Highlights of the Day
The iconic double blue-domed church in Oia was a highlight of our trip. After some difficulty finding the exact spot, we discovered it through research and were thrilled to see it in person. Visiting in the off-season meant fewer crowds, allowing us to take photos from every angle. We also explored a terrace with a sea view, though many cafes were closed. A historical windmill added to the charm. Despite some closures, our balcony offered a cozy alternative, and we enjoyed the dramatic sunset views, with clouds creating a beautiful, reddish glow on the rooftops.
Logistics
Accommodation: ANGEL CAVE HOUSES (highly recommended)
Transportation: Public transportation or rideshare
The iconic double blue-domed church in Oia is a must-visit. When we arrived, I showed a picture to a staff member and asked where to take the same shot. She said, “They’re everywhere,” but after walking around, we couldn’t find it. My husband tried following Google Maps but had no luck. A light drizzle started, so we returned to our place to rest and research. Finally, we found a guide on this website: Cheerful Egg.
Seeing this famous spot in person, after seeing it in magazines countless times, was truly exciting.
One big advantage of traveling in the off-season: no crowds! We could take as many photos as we wanted, from every angle, without any pressure.
Since we had plenty of time, we visited the blue-domed church multiple times—once in bright sunlight, another under dark clouds. I even changed outfits for different shots.
Moving forward, we found a terrace overlooking the sea. In summer, it must be wonderful to sit there, listen to the waves, and sip coffee. Unfortunately, it was deserted. The wind had knocked over the tables, and many seaside cafés and restaurants were closed, making the area feel empty. The downside of off-season travel was becoming clear.
We also saw a windmill, another popular spot. Like many islands, Santorini experiences strong winds and waves. Ancient islanders built windmills to grind wheat into flour. Though no longer in use, this windmill remains as a historical landmark.
It was disappointing that so many cafés and restaurants were closed, but then I realized—our balcony was the perfect alternative! A bowl of fruit, the sound of the waves, some sunflower seeds, and sweet wine created the same cozy atmosphere. 😊
We watched the sunset both evenings. Heavy clouds blocked the classic Aegean sunset, but the cloudy sky had its own dramatic beauty. Sunlight struggled through the gaps, casting a reddish glow on distant white rooftops. Thanks to the few houses that kept their lights on, the night scene had an extra touch of warmth.
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