to Fira? And if you stayed in Oia would you recommend it?

STAY FAB