Katikies Hotel in Oia, Santorini

Greece › Santorini › Hotels › Katikies Review
By Santorini Dave

Essentials
• Location: On the caldera in Oia
• Map
• Hotel website: katikies.com
• Hotel phone: +30 22860 72382
• Check prices for Katikies

Incredible view of the Santorini caldera from Katikies hotel in the village of Oia.

Hotel Review

Katikies – A pinnacle of glamour, Katikies offers luxurious rooms, three infinity pools, and outstanding restaurants.

Katikies is one of Santorini’s original caldera hotels, offering gorgeous views highlighted by their iconic cave-style architecture. Rooms are elegantly appointed in all white, and many feature private jacuzzis or pools on their terraces. The hotel spreads down the side of the caldera, with infinity pools on three levels, plus two spa treatment rooms, two bars, and a restaurant helmed by a Michelin-awarded chef. Their Katikies Club, which all guests become part of just by staying, offers exclusive experiences from sailing to wine tastings, VIP access to the archaeological site, and more. And with a 1:2 staff to guest ratio, they offer supreme hospitality that is personal and attentive.

See Also

• The Best Hotels in Santorini
• Where to Stay in Santorini
• Best Tours & Things to Do in Santorini

Katikies – Location

• Area: Fantastic location on the caldera’s edge in the center of Oia, just inside the pedestrian-only zone. The hotel is less than 5 minutes from several amazing restaurants, cafes, and boutiques, and about 8 minutes from the Oia Bus Terminal.

• How to Get There:
The hotel is located on the marble footpath that’s located just off the main road into Oia, making it very easy to travel to and from, whether by taxi, driving yourself, or riding the bus. It is approximately 18km from the Athinios ferry port and the Santorini Airport to the hotel, though they are in different directions.

There are always buses waiting at the ferry port for every ferry arrival, as well as buses departing hourly from Santorini Airport. There are no direct buses from the port or airport to Oia, however; buses from both locations go to Fira, where you must then board a different bus to Oia – the entire trip from the port or airport to Oia will take at least an hour and cost about €5 in total. Tickets are purchased on the bus, in cash only. From the Oia Bus Terminal, it’s an easy 8-minute walk to the hotel.

Taxis are also available from the port or airport, though there are only about 25 taxis serving the whole island, so there is often a wait; schedule a ride through a private car service in advance to avoid this (I use and recommend Welcome Pickups). Taxis on Santorini are not metered, so be sure to agree on a price with the driver before setting out. A taxi from the airport to Katikies hotel will cost roughly €35 to €40. A taxi from the ferry port to Katikies will cost around €35 to €40. Booking through a private car service will cost only a bit more – about $60 (or €50), but is worth it to avoid the wait and for the convenience of paying ahead.

For those who prefer to drive themselves, we recommend renting a car either at the airport on arrival, or in Fira. The road from the ferry port is steep and narrow, with many tricky switchbacks, large trucks, and buses. Leave that for the locals to navigate. We strongly recommend reserving a vehicle in advance, especially if you require automatic transmission. Upon arrival at the hotel, Katikies offers free valet parking (a major perk).

• Handy To: The beginning of the pedestrian pathway, Church of Panagia of Platsani.

Map of Katikies

Katikies – The Basics

• Ages: An adults-only hotel, only ages 13 and older are allowed. Guests tend to be couples celebrating a special occasion, usually a honeymoon, anniversary, or even having their wedding here.
• Beach: The closest swimming spot (though it is not a proper beach) is at Ammoudi Bay, the port immediately below Oia, 1 km from the hotel. This is a popular spot for swimming and cliff diving; though it’s too rocky and small to do much lounging. Ammoudi Bay is the main port of Oia, and is served by several spectacular seafood restaurants. It’s a steep trek down and back again, but it’s relatively easy to catch a cab at the bottom to bring you back up the hill. (Buy a snack at one of the restaurants, and the waiter will be happy to call one.)
• View: Breathtaking caldera views from all rooms and throughout the hotel.
• Private Pools/Jacuzzis: Senior Suites and Superior Suites have indoor jacuzzi baths. Honeymoon and Katikies Suites feature private, outdoor jacuzzis. The Master Suite offers a private, outdoor plunge pool.
• Parking: Free valet parking.
• Extras: Boutique with exclusive Greek-designed products; hospitality room for early arrivals or late departures; choice of in-room luxury amenities; Katikies Club exclusive experiences; small weddings (10 guests maximum) and events.
• When to Book: The hotel operates from April 1st until November 15th. Reserve at least 4 months in advance (6 months is better) for stays during the high season from June through September, and about 2 months in advance for the low and shoulder seasons.
• How to Book: Booking.com will have the best rates.
• Phone: +30 22860 72382
• Email: info@katikies.com
• Website: katikies.com

Katikies – Amenities

• Pool: 3 infinity pools with caldera views, each on a different level. 1 heated, 2 unheated. The one by the Champagne Bar by Fleur de Miraval has a DJ, while the others are quiet. The smallest pool is the quietest, and has the best view.
• Spa: 2 spa treatment rooms and in-room massage available. Guests of Katikies have access to the larger spa at their sister property Katikies Kirini, just a 7-minute walk east.
• Fitness Center: No gym onsite, but guests here have free access to the gym at Katikies Kirini.
• For Disabled Guests: This is a caldera hotel with a lot of stairs throughout. There are two elevators but they do not serve every floor. Guests with mild mobility issues will be fine staying in one of the rooms on a higher floor with fewer steps, but it is not suitable for those in wheelchairs.
• Activities: Exclusive activities are available through the Katikies Club for an additional fee: wine tasting, caldera cruises (catamaran, speed boat, or Riva boat), VIP access to the archaeological site, car tours of the island, private dining, exclusive spa treatments, and private transfers with champagne.

Katikies – Food and Drink

• Restaurants: Botrini’s is an intimate, fine-dining restaurant focusing on Cycladic flavors and perched on a panoramic terrace. Reservations are required. • Champagne Bar by Fleur de Miraval serves lunch and dinner from 1:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. with a focus on sushi and caviar.
• Lounge/Bar: The Pool Bar and Restaurant serves fresh cocktails and lite bites all day, with spa-like music to create a relaxed ambiance.
• Breakfast: Complimentary breakfast is served daily with a varied buffet supplemented by an a la carte menu. Breakfast can also be ordered ahead and delivered to your room at no additional cost.
• Room Service: Available 24 hours.

Katikies – Rooms

• Room Types: Double Room • Junior Suite • Senior Suite • Superior Suite • Honeymoon Suite with Open Air Jetted Tub • Katikies Suite with Open Air Jetted Tub • Master Suite with Private Plunge Pool
• Smoking Rooms: The hotel does not allow smoking in any of their room categories. It is allowed on the private outdoor terraces and in the outdoor common areas.
• Best Room: The Master Suite with Private Plunge Pool is the best suite here, and the most private. It offers 40 sqm of interior space and a large veranda that’s nearly the same size with a heated plunge pool, sun loungers, and al fresco dining area. This open plan suite has a living area, king bed, and a jacuzzi bathtub, with butler service on request.
• For Families: An adults-only hotel, only guests ages 13 and older are permitted. There are no special amenities or facilities for children, and no rooms sleep more than 3 guests.

Katikies – Local Transport

• Walking: The hotel is located in the heart of Oia, at the beginning of the marble pedestrian path, and surrounded by an endless choice of restaurants, shops, and attractions. Oia Bus Terminal is 8 minutes away on foot, while the most photographed Church of Panagia of Platsani is 8 minutes away. The castle ruins, the most popular sunset viewpoint is a 14-minute walk west, while Ammoudi Bay is just a little further.
• Bus: The hotel is very close to the Oia Bus Terminal, just 8 minutes away. Buses from here go to Fira (and Imerovigli and Firostefani along the way). For other destinations you’ll need to switch buses in Fira. Tickets are bought on board and range from €1.80 to €2.50 per person in the daytime, depending on the route. Night buses (12:30 a.m. to 5:00 a.m.) run less frequently and cost a little more, from €2.30 to €3.10. Buses can get very crowded, especially during the high season, so much so that they often fill to capacity and are unable to take on more passengers. There are only 23 public buses serving the island.
• Taxis: The nearest taxi stand is at Stathmos Taxi, near the Oia Bus Terminal. There is often a wait as there are only 25 taxis serving the entire island. Book taxis in advance to avoid waiting. The average rate from Oia to Fira is €25, and from Oia to the airport or port costs about €30 to €45.
• Scooters/Motorcycles: Scooters are the main mode of transportation for the locals, but if you’re unfamiliar with the terrain, it can be very dangerous. The roads here are zigzagging, hilly, narrow, and have sheer drop offs with no guardrails and no street lights in most areas. Lots of dirt roads and potholes.
• ATVs/Quads: ATVs are a fun and popular mode of transportation with tourists, but for the locals stuck driving behind them, they move too slowly and hold up traffic in an area where getting around is already a hassle. For those who don’t ride quads regularly (i.e. most people), they can be dangerous at high speeds and on turns. Crashing your ATV is a sure-fire way to ruin your vacation.

Katikies – What’s Nearby?

Best Nearby Restaurants

• Melitini: 100% Greek menu using local Santorinian, Cycladic, and Greek ingredients only. Quaint, cozy interior and stellar caldera views from the rooftop terrace.
• Anemomilos Restaurant: Located next to the hotel of the same name; refreshingly local vibe, not touristy at all. Great food, friendly atmosphere.
• PitoGyros: Hands-down, the best gyros in Oia. Seating is limited.
• Lotza: Simple, honest Greek comfort food with stunning caldera views.
• Candouni: Cozy family-owned restaurant with live Greek music and absolutely delicious food.
• Roka: Authentic Santorinian menu with solid dishes, especially the meatballs and octopus.
• Lefkes: Cozy, romantic restaurant in a converted wine cellar in the charming Finikia village.
• Ammoudi Bay Restaurants: Each of these waterfront restaurants is phenomenal, offering the freshest fish on the island. The steep 20-minute walk down takes longer coming back up, but your waiter will be happy to call you a cab.

Best Nearby Bars and Breweries

• Fino Cocktail Bar & Restaurant: The best cocktails in Santorini. Plus, inspired Mediterranean food and an extensive wine list.
• Sunset Sangria Bar: Chill spot for sangria, cocktails, and tapas with excellent sunset views (though not of the caldera).
• Marykay’s Bar/Hassapiko: The only nightlife in Oia, this is where to go for dancing, as they regularly host live bands and DJs.

Best Nearby Cafes

• Mes Amis: Amazing little spot on a covered patio looking over the caldera. Super casual, fantastic views, and great food.
• Meteor: Excellent coffee and breakfast with sweeping caldera views, though a little on the pricey side. Turns into a bar at night.

Nearby Shopping and Cool Shops

• Bligaki: Santorinian accessories, especially jewelry and bags, mostly handmade.
• BLOW by Labro: High-end designer boutique with unique pieces.
• It’s a Beautiful Day: Greek-designed clothing and luxury-brand accessories.
• B.Loose: Greek-made, casual linens for men and women.
• Steps to Art: Truly unique metal sculptures, replicas inspired by Akrotiri, and jewelry made with volcanic sand and watch parts.
• Spilia Cave Greek Clothing: Handmade leather sandals, cotton and linen Greek clothes, located in one of the original living caves of Oia.

Nearby Attractions

• Oia-Fira Hiking Trail: One of the top attractions on the island is this scenic 10.5 km hiking trail connecting Oia and Fira. A mix of sidewalk, cobblestones, and dirt trail, this route boasts gorgeous vistas the entire way. Hiking south to Fira, the full length of the path from the Byzantine Castle Ruins takes from 2 to 5 hours; Add about an hour for a detour at Skaros Rock in Imerovigli. 1-minute walk from the hotel.
• Church of Panagia of Platsani: The most iconic church in Santorini, beautiful inside and out.
• Museum of Ancient, Byzantine Musical Instruments: Faithful replicas of Greek instruments dating from the prehistoric through Byzantine eras.
• Maritime Museum: Small museum focused on Greek naval and Santorinian seafaring history. Only €3 to enter.
• Castle of Agios Nikolaos (aka Oia Castle aka Byzantine Castle Ruins): The medieval castle ruins are the most popular sunset viewpoint on the island.
• Ammoudi Bay: Best known for its fresh fish restaurants, Ammoudi is the rocky port of Oia; boats sail to Thirassia and cruise the caldera from here. It’s an incredibly popular spot for cliff diving, and is one of the best places to swim on the island.
• Domaine Sigalas: Santorini’s best winery, with options for tours, tastings and tapas.

Nearby Markets or Grocery Stores

• Village Super Market: Good selection of staples at a fair price (for Santorini).
• Perivolas Market: Small store with a decent selection of drinks, wine, and bread.
• Elliniki Diatrofi Supermarket: Great selection of local cheeses, wine, liquor, fresh produce, and staples. Open until after midnight, sometimes as late as 2:00 a.m.
• Proton Supermarket: Small market, but usually has the best prices. This is where most locals shop in the area.

Katikies – The Hotel

This is the view looking down at Katikies from the pedestrian street above.

Following the stairs down leads to a polished reception area…

…and a high end boutique featuring clothing and accessories by Athenian designers…

…plus luxury spa, skin, and body care products.

This is the quieter of the 2 larger pools, served by the Pool Bar and Restaurant on the left. The one served by the Champagne Bar by Fleur de Miraval is the liveliest, with a DJ spinning upbeat music every day.

From here, you can see views over the caldera to Thirassia and the volcanoes…

…and to Oia village. To the right, you can also see Botrini’s Restaurant.

Botrini’s is an intimate restaurant with gorgeous views.

All of the restaurants and lounges share an excellent wine selection, with international labels and a special focus on local varieties…

…including their own label, released on their 30 year anniversary.

Rooms and suites are all unique due to the nature of the local geography, and the fact that each room has been carved out of the caldera by hand.

This Honeymoon Suite features a loft bedroom with a spacious living area downstairs. Some Honeymoon Suites are all on one level.

A closer look at the bedroom with its arched, Cycladic ceiling.

View to the living room from the bedroom. The sofa downstairs can be set up as a bed to sleep a third guest.

The downstairs area also has a small dining table.

The ample bathroom has hand-sculpted, cave-style walls and ceiling. It also features a walk-in shower and a jacuzzi bathtub.

The private terrace boasts a jacuzzi, al fresco dining table, and incredible views over the caldera.

A closer look at the 2-person jacuzzi and view. Check prices and availability: Katikies