Santorini is known across the globe as one of the most beautiful destinations in the world. The unmistakable blue and white facades, legendary Aegean Sea, and delicious food make this Greek island a fantastic place to visit, whether you’re a couple on a honeymoon or an adventurous solo traveler.
When visiting Santorini and the Greek islands in general, there are a few things to keep in mind. First of all, it’s going to be crowded (and expensive) in the high season, which is July and August. Not to mention, it’s impossible to find a spot at the iconic sunset spot in Oia unless you’re willing to wait there for hours.
Despite this, the weather will be the most ideal at this time. You can count on sunny days and all restaurants and attractions to be open. Even if you visit during the unpredictable Meltemi winds, you’ll still have a good time on this magical island.
If you can, plan your visit in the off-season. I visited the island as early as May and as late as November, and the weather was absolutely perfect both times.
If you’d like to go swimming, I highly recommend planning your visit for June. The weather is warm, everything is open, and you can explore Santorini without a ton of large crowds.
Once you’ve got your dates set for your volcanic island vacation, you’ll need to figure out where to stay. That’s where we come in! When determining where to stay in Santorini, you’ll have your pick of magnificent mansions, luxury hotels, and traditional cave houses with private terraces or even your own private plunge pool.
No matter where you stay in Santorini, you’ll have a wonderful time enjoying incredible panoramic views, tasty Greek food, and exploring the island’s traditional villages and beach towns. So let’s get into the best areas to stay in Santorini to make your trip a memorable one!
TL;DR Our Favorite Accommodations in Santorini
Best Areas to Stay in Santorini
- Best area for first-timers/tourists – Fira
- Best areas for budget travelers – Kamari & Perissa
- Best areas for luxury travelers – Oia & Vourvoulos
- Best area for safety – Akrotiri
- Best area for families – Imerovigli
- Best area off the beaten path – Megalochori
Where to Stay in Santorini
1. Oia: Best Area for Luxury Travelers
Starting this list off is my personal favorite place to stay when I visit Santorini: Oia. Oia, also called Ia, is one of the main caldera towns on the island.
It’s known for its small luxury hotels, amazing caldera views, and lovely small boutiques. Everywhere on Oia’s main drag is within walking distance to the Castle of Oia, where you can enjoy that famous Santorini sunset.
This is definitely one of the most scenic spots in Santorini. Oia is the best place to stay in Santorini for luxury travelers who want to stay in the most sought-after part of the island.
It’s also the most romantic spot for honeymooners or couples looking for a dreamy escape. The spectacular sunset views are unbeatable from Oia, and there are tons of restaurant and accommodation options. There are no beaches in Oia because it’s perched high on the caldera of a dormant volcano.
The town is pretty tiny; there are just a few parking lots if you plan to rent a car or ATV to explore the rest of the island. Your other options to get around include the local bus and taxi.
I definitely recommend renting a car or ATV in the high season. The bus is extremely popular, so you may end up waiting for a while to get a seat. If you do take the bus, remember to have cash!
Oia is best experienced by relaxing from your private terrace or just enjoying a stroll through the town. There aren’t too many attractions here, but it is super scenic. There are a ton of spots for photographers, as well. Some of the fun and best things to do in and around Oia include:
- Enjoy a romantic dinner and a cocktail on a rooftop terrace (my favorite is Strogili)
- Trek down hundreds of steps to Amoudi Bay
- Shop ’til you drop at all of the fabulous local boutiques
- Have a photoshoot with Oia’s amazing backdrop
- Enjoy a luxury sailing catamaran cruise with lunch and pick-up from Oia
- Experience one of the best sunset views in the world at the Castle of Oia
Accommodation options include boutique hotels, brand-name luxury hotels, private rooms, and whole villas. My husband and I have stayed in a small hotel, a small vacation rental (“cave house”), and a multi-level villa.
They’ve all been fabulous. Whichever option you choose, you’ll be spoiled with breathtaking views and your own private terrace. Here are our favorite accommodations in Oia for all budgets:
- Best Budget Vacation Rental in Oia: Blue Sky Villa – This studio is the perfect budget-friendly solution to stay in Oia. It’s within walking distance from the main path through the town, along with the main bus and taxi terminal.
- Best Mid-Range Hotel in Oia: Secret View Hotel – This stunning hotel features an outdoor pool, terrace, and restaurant. Most rooms have private balconies, while some even have private plunge pools or hot tubs.
- Best Luxury Hotel in Oia: Mystique, a Luxury Collection Hotel – This hotel offers the ultimate luxury escape in Oia. All suites feature sea-facing private terraces to enjoy those famous Santorini sunset views. Many rooms have their own private plunge pool. This is one of the best hotels in Santorini.
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2. Kamari Beach: Best Area for Budget Travelers
Kamari is an awesome little beach town dotted with fun-themed beach bars and some of the best cheap hotels located on the island. Kamari’s beautiful black sand beach offers an amazing place to rest and relax all day long. Kamari is easily accessible by bus, car, or ATV and is only 30 minutes from Oia, which is basically on the opposite side of the island.
The highlight of Kamari is the beach itself. While Santorini is an island, there aren’t too many sandy beaches along its rocky coastlines.
Kamari is one of its few beaches, and it’s a stunner. You can even find pockets of warm water from volcanic heat vents.
When planning your trip to Santorini, you definitely want to block out at least half a day to fully enjoy Kamari. Get there after breakfast and enjoy a freddo espresso while strolling through the charming beach village. There are a few boutiques here and there, but you’ll mostly find restaurants, bars, and hotels.
For the rest of your time in Kamari, you can either completely relax and lounge on a beach chair all day or explore some of its few landmarks. Here are some of the best and most fun things to do in Kamari Beach:
- Order drinks (alcoholic or otherwise) from Hook Bar and enjoy complimentary (and super cute!) beach chairs for the day
- Enjoy cheap and delicious gyros from The Souvlaki Stop
- Hike up to the Church of St. Nicholas for a stunning panoramic view
- Rent a jet ski from Kamari Beach Watersports
- Explore the ancient city of Old Thera
This little beach town is the best place to stay in Santorini for budget travelers. Even the most luxurious hotels in Kamari are a fraction of the cost of a hotel room in Oia.
Accommodations include luxury hotels, private villas, and charming studios. Here are some of the best hotels and vacation rentals in Kamari:
- Best Budget Vacation Rental in Kamari: Narkissos – If you’re looking for where to stay in Santorini on a budget, you can’t beat this holiday apartment. Guests can enjoy a private terrace, free breakfast, and air conditioning. It’s within walking distance of Kamari’s main road filled with the best bars and restaurants.
- Best Mid-Range Hotel in Kamari: Santorini Kastelli Resort – This exquisite hotel features two amazing outdoor pools, a pool bar, a spa, and elegant guest rooms. It’s also just a short walk away from the beach.
- Best Luxury Hotel in Kamari: Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Santorini – Get ready to be spoiled at Nikki Beach Santorini. This hotel features a large outdoor pool and a private beach area. The whole hotel is super modern and stylish. There is an on-site restaurant, fitness center, and spa.
3. Fira: Best Area for First-Timers/Tourists
When visiting Santorini, you’ll most certainly need to at least pass through the capital of Fira. Fira town is where you’ll find the most car rental and tour companies along with the main local bus terminal. This island’s capital is quite a famous town known for its caldera views and some of Santorini’s best hotels.
Fira is the largest of the main caldera villages – the other towns being Oia and Imerovigli. That means there are a ton more boutiques, restaurants, and hotels to choose from compared to the other villages. You can really spend a full day exploring every corner of the town, from quaint souvenir shops to Greek restaurants that boast amazing views and luxury jewelry boutiques.
This amazing little town combines a relaxing cliffside atmosphere with many hotels, bars, and restaurants. It’s also the place to go if you’re searching for the best nightlife in Santorini.
It’s no Mykonos, but there are quite a few bars and nightclubs to choose from. Here are a few of the best things to do in Fira town:
- Visit the Folklore Museum of Santorini to learn about the island’s history
- Take the cable car down to the Old Fira Port
- Enjoy the Greek Wedding Show at The White Door Theatro
- Appreciate the art at Mati Art Gallery
- Stop by the Archaeological Museum of Fira
- Check out the Three Bells of Fira, one of the town’s most photographed spots
- Admire the beautiful St. John the Baptist Cathedral
- Take a cooking class with wine tasting and lunch
Fira is the best place to stay in Santorini for first-time visitors. It is centrally located and easy to access from all parts of the island.
Due to its size, it also offers a lot more variety when it comes to accommodation options. Most hotels here also come with breathtaking views. Here are a few of the best options:
- Best Budget Hotel in Fira: Milos Villas Hotel – Located on the outskirts of Fira, this hotel really gets you the most bang for your buck in Santorini. It features a large outdoor pool and is in close walking distance to all of Fira’s attractions and best restaurants. The highlight of this hotel is its traditional Cycladic windmill that has been transformed into a guest room.
- Best Mid-Range Hotel in Fira: Delion View Hotel – This hidden gem features stunning views of the Aegean Sea, an indoor pool, and free daily breakfast. Enjoy sunset views from the hotel’s lovely terrace with a glass of wine.
- Best Luxury Hotel in Fira: Nefeles Luxury Suites – This luxury hotel offers guest rooms that are all equipped with relaxing hot tubs. The hotel also has an infinity pool and free Wi-Fi throughout the property. The superior suite boasts an incredible river pool and stunning caldera views.
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4. Imerovigli: Best Area for Families
If you’re looking for a more low-key location or where to stay in Santorini with kids, add Imerovigli to your list. It offers the same stunning caldera views as Oia and Fira but with only a small fraction of the crowds that the other towns attract. Imerovigli is more of a residential town but is starting to get its share of luxury and boutique hotels.
Imerovigli is a quiet town located on the caldera cliffs right next to Fira. This village embodies a relaxing atmosphere.
Its name translates to “viewpoint,” and what an amazing one it has. It offers views of the entire caldera as well as the small volcanic peak just off the coast.
Even though Imerovigli sees much fewer tourists than Oia and Fira, you’ll still be able to enjoy the same exquisite Cycladic architecture and romantic sunset views. The whitewashed buildings make the perfect backdrop for solo, couple, and family photos and are just absolutely stunning to see in real life. Here are just a few things to see and do in Imerovigli:
- Hike out to Skaros Rock for the most majestic views
- Visit Anastasios Church, some of the most famous blue domes on the island
- Eat at The Athenian House, one of Santorini’s most romantic restaurants
- Reserve some sun loungers by the pool bar at Le Moustache Caldera Pool Lounge & Restaurant
Imerovigli is the best place to stay in Santorini for families and those who want to be away from the crowds of the bigger towns but still want to enjoy the same great views. This town really offers the best of both worlds when it comes to romance and seclusion. It’s definitely not a ghost town, but also somewhere you’ll be able to have a bit of peace and quiet in the evenings. These are some of the best hotels and vacation rentals in Imerovigli:
- Best Budget Vacation Rental in Imerovigli: Villa Ammos – This awesome villa is a great budget-friendly option for families. It features two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a large terrace to take in the amazing caldera views.
- Best Mid-Range Hotel in Imerovigli: Luna Rossa – This boutique hotel features affordable studios and apartments perfect for solo travelers and families. Enjoy the stunning surroundings with unobstructed views of the Aegean Sea. It is definitely one of the best cheap hotels on this side of the caldera.
- Best Luxury Hotel in Imerovigli: Nobu Hotel Imerovigli – Nobu just recently opened this luxurious hotel boasting an amazing private pool and incredible panoramic views. While you’ll definitely want to indulge in traditional Greek food while in Santorini, plan to have at least one dinner at Nobu’s signature restaurant.
5. Perissa Beach: Best Area for Budget Travelers
The seaside village of Perissa Beach is one of the few beach towns on the island of Santorini. Similar to Kamari, it’s known for its beautiful black sand beach, beach bars, seaside restaurants, and some of the best cheap hotels on the islands.
If you visit Greece to indulge in Greek beach life, this is the perfect place for you. The sandy beach of Perissa seems to go on for miles.
It’s located on the southern side of the island just on the other side of Mesa Vouno from Kamari. Visitors often come here to bask in the sun and take in the stunning views of the black sand contrasting with the deep blue water.
When spending a day on Perissa Beach, you can also explore the nearby beaches of Perivolos and Agios Georgios, which are both just a short walk away from Perissa. This town can be as relaxing or adventurous as you’d like. You can spend a day lounging at one of many beach bars or hike up the mountain for gorgeous views.
Also, just because this is a beach town, that doesn’t mean there aren’t the famous blue domes that Santorini and the rest of the Cyclades are known for. Some of the fun and best things to do in Perissa include:
- Flyboarding or jet skiing with Wave Sports Perissa
- Spend a day at a beach club like Tranquilo
- Hike up to Mesa Vouno
- Eat at one of Perissa’s seafood restaurants (I really liked Aquarius)
- Visit the Museum of Minerals and Fossils
Perissa Beach is the best place to stay in Santorini for budget travelers and solo travelers. There are plenty of cheap hotels to choose from that will give you that Greek island vibe without breaking the bank. It’s also one of the best beach towns on the island. Here are some of the best hotels Perissa has to offer:
- Best Budget Hotel in Perissa: Margareina – This wonderful property is the best cheap hotel in Santorini. Its guest rooms are beautifully designed with a minimalist aesthetic that is perfect for any traveler. The hotel has an outdoor pool and is just a short walk from the beach.
- Best Mid-Range Hotel in Perissa: Sellada Beach Hotel – This absolutely stunning hotel will make you feel like you’ll never want to leave. It features a stunning outdoor bar and restaurant at a beachfront location. If you want a break from the sandy beach, this boutique hotel also has an outdoor pool.
- Best Luxury Hotel in Perissa: Anastasia Princess Luxury Residence (Adults Only) – This romantic beachfront resort is the perfect romantic escape for any traveler. It features not one but three lovely swimming pools. Enjoy your time lounging by your own private plunge pool, at the pool bar, or at the relaxing spa. If the private pools aren’t enough, the hotel is just a one-minute walk from the ocean.
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6. Akrotiri: Best Area for Safety
As home to some of Santorini’s most historical and culturally important sites, Akrotiri is a must-see for everyone when visiting Santorini. The ancient city gets a lot of comparison to Pompeii, as you can visit its amazingly-preserved ruins created after the city was devastated by a huge volcanic eruption.
Some also believe it is actually the lost city of Atlantis. It’s a great place to visit for history buffs and beach lovers alike.
Akrotiri is also home to Santorini’s famous red beach, which gets its color from the island’s rich volcanic soil. It’s an awesome spot to spend a few hours, but if you’re visiting in the summer, you might want to bring a small beach umbrella since there is absolutely no shade. There is a little hike from the parking lot and bus stop to get to the red-sand beach, but it’s doable for most people.
Akrotiri itself covers quite a large area, though it never gets crowded. It’s located on the southwesternmost tip of the island and is filled with vineyards and substantial private villas.
Everything is pretty spread out here, so it’s best to rent a car or ATV. If you take the bus, you’ll only get to explore the ruins and the red sand beach. I do definitely recommend visiting either way, though, so here are some of the best things to see and do in Akrotiri:
- Visit the Red Sand Beach
- Check out the ancient ruins at the Akrotiri Museum
- Visit the less-popular White Beach
- Enjoy the view from the Akrotiri Lighthouse
- Go on an Akrotiri winery tour
Akrotiri is the best place to stay in Santorini if you’re looking for the safest and quietest spot on the island. It’s quite a ways away from Oia and Fira, leaving you to feel like you’re on your own private island. Here are some of the best hotels and vacation rentals that Akrotiri has to offer:
- Best Budget Hotel in Akrotiri: Kalimera Hotel – This family-run hotel features a stunning caldera view from the outdoor pool. It’s in an amazing location right between the Red Beach and the White Beach. Room sizes range from standard hotel rooms to maisonettes.
- Best Mid-Range Hotel in Akrotiri: Kokkinos Villas – If you’re looking for stunning views and amazing rooms at an affordable price point, look no further than Kokkinos Villas. The charming hotel is family-run, and they are available at all times to assist with all of your Santorini vacation needs.
- Best Luxury Vacation Rental in Akrotiri: Le Grand Blue Villa – This two-bedroom villa is just steps away from the Akrotiri Museum and the red sand beach. It’s perfect for families or a group of friends who want a ton of room and privacy. Guests can enjoy the caldera view from several different terraces on the property.
7. Vourvoulos: Best Area for Luxury Travelers
The quiet town of Vourvoulos is unknown to many, but I predict this hidden gem will become the next Santorini hotspot for vacationers. The up-and-coming seaside village is less than five minutes away from Fira and is home to many vineyards and farms. It offers amazing panoramic views of the vast Aegean Sea and a peaceful spot to admire the sunset.
Vourvoulos is the perfect spot to escape the crowds of Santorini’s bigger towns. There are cozy cafes, fresh seafood restaurants, and traditional tavernas. On clear days with calm seas, the beaches on this side of the island offer a super relaxing atmosphere unspoiled by rows and rows of beach chairs and bars. Right now, there aren’t a ton of attractions in Vourvoulos, but here are just a few of the things to do and see here:
- Take a tour of Vassaltis Vineyards
- Visit the scenic and secluded Vourvoulos Beach
- Try traditional Greek taverna food with a view at Roza’s
Vourvoulos is the best place to stay in Santorini for travelers who appreciate understated luxury. If you’ve been to Santorini and experienced staying in magical Oia, I would really suggest trying out Vourvoulos.
It’s so much more peaceful here with no crowds at all, even in the high season. Though, as I mentioned earlier, I do suspect Vourvoulos will become quite popular in the next few years. Here are some of the best accommodations in Vourvoulos:
- Best Budget Vacation Rental in Vourvoulos: North Villa – This peaceful villa can accommodate up to four guests and is spread out over two levels. It features a lovely shaded patio with beautiful sea views. It also has a washing machine and air conditioning.
- Best Mid-Range Hotel in Vourvoulos: Santorini Villas – This amazing hotel puts you right between Fira and the beach. Though you may not want to leave the hotel’s absolutely luxurious swimming pool and sun loungers. The guest rooms are absolutely dreamy and feature majestic sea views.
- Best Luxury Hotel in Akrotiri Vourvoulos: Magma Resort Santorini, The Unbound Collection by Hyatt – If you’re looking to stay at the most luxurious resort in Santorini, this is the place for you. It features the most stunning infinity pool as well as an indoor pool. Many of the rooms feature private plunge pools or jacuzzis.
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8. Megalochori: Best Area Off the Beaten Path
Back on the caldera side of Santorini, we have Megalochori. This traditional village is located on the southwest side of the island, pretty much halfway between Fira and Akrotiri. It’s very similar to Imerovigli in that it features the iconic blue and white Cycladic aesthetic but attracts just a fraction of the crowds that flock to Oia and Fira.
Don’t let this quiet town fool you, though. It offers many luxury hotels and vacation villas for vacationers to enjoy. While you won’t be able to enjoy the same sunset views as Oia from here, you’ll get amazing views during the day of the Aegean Sea filled with majestic sailboats and traditional fishing boats.
This area, just like its neighbor Akrotiri, is home to wineries and small farms. You can enjoy horseback riding or a tour of some of Santorini’s most beautiful vineyards. Fun and best things to do in Megalochori include:
- Hike the path to the Heart of Santorini, a heart-shaped hole in the caldera
- Trek down to the old houses of Plaka, a secluded swimming spot
- Walk through Megalochori village to spot the iconic blue-dome churches
- Book a tour with Santorini Horse Riding
- Explore Gavalas Winery
- Visit the Lost Atlantis Experience Museum
Megalochori is the perfect place to stay in Santorini for those who are looking to stay a bit off the beaten path but still want to enjoy those glorious caldera views. Here are some of the best accommodation options in this beautiful village:
- Best Budget Vacation Rental in Megalochori: Zoi’s Mansions Cave House – This eco-friendly cave house is perfect for couples and solo travelers. It’s decorated in a minimal style and features its own private terrace and a fully equipped kitchen.
- Best Mid-Range Hotel in Megalochori: Suites of the Gods Cave Spa Hotel – This sleek luxury hotel is the perfect affordable romantic escape. The property features a stunning infinity pool, free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and parking. Relax at the spa or take in the breathtaking views at the hotel’s on-site restaurant.
- Best Luxury Hotel in Akrotiri Megalochori: Vedema, a Luxury Collection Resort – Who doesn’t love staying at a luxury collection? While you won’t be close to the iconic sunset spot in Oia, this luxury collection is a fraction of the price of the other one with the same level of upscale amenities. The property was built around a 400-year-old winery and offers stunning views of the Aegean, vineyards, and the caldera.
FAQ
When is the best time to visit Santorini?
The best time to visit Santorini is during shoulder season, meaning the months of May, June, and September. You’ll still get to enjoy perfect weather and all of Santorini’s greatest attractions but without all of the crowds. Hotel and vacation rental prices are also much lower in the shoulder season as compared to the high season.
What are the best places to stay in Santorini for couples?
The most romantic place to stay in Santorini is Oia. You can splurge on a hotel or villa with a private pool and amazing views here. If you and your partner like to party but still want the option of a luxury hotel room to go back to at the end of the night, consider staying in Kamari Beach.
What’s the best area to stay in Santorini for nightlife?
Santorini’s nightlife scene is far less talked about than its sister island Mykonos. But if you love to party, Fira town is the place to be.
Most of the nightclubs in Santorini are concentrated in the island’s capital. If a beach club is more your vibe, there are a few on Perissa beach.
How many days in Santorini is enough?
You’ll want to spend a minimum of three days in Santorini. This will give you enough time to see all of Santorini’s top landmarks and attractions but still gives you time to explore other Greek islands. If you want to relax and incorporate things like a sailing catamaran tour of the island, four to five days would be best.
What is the best way to travel to Santorini?
You have two main options to reach the island: fly or ferry. Prices fluctuate for both, so one might be cheaper than the other depending on when you visit.
If you enjoy slow travel, I recommend the ferry from Athens. You can rent a private room and enjoy Wi-Fi and a few restaurant options during the (up to) eight-hour journey.
If you’re on a time crunch, flying into the Santorini airport takes just 30 minutes from Athens. Seasonal direct flights from major European cities like Milan or London are also available during the summer months.
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