A Walk on the Hiking Trail from Oia to Fira

While this hiking trail is usually described as more beautiful when the trip begins in Fira and ends in Oia, the reverse is equally fascinating. Depending on your skill level and speed, this can be a journey that can last up to four hours.

The hiking trail from Oia to Fira is an easy-to-medium route that offers stunning views of the caldera. The best time to take the hike is in the early morning, to avoid the midday heat, or offseason when the weather is better for hiking and there are not so many tourists on the path. The route is properly marked at the most critical junctions. You don’t need a map, as the path follows the cliff, and even if you adventure off-route occasionally, it is easy to find your way back. Howerver, if you want to stay on the safe side, there is an app that will show you some of the best hiking routes of the island:

• Across the caldera, from Fira to Oia (10.9km / 4h, easy hike)
• Emborio to Ancient Thera and Perissa (11.5km / 4h15′, moderate level)
• A circular walk in Foinikia (4.5km / 1h30′, easy hike)
• From the caldera to Akrotiri and Vlychada beach (4.2km / 1h15′, moderate level)
• Circular walk around Pyrgos (5.4km / 1h45′, easy hike)
• Crossing Nea Kameni (2.6km / 1h00′, easy hike)

The self-guided route from Fira to Oia features points of interest and other details.

Don’t forget your camera: some of the most fascinating seascapes and landscapes in the world will stretch before you. Stock your backpack with water and snacks, wear proper clothing, and don’t forget your sun protection cream when you choose to adventure on the trail at noon. You can always hike from Oia to Fira and take the bus back if you are too tired to make the return trip on foot. It is however worth it to hike back from Fira to Oia, as the landscapes changes under the different light.