Santorini is busy, there is no way around it. But the island is bigger than Oia, and its quiet villages are only a short bus ride away.
Getting there
Fly to the island or take the ferry from Athens. The ferry takes longer, but arriving under the cliffs is worth the hours.
Where to stay
Stay in Pyrgos or Megalochori, inland villages with good tavernas and a short ride to the caldera.
What I would do differently
I would watch the sunset from Imerovigli instead of Oia. Same view, a fraction of the crowd.
🧭
Prices in this guide are what I paid. They move every season, so use them as a rough guide.