Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
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OiaΟία
POP 962
Perched on the northern tip of the island, the village of Oia (ee-ah) reflects the renaissance
of Santorini following the devastating earthquake of 1956. Restoration work has whipped
up beauty and you will struggle to find a more stunning Cyclades village. Built on a steep
slope of the caldera, many of its dwellings nestle in niches hewn into the volcanic rock. A
magical way to reach the village is along a cliff edge walkway that rambles north from
Fira through a series of linked settlements. If you travel by road, you'll pass through sage
green slopes splattered with wildflowers, rich red- and coffee-coloured earth and views of
blue, blue sea.
Not surprisingly, Oia draws enormous crowds and overcrowding is the price it pays for
its good looks. Try to visit in the morning or spend the night here; afternoons and even-
ings often bring busloads from the cruise ships moored in the bay.
Sights & Activities
Maritime Museum
MUSEUM
( 22860 71156; adult/student €3/1.50; 10am-2pm & 5-8pm Wed-Mon)
This museum is loc-
ated along a narrow lane that leads off right from Nikolaou Nomikou. It's housed in an old
mansion and has endearing displays on Santorini's maritime history.
Ammoudi
PORT
This tiny port of colourful fishing boats lies 300 steps below Oia. It's a hot haul down and
up again but well worth it for the views of the blood-red cliffs, the harbour and back up to
Oia. Once you're down there, have lunch at one of the excellent tavernas right on the wa-
ter's edge; try Katina or Dimitris. In summer, boats and tours go from Ammoudi to Thir-
asia daily; check with travel agencies in Fira for departure times.
Museum of Ancient Greek Music
MUSEUM
( 22860 31812; Nikolaou Nomikou; admission €2; 10am-2pm May-Sep)
This narrow room is
filled with Christodoylos Halaris' fascinating collection of over 80 instruments from as far
back as 2800 BC. It's run by the collector, himself a prominent musician, and hours are
somewhat irregular.
