For a long time now Santorini has been on my bucket list. When I finally booked everything I was ecstatic and let me tell you it did not disappoint. Looking at picture is one thing, but seeing for yourself is another thing all together. The goal was to find the perfect photo spots that included the blue dome churches in Oia. The white homes perched cliffside, the sunsets, the cute alleyways were a feast for the eyes.
Getting To/Around Oia
Ferry
From Mykonos I boarded a four hours ferry with golden star.This company allowed me to check in online with my boarding pass on my phone. This eliminated standing in the long lines to pick up a paper ticket at the port. Let me warn you it is a chaotic scene on both ends specially during the season. The ferry boarding process was fast, so get there on time or you will be left behind. Once I got to my assigned comfortable seat, it was time for a nap. The ferry stopped at a couple of islands before reaching its final destination leaving me time to grab a snack on board.
Bus
Once at the port in Santorini there are countless people offering taxi services, car and scooter rentals as well. One budget friendly option is the bus comparing to the 40euro taxis. The station is on the left as you exit the docking area. Since the blue dome churches were my priority, I chose to stay in the popular town of Oia. The buses run first to the town of Fira for 2.50Euro and from there you can find buses to others towns. The one to Oia cost me a mere 1.80Euro and no big wait time. My hotel was within walking distance to the city center, I did not want to worry much about getting to Oia from somewhere else.
Photo opportunities in Oia
Sunsets
Just like I mentioned in my Mykonos blog, it is best to set out early before the crowds to take your photos. At a tourist destination like that even at 7 am there were already a few people out roaming the city. The night before I grabbed a bite to eat at Melenio cafe and caught the beautiful view of the sky at sunset. Walking toward Oia castle get you the best views, just get there a little early to claim your spot among the crowd.
Blue dome Churches
Look up the jewelry shop minerali, from the alley next to it you get that postcard view of the blue dome churches. Be creative to get captures you came for. If you are solo and spot another solo traveler help out with pictures, you may end up with some great shots.
