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Travel bucket list idea:

Last updated: 24 June, 2023
Expert travel writer: John Malathronas

The character-filled town of Oia stands at the north-western tip of Santorini’s own little archipelago, with postcard-perfect views west and south. At sunset, the soft pinks and pumice-grey strata of the caldera walls turn to deep crimson and pewter, with the sea beneath deepening from shimmering azure to a dark indigo abyss.

Regrettably, Oia’s main street becomes shoulder-to-shoulder crowded, so come early and walk to the westernmost point and the rocky promontory further beyond. Later arrivals will act as a natural barrier, and your gaze will remain relatively unencumbered.

Another option is to book at a restaurant or café (with views) beforehand. The best place is the King Neptune restaurant, whose terrace stands above the throngs below. It’s a good-value family taverna with traditional staples such as moussaka, and its sunset location can’t be matched.

Logistics

Price: Free
Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 18+
When: All year around
Duration: 1-2 hours

Getting there & doing it

The sunset is around 8-8.30pm in the summer so arrive at 6pm and pick your spot on Oia’s main (only) street. There’s no space to sit down.

There are regular buses to Oia from Fira, but after 7-7.30pm they are full. Best book a taxi if you’re staying elsewhere. Don’t attempt to drive in; there are only a small number of parking spaces in the municipal car park.

Who to go with: organised tours

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Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity

Santorini Day Tour with Sunset in Oia

Santorini

Santorini Day Tour with Sunset in Oia
Explore Santorini island on this full-day tour by bus to the most famous and attractive places on the island such as the Akrotiri Exchavation Site, the Black Sandy Beach, Emborio Village, the mountaintop of Pyrgos and of course Oia. Learn about the history of the island, admire the architecture of its traditional villages, leisure at its volcanic beaches and live Oia’s sunset experience! Includes wine tasting in a private area of 3 of the best wines in Santorini. All you need to see and experience on the island before going back home.

Price: €59

Min age: 4

Rating 4.37 / 5 [774 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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Sunset In Oia & Traditional Villages Bus Tour

Santorini

Sunset In Oia & Traditional Villages Bus Tour
Panagia Episkopi Byzantine Church - Mesa Gonia village – Pyrgos village – Oia village This tour takes you to the most picturesque villages of the island. You visit beautiful churches, historical monuments with magnificent view of the island, and the best sunset from the village of oia. You will enjoy a guided tour and learn about the interesting history of this island.

Price: €41

Min age: 0

Rating 4.11 / 5 [26 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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Destination guides

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Destination guides including or relevant to this experience

Santorini

Greek Islands, Greece

Santorini

Incredible volcanic scenery, enchanting cave hotels, fine wines and memorable sunsets equal heaven for romantics.