Probably you don’t know it, but we’re real fans of Greece. Every year we try to visit a new place in this unique country. We love it so much, that we even got married in Santorini 🙂 This island is full of magic, breathtaking views, vibrant Greek atmosphere, not to mention delicious vinsanto wine… Definitely different from party island of Mykonos or Crete with all-inclusive resorts. Santorini is a dream destination for a romantic getaway or a once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon. We were wondering where to stay in Santorini for a long time. We wanted a place, where we could organize a wedding and spend some unforgettable days after. Check which hotels we find truly amazing and find out where to stay in Santorini!  

WHERE TO STAY IN SANTORINI?

Have you seen hundreds of photos from Santorini on Instagram? Those with infinity pools, overlooking the caldera and the deep blue Aegean Sea? You can enjoy such views only in hotels located on the west coast of the island, located mostly in 4 towns: Fira, Firostefani, Imerovigli, and Oia. Which one is the best place to stay in Santorini?

Fira is the island’s main city, full of lively streets, bars and shops. There is also a cable car to the harbor at the bottom of the cliff. There you can go on a cruise to the Nea Kameni volcano, to the island on the opposite side of the caldera – Thirassa, as well as on sunset cruises towards Oia. Firostefani and Imerovigli are small towns, which is somehow an extension of Fira. The walk from Fira to Firostfani takes about 15 minutes, to Imerovigli about 30 minutes (hard to even tell where each town ends and where begins). Both towns are a bit calmer than Fira.

In Oia you can admire the most beautiful sunset in the world (according to National Geographic or TripAdvisor). As long as you stay at the hotel it’s fine, but if you want to go somewhere during the day, you may come across crowds. This is the most popular spot in Santorini and many people go there to admire the famous sunset.

Another option, which offers a great view of the caldera, is less popular Akrotiri, located on the southern side of the island. However, the whole area is rather “empty”, so you have to rent a car.

Tip: Where to stay in Santorini on a budget? Yes, it’s possible! Look for something on the east side of the island – in Kamari or Perissa, next to the beach or accommodation far away from the caldera, eg. in Pyrgos. These are the best places to stay in Santorini if you don’t want to break the bank. If you are looking for something less “touristy”, not necessarily luxurious, but with Greek vibes, look for accommodation on the island of Thirassia, eg. Zacharo Rooms. Almost no tourists!

BEST PLACE TO STAY IN SANTORINI – OUR PICKS

What are the criteria? Accommodation must offer a spectacular view of the caldera (after all, this is why you are visiting Santorini, isn’t it?), luxurious design (we love minimalist white interiors), rooms with private infinity pool and highest service quality. Luxury means something else to everyone, so we tried to show places from different price ranges. Remember, because of its picturesque location even very mediocre hotel will add the “premium” anyway… That’s why prices are high. So, where to stay in Santorini to turn your holidays into the once-in-a-lifetime experience?

Tip: Hotels in Santorini are located on the caldera, which sometimes means walking countless steps to access them. If you have mobility issues, it’s best to inform your hotel immediately – they will help you get to your room and take your suitcases to the reception desk.

10 MOST BEAUTIFUL HOTELS IN SANTORINI

Dana Villas, Firostefani

When planning our wedding, we totally couldn’t decide where to stay in Santorini and organize a ceremony. Finally, we chose Dana Villas – the hotel has a beautiful terrace overlooking the caldera, a sensational restaurant, and classy interiors. They offer 2 types of rooms, which are noteworthy: honeymoon villa and infinity pool villa. Initially, we had booked the first room but the hotel gave us an upgrade. What’s the difference? Honeymoon villa has an outdoor pool only, while infinity pool villa, also an indoor pool, well – in the bathroom! Our room, apart from the 2 swimming pools, had a steam bath, double shower, great minimalist design and above all – a beautiful view of the caldera. 

We were really delighted with our stay, the service is top-notch. They pampered us with a bottle of champagne, candle-lit dinner and a massage on our terrace, decorated our room with candles and red roses… I know it may sound a bit cliché, but I was amazed. We didn’t even have time to think about something and then – boom! It materialized in front of our eyes. The hotel suggested, for example, that on the day after the wedding we should invite everyone to our room, set up a great pool party, and they would bring us food and wine from the wedding – how cool is that! 😉 A splendid and luxurious experience you get is definitely worth the price you pay.

Trieris Villa & Suites, Fira

Trieris Villas & Suites are located in buildings built in 1970, and the whole accommodation has a typical Cycladic character, while the interiors are very modern. Another plus is the excellent location – basically in the center of Fira, but still a bit away from the hustle and bustle of the town, straight on the cliff itself. Guests can enjoy amazing views of the Aegean Sea while plunging into the infinity pool, or may also book a room with a private hot tub. Service is really great – they will help you arrange island tours or book a table in a restaurant. You can also take your pet here to enjoy the views with you!

Callia Caves, Fira

This is a completely new development on the hotel map of Santorini. Perfect location in the heart of Fira, close to the restaurants, shops, taxis, bars. Beautiful interior in neutral shades, full of wood and natural fabrics. I particularly enjoyed the idea of a “window” with pillows, where you can sit and admire the giant cruise ships moving in and out the caldera. There is a swimming pool outside, however, it is not an “infinity pool”, but is located in a “cave”. I keep my fingers crossed for this place!

Cocoon Suites, Imerovigli

Hotels in Santorini usually used to be cave houses in the past. Such construction keeps the whole place really cool during hot summer days. Cocoon Suites are also based on this concept – and they look fantastic. The hotel strives for sustainable development – breakfast is made with organic, local products. The design of the rooms is also focused on natural materials – natural wood and glass, in very neutral colors. We really loved the mini Korres cosmetics (our favorite Greek brand!) in the bathroom and SMEG refrigerators in rooms 🙂

Cavo Tagoo, Imerovigli

Cavo Tagoo in Mykonos is a legend and a must-be place for all celebrities and Instagram stars. The one in Santorini is also nothing short of extraordinary. It is one of these luxury, high-end hotels where you wanna stay forever. Each room has a private pool or jacuzzi. When it comes to Cavo Tagoo bright and sophisticated interiors, I especially fell in love with a bit industrial design of bathrooms – just look at these awesome copper elements! This hotel aims at combining luxury with simple pleasures. Can anything beat unwinding in your private pool while enjoying the views of shimmering, azure Aegean Sea?

Rocabella Santorini Resort & SPA, Imerovigli

One of the most popular hotels in Santorini, particularly among young people. It skillfully combines traditional Greek architecture with a bit of modern, quirky vibes. Many rooms have “mini” plunge pools, where you can dip and cool down. The hotel also has a great SPA on-site. In the evening, sit back with a drink in your hand at the hotel bar and admire the mysterious caldera and the sunset. The atmosphere is very relaxed, laid-back and the hotel itself is not snobby at all.

You may find a “twin brother” of this hotel also in Mykonos. If you choose to stay in these two hotels on both islands, you will get a 10% discount 🙂

Kamares Apartments, Fira

In the lively Fira, there is an excellent place, where you can relax and hide from the crowded streets. Kamares Apartments are situated on a cliff overlooking the Aegean Sea, Nea Kameni volcano and Thirassa island. The interiors are designed in style of a modern but cozy Greek home. Be sure to book a room with an outdoor pool. Great value for money, especially in a quite expensive Fira. 

Katikies Hotel, Oia

This hotel is a legend. It was one of the first luxury, high-end hotels in Santorini. For many years Katikies has set the standards for other luxury boutique hotels, not only on the island but also in Greece. This hotel aims at combining luxury with simple pleasures. There is even a fashion boutique! As well as Canaves Oia Suites and SPA, Katikies is constantly honored as one of the best hotels in the world. This is why it’s among the most popular options in Santorini.

Canaves Oia Suites & SPA, Oia

Multi-award-winning hotel, not only as the best hotel not only in Santorini but also in the world! I must admit that we considered this place as our wedding venue (they provide this kind of service). This hotel is extremely posh and rooms have to be booked few months in advance. What makes this place so special?

First of all: a jaw-dropping location. It is situated in Oia, which offers the best view of the world-famous sunset. What else? Guests have their own private yacht, which can take them on a cruise eg. to the islands nearby. Rooms are decorated with antiques and artwork. This is certainly not a “regular” hotel, staying here, surrounded by the ultimate luxury is a kind of experience itself. Now you know where to stay in Santorini if you are a celebrity!

Perivolas Hotel, Oia

Near the Canaves Suites, there is another gem – Perivolas Hotel. It offers one of the most beautiful infinity pools on the island, and some of the rooms have a jacuzzi inside. There is also an excellent restaurant, which is located in the former wine cellar.

Where to stay in Santorini if you want to avoid the crowds? Hotel Perivolas has its secret villa on the island of Thirassia (opposite the main island of Santorini). Away from tourists, right on the seafront, there is a Perivolas Hideaway. This villa is constructed on the site of an old pumice mine. Guests have their own private beach and marina, interiors are extremely elegant and sophisticated. The whole concept of the villa makes the guests feel like they relax on their own private island. Nowadays, when privacy and serenity are luxuries, this idea of holidays seems truly unique.

Any other ideas where to stay in Santorini? Or maybe you are going to Crete or Mykonos?

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