We are a couple with an 18 year old. We are debating where to stay. We've seen Janet's recommendation for Firostefani. We are wondering how easy it would be to visit Oia early in the morning, move around, without a car. I read here that Imerovigli is "not as convenient' without a car, and Firostefani seems even further south than that. Differences between the two?
Is Oia better to be avoided even in the evening? Can we get a taxi or bus back from Oia to Firostefani at night, if we go there for dinner, or not worth it? Would Fira/Firostefani be too quiet for our daughter (who would not go out by herself anyway)?
As far as hotels, we've seen some very very nice ones (expensive) but may splurge on this part of the trip. Any great "luxury" recommendations that we could consider?
Thanks so much!
Posted by
2784 posts
There is bus service from Fira to Oia and back. We walked the trail between the two and took the bus back. We stayed in Oia. It is actually quieter than Fira. But is jammed at night. And we were there in May.
It might be dicey to go back in evening from Oia just because of crowds. I personally would not do it. It might be a very long wait.
Firostefani is just outside Fira. You can walk to it on a nice sidewalk.
We passed Imerovigli while hiking. It is more isolated from other towns and appeared to be more upscale.
Posted by
WA State
3961 posts
I agree with Janet’s recommendation to stay in Firostefani. We took the convenient bus to Oia in the morning to avoid the crowds. Fira was about a 15 min. walk from our hotel. We ate at Stani twice. Once for lunch and dinner the next night. (also recommended by Janet). The walk from Fira to Firostefani at night is magical.
Edited to add: https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/greece/restaurant-recommendations-for-chania-crete-fira-santorini-and-adamantas-milos