A guide to nightlife in Oia

Oia is simply beautiful in the evenings. Once the sunset crowds have dispersed, the small town is left exuding a magical atmosphere, with the twinkling reflection of the moon and lights from the town in the Aegean Sea. You’ll find that eating late is common on your Greek island holiday, so most of the cafes and restaurants stay open until around midnight and will welcome you in for a nightcap. Expect to find more of a late-night cafe culture rather than an array of loud bars and clubs.

Enjoy the view at Lioyerma Lounge Cafe Pool Bar

With a privileged location above the Aegean Sea facing towards the west, this chilled-out, Ibiza-style venue is named after the Greek word for sunset. Offering a pool in the centre, Lioyerma is a great place to kick back with a cocktail and watch the sun disappear into the water.

A little bit of everything at Paradox

A mishmash of restaurant, bar and cafe, Paradox serves Thai cuisine and summery cocktails until 11.30pm. Situated on the main road, it sometimes shows major live sporting events on its big screens and enjoys the occasional club night with performing DJs. Head here during holidays to Santorini and experience service with a great big smile.

Exotic cocktails at Fino Cocktail Bar & Restaurant

Situated a little off the beaten path, Fino has a great reputation. Sitting in the bar you can enjoy bespoke local cocktails such as the Greek Duck – a fresh and fruity drink with a secret ingredient only found in Greece. Or opt from the great selection of local wines.

A cosy atmosphere at Meteor Cafe

Meteor is small and charming, and one of two places in Oia that serves draught beer. Expect to hear local stories from the owner and be given complimentary baklava pastries as you sip a cocktail at your cute wooden table in what feels like someone’s front room. The views aren’t half bad either.

Unwind at Hasapiko

A former butcher’s shop, Hasapiko is now an institution in the area having been transformed into a lively yet relaxed bar. As one of the funkiest bars in Santorini, there’s diverse music from classic rock to ethnic beats, frequent live musicians, plus cocktails to die for.

Traditional Greek vibes at Santorini Mou

If you picture yourself enjoying a traditional Greek evening of entertainment, look no further than Santorini Mou. The venue, housed in an old villa with a large patio area, feels familiar and cosy. Live traditional singing and dancing are guaranteed so you’ll feel like one of the locals in no time.

Superb views at Sun Spirit

Every evening as the sun sets over Oia, hundreds of people make their way to the cliff edge to watch the magic happen. Sun Spirit invites you to bask in the waning sunlight while you sip indulgent cocktails and fine wines on a spacious terrace with stunning views.

Perched on the edge of the cliff, sip your favourite drinks in a relaxing atmosphere with enchanting ocean and sunset views. The cafe is set over several levels and the interior is a traditional cave-like stone structure with Greek engravings decorating the walls.

Perched on the edge of the cliff, sip your favourite drinks in a relaxing atmosphere with enchanting ocean and sunset views. The cafe is set over several levels and the interior is a traditional cave-like stone structure with Greek engravings decorating the walls.

Light snacks at Pelekanos

Pelekanos is advertised as a restaurant but they also allow guests to come in for drinks and light snacks to enjoy its atmosphere and scenic views. Soft music – including Greek and jazz – plays in the background while you sit back and enjoy the friendly, warm service.

Fresh tapas at Melitini

A former banker and his childhood friend decided to leave the city life of Athens and open the first traditional cafe in Oia, serving food and drink that’s exclusive to Greece holidays. Enjoy tradition-based alcoholic drinks alongside fresh, locally produced tapas on the warm rooftop terrace overlooking the imposing volcano of the caldera.