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The Best Santorini Hotels

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By Santorini Dave

My Favorite Santorini Hotels

• Fira: Athina
• Oia: Katikies • Canaves Suites
• Imerovigli: Grace • Astra
• Firostefani: Tsitouras
• Pyrgos: Santorini Sky
• Beach: Istoria
• For Families: Aria
• For Couples: Aenaon
• Best Pool: Andronis Arcadia
• Midrange: Enigma • Kavalari

An infinity pool overlooks the caldera at Katikies Hotel in Oia, Santorini.

Katikies Hotel is my favorite place to stay in the village of Oia.

Santorini Hotels – My Advice

The 61 Best Hotels in Santorini

  • We’ve visited, toured, or stayed at just about every hotel in Santorini. If you need help email me at dave@santorinidave.com.

1. Grace Santorini – Imerovigli

A long infinity pool with lined with sunbeds overlooks the caldera and Skaros Rock in Imerovigli, Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 22860 21300
I love this hotel. The huge pool, great restaurant, and idyllic views make it hard to beat. I can still remember my first visit to the hotel almost 10 years ago just after I started this site. Rooms, suites, and the villa are spacious, ranging from 50 to 400 square meters – most with outdoor, heated plunge pools – all with terraces, twice-daily maid service, turndown service, and tailored amenities (room scent, pillow menu, food preferences) arranged ahead of your stay. The hotel has incredible panoramic sunset views over the caldera, centered on Skaros Rock and stretching from Oia in the north to Akrotiri in the south.

2. Katikies Hotel – Oia

View of the pool and caldera from the restaurant at Katikies Hotel in Oia, Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 22860 71401
Oia’s best five-star property, Katikies is known for its sweeping caldera views, three infinity pools (one heated, two cool), and a Michelin-starred restaurant. Carved by hand into the cliffside, each room and suite here features heritage, cave-style architecture, private terraces, and crisp, white interiors; about half add an outdoor jacuzzi or plunge pool. Gourmet gastronomy is on offer at the award-winning Botrini’s, along with sushi and caviar at the Champagne Bar, while two poolside lounges serve casual fare throughout the day. Tailored experiences on offer include sunset sailing, wine tours and tastings, and VIP access to the Akrotiri archaeological site. There is a small spa on site, or guests can opt to visit the luxe A.Spa at their sister property, Katikies Kirini. Beautiful location on Oia’s marble pedestrian path, near some of the island’s best dining and shopping.

3. Tsitouras Collection – Firostefani

An infinity pool rising above the caldera with a blue and white striped church dome at Tsitouras Collection hotel in Firostefani, Santorini
Hotel phone: +30 22860 23747
Elegant, boutique hotel set in an 18th-century sea captain’s mansion with panoramic views from its infinity pool over the caldera and volcanoes. Each suite and the three-bedroom villa feature polished decor, precious arts and antiques, and sunset caldera views. A la carte breakfast and a nightly sunset cocktail are complimentary, served directly to each suite or to the gorgeous sun terrace, while its Mediterranean kitchen offers light fare and local wine poolside. Room service is available until 11 p.m. Ideal location on a footpath in Firostefani, just steps from the village’s main square and about a 10-minute walk to the capital, Fira.

4. Canaves Oia Suites – Oia

A sun terrace purched atop the cliff with two lounge chairs, an infinity pool and a view of Oia village at Canaves Suites in Santorini
Hotel phone: +30 22860 71453
All-suite, luxury hotel with two pools, sophisticated dining, and caldera views. The main pool has jacuzzi jets and is partially sheltered under a cave, while the shallow infinity pool with built-in sunbeds hovers on the edge of the cliff. Each spacious suite and the three-bedroom villa includes a private, heated plunge pool; the villa adds a full kitchen and sleeps up to seven. Petra Restaurant cooks creative Greek fare, while the pool bar offers a casual, all-day menu, and the Panorama Terrace hosts romantic dining for two. A private cellar, holistic wellness center, clifftop yoga, and weekly offerings (live music, cocktail nights, and degustation events) keep well-heeled guests entertained. Located at the entrance to Oia village, just a short walk from dining, shopping, and sights, while remaining quiet and crowd-free.

5. Astra Suites – Imerovigli

An infinity pool overlooking the caldera with Skaros Rock, the volcanoes, and ferry boats at Astra Suites in Imerovigli, Santorini
Hotel phone: +30 22860 24763
Romantic, all-suite hotel in a privileged, cliffside location with a seasonally-heated infinity pool and fine-dining Greek restaurant. Sunset views here are among the best on the island. Spacious suites include kitchenettes, private terraces, and caldera views; many add outdoor jacuzzis or private pools. This is one of only a handful of luxury hotels on the caldera that allows children; the two-bedroom, two-bath family suite sleeps four. Villas can accommodate six guests. Nestled in the heart of Imerovigli village above Skaros Rock and steps to excellent restaurants.

6. Aenaon Villas – Imerovigli

An infinity pool bounded by two boulders above the caldera with Skaros Rock and the volcanoes in the distance at Aenaon Villas in Imerovigli, Santorini
Hotel phone: +30 22860 27014
Perched on one of the highest points in the caldera, Aenaon Villas is a serene hideaway with expansive views of the caldera sunset and the Aegean sunrise. Its six luxury villas offer a blend of traditional Cycladic design with modern minimalism. Amenities include bespoke service and a caldera-view pool; two villas have their own private water features: one with an outdoor jacuzzi and one with an outdoor pool. A true getaway, the location may feel remote for some. A rental car is recommended for exploring the island.

7. Saint Hotel – Oia

Two rows of double-sized sunbeds behind an infnity pool overlookign the caldera at Saint hotel in Oia, Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 22860 72473
Lavish, adults-only hotel with an infinity pool, a refined Greek restaurant, and a plush spa with an infinity waterfall pool. Suites feature caldera views, king-sized beds, and furnished terraces with private jacuzzis or heated pools (the villa has both). A young-trending hotel, Saint offers plenty to do, including DJ sets three nights a week, wine tastings, two yachts, and a fleet of Range Rovers with drivers at the ready. Complimentary a la carte breakfast is delivered to each suite, while Trinity restaurant provides meals throughout the day. The hotel sits on the pedestrian pathway at the east entrance to Oia, a pleasant walk to the heart of the village.

8. Kivotos Hotel – Imerovigli

A glass-table sits behind a glass-front infinity pool with a dining terrace overlooking the caldera at Kivotos Hotel in Imerovigli, Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 22860 28490
Glamorous hotel with an unorthodox design, a glass-front infinity pool, and a Mediterranean-French restaurant. Accommodations come with seasonally-heated indoor or outdoor jacuzzis, plunge pools, cave pools, or swimming pools. All rooms, all suites, and most villas have spectacular sunset caldera view. Some of the more unusual villas are dug deep into the volcanic cliff, offering maximum privacy with caldera views only from their rooftop sun decks. Villas add kitchens, hammams, spa rooms, and at least one bathroom per bedroom (up to four bedrooms, sleeping up to eight guests). Nestled in Imerovigli at the beginning of the Skaros Rock hiking trail.

9. Santorini Sky – Pyrgos

Outside a villa with a private pool and pergola-shaded, furnished patio in a garden setting at Santorini Sky in Pyrgos.
Hotel phone: +30 69807 50350
Ultra private escape spread over three locations in Pyrgos allows guests to choose how off-the-grid they want to be. All villas and suites include a king-sized bed, both indoor and outdoor showers, and a panoramic terrace with a jacuzzi or pool. Breakfast is included and served in the Sky Lounge or to your villa as late as 2:00 pm. Unlimited snacks and drinks from local producers are complimentary and available all day (the only thing with a charge is alcohol). Santorini Sky is best loved for its Sky Dome Experience: a romantic evening of sunset viewing and stargazing in a climate-controlled, geodesic dome with wine, light fare, and dedicated butler service. Beautiful setting in the highest village on Santorini, with sunrise and sunset views over the whole island. There is one electric vehicle on site for guests’ use; to explore the island from here, you’ll definitely need a car.

10. Athina Luxury Suites – Fira

A man in a sunbed watches the sunset over the caldera and volcano, as seen from the infinity pool of Athina Luxury Suites in Fira, Santorini
Hotel phone: +30 22860 24910
This is my favorite hotel in Fira. An all-suite hotel with a great location on the caldera, overlooking the volcano, steps (and stairs) to the island’s best dining and nightlife. Each suite is unique, but all feature upscale minimalist design and sweeping sunset views from their private balconies. Many add private, outdoor jacuzzis. The main pool has a swim-up bar and overlooks the caldera. The restaurant, Esperisma, offers elevated yet unpretentious Greek fare. One the few family-friendly hotels on the caldera, Athina offers babysitting and suites large enough to accommodate groups of four to six.

11. Iconic Santorini – Imerovigli

View from above a pool and sun terrace facing the caldera, volcanoes, and ferry boats at Iconic Hotel in Imerovigli, Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 22860 28950
Boutique luxury hotel featuring an infinity pool, a spa with a grotto pool, and a Greek-international fusion restaurant. Breakfasts here are an over-the-top, indulgent affair, and room service is available 24 hours a day. Astounding caldera views are had throughout the property and from each suite. All suites feature private verandas, Coco-Mat beds, and 100% Greek-made furniture and decor; many also feature private, heated jacuzzis, or plunge pools. In-room perks include nightly turndown service and pillow menus. Romantic location on the quiet southern edge of Imerovigli village, near Skaros Rock and some of the island’s best restaurants.

12. Katikies Kirini – Oia

Long view of an infinity pool between two tiers of dining terraces overlooking the caldera at Katikies Kirini hotel in Oia, Santorini
Hotel phone: +30 22860 71236
Poised hotel in Oia with an infinity pool overlooking the caldera, a holistic spa with a cave pool, and an upscale restaurant and bar. The restaurant is helmed by a Michelin-awarded chef and focuses on Mediterranean cuisine, especially the flavors of Tuscany. Views are phenomenal from every suite, most of which include a private jacuzzi or private pool. Service is attentive and personalized.

13. Cavo Tagoo – Imerovigli

A dining terrace next to a row of floating sunbeds in an infinity pool with a view over the caldera and toward the cliffs and Oia village in the distance at Cavo Tagoo hotel in Imerovigli, Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 22860 27900
Stylish hotel with a heated, infinity pool and incredible views of the caldera and sunset. The bistro-inspired Greek restaurant features an open-fire grill and service all day until midnight, while more casual dishes and drinks are available at the pool lounge. All suites boast a private terrace (usually larger than the room itself) with caldera sunset views, plus a jacuzzi, heated pool, or both. Nightly turndown service, free valet parking, and in-room massage complete the luxury experience. Situated on a tranquil stretch of the Fira-Oia hiking trail, about a 15-minute walk from the dining and sights of Imerovigli village. The bus to Fira stops right in front of the hotel.

14. Santa Irini Retreat – Thirassia

A stone-built swimming pool with a pergola and sunbeds at the far end with the Aegean sea spreading out behind the property at Santa Irini Retreat in Thirassia near Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 69754 00059
Easygoing elegance on Thirassia Island, where time seems to stand still. Santa Irini Retreat is home to the historic Santa Irini Church that gave the island of Santorini its name. At the hotel, you’ll find a stone-built pool with sunset views (plus a refreshingly stylish disabled access ramp), a cellar stocked with wine from Thirassia, Santorini, and Southern Greece. Complimetary breakfast and a selection of local, seasonal dishes are served al fresco among the vineyards and gardens with with caldera views. Its four suites and two cave rooms all have pergola-shaded patios, fully equipped kitchenettes, king or super king beds, and rustic chic design and decor befitting the natural surroundings. The port of Riva is a mere 10-minute walk away (ferries to Oia run three times a day), while the main village Manolas (with restaurants, a market, and wood-oven bakery) is about a 25-minute walk away.

15. Carpe Diem – Pyrgos

Baskets of flowers sit next to a kidney-shaped infinity pool with a panoramic view over Santorini at Carpe Diem hotel in Pyrgos village.
Hotel phone: +30 22860 34090
This understated retreat offers elegant accommodations, exceptional dining, a decadent spa, and an infinity pool with panoramic views over the island. All suites offer ample space, utmost privacy, exclusive plunge pools (six heated, four unheated), and both sunrise and sunset views. Dining is phenomenal at Exaltis, offering a fine dining menu of elevated, Cycladic dishes. Unparalleled, bespoke service completes the experience with a 1-to-1 guest-staff ratio, 24-hour butler service, and a host of experiences and packages tailored to guests’ desires.

16. Katikies Garden – Fira

Couples and families enjoy the rooftop infinity pool and sunbeds at Katikies Garden hotel in Fira, Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 22864 40900
Katikies Garden is the only five-star hotel in Fira and offers a spa and infinity pool with a caldera view. Set in an 11th-century Venetian monastery that used to store the pope’s wine, the hotel celebrates its history with wine tastings held it its three cellars, an impressive menu of fine wines, and a gourmet Mediterranean restaurant designed around wine. For families, the hotel offers kids menus, pool toys, babysitting, and a special turndown service for kids. Suites are spacious and beautifully appointed, all with private jacuzzis or pools and half with sunrise sea views (not of the caldera).

17. Anteliz Suites – Firostefani

A freeform pool with attached jacuzzi sits on a terrace with sunbeds and a view of the caldera and volcanoes at Anteliz Suites in Firostefani, Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 22860 28842
Anteliz Suites has a magical mix of dreamy sunsets, supreme hospitality, tranquil surroundings in Firostefani, and easy access to Fira’s best dining and nightlife. Highlights include a pool with an attached jacuzzi, a dining terrace with caldera views, and elegant suites with private, heated pools or jacuzzis. Anteliz also has fewer stairs than most other hotels on the caldera.

18. Andronis Arcadia – Oia

View from one infinity pool looking down onto a second infinity pool with the Aegean Sea in the background at Andronis Arcadia hotel in Oia, Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 22860 27392
Family-friendly, luxury hotel with a full-service spa, sunset-view infinity pool and a lagoon-like pool that transforms into a lavish bar at night. Suites and villas are spacious, all with private, heated pools and sunset views over the Aegean (not the caldera). Food is impressive at their modern Greek and sushi taverna, Pacman, with casual offerings throughout the day at the pool bar. Kid-centric offerings include children’s spa treatments, family yoga, and kids’ amenities in the rooms. Arcadia guests may visit the sister hotel, Andronis Concept Wellness, for family cooking classes and tennis. Great location in Oia, close to the caldera, dining, shopping, and bus stop to Fira but away from the busy core.

19. Canaves Ena – Oia

A dining terrace with white umbrellas over a row of tables seems to float above the caldera at Canaves Ena hotel in Oia, Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 22860 71844
A postcard-perfect hotel with dazzling sunset views, incredible Greek-Mediterranean dining, and a refreshing pool. Every cave-style suite features hand-crafted architecture, a private terrace with breathtaking caldera views, and perks including a pillow menu and complimentary wine. Most suites add a private plunge pool.

20. Santorini Princess Spa Hotel – Imerovigli

Sunbeds and thatched umbrellas sit behind a pool with views over the caldera toward Oia village and Thirassia Island at Santorini Princess Spa Hotel in Imerovigli.
Hotel phone: +30 22860 25870
Amazing sunset views of the caldera from Oia to Akrotiri and all the islands, volcanoes, and Skaros Rock in between. There’s a fabulous infinity pool, contemporary Greek restaurant, and a cave-style wellness center with a jacuzzi and sauna. Service is attentive but never stuffy, and the ambiance is warm and inviting. Peaceful location just north of Imerovigli, offering plenty of quiet while remaining within walking distance of the village center.

21. 1864 The Sea Captain’s House – Oia

A whitewashed, cave-style suite with minimalist decor at 1864 The Sea Captain's House in Oia, Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 22860 71983
Made up of just four sea view suites, this historic mansion is among the oldest on the island and one of only a few in Oia that survived the 1956 earthquake. All suites feature marble bathrooms and breathtaking views over the caldera, volcanoes, and the village itself. Three suites are decorated in traditional style with antique, canopy beds and dark wood furniture. Freshly renovated, the 100-square-meter cave suite is one of the largest cave rooms on the island and is dressed in contemporary, minimalistic decor. A splendid breakfast is included, served al fresco on each suite’s balcony. Set in the heart of Oia, just steps from the blue church domes, the castle ruins, and myriad restaurants.

22. Andronis Concept Wellness Resort – Imerovigli

An infinity pool sat just below a dining terrace in a contemporary building at Andronis Concept Wellness in Imerovigli, Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 22860 36737
The best hotel for families in Santorini, Andronis Concept Wellness is completely unique in the area, offering three community pools, a superb spa, and amazing suites all with private, heated, plunge pools. Its spa features a range of skin and massage treatments, signature sunset yoga, and integrated spa-fitness-meal packages. Family perks include kids yoga, cooking classes, and kids in-room amenities. The restaurant’s menu is overseen by a nutritionist and features healthy, delicious dishes using local ingredients, many of which are grown onsite.

23. Istoria – Perivolos Beach

A long, stone-built infinity pool with sunbeds on both sides facing a Cycladic-style building at Istoria Hotel in Perivolos, Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 22860 85051
The most luxurious property on the eastern half of the island. Istoria has a lavish infinity pool, sophisticated dining, wellness spa, and a posh, serviced beach on a long stretch of black sand. All suites are well-appointed with fine linens, leather, and bespoke furnishings; most have a private, outdoor jacuzzi or plunge pool.

24. Charisma Suites – Oia

An infinity pool faces the caldera and a zigzagging path down the cliffside from the village above at Charisma Hotel in Oia, Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 22860 27310
Known for its nightly sunset champagne events, this small luxury hotel features classic cave architecture, two infinity pools, and a Mediterranean restaurant. All suites have private balconies with sweeping caldera views; six suites boast outdoor jacuzzis, two have infinity pools, and one has a cave pool. A la carte breakfast is delivered to each suite daily. Located near Oia’s picturesque windmills, blue-domed churches, and great restaurants.

25. The Vasilicos – Imerovigli

View from above a private pool on a terra cotta tiled terrace with views over the caldera and volcanoes at The Vasilicos hotel in Imerovigli, Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 22860 23143
Family-owned, all-suite hotel with a heated pool perched over the caldera. The Vasilicos pays particular attention to fine details, from bespoke ceramics to jewelry made from the family’s heritage tableware and in-suite libraries. Exceptional dining begins with a la carte breakfast served to each suite and continues into the evening with wine tastings and food pairings with local, market-fresh ingredients. All seven suites boast caldera views; four have private, heated plunge pools. Located at the south end of Imerovigli, about five minutes’ walk from restaurants there or in neighboring Firostefani.

26. Aria Suites & Villas – Fira

A large pool with a pair of sunbeds on each side and a view over the caldera at Aria Suites and Villas in Fira, Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 22860 28650
The best luxury hotel in Fira for families. A three-minute walk to shops and restaurants but still relatively quiet. Only a handful of suites (all of them large) so book early. One of the few luxury hotels on the caldera that allows young children (largely because it sits back from the caldera’s edge). Very few steps to access the hotel, making it a good choice for those with limited mobility. Villas (pictured above) are pure luxury with fantastic views and private plunge pools, just a short walk from the main hotel and pool area.

27. Domes Novos – Oia

Dining tables set up beside an infinity pol with the sea in the distance at Domes Novos hotel in Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 23108 40550
Family-friendly, luxury resort with just outside Oia with a heated infinity pool, a gourmet restaurant, and a spa with an indoor pool and hammam. Families with young children can enjoy the kids club for ages 4 to 12 with indoor and outdoor play areas and a shallow pool. Family rooms sleep up to five guests. All rooms, suites, and villas have a king-sized bed, two sinks in the bathrooms, and private terraces with heated pools. The hotel offers a range of activities and services, including sunrise yoga, painting lessons, wine tastings, and free shuttle service to Oia twice a day. If you prefer to walk, it’s only 10 minutes to the shops, dining, and sights of the village or just 15 minutes to the caldera’s edge (but the main road has no sidewalk for most of the route).

28. Celestia Grand – Mesaria

A infinity pool in the middle of a terrace with sunbeds and a Bali bed overlooking the caldera at Celestia Grand hotel in Mesaria, Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 22860 25900
A glamorous set of luxury villas, all with kitchenettes, spacious terraces, private heated pools, and direct sunset views. All villas have indoor jacuzzi tubs; some add outdoor hot tubs. Villas range from studios up to two-bedrooms. Five-star perks include airport and port transfer, an all-day shuttle to Fira, and daily breakfast delivery. VIP services include helicopter charters, private caldera cruises, and personal chef service. Celestia Grand sits on the caldera in Mesaria, about two km south of Fira, easy to access but removed from the crowds.

29. Nobu Hotel – Imerovigli

Wide-angle view of an infinity pool with an island of sunbeds in the middle at Nobu hotel in Imerovigli, Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 69462 22772
A cosmopolitan collection of suites and villas combining luxurious Santorinian style with subtle Japanese elements. The signature Nobu restaurant is the heart of the hotel, with exquisite Japanese dishes infused with Peruvian accents and Aegean ingredients. Accommodations feature cave-style showers and furnished terraces, most with private plunge pools or swimming pools. Facilities include a split-level infinity pool and a fitness center. Absolutely stunning sunset caldera views in this serene retreat about a 20-minute walk from Imerovigli village. Adults only.

30. Sea Breeze Beach Resort – Exomitis Beach

A rectangular pool with sunbeds on its long sides and a bar at the far end with the sea in the background at Sea Breeze hotel in Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 22864 40600
Enchanting, five-star, beachfront resort on a swathe of black sand at the very southern tip of the island. All rooms and suites have their own private outdoor jacuzzis or heated, jetted pools, plus furnished balconies or terraces, and complimentary water shoes (the black sand gets hot, and the beach is a little rocky). The resort features a private beach with food and beverage service and sunbed- umbrella sets exclusively for hotel guests. There are also two adult pools, two children’s pools, and a wellness center with indoor and outdoor treatment areas. Gourmet dining at Aura sees a creative Mediterranean menu, while Ostria Lounge serves a light menu and refreshing cocktails by the main pool and beach. This romantic hideaway is fairly remote; renting a car is advisable.

31. San Antonio – Imerovigli

A long view onto the infinity pool with sunbeds and a restaurant at the far end at San Antonio hotel in Imerovigli, Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 22860 24388
Quiet and secluded, San Antonio is perfect hotel for a romantic honeymoon retreat. The hotel’s lava rock architecture blends into the natural landscape as if it were part of the island itself. Guests will find a clifftop infinity pool, casual and fine dining Greek-Mediterranean kitchens, and a cave spa with a jacuzzi and Vichy shower. All rooms and suites include private, furnished verandas, and most have indoor or outdoor jacuzzis. Tucked away in the cliffs north of Imerovigli, most people will want to rent a car if they’re serious about sightseeing. The walk to the Imerovigli is a gorgeous 40-minute hike along the caldera path, while Oia is 50 minutes in the opposite direction.

32. Anastasis Apartments – Imerovigli

An infinity pool with an edge that appears to blend into the sea perched above the caldera with a view toward Thirassia at Anastasis Apartments in Imerovigli, Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 22860 25508
Unpretentious luxury hotel ideal for longer stays with a heated, caldera-view pool, a spa with an indoor pool, and an outdoor relaxation zone with a jacuzzi and massage therapy. All apartments come complete with a king-sized bed, full kitchen, and either a furnished balcony or a terrace with sun loungers and a jacuzzi. Though the apartments are self-catering, breakfast is included in the rates offering a different set menu daily. There is not a full restaurant onsite, but there is a small kitchen with a small menu of light, traditional, Greek fare and drinks available all day until 9:30 pm. Wonderful perch right on the Fira to Oia trail, within a pleasant 10-minute walk of a couple of good restaurants, and within a 20-minute walk of a ton of excellent restaurants in the heart of Imerovigli.

33. Kapari Natural Resort – Imerovigli

A small infinity pool facing the caldera and Thirassia Island at Kapari Natural Resort in Imerovigli, Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 22860 21120
Luxury hotel set in a lovingly-restored, 300-year-old, complex of cave homes – one of a slim number of buildings in Imerovigli to survive the destruction of the 1956 earthquake. Traditional architecture combines with modern minimalism in all 17 rooms and suites here. Each room and suite has a unique layout and size, but all have cave showers and all but one have king-sized beds (the other has two queens). Accommodations either include a private balcony or direct pool access; most also have a a jacuzzi that can be indoor, private outdoor, or shared outdoor. The Kapari Wine Restaurant offers an elevated, adults-only dining experience featuring a creative, Mediterranean menu and all ingredients procured from local farmers and fishermen. A combination buffet and a la carte breakfast is complimentary.

34. Andronis Boutique Hotel – Oia

Magenta bougainvillea flowers frame a pool with a sun terrace jutting out over the caldera toward Thirassia Island at Andronis Boutique Hotel in Oia Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 22860 72182
Refined, luxury all-suite hotel on the Oia caldera with a decadent restaurant and two pools (one heated and one cool). Each hand-sculpted cave suite is completely unique, though all offer private, heated jacuzzis or pools and spectacular caldera views from their private terraces. Dining at Lauda Restaurant is a highlight and features a menu designed by a Michelin three-star chef.

35. Cosmopolitan Suites – Fira

An infinity pool with a row of sunbeds behind, a stairway leading up to hotel rooms, and a view over the caldera at Cosmopolitan Suites in Fira, Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 22860 25632
Great location in the heart of Fira. Trendy Cosmopolitan Suites offers one of Santorini’s best infinity pools, plus an all-day pool bar and restaurant. Hip suites come with king-sized beds, walk-in showers, and private terraces; top-tier suites add indoor or outdoor private jacuzzis. The two-bedroom, two-bath, loft-style villa is ideal for a larger groups. Set in the heart of Fira, nightlife, restaurants, and shopping are steps from the front door.

36. Oia Spirit Boutique Residences – Oia

View from inside a cave pool facing a blue-domed church at Oia Spirit Boutique Hotel in Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 69729 72151
Crisp white houses with caldera views in the most extraordinary location in Oia: right on top of the iconic blue domes. The cave houses have been hand-carved into the caldera and feature whitewashed walls, archways, and harmonious furnishings in wood and stone. Five include private, outdoor jacuzzis; the remaining three share access to the handsome cave pool pictured above. Well-situated in Oia with restaurants, the castle ruins, and windmills mere steps away.

37. Ethos Vegan Retreat – Imerovigli

The exterior of a villa featuring modern, Cycladic architecture, lava rock walls, and a garden at Ethos Vegan Retreat in Imerovigli, Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 22860 21675
Gorgeous collection of four sustainably built villas owned by a local family. Each spacious villa features a private, heated pool, furnished terrace, two bedrooms, two bathrooms and a living room and views toward the sea and sunrise. Two villas add a second living room and rooftop terrace. Of course, the complimentary vegan breakfast is a highlight, with a variety of sweet and savory dishes served directly to each villa any time of day. Room service is on offer until the evening, with a range of Greek, Italian, and Mid-Eastern dishes in vegan preparations. Vegan cooking classes are offered, too, in the outdoor kitchen. Other eco-friendly initiatives onsite include composting, recycling, glass instead of plastic, environmentally safe cleaning products, locally made cabinetry, furniture, and pottery, plus biodegradable toilet tissue (this may be the only hotel in Santorini where you can actually flush the toilet paper – sometimes it’s the little things that make a difference). Quiet location just north of Imerovigli village, about a five-minute walk to the caldera and 20-minute walk to the center. A car is recommended for stays in this area. There is a bus stop nearby on the route to Oia, but it takes two buses to return.

38. Noūs Santorini – Mesaria

View from above a large pool with sunbeds and dining tables on one side an the sea in the distance at Nous Hotel in Mesaria, Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 21032 73200
This new hotel’s claim to fame is having the largest pool on the island – a whole acre in size. A second heated, indoor/outdoor pool is located in the spa, which also happens to be the largest spa on the island and boasts a steam room, sauna, and cold plunge pool. Rooms feature one king or two twin beds, walk-in showers (some with two shower heads), and private balconies or patios; suites and bungalows add private outdoor jacuzzis or swimming pools. Restaurants here serve Mediterranean comfort dishes in Oenous (which has wine from every single vineyard in Santorini), casual favorites at Donkey Ears Bar and Restaurant, and organic, unprocessed light bites and juices at the Vitamin Bar. Centrally located in Mesaria, a local’s area, just a short walk to a handful of homey, authentic restaurants and near the bus stop with routes to the capital Fira, Kamari Beach, Perissa Beach, and Vlychada Beach.

39. Perivolas – Oia

An infinity pool outlined in bold black and white on a terrace overlooking the caldera at Perivolas hotel in Oia, Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 22860 71308
Upscale hotel designed in the traditional, Cycladic cave style with a relaxing infinity pool, full-service spa, and caldera views. Every suite has a kitchenette and sea view terrace; some have private pools or jacuzzis. None have TVs – it’s all about disconnecting here. Dining is superb in their modern Greek restaurant featuring local, seasonal ingredients and set in a converted wine cave. Beautifully located at the entrance to Oia village, a short, pleasant stroll from many of Santorini’s best restaurants, shops, and attractions.

40. Armenaki – Oia

A private plunge pool sits on a balcony above the hotel's main pool with a view of the caldera at Armenaki hotel in Oia, Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 22860 27333
Polished boutique hotel built in a contemporary cave-style on the cliffs of Oia. Rooms and suites are tastefully decorated in cream and earth tones with queen-sized beds and caldera views. Each with a private terraces and heated, outdoor plunge pool or infinity pool. The hotel’s 24-hour Mediterranean kitchen highlights local, organic dishes delivered directly to each room, including a daily complimentary breakfast. Situated between Ammoudi and Armeni Bays, just steps from the famous blue-domed church, the castle ruins, and the windmills.

41. Divine Cave Experience – Imerovigli

A rectangular infinity pool with double-sized floating sunbeds on the long sides and a restaurant in the back at Divine Cave Experience in Imerovigli, Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 22860 24654
Right on the Fira to Oia trail, this romantic adults-only hotel has ten cave-style suites, all with private, outdoor jacuzzis and caldera views. Some jacuzzis are in the same cave style, while others are open to the sun. Suites also come with a designated, private cabana near the main pool and overlooking the caldera – perfect for taking in the sunset with a cocktail or local wine. The poolside lounge serves light fare throughout the day, while the rooftop restaurant cooks up Greek-Mediterranean delights in the evenings, accompanied by sweeping views of the caldera, sunset, and Oia village in the distance. Downstairs in an old wine cave, find a wellness center with an indoor heated pool and a treatment menu spotlighting ancient, holistic therapies. Unhurried and uncrowded location, yet only a 10-minute walk to Imerovigli village and its incredible restaurants and sights.

42. Katikies Chromata – Imerovigli

A private, furnished balcony overlooks an infinity pool, the caldera, and the volcanoes at Katikies Chromata hotel in Imerovigli, Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 22860 23227
Vibrant hotel with a mix of traditional, cave architecture and contemporary decor. The infinity pool overlooks the caldera at one end with a shaded cave at the other. Its beautifully decorated suites cascade down the cliff side, all with private verandas and caldera views and most with private jacuzzis or pools. The signature restaurant, Chroma, serves creative Mediterranean dishes all day with an emphasis on seafood, while the Lounge offers light fare, sushi, and caviar. Stunning location in Imerovigli, the highest village on the caldera’s edge, near restaurants, shops, and sights.

43. Maeva Suites – Episkopi Gonias

A boho chic room with a built in L-shaped sofa and elevated bed at Maeva Suites in Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 69486 62515
Nestled in the hills and surrounded by centuries-old vineyards, Maeva is a secluded, all-suite retreat in the center of the island. Clear night skies here are wonderful for stargazing. Accommodations all offer sea views and private terraces; most have kitchenettes; some feature outdoor jacuzzis. The hotel sits about 500 meters from the rural village of Episkopi Gonia, less than a 15-minute walk to many of the island’s best wineries, Santorini Brewing Company, and a couple of excellent restaurants. A bus stop with service to Fira and Kamari is about a 10-minute walk away, though we do suggest renting a car for stays here to make island exploration easier.

44. North Santorini – Pyrgos

One row of single-sized sunbeds on a terrace and one row of floating, double-sized sunbeds in the infinity pool with a view over the island and sea at North Santorini hotel in Pyrgos village.
Hotel phone: +30 22860 34246
Sleek, boho-chic hotel in a garden on the mountain in Pyrgos with panoramic views over the island. Most suites have sunrise views, and all have an outdoor jacuzzi or heated private pool (villas have both). Two shared pools here: an outdoor infinity pool and a heated pool in the spa, which also features a cave jacuzzi and hammam. The culinary program here includes a fine dining Nikkei (Japanese-Peruvian) restaurant, a stylish sushi bar, a sunset-view pool bar, and complimentary, a la carte breakfast. Located about a five-minute walk to the village, a charming warren of footpaths and stairways with castle ruins, spectacular views, and excellent restaurants. Regular bus service to Fira, but a car is recommended for getting anywhere else on the island.

45. Canaves Epitome – Oia

An L-shaped infinity pool with sunbeds on one side and a restaurant on the other overlooks the Aegean Sea at sunset at Canaves Epitome hotel in Oia, Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 22860 72499
Extravagant hotel with a spa and huge pool in a secluded location 500 meters from the heart of Oia. Generous suites and villas offer private plunge pools or swimming pools, private verandas, and sunset sea views (not of the caldera). The two fantastic restaurants highlight modern takes on Greek-Mediterranean cuisine, while their signature champagne breakfast offers a different menu daily. The hotel sits north of Oia village, about a 10-minute walk to the windmills and 15 to the castle ruins, or take advantage of the hotel’s complimentary shuttle service to and from the village.

46. Ikies – Oia

A series of furnished terraces, balconies, and stairways overlook the caldera and a catamaran at Ikies hotel in Oia, Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 22860 71311
All-suite, boutique, luxury hotel with a pool and views over the caldera toward Armeni Port and the heart of Oia. Its thirteen houses (a mix of studios, suites, and maisonettes) differ in size and layout, but all boast private verandas, caldera views, and walk-in showers. Ten add outdoor jacuzzis, and nine of those have hammams. Although there is no restaurant onsite, the hotel’s kitchen offers a private fine dining menu in the evenings, a la carte breakfast, and an all-day menu of light bites and drinks, served directly to each house from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Guests receive a bottle of wine as a welcome gift on arrival. Wonderful location at the quiet, east end of Oia, a short walk to the world-famous domed churches, dining, and luxury shopping.

47. Above Blue – Imerovigli

An infinity pool sits behind pairs of sunbeds facing the caldera at Above Blue Suites in Imerovigli, Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 22860 24644
A charming, luxury boutique featuring private jacuzzi suites and a villa with a private plunge pool, all with jaw-dropping, sunset caldera views. Champagne breakfasts are delivered daily to each suite, while dinner service is hosted on their intimate dining terrace. Above Blue’s infinity-edge pool, warm hospitality, and unique suites complete the experience.

48. Sun Rocks – Firostefani

A freeform pool sits at the bottom of a flight of stairs on a wooden deck with sunbeds and a restaurant at Sun Rocks hotel in Firostefani, Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 22860 23991
Intimate luxury hotel designed for couples on the caldera’s edge in Firostefani. Its 18 rooms and suites all show off direct caldera views from the beds and private balconies or terraces. The Experience Suite offers deep soaking tub in front of an enormous window overlooking the caldera; Cave Suites and Honeymoon Suites have indoor jacuzzis with caldera views; and the Sun Rocks Suite (the top-top tier category) has its own infinity pool above the caldera, partially open to the sun and partially shaded in a cave. Luxe perks include nightly turndown service and a welcome bottle of local wine and fruit in the room on arrival. A gourmet restaurant and small spa complete the package. Highly walkable location in Firostefani near the main square and fantastic dining; the nightlife, shopping, and bus hub of Fira are a pleasant 10 to 15-minute walk away on the pedestrian path.

49. Esperas – Oia

Facing in toward the cave-style pool and multi-level architecture of Esperas Hotel below a windmill in Oia, Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 22860 71088
Authentic, cave-style, boutique hotel under the Oia windmills with a pool and unobstructed caldera views throughout the property. The pool, restaurant, bar, and seven of the 21 studios and houses offer direct sunset views. Each studio and house is unique, having been sculpted from the cliffside by hand; six have private plunge pools or jacuzzis. Decor fuses traditional and contemporary elements, service is heartfelt, and the location is surprisingly private.

50. Aeifos Booutique Hotel – Imerovigli

View from above the infinity pool overlooking the caldera with the volcanoes and Thirassia in the background at Aeifos Boutique Hotel in Imerovigli, Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 22860 25148
Smartly designed boutique hotel at the top of the caldera in Imerovigli. The main pool and all-day Mediterranean restaurant offer views over the volcanoes and toward the sunset, while rooms and suites have either caldera or sea views. All but one room have private balconies; many add outdoor jacuzzis, private pools, or sharing pools. Unusual for a caldera hotel, Aeifos offers wheelchair-accessible rooms, an elevator, and a parking garage onsite. A small but well-equipped gym has two saunas, while spa treatments can be done in the privacy of your room. Excellent walkable location in the village, near amazing restaurants and scenic vistas.

51. Homeric Poems – Firostefani

A crystal blue infinity pool overlooks the caldera and volcano at Homeric Poems hotel in Firostefani, Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 22860 24661
Luxury hotel with a cliffside infinity pool and stunning caldera views conveniently located in the heart of Firostefani. All rooms and suites offer terraces with expansive caldera views. The Cave Suites sleep up to four with a loft layout, while the Grand Suites offer their most luxe accommodations and include an indoor jacuzzi tub and an outdoor private plunge pool. An a la carte breakfast is included and served to each room daily; the pool bar and room service menu feature upscale Santorinian and Mediterranean recipes.

52. Altana Heritage Suites – Imerovigli

A double-sized sunbed shaded by an umbrella sits beneath a blue-capped bell tower and above the caldera at Altana Heritage Suites in Imerovigli, Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 22860 23204
Beautifully restored, centuries-old, captain’s mansion with the highest swimming pool on the caldera. The main hotel and villa annex feature traditional, cave-style architecture, modern and antique furniture, and repurposed treasures found in its pre-restoration ruins. The hotel’s nine suites and seven villas all have private balconies with incredible sunset views over the caldera and blue-domed churches. Most offer private jacuzzis or pools, and some have kitchenettes. Excellent location less than a five-minute walk to the heart of Imerovigli and the hiking trail to Skaros Rock.

53. Enigma Suites – Fira

A plunge pool and dining table are shaded by a pergola, while a sunbed and lounge area sit under the sun with a view of the caldera at Enigma Suites in Fira, Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 22860 24024
Subtly sophisticated boutique hotel in Fira, offering sunset caldera views. All suites boast a private, furnished terrace, Coco-Mat mattresses, and a welcome bottle of Assyrtiko wine. Signature, Exclusive, and Premier Suites add outdoor jacuzzis. Breakfast is included and delivered to each suite, while the Enigma Café is open until the wee hours for light fare, wine, and cocktails. Amazing location in the heart of Fira, near nightlife, shopping, and dining, plus the bus station and free public parking lot. A perfect launch pad for exploring the whole island.

54. Magma Resort – Vourvoulos

A long infinity pool wraps around a sun deck with sunbeds on the deck and floating on the poolside at Magma Resort in Vourvoulos, Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 22864 41234
Effortlessly chic hotel with a wraparound seaview pool, a heated indoor pool, a wellness sanctuary, and a culinary program that celebrates the freshness of Santorini. In addition to a fine dining restaurant and pool bar, the resort has the Astra Lounge, with cocktails and a telescope for stargazing. Spacious rooms and suites all include king or extra-king beds, walk-in showers, and private terraces, most with outdoor jacuzzis or private pools. Quiet location with not bus service and not much within easy walking distance; it’s best to have a car here.

55. Voreina Gallery Suites – Pyrgos

A private balcony with a plunge pool offers panoramic island views at Voreina Gallery Suites in Pyrgos, Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 22860 30165
Charming boutique collection of nine suites and one villa on the north-facing slope of the mountain in Pyrgos. All of the suites and the villa have a curated selection of local and Greek artworks, panoramic views over the east and west sides of the island, and private jacuzzis or heated pools. All but one have a kitchen. Breakfast is always complimentary and delivered to each suite daily. Privacy and space are paramount here. Wonderful location just a short walk from the heart of a traditional, medieval settlement with a maze of stairs and pathways threaded with churches, tavernas, local shops, and galleries. A rental car is useful for stays here.

56. Old Castle Oia Hotel – Oia

A large pool and two private plunge pool on three terraces down the cliff over the caldera with many boats in the sea at Old Castle Oia hotel in Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 22860 72440
Adults-only, all-suite, boutique hotel with a seasonally heated pool and sun terrace with sunset views over Ammoudi Bay. Suites are designed for couples with queen-sized beds and outdoor terraces with tables for two. All but one boasts a caldera-view jacuzzi or infinity pool. Located on the cliff just below the famous castle ruins near Oia’s best dining and sights.

57. West East Suites – Imerovigli

A shaded terrace and infinity pool overlook the Fira to Oia trail and the caldera at West East Suites in Imerovigli, Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 22860 36279
Stylish, all-suite hotel with a heated pool with spectacular views and a creative Mediterranean restaurant. Of the 16 suites, 14 have sunset caldera views and two have sunrise Aegean Sea views. All suites have king-sized beds, private terraces, and indoor or outdoor hot tubs, heated plunge pools, or infinity pools. The hotel sits in a quiet area north of Imerovigli, about a 15-minute walk away, and offers a free shuttle service to Fira.

58. Mystique – Oia

A cream-colored series of cave-style Cycladic buildings centered around a pool with sunbeds on top of the caldera cliffs at Mystique in Oia, Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 22860 71114
Located at the east end of Oia in a quiet stretch along the caldera yet still walking distance to the bustling village center. Suites and villas come in a wide array of sizes and layouts, most with private, outdoor jacuzzis and/or pools. Facilities include two caldera-view pools and a cave-style spa. Al fresco dining is excellent at any of the hotel’s restaurants: Lure offers fine dining Mediterranean with French influences; Charisma offers creative Greek-Mediterranean; and the Captain’s Lounge serves casual Greek and international fare for breakfast and throughout the day. Two distinctive bars and a wine cellar complete the culinary program here.

59. Vedema Resort – Megalochori

An oval-shaped pool lined with pairs of sunbed and umbrella sets with mountains and sea in the distance at Vedema resort in Megalochori, Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 22860 81796
Family-friendly, five-star resort with spacious suites, a fantastic restaurant, and a pool in a medieval village in the heart of Santorini’s wine country. Vedema Resort offers one and two-bedroom suites and three-bedroom villas interspersed with gardens, which create much more privacy than you’ll find in any caldera hotel. Located within the traditional village of Megalochori, there are several restaurants, shops, and tasting rooms within walking distance, plus Vedema offers free transportation to Fira and Perivolos Beach.

60. Radisson Blu Zaffron Resort – Kamari

A large pool is ringed by sunbeds and palm trees at Radisson Blu Zaffron resort in Kamari, Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 21071 01100
The largest adults-only hotel on Santorini, this five-star resort presents 103 rooms, suites, and villas – just steps from lively Kamari Beach. The hotel features Cycladic architecture (lava rock walls, barrel vaulted roofs, and archways) and minimalist decor (neutral palette, light wood, and dark stone). All accommodations have private patios or terraces and king-sized beds; many add private outdoor jacuzzis or plunge pools. Highlights include a private, serviced beach lounge, two enormous heated pools, a wellness center, and two restaurants: an Italian fine-dining joint and a casual Italian pizzeria and bistro.

61. Coco-Mat Hotel – Akrotiri

A long pool facing the caldera at Cocomat Hotel in Akrotiri, Santorini.
Hotel phone: +30 21072 30000
Restful haven on the caldera rim in Akrotiri. Coco-Mat is known for their eco-conscious mattresses, used in many luxury hotels worldwide. Here they offer a bespoke sleep system with a range of mattresses and pillows customized pre-arrival. This adults-only hotel features an infinity pool and a modern Santorinian restaurant. Rooms and suites are designed for couples (though some can fit a third guest on a sofabed) and all offer private balconies and minimalist, earth-tone decor. Infinity and Caldera Residences add outdoor jacuzzis. Quiet location surrounded by naturescaped gardens, just a short drive to the Akroriti Lighthouse, the Ancient Akrotiri Archaeological Site, and Red Beach.

Where should I stay in Santorini?

Deciding where to stay is the first and trickiest decision visitors to Santorini need to make. It’s not an easy choice.

Map of Santorini Towns

Santorini map of wineries, attractions, beaches, hot springs, and main towns.

1) Caldera vs Beach

This is the first decision to make.

Do you want to stay in the towns along the cliff with the stunning views looking down into the caldera? The caldera is the main reason people travel to the island, after all.

A blue expanse of sea in the caldera facing Thirassia Island and the volcanoes, overlooking a few small boats in Santorini.

The west side of the island looks out into the caldera and is where Fira, Oia, Imerovigli, and Firostefani are located.

Or do you want to stay at one of the beach towns on the opposite side of the island? It’s still a pretty setting and a more relaxed atmosphere than the caldera villages but lacks the stunning views of the volcanoes and sunsets.

Rows of wooden sunbeds and white umbrellas on a black sand beach facing the sea at sunset at Radisson Blu Zaffron Resort in Kamari, Santorini

The east side of the island is where the beaches are found. This is the beach area of Radisson Blu Zaffron Resort in Kamari.

Santorini has the wedge-shaped topography of a doorstop. A cliff on one side (the caldera’s edge) that slopes down to the beaches on the other side. It’s about a 10 or 15-minute drive from one side of the island to the other.

If you stay at one of the beaches the choice is pretty simple and not overly important. There are two main towns: Kamari and Perissa (Perivolos is an extension of Perissa). Kamari is more developed and has more shops, bars, hotels, and restaurants. Perissa has a slightly better beach with a few luxury hotels and beach clubs popping up at the south end of Perivolos. I’d recommend Kamari for the restaurant and bar scene (never crazy). Kamari also has a shorter trip into Fira. There’s a boat that travels between Kamari and Perissa so it’s easy to enjoy both on the same day.

2) What Town on the Caldera?

Most people decide to stay along the Caldera. It’s also what I recommend, as it’s what makes Santorini unique. But now you have to decide which town.

There are four main towns along the caldera: Fira, Firostefani, Imerovigli, and Oia.

• Fira – The capital. Bustling Fira has the most restaurants, nightlife, and shopping. Great views.
• Firostefani – A little quieter, a handful of great restaurants, and an easy walk to Fira for even more options. Great views.
• Imerovigli – The quietest of the main villages. A bus, taxi ride, or 25 minute walk from Fira. The best views on the island. A half-dozen wonderful restaurants.
• Oia – Many restaurants, some high-end shopping, but little nightlife. Romantic. Great views.

Fira Hotels

Almost sunset view from above Fira village facing the caldera, volcanoes, and Thirassia with a ferry boat in the water and several hotels and pools descending the cliffside in Santorini

Fira, the capital of Santorini and the hub of nightlife and bus transportation.

The largest town on the island and the center of the restaurant, shopping, and nightlife scene. The view of the caldera from Fira is spectacular but sunset views will often be impeded by Thirassia – the island to Santorini’s west. Fira is also the bus hub, so every other town is just one bus trip away. Conversely, a trip between two other towns will often involve a change of buses in Fira (e.g. Oia to Kamari requires a bus from Oia to Fira, and then another bus from Fira to Kamari – not a big deal but it can get tiring after a few days of busing around the island). The cable car is here, serving the island’s old port, which is now used mostly by cruise ship passengers. If you’re in Santorini to party and hit the clubs, then you’ll be spending plenty of time in Fira. Of course, the booming nightlife can be loud if your hotel is inland near the town center. Noise levels are strictly limited along the caldera so if your hotel is located there you probably won’t have a loud-music problem.

The Best Fira Hotels

Oia Hotels

The iconic blue domed churches in Oia, Santorini with a bell tower and caldera below

There are blue-domed churches all over the island, but the most photographed are here in Oia.

The most romantic and enchanting town on Santorini. Criss-crossed with lanes and alleys and jaw-dropping views around every corner. People gather here every night – sitting on walls and steps and rooftops – to watch the sunset. Though Imerovigli might have better views the magic of Oia is the town, the people, the wine, and the setting. It can be busy, and in high season it may feel very crowded, especially in the most picturesque spots. But crowds diminish substantially after sunset. Some of the best places to eat in Oia; only Fira has more shops and restaurants. There are many places to get a drink late into the evening but for dancing and partying you’ll want to hop a bus or taxi to Fira. The walk from Oia to Fira (in either direction) takes about two hours and is one our favorite things to do in Santorini.

The Best Oia Hotels

Imerovigli Hotels

White cubic and barrel-roofed buildings in Imerovigli, Santorini with a blue-domed church and bell tower overlooking the caldera.

At the highest elevation on the caldera, Imerovigli has the best sunset views.

The best views of any town. Imerovigli is at a higher elevation than any other town along the caldera which gives it the best views of both the sunset and the volcano. Whereas sunset views from Fira can sometimes be impeded by neighboring islands, most hotels in Imerovigli have a clear view of the setting sun. This is the quietest of the four towns and there is no nightlife here. Though the town is small it has some of Santorini’s best restaurants and a few shops and markets. Firostefani is a 15-minute walk away along the clifftop path and Fira another 10 minutes where the choices to eat and shop expand exponentially. Buses run about every hour to Fira and about every half hour to Oia. To get back to Imerovigli from Oia, you’ll need to changes buses in Fira.

The Best Imerovigli Hotels

Firostefani Hotels

A long, curved stairway leads down through Firostefani village above the caldera with views toward Thirassia Island, Skaros Rock, and Imerovigli village in Santorini.

The caldera view in Firostefani, a relaxed village near the capital but with quieter nights.

Firostefani is an extension of Fira and an easy 15-minute walk along the caldera path from all the shops and restaurants of Fira. It’s hard to tell where Fira ends and Firostefani begins – it all seems like the same town as you wander between them. But the farther north you walk along the caldera, the less crowded the village becomes. The views here are just as wonderful as in Fira. Many people go into Fira for dinner and then walk back later in the evening but there are plenty of good restaurants in Firostefani. There is no nightlife – for clubs and bars you’ll definitely be heading to Fira – but the lack of partying makes for a quieter town.

The Best Firostefani Hotels

Kamari Hotels

A wide stretch of black sand beach with vibrant turquoise water and a beach club in the background at Kamari Beach in Santorini.

Kamari is the most popular beach in Santorini, though there’s still plenty of wide open spaces.

Kamari has a wonderful family-friendly atmosphere, a pedestrian beach-front walkway, and loads of restaurants. It’s a 15-minute bus ride to Fira making day trips to the caldera towns a breeze. It’s a pebble beach, but the swimming is cool, refreshing, and wonderful. I still recommend that visitors stay along the caldera (because that’s what makes Santorini so unique and spectacular), but spending a few days or a week in this easy-going town is no hardship.

The Best Kamari Hotels

Perissa and Perivolos Hotels

A boardwalk cuts between two rows of sunbeds with thatched umbrellas on a black sand beach in front of a deep blue sea in Perivolos in Santorini.

Perivolos Beach, located on the southeast coast of Santorini, offers a few excellent beach clubs.

Perissa Beach has nicer sand than Kamari, but it’s also farther from Fira, which makes visiting the caldera a bit more of an outing. Some luxury hotels and beach clubs are popping up in Perissa, especially on the south end, known as Perivolos Beach, though there are still plenty of great low-key restaurants and bars. Perivolos and Perissa Beaches have a good mix of luxury and affordable hotels. At the tail end of Perivolos Beach is Agios Georgios Beach, which has a handful of fine dining restaurants and luxury beach clubs.

The Best Perissa and Perivolos Hotels

Megalochori Hotels

A bell tower with a path carved under it next to a blue-domed church in Megalochori, Santorini.

The church at the entrance to Megalochori, the largest of Santorini’s traditional villages.

Once the largest village on the island, traditional Megalochori is known for its vineyards, good food, and from its western edge, gorgeous views over the caldera. However, the village center sits back from the cliff and doesn’t have views. Megalochori has a charming town square that’s ringed by churches, pottery shops, great little family-owned tavernas, as well as some of the island’s best wineries. Hotels here are mostly situated along the cliff with lovely views out over the caldera, though there are a handful of small hotel in the heart of the village, including Vedema, the first five-star property to open in Santorini. About 10 minutes south of Fira by car. Buses run from here to Fira and Akrotiri every half hour and from here to Perissa every 50 to 60 minutes.

The Best Megalochori Hotels

Pyrgos Hotels

Two blue-domed churches with two bell towers in front of an obelisk-shaped monument sits on the mountainside in Pyrgos, Santorini with the sea spreading below in the distance.

As traditional as it gets in Santorini, Pyrgos is brimming with domed churches, neoclassical architecture, castle ruins and cobblestone streets.

Charming hilltop village situated at the highest point on the island with lovely cultural attractions and panoramic island views toward the sunrise and sunset. The winding streets, small shops and restaurants, and traditional village feel of Pyrgos make this an ideal spot for those seeking the “real” Santorini experience, away from the cruise ship crowds. Pyrgos is also the island’s most magical spot over Easter weekend – on Good Friday, the entire village is lined with candles, and there’s a procession from the church of Agios Nikolaos Theotokaki. Bus service to Fira and Perissa is about every hour, and the route is meandering and long. We strongly suggest renting a car if staying here; Fira is only a 10-minute drive away.

The Best Pyrgos Hotels

Akrotiri Hotels

A narrow road leads up to the castle ruins, with yellow and white painted houses on either side, one with a seafaring mural and the other with a blue door and vines in Akrotiri, Santorini.

Akrotiri is less visited than other villages on the caldera but offers plenty to see and do.

A remote and quiet village on the island’s southernmost tip. However, most hotels are not in the village center but on the caldera instead. There’s not much in the way of shops, but there are some great fish tavernas, small beaches, fantastic caldera views, a nearby lighthouse (the best sunset spot on the island), and a world-famous archeological dig site. Akrotiri village is on the island’s main bus line (buses to Fira every half hour), but it’s easier to explore the island from here by car – it’s a 20-minute drive into Fira.

The Best Akrotiri Hotels

Mesaria Hotels

A neoclassical mansion in pink and red sits above a bend in the cobblestone road with a blue-domed church behind it in Mesaria, Santorini.

Mesaria is centrally located with a good mix of authenticity, traditional architecture, and modern conveniences.

Centrally-located Mesaria sits a short distance south of Fira, surrounded by vineyards and on the way to the ferry port. The heart of the village is about 500 meters inland with a host of cave houses, domed churches, and neoclassical buildings, including the landmark Argyros Mansion (pictured above), home of a winemaking and merchant family in the late 1800s, now operating as a museum. The westernmost outskirts outside the village center sit on the caldera directly facing the volcanoes. Accommodation and dining tends to be more affordable here than in the northern caldera villages, though there are still several luxury properties and fine dining restaurants on the caldera and in the village center. It’s a good idea to rent a car if staying on the caldera side of Mesaria, which offers limited bus service. There is frequent bus service to Fira and regular service to the beaches on the main road passing through the the inland village.

The Best Mesaria Hotels

Emporio Hotels

A narrow footpath leads to an elaborate bell tower with four tiers of bells and arabesque arches in Emporio, Santorini.

Emporio is where most of Santorini’s locals live.

This medieval stronghold was historically the business center of the island and is now the most populous village. But it is rarely visited by tourists. Located inland on the south side of the island, away from the caldera and the beaches, Emporio’s tavernas and coffee houses cater to local Santorinians and Greeks who come to the island for seasonal work. However, curious travelers are rewarded with a more authentic experience than they’ll find in the other villages. The village anchors at the base of Profitis Ilias Mountain, built around a 15th-century Venetian castle and its fortified wall of cave-style homes and tangled network of narrow footpaths interrupted by old churches and the occasional kafenia. The nearest beach is Perivolos, just under 3 km away, while Fira is about 10 km away. You’ll want a car for stays in Emporio.

The Best Emporio Hotels

Finikia Hotels

A skinny, curved road leads between low, cave-style homes, hotels, and gardens toward a church in Finikia, Santorini.

For a local vibe with easy access to the glamor of Oia, Finikia is a great option.

Historically a farming village and home to many of the island’s vineyard workers, compact Finikia village still retains its pastoral charm. Visitors here will find high-walled, cobblestone footpaths in its pedestrian-only core, along with cave houses, gardens of native produce, and a few excellent tavernas. The main draw, however, is its proximity to Oia. Finikia’s village center is only one km (about a 15-minute walk) from the beginning of Oia’s marble pedestrian path, making it a easy to enjoy the dining, shopping, and sunsets that Oia is famous for, then retreat to the tranquility of this traditional village later for a restful sleep.

The Best Finikia Hotels

Thirassia Island Hotels

An elaborately painted church in red, white, and blue with a dome and bell tower in a deserted village on Thirassia Island across from Santorini

Thirassia Island offers a rustic retreat with plenty of charm.

Although Thirassia lies only one nautical mile from Oia, the islands feel worlds apart. Nearly unspoiled by tourism, Thirassia today looks like Santorini did decades ago: mostly wild with a few paved roads and many well-worn trails connecting its handful of sleepy villages, family-run tavernas, and volcanic beaches. The most recognizable structure, the Church of the Virgin Mary (above), sits above an abandoned cave village. The capital Manolas and the port of Ormos Korfou have the bulk of Thirassia’s restaurants. Ferries for passengers only (no cars) run between Oia and Thirassia’s two ports, Ormos Korfou and Riva three times a day, usually at 8:00 am, 12:30 pm, and 5:20 pm. The larger ferry boat (cars allowed) runs from Athinios port to Riva four days a week in high season. Ferry schedules are subject to change, so check with your hotel for the latest information.

The Best Thirassia Island Hotels

Santorini Hotels with Private Jacuzzi or Plunge Pool

A series of private pools, all different shapes and sizes, leads down the cliffside to the caldera and sea at Charisma Suites in Oia, Santorini.

Several private plunge pools on different levels above the caldera at Charisma Suites in Oia.

There are several hotels on Santorini with private pools of one sort or another – swimming pools, plunge pools, jacuzzis, hot tubs, two-person baths.

Larger pools (whether private or for the entire hotel) are usually not heated so while people might wonder about the benefit of having a hot tub on a semi-tropical island they get plenty of use by visitors. During July and August, nights will usually remain warm, but in May, June, September, and October it can get cool after the sun goes down and a small heated pool or jacuzzi can be a welcome addition to a suite.

FAQ on Hotels and Santorini

What is the best hotel in the Santorini beach towns?

Three rows of plush, blue sunbeds under golden straw umbrellas sit on a black sand beach facing the Aegean Sea at Istoria hotel on Perivolos Beach in Santorini.

The private beach area of Istoria on Perivolos Beach.

Istoria Hotel on Perivolos Beach is the best beachfront hotel in Santorini. Most hotels in the beach towns don’t have the true luxury status as those along the caldera, but Istoria is an exception. It has spacious rooms with private pools, a gorgeous main pool, an Asian-inspired spa, a gourmet restaurant, and a beach club. A close second is the five-star Sea Breeze on Exomitis Beach with two adult pools, two children’s pools, a fine dining restaurant, and a (nearly) private serviced beach. All rooms and suites at Sea Breeze include private jacuzzis or pools. Another wonderful beachfront hotel is Nikki Beach Resort & Spa on Monolithos Beach, north of Kamari. This is another boutique, luxury resort but with more of a youthful, party vibe. In the beach town of Kamari about 200 meters from the beach, Radisson Blu Zaffron Resort is a lavish, adults-only resort with a large pool, great for larger groups.

Can you recommend some hotels to stay that aren’t quite so expensive?

On Santorini you get what you pay for. That said, if you’re willing to compromise a little on the view, the amenities, or on having a pool there are several places that offer very good value.

Here are some good hotels without the five-star price tag.

In Fira there is Keti Hotel and Kamares Apartments. Both have great views.

In Firostefani both Damigos Caldera World and Villa Ilias are simple hotels on the caldera. Not all rooms have views but many do at very reasonable rates.

In Oia Delfini Villas and Aspa Villas have a simple charm and units with wonderful views.

If you’re in Santorini for great views and don’t care much about the location of your hotel then there are a collection of hotels a 20-minute walk south of Fira that have a great perch on the caldera’s cliff. They have very good rates in comparison to the hotels in the main towns. Take a look at Volcano View, and Lilium Santorini Villa.

What’s better? A sunset view hotel or a caldera view hotel?

I’d choose a caldera view. It’s there all day. The sunset is only there for a few minutes. And it’s also fun to join the crowds and drink a bottle of wine on the steps of Oia as the sun sets – so it’s not as if you’re foregoing the sunset by choosing a hotel with a caldera view.

What hotel has the best views on Santorini?

Imerovigli has the highest elevation of any village on the caldera and thus has some of the best views of the caldera and sunset.

If I could only pick one hotel for the title of Best Caldera View it would be Astra Suites. Simply amazing views in three different directions (north to Oia, west towards Thirassia, and south towards Fira and Akrotiri). A very close second is Grace Hotel with similar views, though some rooms down the side of the caldera are a bit too close to Skaros for a perfect view.

Nearby hotels that look more towards Oia are Kasimatis Studios, Galaxy Suites, Avaton Resort & Spa. These three probably have the highest perch on Santorini. The views are amazing out over the caldera. Great sunset views with Oia off to the right.

Near Astra is Tholos Resort. This hotel is on the point of Imerovigli and has near straight on view of Skaros Rock. It’s the postcard picture of the Santorini caldera. But it is at a slightly lower elevation than Grace, Kasimatis, Galaxy, and Avaton.

Midway between Imerovigli and Oia is Aenaon Villas. Perhaps a little isolated for some (perfect for those looking for solitude) but the views here are extraordinary with both Imerovigli (to the left) and Oia (to the right) within view.

In the opposite direction (towards Fira) but still in Imerovigli are Chromata and Altana Traditional Houses and Suites. Great views, though at certain times of year the sunset can be slightly obscured.

In Fira, I’d recommend the Keti Hotel has the best views. In Firostefani, the hotels with the best views are Belvedere Suites, Tsitouras Collection, and Homeric Poems.

Oia has many hotels with similar views, but standouts include Ikies, Canaves Oia Suites, Katikies (these hotels look in the caldera but don’t have perfect sunset views) and Esperas Traditional Houses (which looks towards the sunset and Ammoudi Bay but not into the caldera).

What’s the best hotel in Santorini not on the caldera?

A private plunge pool sits on a patio in a garden with the sea spreading out below at Santorini Sky in Pyrgos.

A private pool outside a villa at Santorini Sky in Pyrgos.

Santorini Sky is located just outside the traditional village of Pyrgos, 10 minutes from Fira. This is a great place to avoid the crowds, plus as the highest point on the island, Pyrgos offers stunning panoramic views over all of Santorini. This incredible hotel focuses on bespoke experiences, tailoring its offerings to each guest’s needs. There are a couple of great local restaurants (and a winery) nearby. A car is recommended here.

What are the best Santorini hotels for privacy, quiet, and solitude?

Cycladic-style arhitecture with barrel roofs, boxy walls, and a pool fronted by a sun terrace above the caldera with Oia village in the distance at Aenaon Villas in Imerovigli, Santorini.

Aenaon Villas, located on the caldera and about halfway between Imerovigli and Oia.

Four hotels stand out as providing a quiet and peaceful setting far from the crowds of Fira and Oia. All of these would be great for a honeymoon, romantic getaway, or just privacy and relaxation. (Aenaon Villas is pictured above.)

When should I book my hotel?

As early as possible. The best luxury hotels start filling up six to 12 months in advance. Bookings for weddings are often made one to three years in advance. You can usually always find a place to stay on the island but if you’re booking your room within two to three months of a summer visit the very best hotels will likely be fully booked.

What is a cave hotel and where are they found?

Cave hotels are much like what they sound. Rooms that are built into the side of the cliff or in a hill. They typically have curved ceilings and asymmetrical architecture. They can be one-room suites or have multiple rooms. They will usually have a terrace that sits outside the underground portion of the dwelling. Cave houses stay remarkably cool during the heat of the summer. They are usually found in the villages of Fira, Firostefani, Imerovigli, and Oia. Most of the luxury hotels listed above have cave suites.

What town has the best restaurants on Santorini?

Fira has the most choice – and the best selection of inexpensive food (just walk away from caldera and into the center of town). Oia, nearby Amoudi Bay, and Imerovigli have a higher concentration of top-notch restaurants. If I could only eat in one town for the whole trip it would be Imerovigli. These are my favorite restaurants in Santorini.

When is the best time to visit Santorini?

September is my favorite month, but anytime between May and late-October is great. If you’re not in Santorini to suntan and aren’t bothered by a bit of gray sky then March, April, and November can be great times to visit. The beach towns get very quiet outside of June to September. The caldera towns have a longer tourist season but even their shops, restaurants, and hotels start to close in early November. Most luxury hotels are open from March 1 to November 15. In recent years more hotels and restaurants are staying open year-round as off-season travel to Santorini has increased. The slowest months are December, January, and February when Fira is the only town with any pulse.

Is there a must-do thing we have to experience on Santorini?

My number one recommendation is to walk the cliff-path along the top of the caldera from Fira to Oia. It takes two to four hours and has absolutely incredible views of the volcano.

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About Santorini Dave

Santorini Dave I'm Santorini Dave. I started this site in 2011 with a short article on tips for visiting Santorini with kids. We're now a small team of writers and researchers dedicated to providing the best travel content on the internet. We focus on Santorini, Mykonos, Athens, and Greece, offering recommendations for top hotels, neighborhoods, and family-friendly hotels worldwide. I can be contacted at dave@santorinidave.com.

  1. Absolute Bliss vs Altana Suites

    Hi Dave, I’d love your input. I am trying to choose between the Honeymoon suite at Absolute Bliss or Altana Heritage Suites. We want privacy and incredible views. Both of these choices look awesome, but I can’t decide. Altana Honeymoon suite is about $400 more for our 4-night stay. Tashia

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Both have good privacy and great views. Absolute Bliss looks more directly towards the sunset and Oia. Altana is focused more towards the volcano and Fira. I love the pool at Absolute Bliss. Altana might feel a tad more luxurious.

  2. 5 Days in Santorini

    Wow Dave your website is incredible and the most valuable information for planning our upcoming Euro trip this August! We have 7 days to spend in Greece. Thinking of staying at the Grace Hotel in Santorini for 5 days and then staying 2 nights in Athens. Do you recommend cutting the Grace hotel stay short to 3 nights (instead of 5) to possibly island hop and maybe head to Paros? There is a nice Marriott property there we could stay at, but wanted to get your opinion on whether you think we would be happy just staying in Santorini and if 5 days is too much time (do people get bored there after 5 days?)

    We are 35 years old, and this is our honeymoon. We definitely like to eat and drink/relax by the pool, go out to dinners, and explore, but mostly relax. We are excited about doing tours and seeing the historical elements in Athens. I will be 4 months pregnant during our trip, so sadly, wine tasting and any intense exploring/hiking, etc., are off the table.

    Thanks again for all your responses and information about Greece!

    Kathryn

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      There is plenty to do in Santorini to fill 5 days. Is Paros worth visiting? Of course. It’s a beautiful island loaded with great villages, beaches, and sights. There are tradeoffs either way. You just have to decide but either way sounds completely reasonable to me. I hope that helps a little.

  3. Oia Hotel for Family of 5

    Hi-
    Would love help choosing between the Andronis Arcadia, Amaya Serenity Villa, or the Oia Mansion for a family of 5 next summer. Thanks!

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      All are great places to stay but I particularly love Oia Mansion (great views, lots of privacy, full kitchen, huge free customized breakfasts). As long as you’re ok with no pool – but there is a large rooftop plunge pool and the Lioyerma pool is open to the public and just a 3 minute walk away. I love the evening sunset views from the rooftop. I think the breakfast is great too.

  4. Affordable Hotel for Honeymoon

    Hi Dave! We love your website and YouTube videos, they have been a huge help to researching Santorini! My fiancee and I are looking at spending 6 nights in Santorini near the end of next July for our honeymoon. We are looking for a semi-luxurious hotel (semi because the level of luxury that Grace Hotel provides is out of budget), a caldera view, a nice pool, and a nice bathroom in the rooms as well. Of course, a private plunge pool would be a huge plus. We had initially thought the Traditional Apartments at Honeymoon Petra would be our choice but the bathrooms look incredibly small and it seems like there is not much room to lounge and layout by the pool. We have also looked into the Cosmo Honeymoon room at the Cosmopolitan Suites but it seems like there is not much privacy here as you have mentioned it is directly on a busy street. Are there any hotels you specifically would recommend that are around the price range of these two hotels? Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      If Cosmopolitan is in your budget I think that’s your best bet. It’s one of my favorite hotels in Fira and although it is on a busy path, the pool and deck are hidden from passersby more than at many other hotels. Another good option for affordable but private rooms is the suites with whirlpool at Keti Hotel – these are some of the most private rooms I’ve stayed at in Fira (with a view) but do require a lot of steps to get up to the main square.

  5. Kapari Hotel in Santorini

    Hi Dave — Thank you for your great travel site. I noticed that that the Kapari Natural Resort in Imerovigli is not reviewed or mentioned at all in your Santorini hotels list, but looks very appealing online. Have you visited it and do you have a positive or negative view on this one?

    Thanks
    Marc

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Yes, I have toured Kapari. It’s very nice and has great views. It has a compact space and everything feels very tight – especially the pool area. I prefer Grace, Astra, Tholos, and Sophia (all nearby) to Kapari.

  6. Andronis Arcadia vs Athina Luxury Suites

    Hi Dave! For our honeymoon, we’re debating between staying at the Athina Luxury Suites in Fira or the Andronis Arcadia in Oia. Our dates are early October and our budget is around $500ish a night and after researching your guide and other sources, I think I’ve settled on these two.

    Any preference between them? The views are important, as well as location (steps, quiet, and restaurants/shops nearby). And how rough are the steps getting to both?

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Athina Luxury Suites by a large margin. It’s one of my favorite hotels in Santorini. Better views and better location. Andronis Arcadia is a fine hotel but no caldera views and not convenient for shops and restaurants (walking distance, yes, but sort of located out of the way).

  7. Pyrgos Hotels

    Hey Dave! Thanks for all this wonderful information. Your site has been extremely helpful and I appreciate all the insights. I did not see any mention of Voreina Gallery Suites. Do you have any insights on this hotel?! It was highly rated on TripAdvisor. Do you have more information on Pyrgos where this hotel is located? Thanks for any feedback, it is much appreciated. Cheers!

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      I love Pyrgos. It is a wonderful little village with a few small shops, a handful of good restaurants, and fantastic views of the whole island (though not really caldera views). Voreina is one of the best hotels there and is on our Pyrgos hotels page.

  8. Hotels in Santorini and Mykonos

    Hey Dave,

    I have to be honest. I have spent about 2 full days looking at all of your content and information. It’s absolutely incredible! Loaded question that I hope you could be of some assistance – my wife and I are looking to have our honeymoon in Greece, including 2 nights in Athens, 3 nights in Santorini, 4 nights in Mykonos. We are 30 and 29 years old. We love the beauty and location of Canaves Oia in Santorini and the vibes of Cavo Tagoo and Branco in Mykonos. However, all three properties are extremely pricey to stay at. What are the best options that are as close to those three properties on both islands but staying under $700 a night? Thank you!

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Here are of my recommendations in Santorini; they are all small hotels, so they book up quickly. Charisma Suites is one of the rare Oia hotels with a view of both the caldera and the sunset (most places have either one or the other). It’s freshly renovated with 2 infinity pools, a pool bar with a complimentary nightly sunset event with free champagne, and is walking distance to Ammoudi Bay, where most caldera cruises leave from (excellent restaurants and swimming in the bay as well). This is the best option; the Senior Suite is within your price range but doesn’t have a private jacuzzi or pool.

      White Pearl Villas is another great choice right on the Oia caldera with views over toward Thirassia Island (no direct sunset views) and a couple of private pool/hot tub rooms in your price range. There is also a shared pool. This is a self-service villa complex with kitchenettes in each room. No restaurant on-site, but breakfast is included in most bookings at Passaggio cafe just up the hill (the villas and cafe have the same owners).

      Marizan Caves and Villas offers the same sunset caldera views and accessibility to Ammoudi Bay as Charisma, plus has affordable rooms with private jacuzzis. This is a self-service property like White Pearl, so there is no restaurant on-site and this one has no shared pool. It is also the most traditional and least trendy of the three but is much more affordable.

      Despite Mykonos’ reputation for glamor, you’ll have way more choices for affordable, beachfront, trendy stays, as the hotels are larger than in Santorini, which keeps the prices competitive. Some top choices here would be Anax Resort & Spa, Mykonos Blanc, and Mykonos Ammos. All three are stylish, beach hotels. Blanc and Ammos are on Ornos Beach along the boat taxi route, which makes it easy to explore all of the island’s southern beaches and the bus route with easy access to Mykonos Town. Anax is at Agios Ioannis, for a more secluded, romantic beach vacation.

  9. Cosmopolitan Suites or Keti Hotel in Fira

    Hi Dave!
    My husband and I are planning an anniversary/late honeymoon trip to Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini. In Fira, would you recommend Cosmopolitan Suites Honeymoon Suite or the Keti Hotel king suite with outdoor jacuzzi?

    Thank you!
    Julie

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      These are two of my favorite places to stay in Fira. But it does depend on what you’re looking for. The Cosmopolitan has a trendy vibe and a great infinity pool (not huge, but decent size) that often has a hip atmosphere but not much privacy from other guests. Rooms are just back from the pool. The king suite at Keti is down a set of stairs with just one neighboring room. Lots of privacy on the deck and you’ll feel all on your own in the jacuzzi. Cosmopolitan has very few steps to access. Keti has many steps to access. (If that’s a concern.)

  10. Santorini Grace or Cavo Tagoo

    Hey Dave! How would you compare Grace and Cavo Tagoo? Which is better and why? Thanks!!

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      I love both Grace and Cavo Tagoo. They are stylish, 5-star luxury hotels in Imerovigli with great pools and stunning sunset caldera views. But that is about all they have in common. Grace is a cave-style hotel with rooms hand-carved from the side of the caldera and spreading over multiple levels connected by long flights of stairs (the higher levels offer more privacy, better views, and fewer stairs to navigate). Most rooms and suites have private jacuzzis or heated plunge pools. The level of service, facilities, and décor are more in line with what most people imagine a 5-star hotel to be: elegant, discreet, and refined (though not too formal). Guests tend to be in their mid-30s to 50s. The location is in the heart of the village, walking distance to all of the best restaurants in Imerovigli, while the onsite restaurant serves a modern take on Greek-Mediterranean fare.

      Cavo Tagoo is equally luxurious but with a more fashion-forward vibe and edgy décor: think suede sofas, floating sunbeds, and copper fixtures. Though built in a traditional Cycladic design, the architecture is not cave-style, which means the rooms tend to be sunnier and breezier. Though there are some stairs here, the whole hotel sits at the top of the caldera, so there are far fewer stairs to climb to get to the hotel facilities or main road. All rooms and suites have indoor or outdoor jacuzzis, outdoor heated plunge pools, or outdoor heated swimming pools. The restaurant serves contemporary Greek-Japanese fusion menu with great sushi and cocktails. Guests tend to be in their late 20s to 40s. The location is north of Imerovigli, about a 15 to 20-minute walk to the restaurants, sights, and shops in the village.

  11. Saint Luxury Suites in Santorini

    Hi Dave!

    Thank you so much for all the information on our site. My husband and I are traveling to Santorini and Mykonos for our honeymoon in September and we were wondering if you had a review of the Saint Luxury Suites? My husband is an architect and saw the hotel in an architectural magazine, and I’m looking for great views/location and a plunge pool or hot tub!

    Thank you!

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Not yet, sorry. They’re brand new. We should have a review up in a few months.

  12. New Fira Hotel

    Hello Dave.
    Great website. It’s already been really useful.
    Have you visited the Katikies Garden in Fira yet? The one that’s an old monastery conversion.
    I wondered if you had any thoughts.
    Many thanks.
    Fran Prtak
    UK

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Yes, it’s wonderful, very central, not typical Santorini hotel – to me it feels more like a 5-star city hotel in many ways. And yes, it’s not perched on the caldera like most of the best luxury hotels in Fira.

  13. Kasimatis Hotel in Santorini

    Hi Dave, first off, kudos to your amazing site! Great details complete with pictures and very informative!
    Just wondering whether you can provide more information about Kasimatis Studios.
    The pics on booking sites look nice. Anything that I have to look out for e.g. many steps?
    Appreciate your response.

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      I’ve stayed here with my kids. It’s a very nice hotel with great views and nice pool. It doesn’t feel luxurious, per se, but rooms are comfortable and roomy. It used to be a winery so you’ll see the holes through which they’d drop the grapes into the caves for crushing. Those caves are now rooms. Some steps but not many compared to other hotels in the area.

  14. Santorini Hotel with View for 3

    Hi Dave!

    I love your website – very informative and a huge help for us visitors. There are tons of hotels to choose from and it’s quite overwhelming. I have narrowed my choices down to 7 hotels. I would love to get your advice. There will be 3 of us traveling and we would love to: 1. Be as close to restaurants, bars, and shops as possible but don’t mind walking or taking a taxi or other public transportation. 2. Based on what you wrote, I agree with your comment about preferring caldera view over sunset view. 3. Have a nice sized room for the 3 of us.

    can you please let me know your thoughts on these hotels:
    1. Belvedere suites – junior suite
    2. Tsitouras collection – porcelain room
    3. Agali homes – executive triple room with sea view
    4. Homeric Poems – deluxe double room
    5. Hotel Sunny Villas – family suite with sea view
    6. Remezzo Villas – senior suite with caldera view
    7. Avista Suites – superior suite with hot tub and sea view

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      For your group, I’d recommend the Tsitouras’ Porcelain Room or Agali Houses’ Executive Triple. These rooms are going to offer the most space for three and their layouts will offer more privacy than the others, with a little more division of space within the units. Both are on the caldera in Firostefani, within walking distance of the nightlife and dining of Fira. And close to the Firostefani bus stop.

  15. Anteliz or Mill House Suites

    Hi Dave. Thank you for these wonderful recommendations! We are going this July for our 10 year wedding anniversary to Santorini and Mykonos. In Santorini, we have narrowed down our stay to Anteliz Suites and Mill House Elegant Suites. If you were to select one over the other, which would you select? We have a Honeymoon Suite booked at Mill House but only a regular room at Anteliz with pool or Caldera View. Struggling big time to decide which is the better option! Your help would be so appreciated. Thanks so much!

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      In my opinion, these are both excellent choices, but there are a few key differences. Mill Houses has a better view, since it’s built right into the side of the caldera (down the cliff), and a Honeymoon Suite at Mill Houses will be more spacious than a Double or Superior Double Room at Anteliz (both Mill Houses and Anteliz offer queen-sized beds in these categories). The price of the stunning view at Mill Houses is that there are lots of steps to contend with inside the property and getting to and from the main footpath connecting to town, though that will be true of all hotels built inside the caldera. Mill Houses is located in Firostefani, a quieter village near Fira, and accessible to dining and attractions, in Fira and Imerovigli (a 10 to 15-minute walk in opposite directions). Anteliz is an overall more luxurious hotel, with higher-quality furnishings, detail-oriented staff, and impeccable service. It is located at the top of the caldera but set back from the edge, so the views are amazing but not as jaw-dropping as being right inside the cliff. The pool and dining terrace have sweeping views, and the pool itself is better at Anteliz than at Mill House. The location advantage is that since it is on top of the caldera, there are fewer stairs inside the hotel and the hotel is right on the main walking path to and from town. Anteliz is on the north end of Fira, so it is super easy to reach great dining, nightlife, attractions, plus the central bus station to reach all the other villages, the airport, and the port. Overall, Mill Houses is better if you will be spending more time in your room enjoying the views. Anteliz will be better for staying by the pool or for getting out to see the rest of Santorini.

  16. Cosmopolitan Hotel in Fira

    Thank you for creating this AMAZING site!! I’m trying to plan my honeymoon trip for September. I’ve looked thru your site and see that you highly recommend the honeymoon suite at cosmopolitan. In the event that it’s booked and I’m unable to get that room, what is the next best room in your opinion? Also, I would like to do a trip within a trip where this is in the middle or before we head home. Where do you suggest we go first? London? I’m not certain if it matters, but we are a lesbian couple.

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      The Cosmopolitan Suite with Volcano View is also incredible. As for other cities in Europe to visit, there are so many great choices. I’d recommend Rome, Paris, London, Florence, Barcelona, and Amsterdam – all are great.

  17. Santorini in March

    I’m going to Santorini on March 16. How frequently do the buses run in the winter?

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Buses run less frequently in the winter versus in the summer, usually about every hour for popular routes (e.g. Fira to Oia) or every 2 hours for less popular routes. Routes also finish much earlier in the winter; usually the final bus from anywhere on the island will depart for Fira just after sunset. Schedules are updated frequently and posted at the bus terminal in Fira (the best place to stay in the winter) where all routes begin and end, so you can plan your day according to the latest information there. I’d recommend renting a car, as it can be a long cold wait for the next bus if you happen to miss the one you planned on.

  18. Grace, Astra Suites, or Chromata

    Having trouble deciding between Grace, Astra Suites, or Chromata for a couple wanting the best views and a luxury experience. Any tips to help decide?

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      I think all three are wonderful. Chromata is the most boutiquey. Grace the most luxurious (like a true luxury resort). Astra somewhere in the middle. Grace and Astra have year-round sunset views. Chromata will not have direct sunset views (with the sun visible all the way into the sea) in the summer months.

  19. Santorini Hotel for Easter Festival

    Hi Dave, great website. I want to go to Santorini for Easter. Can you suggest a nice hotel to be able to view all the festivities and be able to appreciate the villages lit up by candlelight?

    Thanks
    Anne

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      I like Skyfall Suites in Pyrgos. A wonderful hotel and a short walk from the candlelights and focus of the Easter celebration on the island.

  20. Staying at Absolute Bliss Santorini

    Hi Dave,

    My Fiance and I are looking to go to Santorini in May for 5 nights. We are looking at Absolute Bliss where we would stay in the honeymoon suite a few nights. Is it true we can only get free cancellation by booking with them directly? My second question is for the other 3 nights, is it fine to downgrade to avoid switching hotels or would you recommend trying another part of the island? For Greece, we want to take in nature – preferably in a hot tub (is it too cold for a pool around mid-May?), relax, and experience their awesome food rather than hang out at a beach and party. We enjoyed that at Absolute Bliss you can have a normal room and still have a hot tub to relax in enjoying the views but once again there’s no free cancellation. Do you have any recommendations on a hotel that’s similar or that you think we should check out?

    Thank you

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Every hotel has a different policy, but yes, for Absolute Bliss the only way to get free cancelation is to pay the higher rate on their website (about $50 to $120 more per night depending on the room). Whether that’s worth the extra cost is different for everyone. And yes, if you’re already switching rooms then switch hotels (and towns) as well. Hotel Keti in Fira is another hotel that has rooms with private hot tubs for pretty reasonable rates.

  21. Sophia Suites vs Andronis

    Hi Dave! My fiance and I are planning a honeymoon to Greece in April next year. We’re deciding between Sophia Suites in Imerovigli and Andronis Luxury Suites in Oia. While I’m more attracted to staying in Imerovigli because of it being quaint with less tourists and gorgeous views, I’ve read that you may experience less privacy, depending on the room you book. Would be open to suggestions for either! Thank you!

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Andronis Luxury Suites does have more privacy. But that’s half the magic of Sophia Suites – the location in the center of Imerovigli with staircases winding around the suites. Sophia Suites is not located in a high traffic area and in April it will be especially quiet. I love both hotels.

  22. Aria Suites, Volcano View, or Petit Palace

    Hi Dave! My hubby and I will be in Santorini for 2 nights in late September. Between Aria Suites (Norma), Volcano View, and Petit Palace, which would you go with for best caldera view and overall experience at this mid-price point?

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Volcano View and Petit Palace have incredible views but both are outside of Fira and slightly isolated for my tastes. Aria Suites is a little back from the caldera (still views but not right on the edge like the other two) but you’re steps from the nightlife, restaurants, and shops of Fira. If you plan to spend your time by the pool enjoying the view then go with Volcano View or Petit Palace but if you want to get out and do stuff then Aria is better.

  23. Last Minute Hotel for Late September

    Hi Dave! Your website is awesome. Going to Santorini for 6 nights/7 days for our Honeymoon at the end of September. I am a pretty avid traveler but I definitely made the mistake of waffling for too long and waiting to book, not many places in the world that fill up so far in advance! I was able to score 3 nights in the honeymoon suite at Cavo Tagoo which my wife is thrilled about. Was thinking someplace in Fira or Oia would be better for the second half so we could have a different experience, but obviously, the best hotels are booked now. Aria Suites has some openings for our dates though in the Traviata Villa. Any other recommendations to try out in Fira or Oia? Attempting to spend between 2 to 3k those second 3 nights. Thanks so much!!

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      The Traviata Villa is wonderful. I’ve stayed in that very suite and loved it. Amazing views from the breakfast table and outdoor jacuzzi. Very cool indoor cave jacuzzi. And yes, splitting your time between Cavo Tagoo and another town is recommended for a 6 night stay.

  24. Budget Friendly Hotel with Pool and/or View

    Hi Dave, what hotels would you recommend that are budget friendly but still offer great value? For example, instead of having a private pool and breakfast delivered on the terrace in the room, what is a good hotel that has a nice infinity pool in the lobby and breakfast in the lobby with great views? Caldera view would be preferable.

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Agali Houses is the best inexpensive hotel with a pool and view (though it’s not an infinity pool). I really like this hotel.

  25. San Antonio, Esperas, or Agali Hotel

    Greek American here! Have 3 nights in late September with my wife. We love food! More so the casual places with amazing quality. Views and pool would be great too. What do you recommend between San Antonio, Esperas, and Agali? Thanks again for the amazing content!

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      All are great hotels. San Antonio is the most remote by a good measure – almost nothing within a 30 minute walk. Esperas has the most quality restaurants within a 5-minute walk (but doesn’t have true caldera views – just sunset and views down to Amoudi Bay – which are wonderful). Agali is a short climb (lots of steps) to the restaurants of Firostefani – several good ones but none of the very best.

  26. Hotel with Sunset, Pool, and/or Caldera View

    Hi Dave

    Your site is fabulous. Thanks.

    We are planning our first trip of 1 week to Santorini in October. Although you have masses of fantastic info, I still feel a little overwhelmed. We are after somewhere not too pricey, but with some kind of balcony/outside area and private or shared water. Whether hot tub, pool, cave pool. My partner is partial to a sunset, if there was a caldera view that would be fab. We prefer Firostefani or Imerovigli, after reading your information, though Fira would be great. We don’t want somewhere too in the thick of things but not too quiet either. A short walk would be fine. If you could help us shortlist, that would be awesome. I’ve currently got about 25 tabs open on the computer for hotels! I’m finding it hard to whittle down.
    Many thanks.
    Marie

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Both the Belvedere (luxury) and Agali Houses (a little cheaper) in Firostefani have nice pools and great caldera and sunset views. Fira is a short 10 minute walk. Agali Houses has a lot of steps. I really like both hotels.

  27. Stay In One Town or Split Time Between Places

    Hi Dave,

    Would you split your stay in the top 3-4 towns or can we stay in one and easily travel to the others? Traveling there soon with my husband for about 5-7 days.

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      With 5 to 7 days, I’d probably split my time between two of the top villages (Imerovigli, Oia, Fira, or Firostefani). But 3 or 4 towns is too many.

  28. Santorini Hotel for Anniversary

    Hi Santorini Dave,
    Best site I have ever seen on Greece, thank you! Questions about lodging suggestions in Santorini for 2 nights mid September:
    1. Sophia – Cave Suite w Outdoor Plunge Pool/Caldera View – Aurora. Most spendy option but it also may have the best room?
    2. Avaton Resort & Spa – Superior Double Room. Fewer steps maybe but only $140 cheaper than Sophia and sort of remote? Also, there seems to be zero privacy on the patio terrace.
    3. Astra – Senior Suite, “outdoor terrace; located on higher floor for greater degree of privacy”; $500 cheaper than Sophia. This is the only one I reserved on their website. The other 2 are held on Booking.com and all have free cancellation.
    I’m having trouble comparing overall value, experience, and wow factor. Since you know these hotels, what would you do for a 35th wedding anniversary and first trip to Greece? I’ve tried to choose hotels with great reviews on service, location, overall ambiance, and fabulous views. Any factors I should consider to help me decide? Are they all fairly simple to reach by bus from the airport? I didn’t even look at Oia because there are so few with sunset and caldera view in my price range ($1600 total). I hope I don’t regret that. If you have any Oia suggestions I am open.

    Thanks for your advice.
    Linda

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Sophia and Astra are a step up from Avaton in terms of luxury and charm. I would personally recommend the caves suite at Sophia as long as you’re ok without a swimming pool (though obviously, you will have the private plunge pool but it is a different vibe than a pool with pool bar and deck).

  29. Ikies, San Antonio, Chromata, or Cosmopolitan

    Hi Dave.

    Thanks a lot for all the useful information. I am planning a trip with my 16-year-old daughter to Greece in end of June. In Santorini, we would like to experience the typical Santorini luxury hotel with white bedrooms, beautiful caldera views, and infinity pool if possible. We are there for four nights and we are not renting a car. If we can choose between Ikies Traditional Houses, San Antonio, Chromata or Cosmopolitan Suites which one is the most luxurious and has the best caldera views?

    Thanks a lot.
    Kind regards, Gudrun

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      They all have wonderful views (though very different angles, hard to say one is better than the others) and have a similar level of luxury. Their locations are very different: Oia (Ikies), secluded (San Antonio), Imerovigli (Chromata), and Fira (Cosmopolitan). I would decide which of these areas suits your needs then the pick the hotel.

  30. Canaves Epitome vs Sunday Suites

    Hi Dave
    I have a reservation at the Canaves Epitome in July. I am worried the views won’t be as nice as the other Canaves hotels. What is your opinion? I could possibly switch to the Canaves Sunday Suites. Which property do you prefer? Please advise.

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      The Sunday Suites are more luxurious and have far better views. (Epitome has north facing views away from the caldera.)

  31. Santorini Princess Spa Hotel

    Hi Dave,

    Just wondering if you have any experience with Santorini Princess Luxury Spa Hotel? My fiance and I are booked there or a week in July and they seem to have great reviews online. Any info you have for this hotel would be greatly appreciated.

    Matt

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      The Santorini Princess is a great hotel with wonderful views. It’s a 10 to 15 minute walk north of Imerovigli on the footpath to Oia. There is little immediately around it so you’ll likely be walking into Imerovigli for dinner or getting a bus to Oia or Fira. There’s a bus stop very close to the hotel with buses going to all 3 nearby towns.

  32. Andronis Wellness vs Cavo Tagoo

    Thanks for all of the info. Great site. Going to Santorini for the first time in September for 5 days. And suggestions on Andronis Concept Wellness Resort vs Cavo Tagoo? Or should I split my time and vist both places?

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      They are very close to each other and have a similar vibe so no, I would not split my time. (If you did want to split your time then go with a second hotel in Oia or Fira.) Of the two I prefer Cavo Tagoo.

  33. Travel Agent or Booking.com

    Hi Dave, I see that many hotels are now fully booked for summer so feel I have to do something soon. The rates for my top 2 hotels are cheaper on Booking.com than what I’ve been quoted from my travel agent. Is there any advantage to using a travel agency for booking hotels?

    Thanks!

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      I do not recommend using a travel agency. Booking.com will usually have the best rates but also worth checking directly with the hotel too. (Hotel websites in Greece are often not user-friendly so using the phone is usually the best way to go if you want to book directly.)

  34. Honeymoon Hotels in Santorini and Mykonos

    Hi Dave!
    You have lots of great information! I am going to Santorini and Mykonos in June for our honeymoon. Staying 4 nights in Santorini at Lilium Santorini Villa and 2 nights in Mykonos at Tharroe of Mykonos Boutique Hotel. Have you been to those hotels? Any feedback will be appreciated. Also, since we are only staying 2.5 days in Mykonos, what will be your top 2 beaches to go to?
    Thanks in Advance!

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Both are wonderful hotels in non-central locations. Lilium is a 20 to 30 minute walk from Fira. Tharroe is a 10 minute walk (along a busy road) from Mykonos Town. There are buses and free shuttles for both hotels but still it’s not as convenient as being right in town. They are fine locations if you only want to spend time around the pool or you have a rental car and want to explore the island. My two favorite beaches in Mykonos are Ornos and Platys Gialos. If time allows try walking from Platys Gialos to Paradise Beach (along the coast) then bus back from there.

  35. Afroessa Hotel in Santorini

    Hi Dave, what are your thoughts on Afroessa? It was one of the few hotels that was not $1k a night but still looked good and well located. Also, arriving on a Saturday afternoon and leaving Tuesday morning, is a car needed? Probably only headed to Fira for one night.

    Best,
    Nicole

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Afroessa is a nice hotel with wonderful views (and perfect sunset views). It’s a short walk from some of Santorini’s best restaurants. With two full days there you might want to spend one exploring the islands with a rental car but if it were my trip I’d spend both of those days doing a tour and try to fit the Oia-Fira walk in somewhere around the edges (and not rent a car).

  36. Ambassador Aegean Luxury Suites

    Hello Dave,

    You have a great website. Have you stayed or do you have any opinion of Ambassador Aegean Luxury Suites? Is it not in a good location?

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Nice hotel in a non-central location. You need to rent a car, pay plenty for a taxi, or be content sitting around the pool all day.

  37. Nice Santorini Hotel But Not Super Expensive

    Hi Dave! My husband and I went to Santorini 3 years ago for our honeymoon and stayed 2 days at Kirini in Oia and 2 days at Tsitorous Collection. We loved both for different reasons – Kirini is the type of hotel you can spend all day at with a fabulous pool and great food, but the sunset view is blocked. Tsitourous Collection had the most beautiful sunset view I have ever seen right from our room balcony but not the best pool. This time around we are going in late May/early June and looking to only stay at one hotel (4days/3nights). Do you have any suggestions for the perfect mix of both Kirini and Tsitorous (recognizing this is not our honeymoon this time around so we are not trying to spend $1000/night)?

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Agali Houses is one of my inexpensive favorites. Great views (with sunset) and a wonderful pool and deck. It doesn’t quite have the charm of Kirini or Tsitouras but if you’re looking to save some money it’s a great choice.

  38. Best Hotel in Imerovigli

    Hi Dave,
    Excellent website, thanks for all the information. I’m struggling with where to stay in Imerovigli. Grace is out of our budget, but it seems you really like Astra Villas. Is that your top recommendation? I’ve been debating Astra and Petra Honeymoon Villas. Astra seems to have the best balconies (Superior Suite), but Petra seems like a cooler property. I’ve also looked at Pegasus or Above Blue due to the balcony hot tubs.

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Astra is more luxurious and has better suites. Petra Honeymoon Villas is a more picturesque property but rooms not as impressive as Astra. I’d go with Astra over all the others (except Grace) and Above Blue next.

  39. Staying in Santorini for a Month

    Hey Dave,
    Your website is a gem!
    I spent only a few hours in Santorini on a trip to Greece 12 years ago and left a piece of my heart and now finally will be returning this coming August. A friend and I are doing a two week excursion through the islands and then I will be staying an additional month. I’m wondering if it is a good idea being the time of year mid September to mid October to wait to choose a couple or three different places to stay once I arrive in Santorini or if that would be too risky. Perhaps a night or two booked for my arrival giving me time to look around. Are there any real advantages to booking for a whole month? I would like, as most people, to be on the caldera with a beautiful view, on a moderate budget. One bedroom with a full kitchen as I will have company on and off throughout the month. Thank you.

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      I think it would be fine to wait and book the majority of your nights if you weren’t after a caldera view. But since you want to stay along the caldera there is little chance that a place would be available for last minute booking. There are very few places with kitchens making it even less likely to workout.

  40. Alta Mare or Delfini Villas in Oia

    Great website! We’re traveling to Oia and looking for a hotel for 3 nights starting May 24th. We’d like to keep the cost under $2000 for the whole stay (about $600 per night) and have currently booked a standard suite (romance sea view) at Alta Mare and a Cave suite with hot tub and caldera view at Delfini Villas. Would you recommend one of these over the other? We would like a balcony with a hot tub but have some concerns about Delfini being listed as an apartment rather than a hotel. We plan to ask to store our luggage after checkout on the 27th so we can walk around and enjoy Oia for a few more hours before our evening flight. Is this a possibility at either location? Would you recommend something else entirely that is in our price range? Thank you.

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Both are wonderful hotels with great views. They are both in central Oia and an easy walk to shops and restaurants. Delfini Villas has a little more privacy as units are hidden down the cliff a bit more but the view of the Alta Mare suites from the main path is very cool (though you might not think that if you’re one of the guests). Storing your luggage at either hotel should not be a problem. Both hotels have great caldera views but no sunset views (need to walk a short distance to see the sunset).

  41. Luxury Hotel in Oia

    Hi Dave,

    Thanks for all the helpful information! Staying in Oia in July and looking to narrow down our current hotel list. We want a hotel with a nice main pool, good restaurant, good location for views/sunsets and easy access to the town/restaurants. An onsite spa would also be nice. Santorini is going to be the splurge part of the honeymoon so we would really like a private terrace with a plunge pool or jacuzzi. Below is our current list. If you could recommend one over the other or rank (or throw in another if there’s something better that matches our wants), I would greatly appreciate it!
    – Katikies
    – Canaves
    – Santorini Secret
    – Andronis

    Thank You!
    Jenna

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Katikies (trendy luxury) and Canaves (classic luxury) are my two favorite hotels in Oia so all things equal would recommend them – though it does depend on what individual rooms you’re looking at. All of those hotels have incredible caldera views but none have sunset views (you need to walk a short distance to see the sunset from a public area).

  42. Greece in April

    Hello Dave,

    I have been reading your blog since past week and find it one of the nicest ever.
    I am planning a trip from US to Greece in mid-April with my wife for 6 nights.
    I will definitely be visiting Santorini (3 nights). What else shall I include in my itinerary? Mykonos, Athens, etc?
    Which nicer hotels do you recommend in Oia or Imerovigli which I can get in around $300-350/night (in mid-April)?
    If I take ferry from Athens to Santorini and then plan to fly out to US from Santorini; what are luggage allowance in Ferry?

    Thanks,
    Amit Singh

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      I would do one full day in Athens and then 2 days in Naxos (which is on the way to Santorini). Please see my favorite Oia and Imerovigli hotels above. Not sure on prices but many should fit your budget for mid-April stays. There are no luggage limits on Greek ferries (within reason, of course).

  43. Oia Hotel with Views but Less Expensive

    Hi Dave, I read a lot of your posts and feel you are the most knowledgeable in Greece in my opinion. In July we will be staying in Santorini for 3 nights with our 16-year-old daughter. We would like to stay in Oia with the nicest Caldera views and it doesn’t need to have sunset views. We looked at Katikies and Canaves but they are over $1400 price range. Please recommend some great hotels in $700 to $1100 price range.

    Thank you,
    Alla

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Santorini Secret Suites have great caldera views and not as expensive as Katikies or Canaves (though the latter two are my personal favorites).

  44. Where To Stay for Santorini Honeymoon

    Hi Dave,

    Love your website and blog! I’ve been using it as my primary resource for planning my fiance and I’s honeymoon in September. I was hoping to run a few questions by you regarding choosing the best hotel option for us in Santorini and Mykonos.

    In Santorini, we’re having trouble deciding between staying in Imerovigli or Oia. It looks like Imerovigli has slightly “better” views, and maybe more top restaurants, but is slightly more secluded, while Oia you get the benefit of being right in a very cool town. We love to go out to eat and are extremely excited for the great restaurants but want to be able to walk around the amazing town of Oia and explore as well. I’d say we are shooting for equal parts touring/activities and relaxing while in Santorini, and we do value location and being close to the action.

    Our budget for hotels is about $1000-$1100 per night for the trip, and we really want a terrace with an outdoor pool or jacuzzi. We’ll be in Santorini for 4-5 nights, and Mykonos for 3-4 nights.

    If we stayed in Imerovigli, we are currently deciding between the Grace (Deluxe Room w/ plunge pool for $1080), Astra Suites (Pool Suite, $1071 per night) or Cavo Tagoo (one of the Jacuzzi Suites ranging from $1044 – $1172 per night). I know the Grace is considered the top hotel, but wondering how the Deluxe Room at the Grace compares to the “better” rooms at Astra Suites in your opinion. Does the service and amenities at Grace outweigh the larger room with better terrace and pool at the Astra Suites? And how does Cavo Tagoo compare to each of these in your opinion? The website makes it look like an extremely cool spot – very contemporary which we really like. We are also considering Cavo Tagoo for Mykonos.

    If we stayed in Oia, we really like the Ikies Houses, and we’re considering the Carpenter or Winemaker’s House ($1029/$1143 per night). Would you recommend the Ikies over a more traditional hotel like Mystique, or any other others? Katikies I know is great, but it is booked for part of our stay and also a little bit out of our price range. One hotel that I came across that was not listed on your site is the Santo Maris Oia Luxury Suites. Its website makes it look great – is there a reason you haven’t recommended it? I’m sure there is.

    Our hotel choice in Mykonos will depend on how much we spend in Santorini, but again, our decision will begin with deciding between staying in Mykonos Town or at one of the beaches. Which would you recommend, and if beach, which beach is the best if we wanted to be close to great restaurants/reasonable distance to Mykonos Town? Going to clubs and partying is less important to us.

    Thanks again for your blog and all of your excellent information!

    Best,
    Ben

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      You, of course, need to decide between Oia and Imerovigli. It seems like you have a good feel for pros and cons of each. Just need to decide. Ikies sounds like the best choice for you though it is on the outer edge of Oia so it’s not walk out your door and hit the restaurants. It’s a 10/12 minute (enjoyable) walk into town. All the Imerovigli hotels you mention are wonderful. Cavo Tagoo is a 15 minute walk outside of Imerovigli and there’s not much around it, but yes, vibe is very hip there. Santo Maris is a fine hotel but lacks atmosphere and has no caldera view to speak of (though sunsets are great).

  45. Itinerary and Hotels for Greek Islands

    Hi Santorini Dave,
    We really have enjoyed reading your website.  It is full of great information.  Hoping that you might give us some recommendations for our upcoming 12-day trip to the Greek Islands this summer.  We are traveling on July 24 and returning on August 5th.  We know that we want to spend at least 4 days in Santorini.  We also think we want to visit Crete.  We are looking for a third island to visit.  We are two adults in our mid-40’s celebrating our 20th wedding anniversary together.  We have kids, but they aren’t coming with us.  We enjoy the beach, some history and adventure.  We’re not looking for a crazy party scene.  What do you think?
    Also, for our time in Santorini we have decided to go big in terms of a luxury hotel.  What is your suggestion for the nicest five-star resort to stay in?  For the other islands we are open to more reasonable accommodations.  Any thoughts there? 
    And lastly, we planned on ending our trip in Athens for one day of sightseeing.  Please advise with thoughts on where to stay that’s nice and also convenient to the Acropolis/Parthenon. 
    We appreciate whatever insight you can provide.  Look forward to hearing your suggestions.
    Thanks so much,
    Dan and Michelle Weinberg, Westfield NJ.   

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      The best hotel in Santorini is Grace in Imerovigli. Naxos would make a good final island and is one of my favorites and complements Santorini well. Lots of great beaches.

  46. Canaves Epitome Hotel in Oia

    I’m interested in the new Canaves Oia Epitome resort in Santorini. Any information on views and location? We don’t plan on having a car – Is Epitome close to shops and restaurants and near bus stop? Thanks!

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Canaves Epitome is brand new and located about a 15-minute walk to the east of Oia (along the north coast, not on the road leading to Fira). There’s not much out here and no buses. It’s close to Katharos beach which is rocky but fine for swimming. There’s a taverna there. The hotel is luxurious but don’t stay here to be in the thick of the action. Sunset views are great but no caldera views.

  47. Itinerary for Greece in April

    Hey Dave! Love the site, so much good info!

    traveling to Greece in a few months. Current plans are to arrive in Athens on March 30, stay 2 nights, fly to Crete on April 1, stay in Chania for 3 nights. Then ferry to Santorini on April 4 to stay for 2 nights in Fira. Back to Athens for 1 last night before heading home. Thoughts on the itinerary? I’m thinking maybe I can do 1 less night in Athens and get 3 nights each in Crete and Santorini.

    Bob

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Sounds fine, but if possible I would try to fly straight from Athens to Crete when you arrive in Greece (saving time for getting to and from the Athens airport). Then do 1 or 2 nights in Athens on the way back.

  48. Dana Villas vs Cosmopolitan

    I LOVE reading up on all your updates and responses. I could spend ALL day reading! I’ll get to the point, I have reserved 2 Hotel Rooms in Santorini and I’m not sure which one to keep. Fira and Firostefani are faiirly close, the walking doesn’t bother us. I just want a really beautiful hotel that is luxurious, relaxing and is close or in the heart of all the main things. I have read the endless reviews about BOTH hotels and I still cannot decide. Dana has reviews that say its outdated, but our room (honeymoon suite) is completely remodeled and amazing. So I’m not sure if its just the room they booked/received. The Cosmo is highly recommended by you as well. HELP!

    Traveling as a couple, mid/late 30’s.

    1. Dana Villas Honeymoon Suite-(indoor/outdoor pool in room) ($2,584 for 4 nights)
    2. Cosmopolitan- Double Room w/ Volcano View ($2,161 for 4 nights)

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Yes, the two Honeymoon Suite at Dana Villas are newly refurbished and fantastic. Each has its own pool. I’d go with that as long as you can handle the steps up and down to Dana (a lot). Cosmopolitan has very few steps and is a minutes walk from clubs and bars of Fira. (Dana is a 15 minute walk to Fira.) Both are great places just depends what you’re looking for.

  49. Santorini with 2 Teens

    Hi Dave
    Looking at Santorini for June, traveling with 2 older teenagers. Recommendations on things to do, also looking at Canvas Suites for accommodation. Any thoughts?
    Thx,
    Terry

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Canvas is a great place with wonderful caldera views. Super-central location in the middle of Oia. Rooms are good for families and some have private jacuzzis. Good luck.

  50. Callia Caves in Santorini

    Thanks again, Dave! (wondering how you keep up with all this info). One last question on stay (promise) – I just came across Callia Caves, which is apparently a newer development. How would you rate this place relative to your previous recommendation (My Blue) for the views and overall visit experience?

    Thanks,
    Jay
    (Patron)

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Callia Caves is two suites directly beside each other in Fira (with views). I have not toured it so can’t speak knowingly. It’s more about whether you want to stay in Oia or stay in Fira. That’s a bigger difference than you’ll get between the accommodations you’re considering.

  51. Charming Place to Stay for Group of 4

    Dave,
    Thanks for replying back with a recommendation on a place for my December visit. Unfortunately, Oia Mansion is not available on those dates. What do you think of My Blue (Island Blue/Captains Blue), Heliotopos, Santorini Mansion, Merovigliosso, or Rocabella as alternates?

    Just to recap, we are 4 guests, and looking for a place that has great views, a charming feel to it (a cave house perhaps) or an elegant luxury setting, and ideally doesn’t feel like you are next to 50 other terraces.

    Thanks again,
    Jay
    (Patron)

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Rocabella will have the most privacy. But Santorini Mansion and My Blue will have more of the charm you’re looking for. Heliotopos is somewhere in the middle (in terms of qualities). Merovigliosso is a fine affordable hotel but probably not what you’re after. Also to consider, Oia (where My Blue is located) will have more open than Imerovigli in December. Imerovigli will be very quiet but is within walking distance (20 minutes) of Fira. All things considered, I’d go with My Blue.

  52. Place for Group of 4 or 5 in December

    Dave,
    Thanks for putting together this website – a great resource for Santorini visitors. I’m planning to visit in late December and unfortunately all the fabulous places to stay that you recommend are closed and the ones open are already booked (I thought winter was off-season :(). Can you recommend some alternate places that are open in December – I’m looking for a place that can accommodate 4-5 guests, has great views, has a charming feel to it (a cave house perhaps) or an elegant luxury setting, and ideally doesn’t feel like you are next to 50 other terraces. Jay

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      The place I would recommend is Oia Mansion in central Oia. Wonderful sunset views, very private terrace with hot tub, kitchen, and 4 bedrooms. It’s idyllic.

  53. Where To Stay in Santorini for Couples

    We are planning a week on Santorini for late September – early October and are trying to decide where to stay. We are a couple in our early 50’s and it’s a “bucket list” trip for us. We have wanted to go take in the Santorini scenery since seeing the 80’s movie “Summer Lovers”. We want to have some down days and some days to go see the other island sites (I asked about day car rentals over on your page about that). We have settled on staying in Oia as we really want the picturesque town and romantic vibe, plus we love to just walk around towns and don’t mind the stairs, etc. We’d like to stay more in the “heart” of the city so have initially ruled out some of the hotels that seem to be on the Oia outskirts as you head to Fira. We want a nice higher-end place but are not looking for all-out luxury. We want a great terrace/veranda with good views for breakfast and sunset. In reviewing your hotel recommendations we have zeroed in on Esperas and Oia Castle Hotel. We leaning towards Esperas because it is cheaper and looks to have direct views of the sunset versus the “behind the city” sunset views from Oia Castle. Oia Castle Hotel has rooms with outside hot tubs which is nice but not required for us. Also read a review the terrace/verandas at Esperas can bee seen by people on the trail down to Ammoudi so a bit worried about privacy there. Any advice on these or other hotel matches for us? We are pretty close to committing to Esperas but are open-minded to other suggestions. Thanks and love this site!
    Scott Williams

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Esperas and Oia Castle are both awesome hotels (two of my favorites) so you can’t go wrong. Oia Castle is definitely a little more luxurious (hence the higher rates). Esperas actually has more privacy and is accessed by a quieter path. The path down to Ammoudi runs right by Oia Castle but is some distance from Esperas. Both have great sunset views (only a handful of hotels in Oia have sunset views). (If you’re reading about indirect sunset views you might be reading about Oia Aspaki which is the Oia Castle sister hotel and reviews sometimes get mixed together.) Both hotels are “in the heart of Oia”. Esperas has a pool, Oia Castle does not (though you can use the very small pool at Aspaki). Views from Esperas look back into the caldera more than Oia Castle and thus are even better.

  54. Katikies or Grace Santorini

    Hi Dave!

    You’ve been so amazing answering all my questions, and my fiancee and I just had one more regarding hotels in Santorini:

    So we’ve decided to stay at either Grace or Katikies. Right now we are looking at room selection, and are considering the following for a 5 night stay:

    -Honeymoon Suite at Grace – ~€1250 per night
    -Master Suite at Katikies – €1355 per night
    -VIP Suite at Grace – ~€1500 per night
    -Grace Suite at Grace – €1710 per night

    Now, these room are not inexpensive… and while we’re fortunate enough to have the means to afford it… we’re not ultra-rich, and we don’t want to spend needlessly if there’s not much of a difference in the experience. However, since it is our honeymoon, we don’t mind spending the extra money if the upgraded room will make a noticeable difference in the experience.

    Regarding room selection, we’re looking for the following:
    -enjoying the views from our terrace
    -reasonable amount of privacy
    -waking up to a beautiful view
    -relaxation inside our room
    -beautiful room design

    -My first thought is that the VIP Suite at Grace would be our best choice. It has the largest terrace of any of the suites at Grace, and from the pictures the room looks really unique and beautiful with the lava rock window. It also has a in-suite steam room like the Grace Suite. We would also save a few €100 per night over the Grace Suite which would add up over a five day trip.

    -Regarding the Grace Suite… it looks like the only difference in that upgrade would be that it has a private pool inside the bathroom… that sounds really nice, but I wonder how much time we would actually spend using it? My fiancee and I would probably spend more time in the outdoor pool since it has the caldera views. Also the Grace Suite terrace is a tad smaller than the VIP Suite… so in that regard it seems like a bit of a downgrade.

    -Honeymoon Suite is a great value (especially when you combine it with the romance package that includes dinner and a free boat ride around the island), but my main concern is the terrace might be a tad too small for our liking.

    -Regarding Katikies: the main reason I’m considering the Master Suite at Katikies is because it seems to be super private and secluded. After watching your video review of the Grace Santorini… I noticed there was a public patch going down to Skaros Rock in front of the hotel… my fiancee and I don’t need 100% total seclusion, but we also wouldn’t want any onlookers to just sit there and stare at us while we’re on our terrace enjoying the pool. In that regard, the Master Suite would be very attractive to us.

    The truth is, I’m sure we’ll have a great time at any of these places/rooms… I would just love to hear your take on it.

    Thanks,

    Jon

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      You’re right, Katikies does have much more privacy than Grace. It’s perhaps Grace’s only shortcoming – lots of walk by traffic. Or maybe not lots, as not that many people go out to Skaros, but a steady trickle of passersby. If privacy is your top priority then go with Katikies. If luxury then the Grace or VIP Suite, and if value then the Honeymoon suite. (Katikies doesn’t have a sunset view, btw.)

  55. Absolute Bliss vs. Above Blue Suites

    We have decided to stay in Imerovigli. Debating between Absolute Bliss (honeymoon suite) and Above Blue Suites (siren suite). Absolute Bliss is $300-400 more total for 4 nights than Above Blue. Would you consider Absolute Bliss worth the extra cost?

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Both are great hotels. Yeah, I would probably save the money and go with Above Blue. They are almost directly beside each other and have similar views and layouts – so no difference there.

  56. Nefeles Luxury Suites in Fira

    Hi, just became a patron.

    We are considering Nefeles Luxury Suites in Fira. It sounds like they have an indoor pool and outdoor pool. Can you give any more insight on these pools and their quality? Are there a lot of stairs in this hotel? We can do some but the fewer the better.

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Yes, Nefeles Luxury Suites has two small pools. The rooftop plunge pools has 6 sun chairs and wonderful views. (But note, behind the pool is a scruffy area that’s perennially under construction. Not a deal breaker but a little disappointing.) The lower pool is partly indoors. It’s unique, for sure. Sort of small and surrounded by the lobby and breakfast area. Nice if you have some kids that want a place to cool off but probably won’t be used by most guests. There are certainly some stairs to get to the front desk and rooms. There’s a another level of hotels below Nefeles that have far more stairs, so it’s not the worst.

      Plunge Pool at Nefeles:
      Nefeles Swimming Pool in Santorini.

      Scruffy Area around Plunge Pool:
      Plunge pool at Nefeles Luxury Suites.

      Swimming Pool and Breakfast Area:
      Swimming pool at Fira hotel.

  57. Honeymoon Hotels in Santorini and Mykonos

    Dave,

    We are looking to spend our honeymoon in Mykonos and Santorini. Being able to walk or quickly get to town areas would be ideal. For Santorini, having a room with a balcony and caldera view would be great – extra bonus for private pool/tub! I found the following base room prices on booking.com. We are working with a budget, so unless one option is significantly better we’d go with the lower cost options. Which of the following hotels would you suggest?

    Mykonos:
    Harmony Boutique – $1000
    Mykonos Theoxenia – $1450
    Petasos Beach and Spa $1800
    St John Hotel Villas $1800

    Santorini:
    Anteliz Suites – $1600
    Sophia Luxury Suites 1900
    Absolute Bliss – $2000
    Esperas Traditional Houses $1770
    Tsitouras Collection $2400
    Belvedere $1900

    Thank you for all of the great information!
    Eric Graner

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Those are all wonderful hotels. For Mykonos you need to decide whether you want to stay on the beach (Petasos and St John’s) or stay in Mykonos Town (Harmony and Theoxenia). And for Santorini do you want to stay in Oia (Esperas), Imerovigli (Sophia, Absolute Bliss), or Firostefani (Belvedere, Tsitouras, Anteliz – which is on the border with Fira). These decisions are the best basis for selecting between these excellent hotels.

  58. Honeymoon Hotel in Santorini

    Your website is great! It has been super helpful. My fiance and I are planning our honeymoon to the Cyclades in mid-October. We are planning to stay in Santorini for 3 nights. Based on availability and budget, we have it narrowed down to –

    Above Blue Suites (Above Blue Villa)
    Cavo Tagoo (Suite with Pool)
    West East Suites (Executive Suite with Hot Tub and Caldera View)
    Sophia Luxury Suites (Honeymoon Cave)

    We want to make sure we have a great view and an outdoor pool or hot tub. Which ones would you recommend? Thanks for your advice.

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      I’d go for Sophia Suites if the room is the most important factor (very charming nestled in among the lanes of Imerovigli). And Cavo Tagoo if the hotel (in general), pool, and pool deck/bar/restaurant area is most important.

  59. Booking Santorini Hotels for Next Year

    I always have this issue i.e it is so difficult to choose one place in Santorini.

    Now I am deciding between for May dates:
    1) Sophia Suites (open for booking but non-refundable rate) – looking at Aurora Suite
    2) Honeymoon Petra (open for booking with free cancellation) but no private jacuzzi – looking at Petra Studio
    3) Astra Suites (based on last years prices, min. 2 nights) – a bit pricey
    4) Grace (available from September onwards)

    I know where these 4 places are located because I stayed in the Imerovigli village on an earlier trip.

    Will Santorinidave kindly give me some guidance please.

    Berry

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      All four are great so can’t go wrong but Grace is my absolute favorite with Astra being a close 2nd.

  60. Vedema Resort in Santorini

    Hi Dave,

    What do you think of Vedema Luxury Hotel in Santorini?

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Vedema is a wonderful 5-star resort in the charming town of Megalochori. Good local tavernas within an easy walk. But hotel does not have a caldera view and is not within walking distance of the caldera towns.

  61. Hotels & Restaurants in Santorini

    Hi Dave! Your site is brilliant and I literally booked our entire trip to Greece based on it! Thank you! Wherever I could I mentioned your referral in case you get any credit!
    Apologies if you’ve answered this elsewhere but for a 4 night stay on Santorini, would you recommend 4 nights at Katikies or split time in Oia and Fira but staying 2 nights at Katikies and 2 nights at the Cosmopolitan? I’ve tentatively booked that but considering changing it to reduce moving around.

    Also, I’ve booked the wine tour, and dinners at Metaxy, Mezzo, Athenian House, and Ambrosia. I think we will cancel one of these dinners. Which one would you skip?

    Thank you!
    Anna Summers

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Oia and Fira are very different. If it was me, I’d stay two nights in each. Both Mezzo and Athenian House are wonderful but since they’re almost right beside each other and have the same view I’d drop one of those two.

  62. Best Santorini Resort

    Hello Dave

    What is the best resort in Santorini? Looking for a large pool and relaxed vibe – a luxury resort with 5-star features and service. (We are ending our trip with 3 days in Oia with friends so don’t need a resort with a caldera view.)

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      The best Santorini resort is Vedema Resort in Megalochori. It doesn’t have a caldera view but does have a huge pool and luxurious atmosphere.

  63. London Heathrow to Santorini

    Hi Dave! Love your site and all the information you give! We are planning a holiday vacation from UK to Santorini. Our flight arrives to London Heathrow terminal 3 and our British Airways flight departs 3.5 hours later from terminal 5. Is this enough time to make the transit from one terminal to the other? Also, what is the Santorini airport like? Is it big? We are meeting someone there from a pre-arranged rental car company. Will it be hard to find them? How far in advance should we be at the Santorini airport before our London flight? Thank you, Annabelle.

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      That is plenty enough time to transfer at Heathrow under two scenarios: 1) both flights are with BA (or partner companies) and your checked baggage is transferred to the Santorini flight. 2) or, you don’t have any checked baggage, only carry on. In either of these cases you will follow the signs in Heathrow to “Transfer” and you’ll take an airport bus to terminal 5 without exiting the security zone. But, if you have checked baggage and they’re not transferred for you then you’ll need to pick them up outside of security, then train to terminal 5 (which is quick and not the source of the problem), then go through security to get to your terminal 5 flight. Even though you have 3.5 hours, if you have to go through security again you likely won’t make your flight. The Santorini airport is small and you’ll have no problem finding your rental car representative. Arriving 2.5 hours before your flight from Santorini is recommended if you have baggage to check. (The biggest lines are to check bags, security usually goes pretty quickly.) If you only have carry on, and can check in online, then 90 minutes before departure is plenty.

  64. Santorini Holiday from London, UK

    We are coming for a last minute holiday from London. Every hotel you recommend is fully booked, so have to stay at El Greco. How far is the walk from El Greco to Fira? Is it safe to walk back to El Greco at night (after clubbing)? We have 3 days on Santorini, do you recommend renting a car? Thanks!!!

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      El Greco is a fine hotel with a nice pool and deck area, so no need to feel disappointed. It doesn’t have caldera views but they’re easy to enjoy if you get out and about. It’s an easy walk from El Greco to Fira – about 10 minutes with a good sidewalk the whole way. It is on a busy road so not an idyllic setting but the views are there to enjoy off to the west. Should be no problem walking back at night. You could easily fill 3 days on Santorini without renting a car: day 1 do the Fira-Oia hike, day 2 do a boat tour of the caldera, day 3 take the bus to a beach town (for example). And that doesn’t even include a day spent by the pool, or a wine tour, or shopping in Fira (none of which require a car). If you did rent a car I’d get it for only one day. A car does let you see more of the island but with only 3 days you’ll have more than enough to see without resorting to getting in a car.

  65. Stay in One Town or Two?

    Hi Dave, great website.
    I’ve only just booked Santorini for September, I checked out your hotel suggestions, but they were either over our budget or didn’t have availability (my fault for booking so late). It was a minefield but ended up booking Casa Bianca, off Main St, Imerovigli – do you have any feedback?
    We are staying for 10 nights and wondered if you think we should stay the whole 10 nights at this hotel or maybe do half in a different area of Santorini?
    Thx Tracey

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Casa Bianca has a nice little spot in the center of town. Markets, restaurants, and good views are 1 or 2 minutes away. A fine choice. With 10 days I would definitely move around and stay in different towns. 6 nights in Imerovigli and 4 in Oia would be good. Or even 4 in Imerovigli, 3 in Oia, and 3 in Fira.

  66. Imerovigli or Oia

    Hi Dave,
    Thanks for all the info on your website; it’s a real gem for info on Santorini! That being said, I have a few questions for you. I am going in July with my husband to Crete and then, to Santorini for 3 days as part of our honeymoon. I am torn between staying in Imerovigli vs Oia. We were leaning towards Oia in terms of the charm of the town so I was wondering what was the difference between Oia and Imerovigli in terms of charming town and wanting to wander in the streets. Also, in Imerovigli, from what we understand, Grace hotel would be the best option (and yes, it is available for now!) and if we end up choosing Imerovigli, we would stay there. But, what about Oia? We are looking for a luxury hotel with great service with a plunge pool or Jacuzzi on the balcony. We’ve looked at Katikies, but the rooms with plunge pools are a bit over budget (about 1.5 to 2 times the price of those at Grace hotel). Any other hotels in Oia you would recommend that would meet our criteria? Or should we choose Grace hotel? Thanks so much for your input! Maude

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Oia has more charming shops, twisty little lanes, and iconic stairwells and churches. Imerovigli is much quieter, peaceful, and has better views of the caldera and sunset. In Oia the beauty and the appeal is more about the town itself while in Imerovigli it’s largely the location, view, and perspective. Other hotels to consider in Oia are Canaves, Andronis, Perivolas, and Kirini.

  67. Booking Santorini Hotel on Expedia

    Hi Dave, Love your site. Would you please clarify your comment re: Expedia. I have booked the Anteliz Suites for July with Expedia as they were the only site with availability for my dates. Are you referring to how they handle execution and fulfillment? Or are you commenting on the accuracy of their rating system? I did see Anteliz listed in your list.

    Thanks so much.
    Shelley

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Yeah, Expedia sucks and I wouldn’t use them. But now that you have, be sure to email the hotel directly to confirm your reservation and dates.

  68. Best Hotel with Private Balcony and Jacuzzi

    Hello Dave,

    Love your website. My wife and are spending 4 nights in October to celebrate our 15th anniversary. I am surprising my wife with the hotel I am booking. She likes great views and a balcony that is private. I am thinking about booking the Honeymoon suite at Absolute Bliss or the King suite with whirlpool at the Keti Hotel. Both have a outdoor hot tub which is a plus. Would you book one of these rooms are another hotel in Fira or Imerovigli?
    Thanks Dave,
    Gary Murata

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Both are great choices. I’d do Keti if you wanted to be close to Fira’s nightlife and clubs. And Absolute Bliss if you’d be happy with an evening meal (but not really anywhere to go out at night).

  69. Honeymoon Hotel for May – But Many Hotels Fully Booked

    We will be on our honeymoon in late May, but running into the issue of hotels booking up. So far the best options we’ve come up with are:

    Esperas – Standard House with Sea View
    Homeric Poems – Honeymoon Suite
    Tholos Resort – Suite with Private Outdoor Jacuzzi and Caldera View
    Athina Luxury Suites – Honeymoon Suite with outdoor jacuzzi
    Petit Place – Honeymoon suite with private pool or private plunge pool

    Looking for overall best honeymoon experience – top notch hotel & staff, quiet area but easy to get to town, preferably a private pool/jacuzzi and/or shared infinity pool, and of course great views. Which hotel do you think is best?

    Thanks so much, your site has been so helpful!!

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      My two favorite of those hotels are Esperas and Homeric Poems. If you want walking distance to nightlife and shopping then go with Homeric Poems. If you’re happy with easy access to good restaurants and a bit of shopping then Esperas is great too. If sunset views are more important then Esperas. If caldera views more important (which is what I prefer) then Homeric Poems. Athina and Tholos are fine too but not quite as luxurious. Petit Palace is a great hotel but is not an easy walk to much of anything.

  70. Location of Armeni Village Hotel in Oia

    Hello
    Could you please give me some feedback on the Armeni Village in Oia Santorini? In terms of areas on Santorini is this a good one?
    Thanks
    Susan Mills

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Beautiful views and location. Lots of restaurants (and Oia’s only bar) within a 5 minute walk.

  71. Besten Hotels in Santorin

    We are from Germany. Are there good hotels in Santorini that speak German? Or have many German speakers and good for german people? Also, is there a website for booking hotels in German language?

    Vielen Dank,
    Mark

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Booking.de is a German website for Santorini hotels.

      Santorini hotels that speak German include the Santorini Princess (Imerovigli), Agali Houses (Firostefani), Santorini Secret (Oia), and Hotel Thira (Fira).

  72. Kirini vs Astra Suites

    Hi Dave,
    I have really enjoyed reading and getting great tips from your sight for our upcoming vacation to Athens and Santorini. We are a family of 4 and will be traveling with my two adult children. I am looking at several hotels and was interested in Kirini Suites & Spa. However, Kirini is not on your list and was wondering why? I am also looking at Astra Suites. We only have 3 days on the island, so I can only choose to stay at one. Thoughts?
    Monica

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Both are wonderful. Astra is right in the thick of Imerovigli with several good restaurants a short walk (or climb) away. Kirini is near the end of the pathway in Oia and thus a 10 minute walk (or a little more) to central Oia. Astra has sunset views. Kirini doesn’t (the sun dips behind the town before it sets).

  73. Hotels for Athens, Santorini, and Mykonos

    Hi Dave,
    I’m curious if you can give me some feedback on our hotels. We wanted to be in a central location more than anything and we didn’t want to spend more than 500 for 3 nights in each location.

    Athens (3 nights): Athinas Street Inn
    Santorini (3 nights): Veranda View, we had a room as Casa Bianca booked but wanted something with a tad more of a view.
    Mykonos (3 nights): Mykonos Beach Hotel

    Any recommendations would be great if you feel there’s a better area to stay.

    Thanks!
    Carina Raddatz

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Athinas Street Inn is a very nice hotel within easy walking distance of Athens’ top sights but the area directly around the hotel is ugly and a bit seedy. Nothing terrible but this is not like staying in the Plaka (a 10 minute walk away). Veranda View has great caldera views (but no sunset view). Mykonos Beach Hotel is a good budget/moderate hotel a little outside of Mykonos Town. Beach is OK here but not the best on the island. The walk to Mykonos Town is short but runs along a busy road with no sidewalk.

  74. Canaves for Wheelchair User

    Hi Dave,

    I’ve only scanned your website so far but will be going back to read it in detail later. At a quick glance, it’s a mine of information. Fabulous.
    Last night we made a quick decision to head to Santorini for a birthday break with friends in April. We are looking at the Canaves Hotel in Oia. My husband is a wheelchair user and I wanted to check in with you regarding its accessibility? Bathrooms do not have to be adapted as long as there is room for him to get in.
    Do you have any tips for the island as a whole? Having visited Mykonos with a friend last year I am aware it will be challenging at times. However, he has a battery-operated mobility aide which he attaches to his manual chair and has the rest of us running behind and our friends have muscle power. We do like to wander around and see as much as possible whenever we travel and love good food and bars in the evenings so any knowledge you can pass on will be invaluable.

    Thanks in advance,

    Lydia Danaos

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Canaves is one of the few hotels in Oia with an elevator so that makes it a good choice. It’s located at the start of a long pedestrian walkway in Oia that should be fine for your husband to use. Lots of restaurants along there. Not many bars but Mary Kay’s is a good one that’s on this same stretch of walkway. It’s small but should be able to access it as it’s located right on the path. For info on the best individual room I would email Canaves directly (info@canaves.com).

  75. Hotel with View of Blue Dome Churches

    Hi Dave,

    Love your site, I wish there wish something like this everywhere you go! I’m heading to Santorini on my honeymoon next September (late Sept). Can you recommend any hotels or suites with a view of the buildings with blue roofs? I think I can see them in Fira, Oia, and Imerovigli, but they don’t really show a panoramic view! ….Happy wife, happy life!

    Thanks,
    Josh

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Oia Spirit in Oia is your best bet for a hotel with views of the blue domes. Few hotels have views of the domes and caldera as to see the domes you usually have to be set back a bit from the edge and when that happens you lose the view of the caldera – but Oia Spirit takes in both.

  76. Astra and Mykonos Blu

    Hi Dave,
    I just booked 5 nights in the Honeymoon Suite at Astra Suites and 3 nights in a Waterfront Bungalow at Mykonos Blu for a trip to Mykonos and Santorini next May.
    Still trying to make final arrangements, but do these choices seem good to you? Basically, will I get what I’ve paid for or can I get the same or better view and service for less?
    Thanks for your input.
    -Cliff Miller

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Two great hotels.

  77. Trip to Greece and Italy in September

    Hi David,

    As I mentioned over twitter, I suck with booking travel and things like this. It is the first time I would be leaving the country for something like this and I wanted to make it special for my wife on our 6th Anniversary. We have always talked about going to Greece and Italy so I was wondering since you seem to be very knowledgeable on everything that has to do with traveling hopefully you can help us. I was planning on using a travel agency but you seem to think that’s not the best way.

    Rough draft plans are:
    – Leave Boston, MA US to Greece sometime in September.
    – Stay 4/5 days in Santorini and 2/3 in Mykonos and a friend said I should stop by Athens for at least a night. (Whatever order makes most sense to fit our traveling ideas.)
    – From Greece we thought about taking a cruise from Greece to Italy (no idea how long those usually take) and staying a couple of night in Italy not 100% sure where but I was thinking maybe a night in Rome and one in Milan. Then fly back home to Boston from Italy.
    – As far as our budget I thought about about staying at somewhere somewhat better in Santorini in the U$200+ range and maybe downgrading to something good but lowered priced in Mykonos. I can give you more figures if you think that would be helpful.

    I don’t mind changing the order of the places we want to visit to make it a more pleasant experience, I actually have thought of letting Santorini be the last spot that we stop so we can soak it all in before heading back home since that’s the place my wife wants to visit the most.

    Sorry if I am asking for too much, but what the hell might as well try and worst that can happen is you’ll say “no can’t do and good luck”.

    Thank you very much for your time, and once again great job on the page. Wish you nothing but the best!

    Myke

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Ferries from Greece to Italy leave from the west coast of Greece (Igoumenitsa, Patras, and Corfu) and arrive on Italy’s east coast (usually Bari or Brindisi) a good ways from Rome and Milan. So I would skip the boat and just fly from Athens. My recommended route would be: fly directly to Santorini, ferry to Mykonos, ferry to Athens, fly to Rome, train to Milan, then fly home from there. One full day in Athens is sufficient for most people.

  78. Good Hotels in Mykonos and Santorini

    Hi Dave,

    Thank you so much for this resource. My wife and I are planning a first time trip to Greece for next Memorial Day. We’ll be there for 8 nights. We were planning to fly direct into Athens from Philadelphia. Spend 1 night in Athens, do the local hot-spots in Athens then fly to Mykonos for 3 nights. Ferry over to Santorini for 4 nights. Fly back to Athens and Philly.

    We didn’t want to plan every piece of the trip personally so we were directed to a travel advisor to plan it all out with our input. I know how you feel about travel agents/advisors after reading your postings, but they seem nice and informed. I wanted to run their hotel recommendations by you to make sure I’m getting what I’m looking for. They have recommended small boutique hotels which makes me wonder about their special deals. I’m looking for suites with private jacuzzi or pool, and amazing views.

    Mykonos – Myconian Avaton on Elia Beach – Pure Outdoor Jacuzzi Room
    We really want a great place on a great beach. We’re okay splurging for the right hotels.
    Not sure what to do in Mykonos aside from beach, bar, eat, drink, etc…

    Transfer to Santorini

    Santorini – Above Blue Suites – Harmony Suite – Imerovigli
    Day 2 – Semi-private wine tour
    Day 3 – Semi-private catamaran tour (5hr sunset or day trip) on Blue Lagoon I or II.
    Day 4 – Explore

    So, I love the plan so far and the price seems okay, but I have no real way of knowing if I’m really staying in the right places, as none of these are listed on your, or many other, sites as best places to stay.

    I am also considering changing hotels in Santorini half way through. Maybe doing 2 nights in Imerovigli and 2 nights in Oia.

    What do you think of this plan and is there anything you can offer to help make this as truly memorable trip?

    Thank you in advance for your advice,
    Truly,
    Cliff Miller

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Above Blue Suites are great. Good location in Imerovigli with wonderful views. Myconian Avaton is certainly luxurious but it has a very isolated location. Even the beach (Elia) that it purports to be close to is a shuttle ride away. Renting a car is highly recommended if you stay there.

  79. Absolute Bliss or Dana Villas?

    Hey Dave,

    Great detailed blog! My girlfriend and I (late ’20s) are headed to Santorini for 4 nights (and Mykonos for 4 nights) in Fall of next year. We are between a couple of properties in Santorini and wanted to get your insight.

    Absolute Bliss – Absolute Private Spa Villa
    Dana Villas – Private Villa (Recently Renovated)

    Absolute Bliss is about $500 more but seems to have better reviews, however, it is a little away from everything. We like that Dana’s Private Villa is recently renovated, in Firostefani, and has room for another couple if we wanted to invite additional people. Both have good views it looks like. My only concern with Dana is the customer service reviews on TripAdvisor, and with Absolute Bliss is the location and the villa itself looks a little small. Can you help put my mind at ease with these concerns?

    Thanks in Advance,
    Alex

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Absolute Bliss is definitely the more luxurious hotel but you are another 10 or 15 minutes farther from Fira. Avocado (one of my favorite restaurants) is almost right at the top of the stairs at Absolute Bliss.

  80. Best Hotel for Honeymoon

    Hi Dave,

    My husband and I are planning our honeymoon for early July. Is 5 nights enough in Santorini? Also, is it too early to book now? My husband really wants a pool or plunge pool. After looking on Booking.com, we have narrowed it down to Pegasus Spa Hotel, Agali Houses, and Skyfall Suites in addition to Sophia Suites and Aqua Luxury. Any preferences/recommendations of one over another?

    Thanks!

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Yes, 5 nights is about perfect for Santorini. Sophia would be my first choice but others are all great. (Skyfall is in Pyrgos and while very nice does not have caldera views.)

  81. Villa Katikies, Sun Rock, Maltese, or Tsitouras for Honeymoon Hotel

    Hi Dave–I have enjoyed the site and I think you have talked me (and my fiancé) into having our honeymoon there. I’m looking for somewhere nice and with privacy, preferably with a suite, but not astronomically expensive. I was thinking about Villa Katikies, Sun Rock, Maltese, or Tsitouras. Any recommendations? We would prefer quiet, romantic and more on the luxurious side but without having to take out a second mortgage. Would love some input. Thanks for all your help and I think your site is very informative!!

    Daniel

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      All of these are great but I would go for Tsitouras as it’s so friendly and homey that it just seems like a great fit for a honeymoon. Firostefani has a handful of good restaurants and Fira is an easy 10 minute walk away where you’ll find lots of shops, restaurants, and nightlife.

  82. Sunset Views in Oia

    Hi Dave

    Been following this website for a while now in preparation for my trip to Santorini. It’s the most helpful travel website I’ve ever come across, you really do put a lot of work into it and that comes across as does your passion.

    Quick couple of questions for you. I’m staying in Oia from October 20th to 23rd.

    We’re planning a sunset tour on the Ocean Voyager and also planning to see the sunset from Oia (probably from champagne bar in Ochre as I’ve read that’s a great view).

    * Would you recommend the view from Ochre or do you think there’s a better spot?
    * What would you do with the other sunset opportunity? I’m torn between catching it from another spot in Oia or heading down to Ammoudi for dinner. I’m already seeing the sunset from the Ocean Voyager, would it be very similar seeing it from Ammoudi or is the difference worth it over another sunset in Oia? I feel instinctively as if seeing it from up high will be better.

    Matthew Nelson

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Ochre has great direct views of the sunset, but they’re almost too direct. Ochre is on the northern most point of the island and there’s very little land (and no caldera) to frame the sunset. It looks very much like a typical sunset that you’d see at any beach. But if you’re back a bit, for example at Oia Castle where most people hang out, there’s a more scenic landscape surrounding you. That’s not to say the view from Ochre won’t be great, it will. But I’d go for having a more Santorini experience with scenes of the cliffs visible. In keeping with that, I would try to see the sunset from Imerovigli where you’ll get an even better foreground with the cliffs and caldera as the sun sets.

  83. Honeymoon on Santorini – Where To Stay?

    Hello Dave,

    First of all, thank you so much for sharing such intimate knowledge and in depth guidance on visiting Santorini. I am so grateful to have found your site.

    That said, while I am so happy for all of the insight, I am also a bit overwhelmed by all of the information and incredible options you present. Just about everything looks amazing.

    My fiancée and I are getting married in October and would love to honeymoon in Santorini for about 5 or 6 days. She is doing all of the wedding planning and working on all of the last minute details, so I’m trying to take care of all of the honeymoon travel. I’m seeking some advice and hoping you can help. I have so many questions.

    We will be leaving from the US and flying into Athens, arriving there from October 11th and flying out of Athens on October 16th. We are a relatively young and active late thirties – early forties couple. When vacationing we love to spend some time laying out and relaxing quietly by the pool/beach, but we also love to tour and explore the place, dine out at nice restaurants and try local cuisine, and enjoy the nightlife.

    Here are a few questions with which I’m hoping you can provide some further guidance:
    1) Which town(s), hotel(s) would you recommend to provide us the best mix of our interests?
    Would you recommend staying in a quieter town and take buses/cabs to the restaurants and nightlife or stay in Fira or Oia and go sightseeing to take in the more romantic and breathtaking views?

    • Oia, which you call the most romantic and enchanting town, seems like it could be a good choice for a honeymoon, but you also say, it has little nightlife and seems relatively far away from Fira, which you recommend for the nightlife.

    • Fira, sounds like there is a lot to do, but it is not as romantic, could be pretty loud and busy and the views are not as great. Maybe not the best for a honeymoon?

    • The other towns, Imerovigli and Firostefani seem like they may be a bit too quiet but they do seem to have the more spectacular and less expensive/better value hotels. We’re not looking for budget travel, but we don’t want to spend a fortune either. We’d like to find a really nice place at a great value. A place with a private heated Jacuzzi/Plunge pool would also be a huge plus. We love the water, but the weather there in October will probably be a bit cold for my fiancée.

    • Also we do not mind taking local buses and taxis or walking reasonable distances – in fact that can be part of the fun for us to see more of the place – how reliable, convenient, costly though is the transportation. The last thing we would want is to have to have a wonderful dinner and night out and then have to wait 30 minutes for a cab or bus and then have to travel for another 30 minutes late at night every night.

    2) While we are flying into Athens, we really don’t want to stay there longer than we have to on this trip. We’d rather maximize our time in Santorini. We figure we’ll come back and explore Athens at another time with the family in tow. If we get into Athens around 2pm, is that early enough for us to get to Santorini the same day? Are there flights, ferries available at that time? If so, what would you recommend? Should we take a flight straight from the Athens airport into Santorini as soon as we arrive, or should we take a ferry? Would it be a waste of a night/day if we do because we’d get in too late? Should we stay overnight in Athens?

    And if we have an 11:30am flight out of Athens on Sunday or Monday, can we leave Santorini by plane or ferry that morning in time to catch that flight, or should we go back to Athens from the night before?

    Thank you so much in advance for your help. I hope I am not imposing too much with my request for so much information. Please feel free to contact me at your earliest convenience.

    Kind Regards,

    CW

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Yes, there are trade-offs no matter where you stay. That said, all the towns are pretty amazing and I never fear that someone will choose, say, Oia over Imerovigli and then have a lousy vacation. Pretty unlikely. They’re all great in their own way.

      A great place if you want something quiet and romantic but still close to nightlife is Keti Hotel in Fira. The King Suite with Whirlpool is down at the very bottom of the hotel and about as private as suites get on Santorini. The views are amazing.

      Since you get into Athens at 2pm I probably wouldn’t book the flight at 3:45pm (you’d likely make it but that’s a little too tight for my taste). Go with the 5:05pm flight to Santorini on Aegean. On the way back to Athens you should be fine catching the 6:40am flight. No sense taking the ferry if saving time is important to you and you don’t want to go into Athens.

  84. Grace or Santorini / Hotels in Mykonos

    Hi! What an amazing site. My husband and I are going to be in Greece next June. For Santorini (following your recs), we’ve booked both Canaves and Grace. I’m leaning towards Grace, but my only concern is that I’ve heard the town of Oia is cuter and more romantic (which you also said). For four nights, if we wanted to go into Oia two nights, would it be an issue from a taxi / transportation perspective?

    Also, we’re really struggling with how to fill out the rest of our trip. We will be at the Amanzoe for 3 nights after Santorini and trying to figure out which island to start with. Mykonos is obviously the one most speak of, but we’re not really big into going out. Would prefer something a bit more lowkey I think and none of the hotels there are speaking to me. Any thoughts on a hotel you would recommend in Mykonos or if there are other islands we should consider?

    We’re in our early 30s, love to travel, very active and love great food.

    Thanks!
    Allison

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Both Grace and Canaves are wonderful. Oia has a bit more going on. Imerovigli is quieter, has fewer restaurants, but the restaurants are the best on the island. Both are romantic in their own way. It’s easy to get from Imerovigli to Oia so no worries there. (Be sure to do the walk there at least once.) Read our article on the best hotels in Mykonos for my recommendations there. Naxos and Paros are also great islands.

  85. Budget Hotel for Family of 4 on Santorini

    Hi Dave,

    Your website is amazing! I am travelling as a family of 4 with my husband and 2 kids aged 9 and 11 in September for 5 nights.

    I want to stay in the centre of Fira, close to caldera and buses, but quiet at night. I am after something quite budget, around 150 euros per night (perhaps slightly more). We want our own private toilet and shower. And preferably not too many steps. Is that even possible, and if so what hotels would you recommend?

    Also if staying in the centre of Fira would you still recommend hiring a car?

    Nikki

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      The San Giorgio is my favorite budget hotel in Fira. It should have quadruple rooms for under 100€ and it’s a short walk from there to buses and caldera. The Astir Fira is a little nicer and more expensive but has a pool. It’s also not quite so central and is a 5 to 8 minute walk to central Fira and the bus station. Staying in Fira definitely makes it easier to see the island but a rental car does make some sights easier to see. If you’re on the fence then just rent a car for a day and use that one day to see all distant sights.

  86. Last Minute Hotels for Santorini

    Hi Dave, Your site is really a treasure trove of info so thanks a ton! We have booked a very last min trip to Greece for end September and will visit Mykonos for 3 nights and Santorini for 3 nights. Because it is so last minute and rates are rather out of our budget I am looking at a lovely, comfortable (very clean) hotel with a good location (good view walking distance) rather than something right on the caldera. Do you have any input of Kalisti Suites in Fira? Is it walking distance from shops/restaurants. We will rent a car so will visit Imerviglioli and Oia. (Wanted to stay in Oia but can’t find anything suitable for 4 adults). Many thanks in advance! Tripta.

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Kalisti has a good location (3 minutes walk to caldera, bus station, and the center of Fira). Naoussa and Ouzeri are two great restaurants within a 5 minute walk of the hotel. Kalisti has a nice pool too.

  87. Aria suites, Cosmopolitan suites, or Athina Luxury Suites

    Hi Dave – great site. Quick question: I am planning to come to Santorini for 2 nights next July. I want to stay in Fira walking distance to all the action. We are a young gay couple from NY, looking to just relax, see the views, have great food, the usual for Santorini before heading to Mykonos. I was looking between Aria Suites, Cosmopolitan suites, or Athina Luxury Suites. Any preference among the 3 above or other hotels I should consider? Willing to go up to $450 a night. Thanks!

    Alex

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      All are great hotels but Cosmopolitan is probably the one you’re looking for.

  88. All Hotels Fully Booked

    We are trying to plan a trip to Santorini last minute for September 21-24 and of course all the hotels I want to stay at are booked. The only one I can find is the Kirini Suites and Spa. How would you rate this hotel? It is not on your list.

    Thank you dave!

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Kirini is a wonderful hotel with fantastic views and a terrific pool. It’s at the quiet end of Oia, so not much around it, but shops and restaurants of Oia are an easy 12/15 minute walk away (though there is a stretch you have to walk along the road to get to central Oia). You’re also right at the start of the path to Fira (which is a must for Santorini). Walk south to Fira and then take the bus back. (There’s a bus stop near to the hotel so you don’t have to walk all the way into Oia to catch the bus).

  89. Absolute Bliss or Honeymoon Petra

    Hi Dave! Your site is amazing and your advice is phenomenal. I’m planning a trip to Greece with my girlfriend (it’s her first time) – we are visiting Mykonos, Ios and Santorini. We have followed your advice for everything so far. But now stuck on where to stay in Santorini. We will be in town September 7-10th, just 3 days! We are between Absolute Bliss and Honeymoon Petra. Would love your thoughts on comparing the two. It would be an apartment in Petra and a Suite in Absolute. What are your thoughts on these for a couple experiencing Greece for the first time together? Thank you so much in advance!!

    Stephen + Ali

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Both are wonderful. Suites at Absolute Bliss will have more privacy and a direct sunset view. Honeymoon Petra has more character and looks more picturesque. The common areas of Absolute Bliss feel a little plain but the suites themselves are marvelous.

  90. Good Itinerary for Athens, Mykonos, Santorini, and Crete

    Hi Dave, your website is great. I have the following plan and need your advice and help.

    Friday, 7th October: Arrive in Athens in the evening. Walk around Plaka neighborhood; see the sights that need to be visited next day and dinner.

    Saturday, 8th October: Acropolis, Parthenon, and any other sites (any ideas would be welcome).

    Sunday, 9th October: Delphi day trip.

    Monday, 10th October: Morning ferry to Mykonos. Stroll around Mykonos town; visit little Venice for sunset; windmills, church and then dinner.

    Tuesday, 11th October: Day trip to Delos, and then head to beaches.

    Wednesday, 12th October: Morning ferry to Santorini. In the afternoon start the hike from Fira to Oia, watch sunset, dinner and back to fira via bus.

    Thursday, 13th October: Head to Akrotiri in the morning; Take a boat tour in the afternoon/early evening and visit the volcano sights, hot springs, Thirassia, white and red beach; take cable car on the way back.

    Friday, 14th October: Beaches (Kamari/Perissa route – going through the towns of ancient Thira/Emporio); Ammoudi Bay or Pyrgos in the evening.

    Saturday, 15th October: Stroll around fira town in the morning. Evening ferry to Heraklion and then drive to hotel in Agios Nikolos.

    Sunday, 16th October: Stroll around Agios Nikoloas and Lake Voulismeni. Then head to Elounda and take happy train to plaka to head to Spinalonga .

    Monday, 17th October: Drive from Ag Nik to Chania. On the way stop at Heraklion, Knossos, and Rethymon to look around at the sights.

    Tuesday, 18th October: Stroll around Chania old town and Lake Kournas. In the afternoon head to one of Marathi, Balos, or Elafonisi beach.

    Wednesday, 19th October. Day trip to Samaria Gorge.

    Thursday, 20th October: Morning flight to Athens from Chania. Spend day in Athens and over night in Athens.

    Friday, 21st October: departure

    I wanted your feedback about our plan. Me and my wife are both interested in historical sightseeing and chilling on some beautiful sandy beaches. We also like to visit local markets to shop around for handicraft etc.

    Could you tell me which area to stay in Athens?

    Whether we should stay in Mykonos town or on a beach in Mykonos. I have heard most of the life is around Mykonos town and at night taxis are hard to find.

    Are 2 nights in Mykonos enough?

    We should stay in Fira or Oia?

    Should we stay in Agios Nikolaos or Elounda?

    Lastly, does our plan for Crete sounds ok. Do 5 nights do the place justice? Should we cut down a night from Santorini and add another to Crete?

    Thanks

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Looks like a great itinerary – though very busy. It’d be nice to have a day or two in there of flexible time to adjust as you travel but your time is obviously limited. For Athens, stay in the Plaka, Monastiraki, or Syntagma areas – all have easy access to the main central sights (though the Archaeological Museum is a taxi or subway ride away). In Mykonos I prefer staying in the town (Chora) as there’s more to do and better restaurants. Fira would be better for you as you have plans to get out and explore the island and Fira’s more central location makes this easier. Agios Nikolaos has more activity. Elounda is more resort-based and has less of a center.

  91. Grace Santorini, Mystique, Perivolas, or Art Maisons?

    Hi Dave,

    Thanks for your helpful website, it has been invaluable. I will be visiting Santorini in late August with my husband and am trying to decide between Grace Santorini, Mystique, Perovilas, and Art Maisons. While I have read many people’s opinion that Oia is the ideal place to stay, I am also factoring in your opinion that Imerovigli is best. I am most committed to Santorini Grace because it is newly renovated and I love the property. I am overall not as in love with the minimalist style of Perivoilas and Mystique but considering them due to their Oia location. Could you weigh in on these hotel options? Roughly how long would it take to get to Oia via taxi?

    Thanks in advance,
    Debra Moore

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Imerovigli to Oia is about 12/15 minutes by taxi or bus. Yes, Grace is recently renovated and looking great. Lots of great restaurants within just a few minutes of Grace and Fira is an easy 15 minute walk down the hill. That said, all are great hotels and Oia is also a wonderful town. Can’t go wrong, really.

  92. Mill Houses, Cliff Side Suites, or Agali Houses?

    Hi Dave,

    So glad I found your site – it’s been really helpful.
    We are a 30 year old couple looking for hotels in Firostefani. Our friends will be staying at Dana Villas but unfortunately it is sold out.
    Where would you recommend out of Mill Houses, Cliff Side Suites or Agali Houses? Or anywhere close to Dana Villas that you would suggest please?
    Mostly just after somewhere with a nice clean room, but also would prefer some privacy.

    Thanks so much!
    Meg

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      All are nice hotels with fantastic views. Agali Houses has the nicest pool and large clean rooms. Cliff Side and Mill Houses have a bit more charm. I just stayed at Agali last week and loved it. Lots of privacy from walk by traffic.

  93. Hotels for Children on Santorini

    Hi Dave, we are attending a wedding in Santorini and have 2 young children, I am struggling to find a hotel with anything for the children, do you have any recommendations please? I was considering staying on a different island (possibly Crete) as it’s more suited for the children but would this be a pain? Keeping in mind I am bridesmaid so cannot afford not to be able to get there if we did stay elsewhere!
    thank you
    Sam

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Staying on another island and commuting to Santorini is not practical. Check out our page on the best kid-friendly hotels on Santorini.

  94. Buy Ferry Tickets in Advance?

    Dave

    AWESOME website. Thank you for everything you do.

    We will be heading to Greece/Iitaly July 23-August 5. I am wondering if I should purchase the ferry tickets from Piraeus to Mykonos and then Mykonos to Santorini ahead of time online or just while I am there? I am worried that it is high season and missing a ferry may throw off our itinerary. Suggestions?

    Additionally we will be staying at Herodian Hotel Athens, Kamari Hotel in Mykonos, White Pearl Villas in Santorini.

    Cheers,
    Chris

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      For that time period I would buy in advance (though you’d likely be fine in either case). You then pick up at the ticket kiosk at Piraeus (arrive at least 45 minutes before departure). To get from Herodian Hotel to Piraues take Line 2 on the metro from Akropoli to Omonia then switch to Line 1 heading towards Piraeus – in total this will take about 40 minutes and then another 5 to walk to the ticket kiosk.

  95. Meeting Point for Tour

    Hi dave,

    I booked a catamaran excursion but the company mentions that I should go to the Kyklos meeting point.

    I don’t know where this is. Can you please help me.

    Would you know where this is? Thank you.

    Justin

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      That is at a point in north Oia on the way to Amoudi Bay (when driving). Get directions to Lioyerma Pool Bar (or Marizan Caves Hotel) and it’s the last turn-off before heading down to Amoudi.

  96. Perivolas or Grace

    Hi Dave, your site is awesome!

    My wife and I are planning to visit Santorini for our 20th wedding anniversary in September and would like a recommendation for a hotel.

    Info
    – rate/cost is not a concern
    – would like private patio/balcony with pool or plunge pool
    – indoor plunge/spa/jacuzzi
    – unique room/decor
    – great views of the caldera and sunsets
    – top notch hotel service, restaurant, spa
    – walking distance to other great lively restaurants and bars

    I have currently booked the Perivolos Suite at Perivolos and one bedroom suite at Grace
    in consideration of the above – which of those two would be best or is there somewhere else we should consider?
    many thanks in advance
    mbc

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      These are both incredible hotels and the very best on Santorini. Grace feels more luxurious (like a trendy boutique), Perivolas feels more authentic and you really sense that these are caves suites built into the cliff. Grace was also refurbished over the winter and everything is spiffy and new. Views from both are magical. Grace is perched out on a point and you have a view of the full caldera. At Perivolas you see more of the town (Oia) in your view (which is great too, especially as the sun goes down and Oia lights up). Grace gets a full sunset view so you watch the sun set into the water. At Perivolas the sun sets over the town of Oia, so technically you don’t see the sunset – but still pretty good. (To see the sunset it’s a 15 minute walk from Perivolas). Grace has a half-dozen good/great restaurants within a 5 minute walk. From Perivolas you’ll need to walk 10+ minutes to get a decent collection of places to eat. Oia has one bar (Mary Ks that’s a 15 minute walk from Perivolas). Imerovigli doesn’t have a true bar (though places to get a drink, of course) but it is a 15/20 minute walk from Fira where you have most of the island’s nightlife. Finally, the pool is much larger at Grace but Perivolas wins for most privacy. Hope that helps a little.

  97. IKIES Traditional Houses vs Andronis Luxury Suites

    Hi Dave,

    Thanks so much for the wonderful insight.

    Going to be honeymooning Oia for 2 nights in mid-September with my fiancee. I’ve narrowed the hotel down to Ikies Traditional Houses (Winemaker Suite) and honeymoon suite at Andronis Luxury Suites. My fiancee and I will probably put the biggest emphasis on view of the caldera (and sunset to a lesser degree), a large balcony and having access to a good pool. It seems like both are at the very least walking distance to restaurants in Oia.

    Given what our priorities are, which of the two hotels would you say might be a better option? I note that Andronis is a bit more expensive than Ikies Traditional Houses, but not so much so that this is a dealbreaker. Thanks again – much appreciated!

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Both are great but I would lean towards Ikies for having more character and better service. Andronis does have the better pool and more central location (which also means large crowds outside the hotel entrance). Ikies is a 10/12 minute walk farther from central Oia, so it’s much quieter. The views of the caldera are incredible from both. The sunset views are definitely better from Ikies – though you won’t see the sun set into the sea from either as the tip of Oia blocks both views of the final descent of the sun.

  98. Most Luxurious Hotel on Santorini

    Hi Dave,

    Great website!

    I’m trying to plan a trip to Mykonos and Santorini for end of May/early June. My fiance and I wanted to get your thoughts on the best hotel to stay in. Which hotel do you find the most luxurious of the below? Second, which would you say has the best views (caldera or sunset)? We are looking at the below and need your help choosing one (if you have a even better pick, let us know! tough choice, but we are relying on you!):

    Katikies
    Canaves
    Astra Suites

    Thanks for the help!
    David

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Santorini is loaded with wonderful hotels. The 3 you’ve shortlisted are all great. For classical luxury, Canaves might have a slight edge on the other 2. Also, Astra allows young children while Canaves and Katikies do not. Between a caldera view and a sunset view I will always choose the caldera. Sunsets you can see anywhere but the caldera views are both unique and magical – it’s easy to sit for hours and stare out onto the cliffs and volcano.

  99. Room with View and Private Plunge Pool

    Hi Dave! I am coming to Santorini with my fiancé from July 30th through August 3rd. My head is spinning after looking at so many hotels, so many different times. We want a room with a private plunge pool, with a terrace that has a perfect sunset view, with enough space to lounge on sunbeds during the day and then hangout on during sunset/evening, with some privacy. We want the plunge pool to have a killer view. I’ve narrowed it down to the following, would really appreciate your view. They’re in Oia, Imerovigli and Fira because I haven’t been able to definitively pick one town (although I think probably Oia/Imerovigli). At night, we will be going out for nice dinners and do not mind taking a cab if needed (this isn’t really a factor for us). Which one would you pick?? What are your thoughts on them? Thanks!!

    Aqua Luxury Suites – Executive Suite with Plunge Pool or Aquarella Suite with Plunge Pool
    Grace – Honeymoon Suite with Plunge Pool
    Petit Palace – Honeymoon Suite with Private Pool or Petit Maison with Private Pool
    Maregio Suites – Honeymoon Suite with Outdoor Heated Private Pool and Hot Tub
    Andronis Boutique – Executive Suite with Plunge Pool
    Canaves Oia – Honeymoon Suite with Plunge Pool

    We want to be able to lounge/suntan by our plunge pool, as well as hopefully hang out in a comfy area at sunset/in the evening. We want to avoid there being no sun-loungers on the terrace. I’ve seen pictures of some hotels that look like there is a just a table and two chairs that fit on the terrace…

    Maria

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Those are all great hotels but Grace and Canaves (and maybe Andronis) are a step above. The Honeymoon Suite with Plunge Pool at both are simply marvelous. Canaves is a little more classically luxurious while Grace is trendier (and all rooms at Grace were refurbished this year). Views from both hotels are marvelous but there’s no sunset view from Canaves. My hesitation with Andronis is that the entrance to the hotel is right at one of the busiest squares in Oia and is often packed with tour groups.

  100. What Hotels in Athens and Santorini

    Hi Dave,

    I am planning to come to Greece in last week of May for my Honeymoon from India. The hotels I have been offered by my travel agents are:

    Mykonos – Pettinos Beach Hotel – 2 nights
    Athens – Radisson Blu/Crowne Plaza/Athens Gate Hotel – 2 nights – I have to choose among these – your recommendation?
    Santorini – Pantheon Villas/Volcano View/The Majestic – 3 nights – again I have to choose among these, kindly help me out.

    It will be great if you could help me in deciding the Hotels and finalise my trips.

    Thanks and regards
    Sanket
    India

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      In Athens, the Athens Gate Hotel is the best of those 3 and has a much better location than the others. The Radisson Blu is very convenient for visiting the National Archaeological Museum (a highlight of Athens, but a little out of the way and thus often falls off the itinerary of many visitors), but otherwise Athens Gate is far superior.

      In Santorini, Pantheon would be my choice – great views, nice pool, and a 15/20 minute walk from Imerovigli. All 3 of these hotels are outside the main towns so not central, but Pantheon is best located. Majestic doesn’t really have caldera views (they’re across a busy road). Volcano View is even farther from Fira than Majestic.

  101. Location of Art Hotel on Santorini

    Hi Dave,
    Your site is amazing. My boyfriend and I are visiting Santorini for the first time from the 1st to the 4th April. He has picked The art hotel. We are yet to book, i’m very nervous because I chose the destination. Have you been to the Art Hotel? How easy is it to get from there to the town centre? Could you recommend something else of a similar price range with better Caldera views? I want to keep him entertained so what fun things can we do, he’s into history and architecture and art. He wants to be out and about doing tourist type stuff as opposed to staying at home the whole day. Have you got any ideas of activities we could do, because I chose Santorini and it’s our first couple’s holiday so I want it to be memorable.

    Felicity Boateng

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Art Hotel is a trendy boutique hotel in Pyrgos, a quiet village with good restaurants but no caldera view. It will be especially quiet in April. There are buses to Fira but to really see the island renting a car is highly recommended.

  102. Day Trip to Rhodes or Crete for Beaches

    Hi Dave,

    Youtube video was awesome and I love the site! Before heading to Venice, my fiancé I are going to Santorini for 4 nights/3 days in august for our honeymoon but would also like to see another beach.

    On the high speed ferries, is it possible to take a day trip from Santorini to either Rhodes/Crete, for the beach? Do you recommend doing this or should we just stay in Santorini?

    Danny

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Rhodes is too far away for a day trip. Crete is closer but the ferries go from Crete to Santorini in the morning and return in the afternoon so you’d need to stay overnight (and even then you’d only be there for one evening). The best island for a beach-oriented day trip is Ios. For one, it’s close. And two, it has great beaches an easy bus ride from the ferry port.

  103. Getting from Ferry Port to Firostefani Hotel

    We will be staying at the Villa Maria Damigou in Firostefani this September. We will be arriving by ferry. Which bus should we take, which stop should we get off at, and which direction should we head once we get off the bus? Is the hotel visible from the road? I am concerned that we will be walking around aimlessly with our luggage. Or would it just be easier to take a taxi?

    Lisa

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      No, you can not see Villa Maria Damigou from the road. To take the bus to your hotel (or pretty much any Firostefani hotel) you get the bus at the port. It will be chaotic but still fairly easy to find – turn to the left as you exit your ferry and you should see a large green bus with Fira on the front. This is the only bus and it goes to the Fira bus station. And yes, there is plenty of room for luggage. (There are dozens of other tour buses at the port but this is the only public bus. It’s pretty obvious which bus is the public bus and which are the charter buses.) At the Fira bus station you have to switch buses to the Oia-bound bus. It heads north from Fira, with stops at Firostefani, then Imerovigli, and finally Oia. Tell the bus driver Firostefani as you get on board, then listen as they’ll shout “Firostefani” when you get there (about 5 minutes). From where you get off the bus, cross the main road and walk towards the caldera. When you reach the main foot path (it will be obvious what this is, because if you tried to walk any farther you’d start going down the stairs and down the cliff) turn right. You’ll walk about 3 to 5 minutes more and Villa Maria Damigou will be on your left. Of course, taking a taxi will be much easier but cost much more as well. Taxis can also be hard to find just after a ferry arrives.

  104. Homeric Poems, Mill Houses, or Astra

    Trying to decide between the following for July trip – Homeric Poems (Apartment), Mill Houses (Honeymoon suite), Astra (studio), There for 4 nights and want good views and a good pool. All are around the same price. What would you choose?

    Wes

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Homeric Poems if nightlife in Fira was important (8 minute walk to clubs). Otherwise, Astra. Though all 3 are very nice hotels.

  105. 5 Star Luxury Hotel

    Hi Dave,

    Your site has really been an integral part of our research for where to stay on Santorini.

    As we going in early May, one of our must haves is a private jacuzzi or heated pool on our private balcony. That has amazing caldera views. We think we won’t really get much use out of the main pool as it will be too cold during our visit, although an infinity pool over the caldera seems interesting for pictures and maybe relaxing by with drinks one day. We want 5 star luxury, would prefer an onsite restaurant/pool bar but it’s not a deal breaker. We have some great choices but it seems we can’t find the perfect spot that has everything we want. I would prefer to stay in Imerovigli for the views but it’s not a must as I think hubby would prefer Oia for ease of things close by.

    We have narrowed down to these hotels/rooms and would appreciate your input as we can’t decide:

    1. Honeymoon Suite at Katikies (we would have booked this already however it looks as though from pictures that the jacuzzi on the balcony is set back further on the patio and we are really looking for a hanging one or one on the edge. Is this correct or does it have amazing caldera views? Seeing as we don’t think we will be able to stay in the main pool very long due to it not being warm yet, this is a must)

    2. Up and High Suite at Kapari (I would prefer a more traditionally white hotel however this seems like a lovely balcony and private jacuzzi)

    3. Efhari Executive Suite at Sophia Suites (we have this already booked on a cancellation policy. We chose this one over the Honeymoon Suite because it seemed the balcony was a little more private. The balcony of the Honeymoon Suite seemed shared with the suite next door as both the jacuzzis were in the same space. The Efhari suite has the hanging jacuzzi on its own private balcony it seems. We are a little concerned about the lack of privacy at Sophia and maybe the lack of amenities?)

    4. Orfeus or Armonia Suite at Dreams (we love the look of these private balconies/jacuzzis and the views; however we are a little concerned about the rooms and the lack of amenities. The other choices seem to have more luxurious rooms)

    5. Superior Suite with Plunge Pool at Canaves Suites (hard to tell from pictures if the plunge pool is hanging or set back. Rooms may be a little nicer at Katikies? Lowest level of room we are looking at? Katikies may be nicer overall however the main thing is a nice balcony with heated pool or jacuzzi with great views/infinity feel)

    I’d really appreciate your input! We need to book yesterday. Lol

    Thanks,
    Shanna Prager

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      You are right, the jacuzzi at the honeymoon suite are not at the edge but back a bit – still have views, of course. Sophia can feel like you have people walking right by your property at times, but the steps that go by are not the main route through Imerovigli so they don’t get a lot of traffic – but certainly some. Personally, I like that feeling of being right in the heart of the village but if privacy is a priority then Sophia might not be for you. Canaves is wonderful as well and always feels a little more relaxed and pampered than Katikies, whereas Katikies is hip and trendier.

  106. Hotels on Santorini Fully Booked

    Hi Dave,

    Love your website, and am extensively using it to plan my vacation. I plan on travelling with my better half to Santorini towards the end of May for a week (May 28 to June 4). As the person below, I am having trouble finding (and deciding) on a hotel.

    I am looking for a hotel that is private and romantic, great views, and a private pool is a major bonus. Many of the hotels have already been booked up or are absurdly expensive. I found Astarte Suites in Akrotiri with private inifini pool at 750 Eur more reasonable (but shoots up to 1100 Eur on June 1). What are your thoughts on Astarte? Also, what are other romantic hotels that you would recommend with my criteria and price range? Katikies, Grace, Perivolas, etc are all full or over 1000 Euro for standard rooms which makes no sense to me. A friend recommended White Pearl Villas in Oia (which is okay at 660 Eur for a room with small outdoor jacuzzi / pool).

    The second question I have for you is for 7 days, would you stay all 7 days in Santorini? Or do a 4 / 3 split in different regions in santorini like Akrotiri and Oia? Or would you do 4 days Santorini and 3 days in Crete?

    I apologize for having a lot of open ended questions, but I am quite confused and need to book hotels and flights this week because it all seems to be filling up fast!

    Thanks in advance,
    Rahul

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      I agree you need to book as soon as possible. Astarte is a wonderful hotel with great views but it is isolated from the main caldera towns. It’s fine if sitting by the pool and enjoying the view is your priority. But it’s walking distance to very little so you’ll probably need to rent a car or be depending on local buses and the free hotel shuttle bus. White Pearl in Oia has great caldera views and a central location. With 7 days I would certainly split my time between different towns within Santorini. You could also add another island (something else in the Cyclades would be my first choice) but 7 days is not too much for just Santorini either.

  107. Trouble Finding Hotel – Everything Booked

    Hi Dave,

    First off, I want to tell you that your site is great and very informative!

    My boyfriend and I are visiting Santorini in mid-May and many hotels are already booked (I was unaware that people book 6 months in advance!). Two options still available (for now) which fall under our $350/nt budget are the Executive Suite at the Stefani Suites and the Honeymoon Double at Ilioperato. We are looking for Caldera views from our private balcony/terrace, a place within walking distance to restaurants/bars, good service, and possibly a hotel pool. Which of these two hotels do you think would be best? And if you don’t recommend either, are there any other hotels that are similar to these that you would suggest?

    Thank you in advance for any advice you can give me!
    Amanda

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Both are great places with incredible (though different) views. I would lean towards Ilioperato Hotel – I like the setting and location a tiny bit better. The pool’s a little bigger too, though still small. But Stefani is closer to Fira so if you had any interest in nightlife then it’s easier to enjoy from there.

      And yes, book as early as you can.

  108. Trip to Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini

    Hi Dave
    I have a few questions.

    We are going to Athens (2 days), Mykonos (3 days), and Santorini (3 days) from July 30 to August 7.

    1) Athens Transportation: Is there a 3 day pass to use for the train from the airport, the next day within Athens, and then take to the ferry port in Piraeus the next day? (We’re staying at A for Athens.)

    2) The Ferry: We want to take the high speed. Since we don’t have a lot of time is there any downside to booking online and picking up beforehand? Can you pick up at the airport?

    3) Damianos Hotel on Mykonos: We would like to go to beaches and stay through the evening. How late can you get a bus/taxi home from the beach? How late can you get a taxi back from Mykonos Town to the hotel?

    4) Santorini: We booked at Cosmopolitan Hotel. I saw a lot of reviews that said they often over book and people have to stay at the sister hotel. Besides an email to ensure we don’t get bumped, do you have any suggestions?

    Thank you for your time
    KBC

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      1) There is a 3 day tourist ticket for €22. It covers a round trip journey from the airport to downtown and trams, buses, and trains within Athens. Alternately, you can take the train into downtown €10 one way (€18 for two traveling together). Then buy a one-day ticket for the 2nd day for €4.5. And then a one-way ticket to Piraeus for €1.40. This comes out cheaper than the 3 day ticket. And in reality, you likely won’t need the one-day ticket for your time in Athens as most of the top sights are within an easy walk of A for Athens. In that case you’ll only need the airport ticket and the one-way ticket to Piraeus for a total of €11.40 (€10.40 if you get the two-traveler discount).
      2) The only downside to booking ferry tickets online is the effort (hassle) of dealing with the website and then arriving 1 hour early for your ferry to pickup tickets at Piraeus. You can pickup from the airport if you book through Aktina. The easiest way is to buy tickets after you arrive in Athens at a downtown agency. You just walk in the door and buy your tickets. But you do risk the small but real chance that the ferry you want is sold out.
      3) Taxis run as late as you can find one which is not easy late at night in summer. Depending on what beach you’re at, buses will run until midnight or even 1 or 2pm. Damianos Hotel is a 15 minute walk up a pretty good hill from the bus station. Some parts you’ll have to walk on the road. It’s doable but a bit of a hassle in the dark.
      4) If you send an email to the hotel saying you’re worried about an overbooking problem and still got bumped I’d be shocked. It probably doesn’t happen very often but when it does you hear about it on Tripadvisor. I think it will be fine. Great hotel with a fun central location.

  109. Hotel for 3 Couples in Santorini and Mykonos

    HI!
    Your advice:
    Three 40-something couples travelling from Canada – 3 nights in Santorini, 4 nights in Mykonos.

    Best choice of hotels?

    Santorini:
    Chromata
    Perivolas or
    Sun Rocks

    Mykonos:
    Mykonos Grand
    Mykonos Blanc or
    Bill & Coo Coast

    Rosanne

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Perivolas is the best hotel of those 3 (and one of the very best hotels on Santorini). It is set off on it’s own a little so not great if you want to be a short walk from any action. Chromata would be my 2nd choice.

      On Mykonos, Mykonos Grand is the best hotel of the 3 but Mykonos Blanc is on a nice beach (more restaurants and better sand). Bill & Coo is good if you want easy access to Mykonos Town nightlife.

      All 6 hotels are very nice so can’t really go wrong.

  110. Katikies or Andronis

    Hi Davie

    My fiance and I are spending four nights in Santorini in July. We are deciding between Katikies and Andronis. For our money, we can get a bigger room at the Andronis, but the Katikies is supposed to be the IT hotel of Santorini. We are a low key couple. We want great views, great food, a great pool and relaxing surroundings

    What are your thoughts?

    Thanks!

    Erica F

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      I love Katikies but if you really are looking for low key you might find it a little too trendy and chic. Andronis has a more relaxed vibe – and one of the more romantic restaurants – Lauda – on the island.

  111. Aria Suites or Hotel Keti

    Hi Santorini Dave, thanks for the great website and tips! I’d love your advice for a 2-night hotel stay for 4 adults (2 couples) in May. We’ve narrowed our choices down to Aria Suites (Norma Suite) and Hotel Keti (2 standard twin rooms). The price difference for the entire hotel stay is about $150 more expensive for Aria. Do you feel it is worth the extra money to stay at Aria? Or will Hotel Keti be just as good in quality of stay and views with the simpler rooms? Thanks in advance!

    Tony

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Aria Suites is a much more luxurious hotel with a larger pool and nicer rooms. But Keti actually has better views as it’s right on the cliff (Aria is slightly back from the edge though still has caldera views). The pool at Keti is better described as a large jacuzzi. Keti has quite a few stairs to access while Aria is almost at street level and easy to get to without much up and down.

  112. Hotel with Caldera Views and 2 Separate Bedrooms for 4 Adults

    Hello Dave, your site is most helpful with some great tips. I’m currently planning a trip to Santorini in July and looking for a place to stay. My requirement is somewhat unique. I’d like a suite that consists of 2 separate bedrooms and preferably 2 bathrooms for 4 adults. We’re a family of 4 and would like to stay in one unit. My budget is $400-600. I don’t mind if its a hotel or B&B but dont want an apartment unless its serviced and includes breakfast. Views of caldera are important. Do you have any recommendations?

    Thank you in advance.

    Sadaf

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Agali Houses in Firostefani has a 2-bedroom suite with sea view and Oia Mare Villas in Oia has a 2-bedroom cave suite with caldera views and sea view.

  113. West East Suites or San Antonio

    Dave:

    Love the site. My wife and I are going to Santorini in August. We are deciding between West East Suites or San Antonio. Both are a small fortune but both have stunning views which is what we want. The rooms in west east suites look nicer. Not much feedback on West East Suites because it is new. What are your thoughts?
    Daniel Stuzin

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      San Antonio is the better hotel. More character and a more charming setting. West East is set back from the caldera (across a path) and though it’s not a huge deal it does lose that feeling of being perched on the rim of the cliff like you get at the San Antonio. The pluses for West East are that it’s brand new (I toured it last summer just after opening and the rooms are crisp, modern, and clean) and it’s a 15/20 minute walk closer to Imerovigli than the San Antonio. It’s easy to feel isolated at the San Antonio if you like being walking distance to restaurants. Though West/East is not right in Imerovigli it’s a short walk to town and easy to do at night (especially since it’s all downhill on the way back to the hotel).

  114. Maregio Suites in Oia

    Hello Dave,

    Great site. Congrats!

    I saw that there is a new hotel in Oia called Maregio Suites by Fotinos. Since it is new, I cannot read any reviews about location, service, etc.

    Appreciate if you could give me any insight about this new property and location.

    Many thanks

    Felipe

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      I don’t know this hotel but looks nice. The location looks like close to Oia Castle with views of the caldera – though the pictures are deceiving as they show (or suggest) a location that is in 3 different places, so can’t place it exactly.

  115. Volcano View Hotel

    Hi Dave,
    Great information! Thank you… My girlfriend and I have three nights in Santorini at the start of June. What are your thoughts on Volcano View Hotel and Villas?

    Mitch

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Nice hotel with great views. Only caveat is that there is little nearby. Fira is a 15 minute walk away. The bus does stop nearby and there is a free shuttle bus but if you want to be in the middle of the action this is not the hotel.

  116. Canaves Oia Suites, Atrina Traditional Houses, or Armeni Luxury Villas

    Dave,

    We are staying in Oia this May for four nights and can not decide which hotel to stay at. These are our choices:

    Canaves Oia Suites
    Atrina Traditional Houses
    Armeni Luxury Villas

    All have private plunge pools. Which would you recommend?
    Thanks
    Tammy

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      All are wonderful with great views and convenient, central locations but I would go with Canaves.

  117. Hotel for 150 Euro with View and Pool

    Hey Dave,

    Love the site. So much information it’s great. My wife and I are coming for our honeymoon in August. I have been before but she hasn’t. We will be doing 5 nights in Santorini then heading to Mykonos for 2. I am looking to stay in either Imerovigli or Firostefani as they suit our style more. If you could recommend any hotels in the 150 euro/night range that would be great. Preferably with a pool, a decent caldera view, and more geared towards adults. Also if you happen to know of anything in the same price range for Mykonos that would be great too. No special requirements.

    Thanks,
    Matt Stobart

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Try Villa Ilias in Firostefani.

  118. Vedema Resort on Santorini

    Hi Dave, thank you so much for your very helpful website! We are visiting in early June and have a 5 night stay at the Vedema booked on points. To be honest, though, a large part of me really yearns to stay at a hotel with a caldera view, but my husband thinks it would be a waste of us to spend money on a caldera hotel when we can just stay with points at the Vedema. Do you know if there are good bus routes going from the Vedema area (Megalochori) to Oia or Imerovigli? We are also thinking about renting a car. How safe do you think it is driving around the island, especially at night? Many thanks for your help!

    Carolyn

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Megalochori is a cute little town but yes, Vedema can feel a little isolated. It’s a wonderful resort and there are plenty of buses to Fira (to get to Oia or Imerovigli you need to change buses in Fira). The question is: did you come to Santorini to stay at a great resort or to experience the incredible caldera views? For most people it’s the latter. Driving a car is easy through the day. At night it can be a little challenging as roads are not well marked or lit.

  119. Fira, Firostefani, or Imerovigli

    Hi Dave,

    Great site, you have definitely ingnited a desire to visit Santorini but I am torn – we are a mid 30’s couple, want views, amazing and exclusive hotel. We love food and nightlife (Although not Ibiza more dinners and music and atmosphere). We ruled Oia out as we are happy to walk one evening for the sunset. We are torn between Fira (nightlife), Imerovigli, or Firostefani – please help.

    Laura

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Fira is where you’ll find the nightlife so staying here is busier but you’re steps from the clubs and bars. Imerovigli has some fantastic restaurants and is much quieter with no nightlife. It’s a 20 minute walk to Fira (downhill) but a little longer on the way back as it’s all uphill. Firostefani has fewer restaurants than both and no nightlife but is a third the walking distance to Fira than Imerovigli. You just need to decide which scene you want.

  120. Astra or San Antonio Hotel on Santorini

    Hi Dave,

    Great site and thanks for all of your insight. Me and my girlfriend are planning a vacation to Santorini in April of this year. We are a bit stuck between areas and hotels that have the best views of the caldera. We’re leaning towards Imerovigli since I’ve seen you speak quite highly of the views there. I’m looking at the Astra suites hotel as well as the San Antonio hotel. I’m more interested in the infinity pools with great views. Which one of the two hotels would you suggest and are their any other hotels with exceptional pools that you would also recommend minus Grace as it is not open during my stay in April. Once again, thanks a lot for all of your insight!
    Bryan

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      The pool and natural setting of San Antonio is more incredible. The location and village-setting of Astra is more enchanting. Both wonderful. Lots of good restaurants within a 5 minute walk of Astra. Very little within walking distance of San Antonio.

  121. Astro, El Greco or Athina

    Hi Dave

    We are visiting Santorini in August and these are the recommendations that our travel rep suggested. The Aria suites & Homeric Poets are not available. She suggested the Astro, El Greco & the Athina. We are traveling as a family of 4 with 2 teenagers. Which of these hotels would you recommend? Thank you.
    Margaret

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Athina is only one with caldera views. It’s down the cliff below Fira and has impressive views of the volcano. Personally, I would stay at Athina for the “Santorini experience” but you will get better value (larger rooms and pool) at El Greco. Astro is fine but would only book it if it were substantially cheaper than El Greco.

  122. Pegasus Hotel for Family

    Hi

    What are your thoughts on the Pegasus Hotel for a family of 5, with three young ladies.
    We are looking for a combination of relaxation and evening life for the ladies.
    Other recommendations are welcome.

    Thank you!
    Dedee

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Great hotel with wonderful views. It’s a 15 minute walk to the nightlife of Fira. Going to Fira will be an easy and pleasant downhill walk. If you only had a couple drinks and walked back at 11pm then it would be no problem. If you’re really partying and staying out til the early morning then you’ll want to taxi back – and finding taxis can be difficult and take some waiting. So, it’s a decent location (and walking distance to bars and clubs) but I wouldn’t call it super convenient.

  123. Pezoules in Oia

    Hi Dave,

    Great site. Really detailed information you’ve gathered here! My fiance and I are planning a trip to Santorini for our honeymoon this summer and frankly I’ve been completely overwhelmed by all the fantastic choices available to us! One property I came across that I didn’t find on your blog is Pezoules of Oia – are you familiar with the property? We’re thinking the Mentha Cave house and would love to hear your thoughts!

    Thanks!
    Stefanie

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Great views and good location in Oia. It’s a small boutique hotel. There are some steep steps to access the hotel but it has a semi-unique position being on the path down to Armeni.

  124. Altana or Esperas?

    Hi Dave,
    Thank you for all the information, such a great site! We are planning our honeymoon at the end of May and think we are down to deciding between Altana in Imerovigli or the Esperas in Oia. We are looking to have great views (not necessarily of the sunset) and a great local experience. I’m struggling making a decision so thought I would post to see what you think! Thank you in advance!

    Regards,
    Katie

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      I love Esperas. Great hotel and the owner is super friendly and helpful – so it pains me to recommend Altana over it but I think that would be a better fit for what you’re looking for. While all of Santorini is touristy Imerovigli is a little less so and there are some great restaurants that have more of a Greek vibe than in Oia. The view from both hotels is wonderful – Esperas is more about the sunset, while Altana has a better view of the cliffs, the volacano, and the caldera. You can’t go wrong with either so I’m sure whichever one you pick you’ll love and feel like you made the right choice.

  125. Honeymoon Trip – Oia or Imerovigli?

    Hi Dave!

    Thank you very much for the helpful information. I am considering to stay in Santorini 3 nights as part of my honeymoon trip next May. Considering the views, we are looking Absolute Bliss and Chromata Hotel in Imerovigli or maybe Homeric Poems in Firostefani. However, everybody keeps telling us that as part of a honeymoon trip we must go to Oia, where we are looking at Ikies Traditional Houses or Ambition Suites.

    What do you think about this towns and the hotels proposed?

    Thanks in advance for your help!

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      All are good hotels with great views. I slightly prefer Imerovigli to Oia as it’s quieter, has better caldera views, and is an easy and enjoyable walk to Fira. But both are wonderful towns.

      1. Honeymoon Trip – Oia or Imerovigli?

        Hi Dave!

        Thank you very much for your answer. We are travelling in May and don’t know if Imerovigli could be too quiet at that time of the year. Even when we are travelling in our honeymoon, we actually will enjoy having restaurants, bars and some shop spots near our hotel.

  126. Inexpensive Hotel in Santorini

    Hello!

    Thank you for posting all of this amazing information! My boyfriend and I are 25 and on a budget, so we are trying to decide between a superior studio at Hotel Sunny Villas in Imerovigli or a suite at Loizos Apartments in Fira…..any recommendations of one hotel over the other between those two?

    Also–my boyfriend is a photographer, I know that all of Santorini will be picturesque with the cadera and ocean views, but are there any spots that you would recommend that may not necessarily be touristy?

    Thank you!

    Amanda

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Hotel Sunny Villas has amazing views while Loizos does not have caldera views (it’s a 1 or 2 minute walk to the caldera). Otherwise, both are nice budget/moderate hotels.

      Less touristy spots for photos include the path between Imerovigli and Oia (though it’s a popular hike you can often have a good stretch of it to yourself) and the village of Pyrgos (wonderful views of the island and countryside).

  127. 5 Nights in Santorini

    Hi Dave,

    LOVE this site!! A few questions for you..

    1) If we are spedning 5 nights in Santorini, should we do a few nights in Oia and a few nights in Fira, or just stay in the same place. We are thinking about the Caldera Villas in Oia.
    2) Do you recommend we go to Mykonos? We aren’t into the party scene and Ive heard very mixed reviews. We are also going to Crete, so I am wondering if we should skip Mykonos and pick a different, third island?
    3) Do people rent mopeds to get around the city? We would love to do this one day in Santorini to explore some of the different towns.

    Thank you!
    Jessica Mickles

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      1. Splitting time between Oia and Fira is great. It is a bit of a hassle but you do get a very different feel from both places. Fira is a much better base for exploring the island.
      2. Mykonos is great but there are many options. Naxos, Paros, Ios, Folegandros, Milos – there’s no way you’d regret going to any of these islands.
      3. Moped accidents are common on the Greek island (and probably the riskiest single thing you could do). I much prefer getting around the island with a small car.

  128. Santorini Secret or Absolute Bliss

    Dave,
    Your site has been awesome for us planning our honeymoon in June. We are Looking at Santorini Secret Suites in Oia or Absolute Bliss in Imerovigli. We are staying 7 nights. Both mid 40’s want to have luxury occasional night life. I did not see Secret Suites in reading your blog. Thoughts?

    Steve and Dina

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Both are great hotels. With 7 nights, I would split my time between the two: 2 or 3 nights in Oia, 4 or 5 nights in Imerovigli.

  129. Canaves or Katikies

    Hi Dave,
    Thank you for the wealth of information you provide on this awesome site! We are planning 5 nights in Santorini for our honeymoon (and 5 nights in Crete as well). If you had to choose a hotel: Katikies or Canaves? Thanks in advance for your expert advice!

    Kerry

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Canaves and Katikies are directly beside each other (so pretty much identical views). Both are wonderful 5 star hotels and you’ll love both. If there was a slight difference I’d say Katikies has a more trendy cool-hip-30-something vibe. Canaves is more “proper” and attracts a little older crowd.

  130. Good Budget Hotel on Santorini

    Looking for a place for two nights for around $100 American dollars. We are 61 years old and on a budget. Willing to walk to see sunsets in order to save money. Money saved will be spent on food and lots of drinks. Probably need not too far from bars to hotel.

    Helen

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      The San Giorgio in Fira is great with a good location and friendly owners. Highly recommended.

  131. Hotel for 5 Families

    Hi Dave,
    Saw your great inputs to the people on their questions… I am in a jam… And need your advise.
    We are 5 families visting Santorini on 1st of May.
    We are :
    – 3 families with 2 adults & 1 children each above age 12
    – 1 family with child of 8 yrs
    – 1 family with 2 adults only.
    We wanted caldera view.
    We are finding difficulty to get one hotel with this combination to buy thru the website.
    The hotels are not responding to phone calls.

    What do suggest to solve this situation.

    Sujoy Bose

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Astra Suites is one of the bigger hotels with caldera views and does allow children. They have a variety of room sizes. You do need patience when contacting hotels (especially in the off season) or using their websites – which is why I recommend booking through Booking.com.

  132. Mystique, Oia Collection, or Filotera Suites in Oia

    Hi Dave! Thanks for all the information. We are planning to visit in early May, and are deciding between Mystique Hotel, Oia Collection, or Filotera Suites. The last 2 have private hot tubs for the same price as a room at Mystique without – is the room at Mystique worth it? Or any insights into the 3? Thank you!

    Charmaine

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Mystique is the nicest of the 3 and the most luxurious. (But all are very nice.) Mystique is in the quietest area and the farthest from central Oia (about a 10 minute walk to the center). Mystique is also beyond the gap in the foot path and requires walking on the road for a short distance to get to town.

      Filotera is closer to town and a little busier but you don’t have to walk on the road to get to town. Oia Collection is right in the busy part of town but it’s the only one that has sunset views.

      Just so you know, “Hot Tubs” in Santorini are usually not all that hot. Sort of luke warm to cool depending on the time of the year. They’re more like a plunge pool than a hot tub.

  133. Grace/Perivolas/Katikies/Astra

    Hi Dave,
    Amazed and impressed to see how well you know Santorini! I am interested in your views here:

    My husband and I are going for our 25th wedding anniversary from 23-26 June and would love somewhere quite luxurious. I like the sound of Imerovigli and prices for Grace, Perivolas, and Katikies are very steep. I am considering Astra suites but the pictures on their website give the impression it is quite tired/dated. Would you agree?
    Thanks,
    Supriya Taneja

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      I love Astra and think it’s a beautiful hotel with great views. That said, I would rate Grace, Perivolas, and Katikies as slightly more luxurious. Also, Astra allows young kids, the other 3 hotels do not.

  134. Dana or Astra in July with family of 4 including 2 kids

    Hi Dave

    I have narrowed my long long search to Dana Suites (Family Suite 368 euro pn) and Astra (Junior Suite 550 euro). We are a family of 4 with 2 kids aged 12 and 7.

    We want an amazing view. I think both have this. Which view do you prefer?

    We want a good pool. Again I think both have this but which pool is bigger? Nicer?

    We want a mix of relaxation time and shopping/eating out – which caters to this best?

    How far is it to walk from Dana to Fira?

    How far is t to walk from Astra to Fira?

    Astra confirmation states in relation to Junior Suite “Outdoor terrace: Located on the ground floor swimming pool level therefore, although you have your own terrace and it is not shared, it is not secluded as you can be seen by other guests passing by.” Have you seen these rooms? Any opinion?

    Lastly I want somewhere that will welcome kids so I’m not worried the whole time they are laughing too loudly or splashing in the pool. I have read that Astra welcomes kids but I am frightened that laughter and the odd splashing in the pool will be frowned on by Astra – what do you think?

    Dana has about 200 steps from road to pool/restaraunt. Is Astra similar in number of steps?

    If it were you would you stay in Astra or save the money for eating/shopping and stay in Dana. I should point out we are first timers to Santorini.

    Thank you so much!!

    Mary

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      1) Both views are great. Dana has more impressive views of the cliffs, Astra has great views of the sunset.
      2) Both good-sized pools for Santorini. Astra’s is more picturesque. Dana’s (maybe) a little better for swimming.
      3) Dana is closer to Fira where most of the shopping is. There are good restaurants near Dana but nothing in my very favorites. Astra doesn’t have a lot nearby but does have 5 or 6 great restaurants within about 5 minutes walk.
      4) Dana Villas to Fira: 8 to 10 minutes.
      5) Astra to Fira: 20+ minutes.
      6) Dana does have a more relaxed feel than Astra.
      7) If you go straight up from Astra to the main square of Imerovigli, yes there are a lot of steps too. But often you don’t go up there and instead get on the caldera path and head south to Fira. And getting to the foot path does not require many steps. The walk back from Fira to Imerovigli (especially in the afternoon sun) can be a long trek. So, each hotel has different challenges but it’s not clear that one is better located than the other.
      8) I’d go with Astra (more special and unique). If you have very active kids that you think would have a hard time reigning in their energy then Dana is probably the better choice.

  135. Lillium Villas or Absolute Bliss in Santorini

    Hi Dave! Firstly – kudos on this site! It is amazing!

    My husband and I are planning our honeymoon for May of this year and will be doing 5 days in Santorini and 4 days in Mykonos (staying at Mykonos Grand). For our Santorini hotel – we are debating between Lilium Villas & Absolute Bliss. We received amazing reviews from a friend about Lilium but I noticed you haven’t mentioned it. Do you think AB is a better option?

    Thanks in advance for your advice!!
    Miriam

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Both are great hotels with wonderful views. I prefer Absolute Bliss because of the location right in Imerovigli (plenty of good restaurants within a few minutes). The walk to Fira is a highlight of Santorini with great views as you wind through the different villages. Lillium is located a 15 minute walk south of Fira and has very little nearby. The walk into town has a sidewalk the entire route but the walk is a little boring and doesn’t have the magical feel like from Absolute Bliss. The swimming pool and deck at Lillium are nicer so if you only wanted to hang by the pool and look at the incredible views then Lillium is a great choice. But if you want to explore the caldera towns then Absolute Bliss is much better.

  136. Astra Suites or Kapari Natural Resort

    Hello Dave!
    FANTASTIC site and the information sharing is greatly appreciated. We are planning on taking a trip to Imerovigli and were trying to determine which location would be better for us….Astra Suites (Honeymoon Suite) or Kapari Natural Resort (Up & High). Would like to know which would be a better choice for views, location to excellent places to eat and nightlife, etc. Thank you.

    Donna

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Both have incredible views. The two hotels are located steps from each other so it’s essentially the same perspective: you see the north section of the caldera and direct views of the sun as it falls into the ocean. The Honeymoon Suite at Astra has a kitchenette, Up and High at Kapari does not. Both have private jacuzzis on a private deck. The common pool at Astra is far bigger with a nicer deck than at Kapari. I think Kapari puts a little more care and effort into its food but in any case, there are a half-dozen very good/great restaurants within a 5 minute walk of both hotels.

  137. Hotel near Shops and Restaurants in Santorini

    Pls Dave help me decide for 4 friends coming end of April for 4 nights. We want to be in the centre near shops and restaurants. Heated pool or jacuzzi and can’t decide:
    Hotel Katikies
    Villa Katikies
    Hotel Kamari
    Perivolos
    Any ideas

    Luisa

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Perivolos is wonderful but a good 15 minute walk from the shops and restaurants of Oia. It’s a better choice for those looking for quiet and seclusion (and maybe walking into town once a day for lunch or dinner). Villa Katikies and Hotel Katikies are much more central. Villa Katikies is smaller and quieter (but does not have a restaurant). Katikies is a more typcial hotel/resort. The two are a very short walk from each other. The Kamari Beach Hotel (I assume that’s the one you mean) is not located along the caldera and is a 20 minute bus ride from the towns and attractions along the caldera.

  138. Agali Houses or Belvedere Hotel

    Hi Dave
    Your info is super helpful I am just about to book and wondered if I could ask your opinion please. We are split between booking the Agali Houses (a jacuzzi room) or the Belvedere (room with balcony). We think the Belevdere potentially looks to be a nicer hotel in a better location? But we like the look of the outdoor space we would get with the room at Agali Houses. What are your thoughts on these two properties in terms of location, and overall standard of the properties?
    Thank you
    Michelle

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Both are great places. I like the pool and deck better at the Belvedere. Views from both hotels are great though surprisingly different for how close to each other they are. Agali Houses have many more steps to get down to (and up from) than the Belvedere – so go with the Belvedere if mobility is an issue.

  139. Luxury Hotel on Santorini

    Hi Dave, love your site!

    My boyfriend and I are planning a trip to Greece from late May to early June – 1 night in Athens, 2 nights Mykonos, 3 nights Naxos, and the last 4 nights in Santorini. I’m a bit confused by all of the hotels in Santorini as they all seem to be incredible. Which of the following would you recommend? We want a luxury hotel experience with amazing views of the caldera/sunset (ideally from our private balcony) and great facilities (i.e pool, etc, but dont need a kitchenette as we’re not planning on preparing our own food). Adults only is preferred and we’re open to other suggestions other than the three listed below:

    1. Kapari Natural Resort
    2. Astra Suites
    3. Chromata

    Thank you!

    Rachel

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      They are all great hotels. Astra has the nicest pool. Chromata doesn’t have sunset views. All allow kids. If you want an adults only hotel then look at Grace, Katikies, Canaves, or Perivolos.

  140. How Long to Stay on Santorini?

    Hi Dave,

    My fiance and I are debating whether to stay 4 or 5 nights in Santorini (for our honeymoon). What would you recommend? We will be staying in Mykonos for 3 nights before that.

    Thank you!

    Elizabeth

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      I love Santorini so would encourage 5 nights.

  141. Tzekos Villas, Santorini Palace, or El Greco

    Hi Dave,
    Great blog… just what I needed! Thanks so much!

    I’m heading to Santorini for 7 nights in August and just wondered if you think that’s too much time to spend there? I plan on doing LOTS of relaxing mixed with exploring the island so I think 7 nights is ok.
    I have toyed with venturing to another island and have not committed to any hotel as yet so I am open to suggestions. I guess my thought process is if i spent time in two differnt place I can afford a more expensive hotel in Santorini.

    If I stay for the whole week I have whittled it down to,
    TZEKOS VILLAS
    SANTORINI PALACE
    EL GRECO

    Some images of the views can be deceiving, out of the above, which do you think are the best for location / views?

    Any help be be greatly appreciated.

    Thanks so much

    Charlie

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Tzekos Villas is the only one of those hotels with caldera views. It’s in Fira, near the south end of the village in a quiet area. Quite a few steps to get in and out of the hotel. Santorini Palace is in Firostefani. It does not have views of the caldera but they’re a short walk away. The pool is huge. The hotel is fine but lacks character. El Greco is just outside of Fira to the south. It’s across the street from the caldera and does not have caldera views. There isn’t much directly near the hotel. It feels isolated but in reality is a very short walk into Fira. It has a nice pool and deck.

  142. IVY LI

    I am going to Greece next year from 31 March – 8 April. Below is my itinerary and hoping you would give some advice:

    31 march to 2 April – Athens (staying near Aghios Ioannis Station)

    2 April to 4 April – Mykonos (staying at Eleanna’s. have you heard of this hotel/apartment? Reviews say that the location is convenient and the hosts are very friendly). Since I am traveling alone, is Mykonos’s scene friendly? Are the bars open during this period?

    4 April to 5 April – Naxos (stay at Nikos Verikokos Studios. have you heard of this hotel/apartment? Reviews say that the location is convenient and the hosts are very friendly).

    5 April to 7 April – Santorini (stay at Loizous Apartments. Is this ok? it is at Fira and reviews say that it is very convenient.)

    I booked a flight from Santorini – Athens on 8 April 12am (meaning it is 7 April midnight) and will reach Athens about 1am. Is Athens airport safe to roam around from 1am to 6am? (I know this question is quite silly but this is my first time traveling alone to Europe.) I will be catching a plane at 6am to Paris.

    Any advice or recommendations will be greatly appreciated. Happy New Year Dave!!!

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Thoughts:

      – The area around Aghios Ioannis Station is fine but this is not a very central location. It’s about a 20 to 30 minute walk to the Plaka, Acropolis, and Syntagma Square. I would recommend staying the Plaka or Monastiraki areas.
      – Eleanna’s has a great central location in Mykonos Town. The bus station and loads of restaurants within a 5 minute walk.
      – Nikos Verikokos is a simple clean hotel right in the middle of Naxos Town. Ferry and restaurants are an easy walk.
      – Loizous is located in the quiet south end of Fira. No view but easy walk to everywhere in Fira.
      – Athens airport is open all night and very safe.

  143. Absolute Bliss and Afroessa

    Hi Dave,
    We are 2 couples planning a trip to Santorini in late September. We booked 3 nights in Aria sharing the Carmen suite. I want to splurge on the last 2 nights for my bday and booked the Honeymoon Suite at Absolute Bliss (I hope it’s worth the $$$)! Since our friends don’t want to stay in AB because it’s too pricey, we found Afroessa which seems like a close walk to AB. What are your thoughts on Afroessa? Also, any suggestions for a day trip to other nearby islands?

    Thanks and more power to your website. It really is awesome!
    Sophia

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Absolute Bliss and Aria are great choices and complement each other well – different vibe and different town. Great choices. Afroessa is very nice too. Afroessa and Absolute Bliss are about a 5 minute walk from each other. For day trips, do a sunset boat tour with stops at the volcano, hots springs, and Thirassia. Lots of fun.

  144. Hotel in Fira with Sunrise View

    Hi Dave,
    My husband and I are taking our daughters 18, and 17 this July on a cruise and Santorini is must before the cruise that leaves from Athens. We are flying to Santorini and staying 2 nights there before we fly to Athens. This is our first time traveling to Europe and even though I have researched a lot I am undecided where to stay in Santorini. We like trying new things and exploring and like to be where the fun is so I think Fira will work perfect for us. I do not want to spend a lot of money in a hotel since we will probably hardly be there except for very late to sleep and maybe enjoy the sunrise with breakfast. We will view the sunset from a restaurant for dinner. What hotel do you recommend? I am open to booking apartments on Airnb also. I am looking for a place with a great sunrise view that has a patio where we can sit outside and enjoy breakfast.

    Thank You!

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      You have lots of choice if you want a sunrise view (and not a caldera view). Good value hotels exist on the east side of Fira. Evgenia Villas is a good one (about a 10 minute walk from central Fira).

  145. Exercise Gym at Kirini Suites

    Hi Dave

    Fab website thank you! Please can you tell me if the gym at Kirini Suites & Spa has much in the way of equipment? From the website it is difficult to tell?

    If not can you recommend if there is a similar hotel with gym?

    Many thanks in anticipation
    Rae & Andrew

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Kirini has exercise bikes, cardio machines, loadable handlebars (up to 15kg each), and resistance equipment.

  146. Getting to Amorgos from Mykonos and Santorini

    First of all I’m really impressed by your useful information and website! We are planning a 2 week trip – Easyjet flights June 4 possibly from Edinburgh to Athens, then Athens to Mykonos with Aegean air the same day. Spending 3 nights in Mykonos and then had planned to go from Mykonos to Amorgos by ferry/seajet for around a week, then Amorgos to Santorini for 3 or 4 nights then back to Athens for flight home June 18. I’m having a bit of trouble with ferry timetables – do you happen to know if I can go from Mykonos direct to Amorgos without going via Santorini – and if not I might be better changing order and going to Amorgos last? response from seajet –
    “I would like to inform you that on 07/06 there is no itinerary for this connection that you want. But there is an alternative on 07/06 to travel from Mykonos to Thira at 09:50-11:55 and then from Thira to Amorgos at 13:00-14:00”. Seems a bit silly to have to go to Santorini to get to Amorgos so could I go to Santorini for a few days and then to go Amorgos? Thank you in advance!
    Jennifer Gallacher

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      There are no direct ferries from Mykonos to Amorgos. To get to Amorgos you’ll need to go via Naxos, Paros, or Santorini. I would recommend going from Mykonos to Naxos (spend a night or 2 there as it’s a wonderful island) then ferry to Amorgos (you’ll have a choice of ferries including the Highspeed 4, the Blue Star, or the Express Skopelitis, most leaving late morning or early afternoon). Then ferry from Amorgos to Santorini (most likely on a SeaJet at a variety of times) and fly back to Athens. This is the shortest route and saves you from doubling-back and seeing the same island twice.

  147. What is the Best Hotel on Santorini?

    Hi Dave!
    Love love love your site!
    Me and my boyfriend are thinking of coming to Santorini in June – what is the best hotel to go to in your opinion? We were thinking Grace as I’ve always wanted to go there and heard such good things about it.

    Thanks in advance!
    Scarlett

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      There are many fabulous hotels on Santorini, but yes, if I could only pick one it would be Grace.

  148. Pool at Absolute Bliss

    Hi Dave, you have an amazing page! thanks a lot for your help!
    Based on all the info you have upload, and considering that we want a place with nice view pool, and rooms with outdoor jacuzzi with view to the Caldera, we have chosen the Double Room caldera view with outdoor jacuzzi at Absolute Bliss.
    Do you think there´s a better option with this features not exceeding 250-300E/night? or maybe and equal option with better rates?
    Do you know if the pool at the Absolute Bliss is heated? We are going there in May!
    Thanks a lot!
    Jose

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Absolute Bliss is great. Wonderful views and great restaurants within a short walk. The main pool at Absolute Bliss is not heated. In May they have their jacuzzis at a temperature between 35 and 38 degrees.

  149. Fira Hotel for Honeymoon

    Dave,
    Your site is amazing! Thank you for all of the wonderful insight into Santorini!
    I am coming to Santorini for my Honeymoon July 12-15. We are thinking of spending $500 a night for a room in Fira. We really want a caldera view, a pool to lay by, and to be close to shops and restaurants.

    I have read through all of your information and I think I want to book Cosmopolitan Suites (Double Room with Volcano View). Am I making the right decision? Or is there another hotel you would suggest over this one?

    Also, a lot of the rooms in Greece show a “full” bed. What equivalent size bed is a “full” from the USA? My future husband is 6’6 so wouldn’t want him to be uncomfortable.

    I appreciate you, Dave! Keep up this fantastic site!

    Kylie from Dallas, TX

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Cosmopolitan Suites is great. Very central (you step into the property off a busy lane in the middle of Fira but immediately feel like you’ve left the crowds behind). Great view and pool. Bars and restaurants just out the door.

      A “Full Bed” in Greece is similar to a double bed (54″ x 75″). A queen is 60″ x 80″. And a king is 76″ x 80″

  150. 2 Weeks in Santorini

    Hi there,
    My fiance and I are planning our honeymoon for May in the greek islands for about 2 weeks (including travel time from Australia). Would you recommend staying 2 weeks in one place e.g. Santorini? Or would that be boring?
    We don’t want to have to travel around too much, but also want to enjoy adventuring by foot, visiting the town, water activities… etc and are not sure if 2 weeks will be too long for this in one place?
    What do you recommend?
    Thanks,
    Isabella

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      By the time you get to one of the islands you’re looking at 11 or 12 days on Santorini. Is that too long? No. It’s easy to fill that many days on the island – there’s lots to see and do, places to explore, and great restaurants to eat at. That said, after one week on Santorini would you get more out of another 5 days there or 5 days on a different island? And you’d almost certainly get a better return on moving to a different island. Naxos and Paros are 2 great islands that are easy to get to from Santorini. Both can easily fill 4 or 5 days. Ios is a good choice if you only have 1 or 2 nights.

  151. Booking Hotels with Expedia for Santorini

    What do you think about using Expedia.com to book hotels on Santorini?

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      I get more complaints about Expedia than any other website (Hotels.com is a close second). I rarely use anything other than Booking.com (best prices and simple to use). Hotelscombined is also good for finding rooms for families. Booking.com is also the best way to contact a hotel for special requests or to double-check a reservation. After you book you can use the “Message the Hotel” link to send them a request or question and the hotels seem to reply at a very high rate. Whereas if you contact the hotel directly (ironically) the success rate is much lower. But, back to your question, don’t use Expedia under any circumstances.

  152. Best Hotel for €1000 per Night

    Hello Dave,

    Wonderful website and videos. I’m planning a special trip to Greece to see my Father’s homeland. It is my firs trip. It is just my wife and I and we will go the end of June. I will be in Santorini for three nights and want it to be spectacular.

    I’m agonizing on which hotel to stay in. I don’t have a budget issue. 1,000 Euros per night is fine. I am thinking either Imerovigli or Firostefani. I’d like to be able to walk to Fira….

    I struggle with two things. Do I want a private outdoor Jacuzzi or Plunge Pool. Pools are more expensive, but I don’t know how much I will use it at the end of June.

    I know it is a lot to ask, but for a spectacular trip, do you have a favorite? I looked at all of your favorite hotels as well as scouring others….

    Any info is appreciated.

    Jack

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Lots of great places with that budget but I’d probably go with the One Bedroom Suite with Plunge Pool at Grace.

  153. Hotel in Fira with Nice Pool

    Hi Dave,

    My fiance and I are heading to Santorini (honeymoon) for 4-5 nights in June (18-24) and this will follow 5 nights in Mykonos. We’re looking to keep our budget around 250-300 Euros/night. This is our first time to Greece and we think we want to stay in Fira but not 100%. We’d like the hotel to have a nice pool to hang out during the day. Do you have any suggestions?

    Thanks,
    Travis Shevlin

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Take a look at Aria Suites, Anteliz Suites, Cosmopolitan Suites (if the view is more important than the pool), or El Greco (if the pool is more important than the view).

  154. Inexpensive Hotel with View and Pool in Oia

    Hello Dave,
    Planning a holiday in Santorini for early May. I think Oia would be best suited for the good lady & I.
    Most of the hotels do appear to be a bit above our price range however. Can you recommend a hotel around the £100-£150 per night bracket in May with nice views & a decent sized pool?

    Thanks a lot.
    Matthew

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Sorry to say, but you have to compromise on one (or both) of them to get something below €150.

  155. Sophia Suites or Absolute bliss?

    Hi Dave! I need your awesome advice! Staying in Santorini for 4 days Mid May and I read some of your comments about Sophia suites and fell in love. I was going to book a Senior suite but after reading some reviews I might just book the Sugar Tub Room and hope for an upgrade since it’s our honeymoon. Do you know if it’s possible to request an outdoor hot tub? Also I was confused if there was a communal pool or not at Sophia.

    I also booked the honeymoon suite at Absolute Bliss (with free cancellation) for the last 2 days of the trip because I thought it was the best value for a Honeymoon suite but I’m not sure I’m comfortable spending that kind of money (460 a night). If you had to choose between the 2 what would you do? I could stay in both but I think I would rather book the last 2 days in Oia if I’m going to switch hotels as you suggest. I was looking at Armeni Luxury Villas because although pricey I feel like you get a lot for your money, trying to spend $350 or less but would like a private outdoor hot tub if possible and Caldera view. Any other suggestions for that in Oia are appreciated. Sidenote – My fiance and I are in the wine business and I love great food and wine so if one hotel has a better chef/restaurant that is a plus as well! Thank you so much! – Amie

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      All rooms at Sophia have either an indoor or outdoor hot tub (or both) but there will not be a larger communal pool next year. I would choose Sophia over Absolute Bliss and agree that if you’re switching hotels you might as well move to Oia. Armani Villas is a great choice.

  156. Best Room for 1,300 Euros

    Hi Dave,

    I’ll be in Santorini for 3 nights beginning May 30th, as part of my honeymoon. I’m comfortable spending 1,100-1,300 euros per night. What particular room at which hotel would you recommend? I understand that choosing a hotel depends on location and other personal preferences, but I left the question open-ended on purpose because I want your unbiased opinion.

    Thanks and kudos on the website,
    Patrick

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Recommendations:
      – The One-Bedroom Suite with Plunge Pool at Grace
      – Perivolas Suite with Private Pool at Perivolas
      – Honeymoon Suite at Katikies

      1. Best Room for 1,300 Euros

        Thanks Dave. If I were stay in Santorini for 4 nights instead of 3 nights, would you recommend spending 2 nights in Imerovigli and the other 2 nights in Oia?

        Thanks,
        Patrick

        1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

          Yeah, I probably would but it’s not clear cut. It will undoubtedly be a little bit of a pain to pack your bags and leave the first place – but in sum I’d say it’s worth experience something new for the small hassle of transferring.

  157. Hotel with Young Child

    Thank you for all the information. I am planning a trip in May with my wife and 1year old child. We have found that several hotels do not accommodate young children. What are your recommendations for hotels that allow children? Ideally, we would like to stay in imerovigli or oia, with a private pool or hot tub on the balcony. Thanks again for everything you do.

    Jason

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Hotels that both allow kids and have an outdoor hot tub are rare but try Gizis Hotel (a 10 minute walk north of central Imerovigli). For more choices look at our article on The Best Family Hotels in Santorini.

  158. Aenaon Villas, Katikies, and Grace

    How do Aenaon Villas compare to Katikies and Grace?

    Krista

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      All are wonderful, luxurious properties. The big difference is location: Aenaon is off on its own while Katikies (Oia) and Grace (Imerovigli) are in the middle of two beautiful villages. If you like quiet and seclusion then go with Aenaon but there isn’t much around it so you won’t be walking out the door and into a restaurant or bar.

  159. Katikies or Grace?

    Hi Dave,
    Am looking to stay on Santorini with my husband for a few nights in September. Have narrowed my choice down to either Katikies Hotel – Honeymoon Suite or Grace hotel – VIP Suite. Which one would you choose?

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Both are wonderful but I would personally choose Grace as I like Imerovigli a little more than Oia (also nice to be walking distance from Fira). Also, the pool area at Grace has a little more room.

  160. Dana Villas, Absolute Bliss, Mill House, Remezzo, or Stefani Hotels

    Hi Dave,

    Just love your site with a ton of information ! My husband and I are travelling to
    Greece for our daughters wedding at the end of July. We plan to go to Naxos from August 1st-August 5th. Do you think it is better to stay 5 days at one location or two ? We were thinking of staying at Paradiso Studio and Apartments for 3 days visiting various beaches and Paros then staying at Boutique Hotel Glaris for the other 2 days.

    From Naxos take the ferry to Santorini for 3 days. We are looking for a location that has great views, not too crowded, easy access to restaurants and walking distance to explore, like the traditional cave style with a more private balcony, lounge chair and pool if possible. Our budget is around 300 Euros per night. Initially, I was hoping for accommodations like Anastasis Apartments in Imerovigli but they are unavailable and would like something similar.

    Please which room type and choice would you recommend from the list that best match our criterias:

    Dana Villas in Firostefani – Traditional suite or Jr. Suite
    Absolute Bliss in Imerovigli – Classic room, Double room caldera view,Double room with outdoor jacuzzi
    Mill House in Firostefani – Studio Room
    Remezzo Villas Immerovigli – Studio seaview, Superior Studio balcony, Suite, Superior Double Room private balcony
    Stefani in Firostefani – Studio or Suite

    Thanks,
    Sandi

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Absolute Bliss if your priority is a great view (with sunset) and a quiet town with great restaurants.
      Mill House in Firostefani if you’d rather be closer to the shops, nightlife, and buzz of Fira.

      For Naxos, staying at 2 places would be best as you should definitely stay at least a few nights in Naxos Town.

  161. Dana Villas in Santorini

    Hi Dave,
    Im traveling to Santorini in mid July and want to stay a couple of nights as part of my honeymoon.
    One friend suggested Dana Villas and the website pictures look amazing, however some other blogs mention this place is getting old. Do you recommend Dana Villas ( HM Villa) ? I’m open for suggestions if there are newer / nicer places with the view to the caldera and private pool.
    Thanks!
    Arturo Coss

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Dana Villas is nice but yes, there are certainly more luxurious hotels – any of the ones listed above for example.

  162. Absolute Bliss, Aqua Luxury Suites, Zenith Blue, Above Blue Suites, or Day Dream Luxury Suites

    Hi Dave,
    Fantastic website! I’m wondering what you would choose for 3 day stay in November between Absolute Bliss, Aqua Luxury Suites, Zenith Blue, Above Blue Suites, and Day Dream Luxury Suites.

    Thanks
    Mia

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      All are nice but probably Absolute Bliss.

  163. Santorini Hotel with 2 Double Beds for 4 Adults

    HI Dave,
    I love your website, very helpful with lots of information.
    I have a question, I am taking a group of friends to Santorini and we need a hotel maybe 3 stars but we need double beds (2 beds) some will be sharing a room, I was looking for hotels view caldera view, we are a group of 10 to 15 people.
    I am not sure if you can suggest hotels that accommodate 2 double beds.

    Thank you Dave.

    Janina Mendoza

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      The Superior, Esperas, and Junior Suites at Esperas in Oia have either 2 queen beds – or a king and a queen bed. This is a 4 star hotel with great caldera views. The exact layout you are looking for is rare.

  164. Iconic Santorini Boutique Hotel

    Hi Dave,

    I have been searching through your website and haven’t seen any comments on Iconic Santorini. May I know what do you think of this hotel? Thanks for your help.

    Kenneth

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Very nice – but not 5 star luxury – boutique hotel with a small pool and great views of the caldera (no direct sunset views though). A couple good restaurants steps from the entrance – even better ones a 5 minute walk into Imerovigli.

  165. Best Basic Room at Katikies, Canaves Oia, Perivolas or Astra Suites

    Hi Dave,

    Thank you for all the helpful info on your site! Hoping you can help me pick between our top 4 hotel choices! Most important to us would be luxury/privacy, no kids, infinity pool and views. We are between Katikies, Canaves Oia, Perivolas or Astra Suites in Imerovigli. All seem about the same in price but would also like any place that includes a terrace in their most basic room. Appreciate your help! Thanks!
    Kristin

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      All are great but the entry level room at Perivolas is better than the rest. (Astra allows kids, the rest don’t.)

      1. Kristin

        Thank you! I’ve also just discovered Kapari Natural Resort – would you recommend that over the others. We would also love a private terrace. This is such a tough choice!

      2. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

        Kapari is wonderful too. I prefer Imerovigli slightly to Oia so I would probably choose Kapari. But Perivolas is the more luxurious hotel, especially when it comes to room and layout. A great feature of Kapari is that it’s right in the thick of the paths and stairwells that lead around Imerovigli but that also means it’s sandwiched into a fairly tight space. Perivolas has a much more roomy and expansive layout. Kapari has incredible sunset views, Perivolas has obstructed sunset views (the sun goes down over the town of Oia and you don’t see it set into the sea).

        Of course, you want to make the best choice, but don’t over-think this. These are both wonderful hotels and there’s no predicting what you’ll like more as it’s so subjective. Just make a choice and be happy that you’re fortunate enough to visit this incredible island. Most important of all is to get something booked as sometimes you’ll wait a day or two to think about it and then return to find your first, second, and third choices gone.

  166. Petit Palace Hotel

    Hi Dave,

    I am planning to visit Santorini during early December. I know it is not a good season but will stay over night just to enjoy the breathtaking view. Any clue about Petit Palace Suites Hotel?

    Many thanks,

    Abdulla Alshamsi

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Nice hotel with great views but not in Fira. About a 20 to 30 minute walk from shops and restaurants. There’s a free shuttle or taxi to Fira will cost about 10€.

  167. Avianto, Sophia, or Avista Suites in Imerovigli

    Hi Dave! Am obsessed with your site! Just looking for your opinion please.

    Flights are booked, May 27 to Athens, 2 nights at Athens Diamond Plus then onto Santorini on the 29th until flying out again June 2nd. I’ve got 3 choices booked in Imerovigli in 2 different price bands, can you offer your thoughts? We are going for our 15th anniversary and 40th birthdays combined and important to us are a balcony/terrace, hot tub or pool. We have no issue with lots of walking and realize privacy can be an issue with a lot of the hotels but if we could get as much as possible would be great.

    Have booked:
    Avianto Suites – “Wonderful” standard suite
    Sophia Suites – Hot Tub Sugar Suite for double the cost of Avianto
    Avista Suites – Suite with Sea View for 300 GBPs more than Sophia

    Hard to compare as costs vary but is it worth going double the price? Avista definitely offers much more space, I’ve read concerns over privacy/space with the Sugar suites at Sophia, and Avianto reviews seem good but slightly mixed. I guess I want to know your thoughts are. We have never been so there is only so much researching I can do without seeing it in person.

    Thanks so much, appreciate everything on the site!
    Jennifer

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Avianto has the smallest rooms, nice but not luxurious. The rooms at Sophia and Avista are much nicer. Avista is on the highest part of Imerovigli and good views in multiple directions. A taxi can almost pull up to your front door and it doesn’t have all the steps like getting down to Sophia. But, there is something to be said for the location of Sophia right in the thick of the paths and stairwells of Imerovigli. It feels magical. At Avista (and Avianto to a lesser extent) you’re somewhat removed from that setting. It’s good for the view and the accessibility but perhaps loses just a little something. If it was me, I’d stay at Sophia.

      1. Jennifer

        Thanks so much Dave! Have decided to upgrade and have changed to a Junior Suite a Sophia for a bit more privacy/space while keeping the ambiance. Much appreciated.

  168. Above Blue Suites

    Hi Dave, your site is fantastic! I haven’t seen anything on your site in regards to Above Blue Suites in Imerovigli. Do you have any feedback on Above Blue Suites? We are planning travel in mid June next year. Any feedback you have would be fantastic. Thank you!

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Above Blue is a great hotel. Small – only 10 suites, I think. Great views and most rooms have a private outdoor jacuzzi. The pool is not huge but has a great view looking towards Oia and the sunset. Several restaurants are a short walk from the main entrance.

  169. Pegasus, Astra, Chromata, or Sophia Suites

    Hi Dave,

    Great site and very helpful for a first time visitor to Santorini.

    We’ve decided to stay in Imerovigli, but are struggling to decide on a hotel. Our options are:

    1. Pegasus Suites & Spa (Honeymoon Suite)
    2. Astra Suites (Senior Suite)
    3. Chromata (Standard)
    4. Sophia Luxury Suites (Junior Suite)

    Which one would you recommend from the 4 above given the room type in terms of views, standard of facilities, service and location? Are there any others that you would recommend we look at instead of the 4 above?

    Many thanks!
    Andy

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      I would recommend them in this order:

      1a) Astra
      1b) Sophia
      1c) Chromata
      2) Pegasus

  170. Gap in Foot Path between Perivolas and Central Oia.

    You’ve mentioned several times the gap in the foot path in Oia between Perivolas (and other hotels) and central Oia. Can you explain this please and what other caldera hotels are on the “wrong” side of the gap? Thanks.

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      In central Oia there is a wide foot path (paved sidewalk) that runs for about a KM. It’s the main artery of Oia and most hotels and restaurants are on it or branched off of it. It runs from Oia Castle (where you watch the sunset at the tip of Oia) to Katikies and Canaves (the last hotels on the inner section of the path). After that, there is a gap in the path where you have to walk on the road for about 200 meters before rejoining the outer path. This section of path is much quieter but has very little in the form of restaurants or shops – there is one market – and continues for another 0.5 KM. Walking on the road for that gap is not a big deal and perhaps I talk about it too much. For most people it’s probably a non-event. But if you’ve been back and forth to your hotel several times in one day then that last time after dinner, when it’s dark, you’re looking back and forth worrying about a bus coming up the road, and thinking, “geez, I wish I stayed on the inner-side of the gap”.

      Here’s a picture of the section of the road you need to walk on to get to the outer path. Traffic moves pretty slowly through here – but, of course, not always.
      Walking on road to Perivolas Hotel in Oia.

      The hotels that are on this “outer” section of path are:
      Ikies
      Perivolos
      Kirini Hotel
      Rimida Villas
      Olympic Villas
      Enalion Suites
      Strogili Traditional Houses
      Alexander’s Boutique Hotel
      Mystique Hotel
      Canaves Oia Hotel (but not Canaves Oia Suites which is on the inner section)

      Hope that helps.

  171. Andronis or Villa Katikies

    Hi Dave-
    Awesome website…booked flights to Santorini for 4 nights in July for our 10yr wedding anniversary and struggling to decide on hotels. I think we have established that we would like to stay in Oia, hopefully can afford 5* with our budget which is approx. £400/night…would love a great view, good sized room / suite, great pool with views and within a 10-15minute walk to restaurants etc….have looked at Andronis Luxury Suites (Premier Suite) and Villa Katikies (standard villa). Bonus if the restaurant has a good restaurant but very happy to go out and about to explore for dinners etc – would be great if you could perhaps recommend a few to focus on….also do you think we need a car? Many thanks in advance….Nathan

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      I like Villa Katikies a little better (small, stylish, only 7 rooms) but both are great hotels. Lycabettus restaurant at Andronis has a particularly enchanting location and view. Villa Katikies does not have a restaurant but their sister property Katikies Hotel is just a few doors down and serves great food. Andronis is a little more central but also has more crowds milling about the entrance. Renting a car is the best way to see the island when staying in Oia as a bus to the anywhere other than Imerovigli or Fira will require changing buses in Fira. So a trip to, say, Akrotiri would require 4 buses and a good 2 hours of travel time including waits – much better to have a car to see the far corners of the island.

  172. Santorini Infinity Pool with Sunset View

    Hi Dave,
    I am planning a trip to Santorini next from March 30 to April 4. I am looking for a hotel having a great infinity pool that can enjoy great sunset view. I have already searched some of your suggestions of infinity pool hotels but some of them don’t open until late April or May like Grace, Perivolas, Katikies, and some are partly blocked by Skaros rocks. I dont know which pool can actually see the sun falling into the pool. Do you have any suggestion?

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Possible hotels would be Grace, Astra, Tholos – but you’re right, most won’t be open until early or mid-April. Katikies and Perivolos won’t have sunset views. Since you’re visiting outside of tourist season I’d just focus on getting a good hotel and forget about the infinity pool.

  173. Day Pass to Santorini Pool

    Dave, my wife and I are starting to plan a trip to Greece for her 40th birthday. We are likely going to stay at a private residence in Oia but we were wondering if you knew about any hotels in either Oia or Fira that sell day passes to their facilities; specifically, we would love to experience one of the magnificent infinity pools while we’re on Santorini. Would you happen to know of any hotels where we might be able to do that? Thank you!
    John L. Pestka

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      No hotels on the caldera allow non-guests to use their pool. But there is the Lioyerma Pool and Cafe in Oia that allows anyone to use the pool if the buy a drink or food. It’s a nice pool with good sunset views (but looking towards Ios not into the caldera). It’s a great place to hang out for an afternoon.

  174. Mill House Elegant Suites in Santorini and Hotel in Mykonos

    Dave – This is amazing information! I have a couple of questions. I’m looking to honeymoon in Santorini and Mykonos in late June. My first question is how far out should I book my flights and hotels? It seems like too early now but some places I’ve looked at seem to be booked already.

    Second, I’m looking for a hotel in Santorini that is quiet with a great pool / jacuzzi, has a decent view and has food options during the day and that is close to restaurants / nightlife at night. I’m sort of overwhelmed with all the options since I’ve never been tot the island before. One place that looks like a good fit is Mill House Elegant Suites. Do you think this is a good choice for what I’m looking for?

    In Mykonos we’d be looking for the same sort of feel for the hotel. Do you have any recommendations for that island?

    Thank you!
    Kristin

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      The Mill House is very nice. The view is 5 star, the suites are nice but I’d call them 4 star. Only the Traditional Suites and the Mill Suite have a private outdoor jacuzzi. There are a lot of steps down to the hotel – so be prepared for that. Good restaurants are a short walk away (once you get up to the main path). The nightlife of Fira is a 10 to 15 minute walk along the beautiful caldera foot path. Read our article on The Best Hotels in Mykonos of for Mykonos recommendations.

      I suggest booking flights and hotels as soon as possible. November is not too early to book hotels, though you could delay until January if you really wanted to.

  175. Honeymoon Hotel with Great Views

    Dave,

    Thank you so much for this amazing site. I couldn’t imagine a better way to prepare for a trip to Santorini.

    I am having difficulty making a decision (and yes, I know this is a good problem to have, based on what your site has to say about each).

    After reading your site, I have narrowed down my upcoming honeymoon stay to the following:

    Dreams Luxury (Nefeli Suite)
    Sophia Suites (Senior with hot tub)
    Grace (Deluxe Double)
    Chromata (Senior Suite)
    Astra (Senior Suite)

    I really would like the best combination of views and comfort. If you are able to help at all in separating these great looking places, I would truly appreciate it.

    Thanks for your time.

    Regards,
    Broc Grigsby

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      All these are great places. I would probably go with Grace. It’s out on a perch a little bit and gets views of both the south caldera and the north (with the sunset). The others are sort-of looking either south or north. Grace has the best pool (with view) on the Santorini. Sophia Suites is currently the best value hotel on the island. The suites are stunning, everything brand new.

  176. Santorini in Late November

    My husband and I plan to visit around the end of November. Do think it will be fine to visit during this time of year. It’s really the only time we can come right now. Should we just make plans to go elsewhere. This site is very helpful.
    Kyna

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Santorini can be great in late November as long as you’re not wanting hot weather or time on the beach. But you can get clear skies, mild days, and no crowds. There will likely be some rain, so be prepared, but if you’re coming from northern Europe Santorini will seem like a break from the dreariness of November.

  177. Santorini in February

    Hi Dave,

    Kudos on the website. Very informative and helpful. My fiance and I are planning our honeymoon in Santorini in February after a January wedding. We would be traveling to Greece between 7th and 13th February and have been looking around sites to plan our travel. We were planning to stay in Mykonos and Santorini for 2 and 3 nights respectively. Wanted your suggestion on a few points:

    – Is February a good time to travel to the islands, weather wise? Or would it be too cold and quiet?
    – Would most places be shut for business?
    – We looked up ferry options between Mykonos and Santorini and looks like ferries don’t make rounds between these islands in winters. Should we only plan one island i.e. Santorini?
    – How is Canaves Suites in Oia for our stay?
    – Would you recommend hiring a self driven car for our stay in Santorini?
    – A couple of our friends suggested that Oia or Imerovigli would be best suited for planning a Honeymoon. Your thoughts.

    I havent seen anyone commenting on your blog that they are planning their travel between December and Feb. Your inputs would be most helpful.

    Thanks,
    Abhishek

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      My thoughts:
      – February will be cold and gray but can still get some clear (cool) sunny days. Definitely not beach weather.
      – Most places will be closed but plenty enough open to get by.
      – Yes, one island is much better. Santorini has more activity than Mykonos in the winter.
      – I doubt Canaves will be open in February. (But yes, it’s great.)
      – Having a car is a great way to see the island.
      – Oia and Imerovigli are great for honeymoons but very quiet in winter. Fira or Oia would be better.

  178. Honeymoon Suite at Katikies

    I’ve just discovered this site and love it! We are off to Santorini on our honeymoon in July. We are spending 5 nights at Anastasis Apartments in Imerovigli in the Anastasis suite. Then want to spend 2 nights in Oia. Is the honeymoon suite at Katikies hotel worth £1100 a night? Can you recommend anywhere else luxurious but not so expensive?!

    Thank you!
    Gemma

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      The Honeymoon Suite at Katikies is wonderful. Huge cave suite with private jacuzzi on a large patio.

      Is it worth the money? Obviously, everyone is on a different budget and has to decide whether that’s an amount they can afford, but I’ll say this – you never get home after an experience like Katikies and say to yourself, I wish we didn’t do that. It just doesn’t happen. They’ll bring your breakfast to your room and you’ll sit there on your patio drinking coffee looking out into the caldera and you’ll think you’re in a dream. It’s surreal.

      Is there something just as special but a little cheaper? I love Esperas Hotel – it’s at the tip of Oia and unlike most Oia hotels it has a direct sunset view. The honeymoon suites at Esperas still have the jacuzzi on a private patio (the patio is smaller than at Katikies). The rooms are a little less luxurious but still very nice and definitely less expensive than Katikies.

  179. Which Santorini Hotel Has the Best Sea View?

    Hi Dave, can you please suggest which 2 out of the 7 hotel that has the best sea view, city life, shops, nightlife? Having the best sea view would be our first priority. This will be our first trip to Santorini and we hope to make the best of it. Thank you!

    1. Grace Santorini
    2. Mystique
    3. Belvedere
    4. The Tsitouras Collection
    5. Katikies Hotel
    6. Ikies Traditional Houses
    7. Grace Santorini

    JOSEPHINE

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      All have great views – but different. Grace and Katikies perhaps the best. (Katikies doesn’t have a sunset view.)

  180. Best Rooms at Grace

    HI Dave,
    What are the best deluxe and honeymoon rooms at the Grace Santorini?
    Best,
    Mark

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      The Grace Suite with plunge pool is the most luxurious suite (besides the villa) at Grace. It has both an indoor and outdoor plunge pool. The VIP Suite with plunge pool is almost as wonderful – it has a larger deck area but only an outside plunge pool. Both have king beds, and, of course, incredible views.

  181. Katikies vs Santorini Secret

    Hi Dave,
    Between the Katikies hotel and the Santorini Secret suites, which do you think is better in terms of location, service, rooms? Thank you!
    Jen

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Both are wonderful hotels. Katikies does feel a little more luxurious. It’s also a little larger and feels busier with other guests (though plenty of privacy from non-guests). Santorini Secret smaller and quieter. Santorini Secret is a few minutes closer to central Oia but no great difference – both are an easy walk to many shops and restaurants. Views are great from both (but neither have sunset views).

  182. Last Minute Hotel for Santorini

    Hi Dave,

    2 of us girls are planning to go to Santorini in the next couple of weeks (a very last minute trip) so you can imagine it’s quite difficult to find a good hotel! We want some luxury but were also worried that all the best places will be full of honeymooners. We would love a relaxing break where we can the views but will also want to go out for dinners. Our 2 possible options are:
    – Astra Suites – as Imerovigli seems to be the prettiest place to stay.
    – Petit Palace (close to Fira, recommended by a friend) and also offers yoga which we like the sound of but will we be missing out on the best scenery?
    – Which hotel is more central and easier to get around from.
    – Which hotel would you choose for a couple of girls staying for 3 nights?
    Thanks for a fantastic website and all the tips!

    Sheetal

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Astra Suites would definitely be my choice. Good restaurants are nearby (Mezzo is great and only a 2 minute walk along the footpath) and it’s a wonderful walk from your doorstep all the way to Fira (or Oia if you go the opposite way and want more of a hike than a walk). Petit Palace is nice but not well located. It’s a 20 to 30 minute walk south of Fira. The walk from into Fira has some nice views but it’s sort of desolate and runs along a main road with lots of traffic. The hotel does have free shuttles into town and there are buses – or you could rent a car, but it’s certainly not as centrally located as Astra.

  183. How To Get Luggage Down Stairs To Hotel

    Hi. Most resorts are down lots of stairs. Maybe a silly question, but how do you get your luggage around?

    Gillian

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      The better hotels (which usually includes all hotels that are on the caldera with steps) will send a porter to get your luggage. If you arrive unannounced send one person to find the hotel and the other can sit with the luggage.

  184. Most Romantic Restaurant on Santorini

    Hello Dave,

    If you had to pick one romantic restaurant for our 20th Anniversary dinner later this month, which would you choose? Thank you.
    Debbie

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Ambrosia in Oia (small, intimate, amazing view, good food). Book far in advance as there aren’t many tables.

  185. Kirini Suites & Spa

    Hi Dave, your site is fantastic! I haven’t seen anything on your site in regards to Kirini Suites & Spa which looks like a sister property of Katikies (which is already booked along with Astra – our top two choices). Do you have any feedback on Kirini? We are also looking into Mystique. We want to go top-notch! Any feedback you have would be fantastic. Thank you!

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Kirini is great. Wonderful views that look more towards Oia than Katikies (which looks back more towards Imerovigli). The pool at Kirini is also great. The only drawback with Kirini is that it’s not on the main foot path but is on a secondary section that you need to walk down a busy road to get to. It’s not a big deal for most but every time you want to get into Oia you have to do a brisk walk along the road (looking back to make sure a bus isn’t going to run you down) and it can get a little tiring – but it’s a very short stretch, not more than a minutes walk that you’re actually on the road.

  186. Santorini Princess or Absolute Bliss?

    Hi Dave – My fiance and I are planning on spending 5 days in Santorini as part of our honeymoon next July. Do you think it makes sense to stay half in Oia and half in Imerovigli or should we stick to one place? Also, do you have a preference between Santorini Princess or Absolute Bliss?

    Thanks so much!
    Tori Mastrangelo

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Yes, I would split my time. 2 days in Oia, and 3 days in Imerovigli (which is more central and closer to more stuff to do). Santorini Princess has a nicer pool and is a little more luxurious but is across a small road from the caldera so suites don’t sit directly on the edge (though the hotel still is a view property). Absolute Bliss sits right on the caldera ridge and has incredible views. Santorini Princess is a 10 to 15 minute walk to the restaurants of Imerovigli. Absolute Bliss is just a few steps from restaurants.

  187. Hotels with Not Many Stairs in Santorini

    Hi Dave,

    My mom (66) and I are planning a trip to Greece next June. She is in good shape and has no trouble walking for miles, but sometimes she has “balance issues” and I am concerned with all of the steps. Is there any way to find out if a particular hotel has a lot of them? Will the porters carry your luggage? Do you have any specific recommendations? (We are thinking of staying in Firostefani.)

    Thank you!
    Heidi

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Many hotels have lots of steps. No easy way to know (beyond asking me). Porters will definitely carry your luggage. That’s easy to arrange if you get them to pick you up at the port or airport but can be tricky if you’re taking the bus or getting a taxi. Tsitouras in Firostefani has very few steps (just one flight, essentially) and is one of the best hotels on Santorini.

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