Fira - Oia Trail
This is the most scenic route you can follow in Santorini. This 10km (about 6 miles) walk along the edge of the caldera is one of the most spectacular short hikes anywhere in the world with views that take your breath away. Your camera will be snapping the entire way so make sure you have enough battery. Hiking along the rim of the caldera, you will witness some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes, combining the Aegean’s endless blue and the graphic villages of of Oia, Imerovigli, Firostefani, and Fira, with their whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches. The walking path is a mix of paved, pedestrian streets and dirt hiking trails. The hiking trail is well marked and suitable for anyone of average fitness. Generally, it should take between 3-5 hours depending on fitness level, stops and the temperature. If you do a side trip to Skaros Rock it will add at least an hour.
You can do this hike in either direction. However, we would recommend to walk from Fira to Oia. The gradient is steeper but for a shorter time. Start early to avoid the searing heat of the day and wear good walking shoes. The best season for hiking in Santorini is from March to early June and from September to October, as these months are not too hot like the summer months. Apart from the obvious camera for photos, it is very important to have water, since it might be difficult to find somewhere to buy. Protection from the sun is another important factor, so is a hat and sun cream. The Fira to Oia walk officially starts at the Hotel Atlantis. There is no need to have a map with you as the path goes along the rim of the Caldera, keeping you on the right track. Walking from Fira to Oia is something which you truly must not miss while in Santorini.