Greece › Santorini › Oia Hotels
Updated: September 25, 2026 • By Santorini Dave
Questions? dave@santorinidave.com
Best Hotels in Oia: Quick Picks
- Best Overall: Katikies
- Luxury: Katikies • Canaves Oia Suites • Andronis Boutique Hotel
- Honeymoon: Perivolas • Maregio Suites • Charisma Suites
- Caldera View: Katikies • Canaves Oia Suites • Andronis Luxury Suites
- Sunset View: Canaves Epitome • Santo Mine • Oia Mansion
- Families: Andronis Arcadia • Domes Novos • Oia Mansion
- Private Villas: Oia Mansion • White Pearl Villas • 270 Oia’s View
- Best Value: Anemomilos • Nikos Villas • Agnadi View Villa
Oia Hotels – My Advice
- Oia is my favorite village for a romantic stay: beautiful cave hotels, excellent restaurants, boutique shopping, and some of Santorini’s best views. Along with Imerovigli, it is the best place to stay for honeymooners and couples.
- Stay in Oia if: you want a beautiful village, great restaurants, easy access to sunset views, and lots to explore on foot. Skip Oia if nightlife, lower prices, easy parking, or a central base for exploring the island matter more.
- Caldera view and sunset view are not the same thing: most Oia hotels are better for one or the other. Caldera-view hotels face south toward the volcano and cliffside villages; the best direct sunset views are on Oia’s western side. I explain the difference below.
- Sunset is crowded: the castle area gets packed in high season. Watching from your hotel is much more relaxing. For dinner with a sunset view, I like Kastro Oia and Elinikon.
See Also
The 11 Best Hotels in Oia, Santorini
1. Katikies Hotel
My favorite hotel in Oia, with three beautiful pools, excellent caldera views, and some of the best service in Santorini. Whitewashed bridges and stairways wind down the cliff to the suites, many with private plunge pools or jacuzzis. The main Pelagos House is directly on Oia’s pedestrian path. This is my favorite place to stay in Oia.2. Canaves Oia Suites
One of Oia’s best luxury hotels, with large suites, private pools, and spectacular caldera views. Every suite and villa has a private plunge pool or swimming pool, and there are two shared pools, a great spa, and very good dining. Larger suites and villas work well for families or friends. Located at the eastern entrance to Oia, close enough to walk everywhere but removed from the busiest part of the village. Canaves Ena is nearby; it is smaller and more intimate.3. Perivolas Hotel
One of Santorini’s great hotels: quiet, beautifully designed, and built around one of the island’s most famous infinity pools. The restored cave houses have simple whitewashed interiors and private caldera-view terraces, with some adding private pools. There are no TVs in the suites, a deliberate choice that suits the quiet atmosphere. A converted wine cellar houses the restaurant. Located at the quieter eastern end of Oia, an easy walk from the village center.4. Canaves Epitome
One of the best choices in Oia for space, privacy, large pools, and direct sunset views. Every suite and villa has a private heated plunge pool or swimming pool, and there are two large shared infinity pools, a spa, gym, and excellent restaurants. The views face the sunset and Aegean rather than the classic inner caldera. It’s outside Oia’s pedestrian center, which means less village atmosphere but far more space and privacy; a complimentary shuttle runs into Oia.5. Katikies Gea House
Formerly Katikies Kirini, Gea House is now part of Katikies Santorini and sits at the quieter eastern edge of Oia with unobstructed caldera views. Suites have private verandas, with selected categories adding outdoor jetted tubs or private pools. It has the Katikies service and setting but feels removed from the busiest part of Oia.6. Saint Hotel
Adults-only hotel with excellent caldera views, private pools, and a beautiful spa. Every suite has a king bed and furnished terrace with a private jacuzzi or heated pool. Breakfast is delivered to the suite. Located on the pedestrian path at the eastern entrance to Oia, within walking distance of the center but away from the heaviest crowds.7. Mystique
Longtime Oia favorite built into the cliff at the quieter eastern end of the village. Most suites and villas have private outdoor jacuzzis or pools, and the hotel has two shared pools, a cave-style spa, and several dining options. Peaceful location with an easy walk into central Oia.8. Andronis Boutique Hotel
Small adults-only hotel in central Oia with hand-sculpted cave suites and fantastic caldera views. Suites have private heated jacuzzis or pools, and there are two shared pools. Lauda is one of Oia’s best fine-dining restaurants. Excellent location for exploring Oia on foot, though there are plenty of steps.9. Andronis Arcadia
The best full-service luxury resort in Oia for families. Suites and villas are spacious, with private heated pools and sunset views, and the hotel has large shared pools, a spa, restaurants, and a kids club. It’s close enough to walk into Oia but feels more like a resort than a traditional cave hotel. That’s a plus for families and a tradeoff for travelers wanting the classic cliffside experience.10. Charisma Suites
Small luxury hotel near the windmills on Oia’s western side, with two infinity pools and direct sunset views. Cave-style suites have private balconies, with outdoor jacuzzis or private pools in many categories. Breakfast is delivered to the suite. One of my favorite honeymoon hotels in Oia, especially if a direct sunset view matters.11. Andronis Luxury Suites
Luxury all-suite hotel in central Oia with excellent caldera views. Suites are carved into the cliff and have private terraces, with jacuzzis or pools depending on the category. There’s also an infinity pool, spa, and Lycabettus restaurant. Great location for walking to Oia’s shops and restaurants, but expect plenty of stairs.Oia Hotel Views: Caldera View vs Sunset View
The view (and patio breakfast) from our suite at Anemomilos.
Do not assume “sea view,” “caldera view,” and “sunset view” mean the same thing. Most Oia hotels are better for either the classic volcano-facing caldera view or a direct view of the setting sun. A few western properties have angles that give you elements of both.
Hotels with Classic Caldera Views
These hotels look across the caldera toward the volcano and the cliffside villages. You’ll get beautiful sunset colors in the sky, but usually not a direct view of the sun dropping into the sea. Charisma Suites, Marizan Caves, Esperas, Fanari Villas, and Oia Mansion are exceptions, with both caldera and direct sunset views.
- Perivolas Hotel
- Ikies
- Andronis Boutique Hotel
- Andronis Luxury Suites
- Santorini Secret Suites & Spa
- Filotera Suites
- Katikies Hotel
- Katikies Gea House
- Canaves Oia Suites
- Canaves Ena
- Mystique
- Saint Hotel
- Aspaki by Art Maisons
- Aris Caves
- Canaves Sunday
- White Pearl Villas
- 1864 The Sea Captain’s House
- Nikos Villas
- Rimida Villas
- Charisma Suites
- Marizan Caves
- Esperas
- Fanari Villas
- Oia Mansion
Hotels with Direct Sunset Views
The view of Ammoudi Bay from our suite at Art Maisons Oia Castle Hotel.
These hotels have direct views of the sun setting over the Aegean. Most are on or near Oia’s western side. Charisma Suites, Marizan Caves, Esperas, Fanari Villas, and Oia Mansion also have caldera views.
- Canaves Epitome
- Santo Mine
- Charisma Suites
- Marizan Caves
- Maregio Suites
- Esperas
- Fanari Villas
- Art Maisons Oia Castle
- Oia Mansion
Why Stay in Oia
My wife and I in Oia, Santorini, with the caldera and Skaros Rock behind us.
Oia is Santorini’s most famous village, with whitewashed buildings carved into the cliff, narrow marble lanes, blue-domed churches, excellent hotels and restaurants, and spectacular views. It’s romantic, expensive, and especially beautiful early in the morning and late in the evening when the day-trip crowds are gone.
Oia is best for honeymooners, couples, and first-time visitors who want to stay in the middle of Santorini’s most beautiful village. It is not the best choice for nightlife, easy parking, low prices, or quick access to the ferry port and airport. For those, Fira is more practical. For a quieter caldera stay, Imerovigli is the main alternative.
Things to Know Before Staying in Oia
Boats and waterfront restaurants lining Ammoudi Bay. The staircase down from Oia village is visible.
- Oia is easy to explore on foot but difficult with luggage: much of the village is pedestrian-only, and many hotels are reached by stairs and narrow lanes. Ask your hotel exactly where your transfer should drop you and whether porter service is included.
- Parking is difficult: public lots around the village fill quickly, especially before sunset. I would not rent a car just to get around Oia.
- Buses go to Fira: from there you connect to the airport, port, beaches, and most other parts of Santorini. If you plan to explore primarily by bus, Fira is a better base.
- Ammoudi Bay is best for lunch: walk down for seafood by the water. The popular swimming spot is around the point beyond the restaurants at Agios Nikolaos, not in the harbor itself. Walking down is much easier than walking back up.
- The Fira to Oia hike is a highlight: take the bus to Fira in the morning and hike back to Oia. You’ll finish near your hotel and avoid having to catch a bus home after the walk.
Oia vs Fira, Imerovigli, and Firostefani
- Oia vs Fira: Oia is prettier and more romantic. Fira is more central, better for buses and nightlife, and generally better value.
- Oia vs Imerovigli: Imerovigli is quieter and less crowded, with outstanding caldera views. Oia has far more restaurants, shops, and things to do within a short walk.
- Oia vs Firostefani: Firostefani is quieter, cheaper, and an easy walk from Fira. Oia has better hotels, more restaurants, and a much larger village to explore.
Gorgeous views along the Oia-Fira hiking trail. This photo is taken from Imerovigli with Oia visible in the distance.
Getting to Oia
Oia is about a 25 to 35-minute drive from Santorini Airport and about 35 to 45 minutes from Athinios Ferry Port. Traffic after a ferry arrival can make the port trip considerably longer. A pre-booked transfer is easiest, especially with luggage. Buses are cheaper but require a change in Fira. See my Santorini bus guide for routes and fares.
The shaded-yellow area has sunset views, the shaded-brown area has caldera views.
Hotels on Map: Canaves Epitome • Santo Mine • Marizan Caves • Charisma Suites • Maregio Suites • Esperas • Fanari Villas • Art Maisons Oia Castle • Oia Mansion • Zoe Aegeas Traditional Houses • One of One Suites • Santo Pure • 1864 The Sea Captain’s House • Andronis Arcadia • Aspaki by Art Maisons • Aris Caves • Andronis Boutique Hotel • Domes Novos • Canaves Sunday • Alta Mare (part of Andronis Luxury Suites) • Andronis Luxury Suites • Santorini Secret • Filotera Suites • Katikies Hotel • Canaves Oia Suites • White Pearl Villas • Ambition Suites • Canaves Ena • Mystique • Strogili • Anemomilos • Nikos Villas • Katikies Gea House • Gabbiano Traditional Cave Houses • Perivolas Hotel • Ikies
More Great Oia Hotels
Santo Mine Oia Suites
Luxury all-suite hotel above Ammoudi Bay on Oia’s western side, with direct sunset views and a quiet location outside the busiest part of the village. Suites have private hot tubs or pools depending on category, and the hotel has a spa, outdoor gym, wine cellar, pool bar, and seafood restaurant. About 10 to 15 minutes on foot from central Oia.Santo Pure Oia
Spacious 5-star suite-and-villa resort just outside central Oia, with sunset views, private pools or jacuzzis, several shared pools, a large spa, and Cretan-Greek dining. Good for families and couples who want more space and resort facilities while remaining within walking distance of Oia.Marizan Caves & Villas
Family-run cave property on Oia’s western side with excellent sunset views; several categories also have caldera views. Many caves and suites have private heated plunge pools or outdoor hot tubs. Guests also have access to a swimming pool and pool bar beside the property.
Maregio Suites
Small luxury hotel near the windmills with just 9 suites, generous terraces, heated plunge pools, and direct sunset views. Quiet and private, with meals served to each terrace and easy access to Ammoudi Bay and central Oia.Art Maisons Oia Castle
Luxury suites and villas just steps from Oia Castle, with large terraces, outdoor jacuzzis or cave pools, and some of the best direct sunset views in the village. Guests also have access to the pool, bar, and spa at sister hotel Aspaki by Art Maisons.Oia Mansion
Historic sea captain’s mansion with 4 bedrooms, multiple terraces, a full kitchen, outdoor jacuzzi, office, and breakfast. One of my favorite choices for families or small groups who want lots of space and sunset views.Domes Novos
Upscale family-friendly hotel in Tholos, a short uphill walk or shuttle ride from Oia. Rooms, suites, and villas have private heated pools; facilities include a sunset-view pool, wellness center, kids’ club, kids’ pool, valet parking, restaurant, and twice-daily shuttle to Oia.Aspaki by Art Maisons
Luxury caldera-view hotel with 15 suites, a small pool, spa, and Mediterranean restaurant. Many suites have outdoor jacuzzis or heated cave pools. The location is excellent, right in central Oia, and guests can use the sunset terrace at sister property Art Maisons Oia Castle.Ikies
Quiet luxury cave hotel at the east end of Oia, with spacious suites, excellent caldera views, an infinity pool, private jacuzzis in many rooms, and breakfast served on your terrace. About a 15-minute walk to central Oia.Canaves Sunday
Tiny luxury hotel with just 8 spacious caldera-view suites and an infinity pool. Some suites have outdoor jacuzzis or private infinity pools. The entire hotel can also be rented for weddings and groups.White Pearl Villas
Collection of private villas scattered along the Oia caldera, each with a kitchenette, terrace, and private jacuzzi or pool. Some villas add a second indoor plunge pool. A good choice if you want more privacy and independence than a traditional hotel.Aris Caves
Small cave hotel with 7 self-catered suites, kitchenettes, excellent caldera views, and indoor or outdoor jacuzzis in some suites. Great central location just off Oia’s main pedestrian path.1864 The Sea Captain’s House
Historic boutique hotel in a protected sea captain’s mansion, with four unique caldera-view suites, private or shared terraces, and breakfast served on your balcony. Central location near the castle, windmills, restaurants, and shops.Filotera Suites
Eight cave suites with caldera views and outdoor heated jacuzzis; one suite has a private pool. There’s also an infinity pool, pool bar, Greek restaurant, and breakfast served on your terrace. Excellent location near the start of Oia’s pedestrian path.Anemomilos Hotel
One of my favorite affordable places to stay in Oia. Family-friendly rooms, studios, and villas surround a courtyard pool, and there’s a very good restaurant out front. Some units have kitchens, outdoor heated jacuzzis, and large terraces. An especially good choice if you want Oia without paying caldera-hotel prices.Nikos Villas
Traditional Cycladic studios, apartments, and suites with balconies or patios, kitchenettes, caldera views, a free-form pool, sundeck, and pool bar. Another good option for getting an Oia view without paying luxury-hotel prices.
270 Oia’s View
Modern villa collection near Finikia, with large 1- to 4-bedroom villas, kitchens, private pools, gardens, and sunset views. One of the better choices for families and groups who want a private pool and lots of space near Oia.Elysian Santorini
Luxury villa collection in Finikia, about 15 minutes on foot from Oia. Villas have 1 or 2 bedrooms, private terraces, indoor or outdoor jacuzzis or plunge pools, and sunset sea views. Breakfast is delivered to your villa, and guests have access to a large infinity pool.Rimida Villas
Traditional cave houses with kitchens, private verandas, caldera views, and outdoor hydromassage tubs or cave jacuzzis. Breakfast is served at each villa. Accepts guests age 16 and older and is one of the better-value choices for a caldera stay in Oia.
Myst Boutique Hotel
Adults-only boutique hotel in a quiet neighborhood outside central Oia, with a pool, restaurant, and sea and sunset views rather than caldera views. Suites have private outdoor jacuzzis. About 10 minutes on foot from the village.Agnadi View Villa
One of the best budget choices near Oia, in Finikia about a 20-minute walk from the village center. Simple rooms and apartments, a large swimming pool, sea and sunset views, and much lower prices than you’ll find along the Oia caldera. A good pick if location and value matter more than having a cliffside cave suite.
Oia FAQ
What are the best hotels in Oia?
Katikies is my favorite hotel in Oia. Canaves Oia Suites is another outstanding luxury choice, while Perivolas is my favorite for a quiet honeymoon. For families, I like Andronis Arcadia.
Is Oia worth staying in or is it too crowded?
Yes. Oia is crowded in the afternoon and around sunset, but staying here lets you enjoy the village early in the morning and later in the evening when most day-trippers are gone. If crowds bother you, avoid the castle at sunset and watch from your hotel instead.
Which Oia hotels have the best sunset views?
For a direct sunset view, my favorites are Canaves Epitome, Santo Mine, Charisma Suites, and Oia Mansion.
What are the best cave hotels in Oia?
My favorites are Perivolas, Marizan Caves, and Aris Caves. All use Santorini’s traditional cave-house architecture, with rooms built into the volcanic cliff.
Are there budget-friendly hotels in Oia?
Oia is expensive, especially along the caldera, but Anemomilos and Nikos Villas are good value. Agnadi View Villa, just outside Oia proper, is usually cheaper.
What are the best family-friendly hotels in Oia?
Andronis Arcadia is my favorite for families, with large pools, spacious suites and villas, and an easy walk into Oia. Domes Novos has a kids’ club and kids’ pool. For a family or group that wants a private house, Oia Mansion has four bedrooms and a full kitchen.
Which Oia hotels offer the most privacy?
Many cliffside terraces in Oia can be seen from neighboring hotels or public paths. Canaves Epitome is one of the best choices for privacy because it sits outside the dense pedestrian center and has much more space between rooms. Mystique is another good choice on the quieter eastern side.
Where should I stay to be near Oia’s blue-domed churches?
Stay in central Oia. Aris Caves and One of One Suites are close to the best-known blue-domed churches and viewpoints.
Should I stay in Oia or Imerovigli?
Stay in Oia if you want lots of restaurants and shops and a larger village to explore. Stay in Imerovigli for a quieter stay with caldera views and fewer crowds.
Santorini Dave was started in 2011 when I posted a short guide to visiting Santorini with kids. Now, my site publishes regularly updated guides to 
Hi Dave, your videos and website have been the best out there!
Even with all the wonderful info the wife and I are stressing on our hotel pick. So so many amazing ones to choose from. The frustration can be real, we are visiting in late April and the temps will still be cool. Not sure if we’ll be using a pool much, so views from the room are super important, especially the sunset. Would you still suggest Katikies Hotel, does the hotel have a caldera and sunset view? I noticed you briefly discussed Andronis Luxury Suites in another comment, would you recommend staying there? Lastly the Oia Castle Sunset Honeymoon Suite with Outdoor Jacuzzi looks incredible.
Mahalo, Rich
Here’s how I explain the Oia layout: In general for Oia hotels, you need to choose between a caldera view (Katikies and Andronis, for example) and a sunset view (Oia Castle). For the most part, you can’t have both. Oia Castle has partial views of the caldera and a few other hotels (Esperas, say) have sunset views and look south into the caldera for better-than-partial caldera views. But the easiest way to think about it is that it’s either a caldera view (my preference) or a sunset view – but not both (when staying in Oia).
We are thinking about Ikies, Atrina Cabana 1894, or Aris Caves, can you please advise which is better?
These are all wonderful hotels with fantastic caldera views, traditional cave-style architecture, private jacuzzi/pool options, and great locations within walking distance to Oia’s best restaurants, sights, and shopping.
Ikies Traditional Houses is the most romantic option with luxurious suites and villas, a caldera-view infinity pool, and a more private location than the others, sitting on the quiet, southeast end of Oia, walking distance to the best restaurants, shops, and attractions, but removed from the crowds. Aris Caves is a self-catering property with no main pool, but it has the closest location to Oia’s best sunset viewpoints, Ammoudi Bay below, the heart of the village, and it’s near the bus stop. For family vacations, I’d recommend Atrina Canava 1894, as it is the only hotel of the 3 that allows children under 12 year old; it’s also right on the main footpath making it easy to get around the village.
Mystique or Katikies
Hi Dave,
Thank you for the wonderful information on this website, the hotel video helps a lot! We are thinking about booking a room in either Katikies or Mystique, given our budget, we are looking to book either the double room or junior suite in Katikies or the Allure Suite in Mystique, for some reason, the square footage for the Allure suite is 40-50 sq. M. v. 25-30 sq. M for double room or junior suite in Katikies. I am wondering maybe the Allure suite includes the outdoor balcony space. Anyway, how would you choose between the 2?
Thank you for your help!
Julie
Katikies and Mystique are two of my favorite places to stay. Both are wonderful, 5-star luxury hotels with gorgeous caldera views, fantastic dining and drinks, great pools, wonderful staff, and are in the same part of Oia. However, Katikies offers more luxurious rooms and a higher level of service. Katikies has fewer rooms (35 of them) than at Mystique (40 rooms), but it has one extra pool which helps it feels less crowded. And though the 2 hotels are nearly neighbors, Katikies is fully within the pedestrian-only zone, making it easier to walk to Oia’s best attractions and restaurants. From Mystique you need to walk along the road for about 200 meters to gain access to Oia’s pedestrian walkway – not a big deal but it is a slight hassle.
Regarding the size of the rooms, many hotels in Santorini count the total square meters of indoor and outdoor space in their room descriptions. I’m not certain whether Mystique and Katikies follow this practice, but it would not be unheard of if so. In any case, the rooms and suites at both properties are fantastic.
Hi Dave Just wondering what you know about 1864 The Sea Captains House? Value for money. Direct sunset view? We are a couple in our late 40’s who are looking at a spot for our first night in Oia perched on a balcony all to ourselves with a direct sunset view enjoying a bottle of wine/beers! Following Oia we are looking at 2 nights in Fira amongst the action and so far your recommendation of Kavalari is our top pick. We like practical down to earth accommodations, no frills required just a fabulous position close to restaurants/bars. Your thoughts? Thanks in advance. Sal
1864 The Sea Captain’s House is a wonderful boutique hotel with beautiful cave-style suites and caldera views. 2 of the 4 suites have shared terraces, and none have direct sunset views. Though this is a lovely hotel, it doesn’t seem like it’s quite what you’re looking for.
For an Oia hotel with private terraces and direct sunset views, I’d recommend Maregio Suites (one of the most private hotels in Oia, each suite with its own heated plunge pool with direct sunset views), Oia Castle Luxury Suites (wonderful private terraces in the most iconic Santorini sunset spot; all with indoor or outdoor private jacuzzis or pools), or Esperas Traditional Houses (all have private sea-view balconies, some with direct sunset views and some with private jacuzzis or plunge pools).
Hi Dave,
We are trying to decide between 4 places to stay: Oia Suites (not Oia Canaves Suites), Enalion Suites, Strogili Traditional Houses, and Delfini Villas. We are a married couple in our early 30s and will be in Santorini for two nights in early July. We are also planning to do the Wine Sunset Tour on our second night. Do any of these places stand out above the rest?
Thanks!
Oia Suites is my favorite of the four with a great pool, several suite types with private, outdoor jacuzzis, beautiful caldera views, and in-room breakfast. However, despite its name, it is not really in Oia but in Finikia, about a 10 to 15 minute walk from central Oia. This puts them within a short walk from all of the restaurants and attractions of Oia but removed from the throngs of summer tourists. If you prefer being in the heart of the village, try Enalion Suites or even better Enalion White Suites (their more luxurious sister property). These are wonderful tiny properties with only 3 and 2 suites respectively at each location. All suites at the Enalion properties include outdoor jacuzzis, while the Enalion White Suites have private terraces and kitchenettes.
HI Dave,
Love your site, thank you!
Question! Just don’t know whether l should stay at the Katikies Villas or the Katikies Hotel. It is only for one night, as staying elsewhere for a couple of nights. I really just want to experience the Katikies. The villas are less expensive and have a jetted tub which is appealing, but do you think l will be disappointed? Best to just stay at the actual hotel?
Thanks!
The Villa Katikies is a great compromise for the cheaper price: more privacy than in the larger hotel, beautiful suites with outdoor, private jacuzzis, and a stunning caldera-view infinity pool and all-day pool bar, plus guests have access to the facilities of all of Katikies properties. Katikies Hotel is only a 3-minute walk from the Villas, so guests can experience their 3 infinity pools, award-winning Mikrasia Restaurant, and their champagne bar Seltz. Their sister property, Kirini, is only 10 minutes from the villa and features a holistic spa. You can finish the day at one of their Imerovigli hotels, Sun Rocks or Chromata, to see the most amazing sunset on the island, without the crowds of Oia. Basically, you get most of what you would get at Katikies Hotel but at a lower price point – as long as you don’t mind a short walk to reach the facilities.
Hi Dave!
Your site is so magnificent, I feel I owe you some compensation. That being said I need help! We have three couples staying in Oia for three nights June 25-July 3 and are looking for the perfect place: moderate price, outdoor pool, with a luxury feel. Is this possible? Premium Caldera Villas is an option but it’s not in your site and has good reviews but there are some bad ones from this past summer saying it’s a tourist trap. Help.
Caldera Premium Villas is a fine option, though it doesn’t really have a luxury feel to me. It’s not any more touristy than other hotels in the Oia caldera, especially in June and July, since it will be the high season and everywhere will feel at least a little touristy. That said, their pool and rooms are on the small side.
I recommend taking a look at Nostos Apartments, which are similarly priced with an outdoor pool, fantastic hospitality and service, and a great variety of rooms, all in the traditional cave style and with contemporary, Greek décor. For just a little more bump in price, Santo Maris Oia offers a truly luxurious stay with 1 indoor and 5 outdoor pools, an amazing spa, and fantastic dining. It is much cheaper than other nearby luxury hotels, since it does not have a direct caldera view. The sunset is still beautiful from here, and you’re only a short distance from Oia’s best caldera sunset views at the castle or any number of restaurants.
We are considering Oia Mansion Santorini. A few questions:
1). Would you recommend Oia Mansion for 3 couples? It’s possible only 2 couples make it, would it be too big for 4 people?
2). Is breakfast included? Is it good?
3). What is the sunset view like? I know you say it’s good but is it too busy? Direct views?
4). Good restaurants nearby?
5). Is the hot tub warm? Good for night time dips? Or more for daytime cool off?
6). Is there a stereo?
My thoughts:
1. Oia Mansion is like a classical 2-story house. There are 4 separate bedrooms. 2 bedrooms have their own bathrooms, the 2 upstairs share a bathroom. There are two decks – one at the entrance (where breakfast is served), and one on the roof for the sunset and hot tub. I stayed there with my wife and two kids earlier this month and it was great for us. But it would also be plenty of room for 4 couples, so I think you’re great either way.
2. Breakfast is included. It’s huge and delicious. Good variety and special requests are fine.
3. Great sunset views. The crowds form all around the house but never encroach on your privacy so you get the fun communal vibe but don’t need to jostle with the crowds. As long as you don’t try to walk somewhere immediately when the sunset goes down you won’t have any negative consequences of dealing with the sunset crowds.
4. Lots of great restaurants within a 5-minute walk.
5. They’ll set the hot tub temperature to anything you want so you can have it as a cool daytime plunge pool or a hot nighttime jacuzzi.
6. There are several Sonos speakers all around the house and one on each deck. Easy to connect to with your phone to play whatever music you want.
Hope that helps.
HI Dave;
What is the difference between the Art Maison Aspaki and the Art Maison Oia Castle in terms of luxury, type of room, location, and views?
Thanks for your help,
Mohamed Essack
Aspaki has caldera views and feels more like a true hotel with a restaurant (great views) and small pool and deck. Oia Castle is more a collection of luxury villas (some with private pool). It has no restaurant. It has sunset views and looks down on beautiful Ammoudi Bay but does not look into the caldera like Aspaki. One last difference is that Aspaki has few steps/stairs to gain access (probably the fewest of any view hotel) while Oia Castle is down plenty of steps to the rooms.
Dave,
I have learned so much from your website. Thanks for all the great information. I will be spending 3 nights in oia. I have Andronis Boutique Hotel booked with bookgreece.com (can cancel reservation) and my travel agent is holding Villa Katikies for my husband and I. I love the infinity pool at the Katikies Hotel but after reading some reviews I am concerned I will not have access to them. Are the villas as nice as the hotel? What resort would you recommend and have you ever heard of bookgreece.com?
Also I will be taking a ferry from Mykonos to Santorini and wanted to get to Santorini as early in the day as possible. I
Thanks so much for your help.
Ilene
1) I prefer Katikies hotel to the villas. The hotel has the stunning pools, the villas are quieter and more low-key. If you stay at the villas you’ll still be able to use the pools at the hotel.
2) I would stay at the hotel. I have not heard of bookgreece.com.
Can you comment on the difference between the Katikies Hotel and Villa Katikies? Thanks!
Grant
Katikies has the 3 pools, restaurants, and front desk staff. Villa Katikies has just one pool and no restaurant (and is much quieter). Guests of the villas are free to use facilities at the hotel. They’re about a 1 minute walk from each other.
Canvas Suites
Hi Dave,
We are planning on going in June to Oia and have booked Canvas Suites. Could you tell me if that’s a good choice (eg can you see sunset or caldera?)
Thanks for your guidance!
Zoe Tassios
Canaves has great caldera views (more important than sunset views in my opinion) but not direct sunset views as the town itself blocks the sun setting into the sea. To get sunset views you need to walk about 10 minutes into town where everyone gathers to watch.
Hi Dave! Great site! We are checking in on 4th March and checking out 6th March. We would like to stay in Oia.
Can you tell us what places will actually be available at that time?
Thank you!
Rahul
Hotels in Oia that are open in early March include Kastro Oia Houses (luxury), Delfini Villas (moderate), and Anemomilos (budget).
Hi Dave,
Great site, it is so helpful for my fiancé and I who are planning our honeymoon in Santorini. We are wondering what your thoughts on Kima Villas Suites? We found it on a few different sites and saw that it has great reviews, looks beautiful, is in a great location, and pretty affordable. You didn’t mention it on your site though so I was wondering if you could provide us with any input! We would love privacy and a pool. Thanks so much! Ellen
Cave hotel with great views and central location – but lots of steps up and down.
Great site Dave!!!
Spending 6 nights in Santorini in June. Last 4 nights at Aris Caves in Oia…I don’t see them on your video (maybe i missed them) but is this a good choice?
And then looking for a different vibe for the other two nights…any suggestions?
Doug
Aris Caves are wonderful. Small kitchens in all suites, great location, and great view (but no sunset view, need to take a short walk for that). There are a lot of steps to get down to the suites – the tradeoff is that you get a good deal of privacy (for Oia). Hard to recommend something with so little to go on, but I would certainly encourage you stay somewhere other than Oia for your other 2 nights. That’s the easiest way to ensure you get a “different vibe”.
I am hearing some people say that Charisma Suites are really starting to get discovered and could be the go-to for couples looking for a more small-scale boutique experience in OIA, but perhaps one of the more luxurious options.
Are you hearing similar things? The rooms and views look amazing.
Scott
Charisma Suites is beautiful. It’s one of the few hotels in Oia that has direct sunset views – though this means it doesn’t have a complete caldera view, so there is a tradeoff. It’s at the far northwest tip of Oia and thus quiet while still being a short walk to the shops and restaurants of the town. There are a lot of steps and it’s tricky to find the first time (so have the hotel meet you at the parking lot when you arrive and they’ll carry your bags for you). Only 7 suites, so it’s good if you’re looking for some small and intimate.
I know that Charisma Suites isn’t on your video, but along the route you take where would it be?
Scott
At 32:35 – located between Marizan and Esperas.
Do you think it’s worth paying up for the infinity pool suite at Oia Canaves Suites instead of just booking the honeymoon suite? We are going for the magazine cover Greece look and feel, and this room looks pretty amazing.
Let me know your thoughts, and thanks!
Scott
The big difference is the honeymoon suite has more privacy (it’s on a higher level and the private balcony and plunge pool are a little quieter). However, the infinity pool is much larger than the one in the Honeymoon Suite. I’d go with the Infinity Pool Suite but your preferences might differ.
Hi Dave,
It is a great website with a lot of information, very impressive! We will be in Santorini for the first time and would like to make it a special experience. Unfortunately we may have 1 or 2 days in total. I booked the Katikies for one night and am a little confused to go for Vedema for the second night for a different scene. What would you think? should we stay only in Oia?
Are there any Michelin star restaurant on the Santorini, the guide does not return any suggestions for the island?
Thanks in advance,
Joseph
For just 2 nights I would not switch hotels. Katikies is great, I would stay there for both nights. Santorini does not have any restaurants with Michelin stars but these are my favorite restaurants on the island.
Hi Dave–we’re going to visit Santorini for 4 nights Starting March 27. We’re going to have a private tour guide for two days so we won’t have a car. So because it’s the off season and we’ll want to easily be able to walk to dinner each night and have a good choice of nearby restaurants, I’ve concluded Oia is the place to stay. Imerovigli is the only other place I’ve considered.
Based on comments you’ve made in your blog, I’ve made a reservation at Delfini Villas, which is perfect in many ways–great caldera views, easy to sunset views, good price, many nearby restaurants, personal hot tub, etc. But there are a few drawbacks. The first and most important is that my wife and I will be staying in the Eclusive room while our adult daughter will be staying in the Studio, which I now gather are in separate complexes of Delfini. My question is, do you know how far apart the two areas are and how easy it is to go between them? Secondly, I’ve read a lot of the reviews of Delfini and most are super positive. But a recurrent theme in some of the comments is that one of the staff persons treats some guests with disdain for no apparent reason. Do you know anything about this?
Finally, because you think so well of Imerovigli, and because both you and the person who will be guiding us both recommend Aqua Luxury Suites highly, I would also consider staying there. It’s just that I have a feeling that in late March Imerovigli would be a pretty dead place for restaurants in the evening, and we don’t really want to be taking cabs back and forth or walking at night in what could be brisk/rainy weather. If you think I’m wrong about Imerovigli and that Aqua is so much nicer than Delfini that it’s worth the potential hassle, please let me know.
I would also ask if you have any other upper mid-range hotel suggestions in either location, but despite the fact that we will be there in the “off-season”, there are very few places in this category that have 2 rooms for a reasonable price and have free cancellation, at least on Booking.com. If I’m wrong, let me know.
Thanks very much in advance for your advice.
Marc Tipermas
The two areas of Delfini are 5 minutes apart – an easy walk on the main foot path. The cave suites are substantially nicer. They also have more steps and will not have the foot traffic walking above. I’ve never heard anything about the difficult staff person.
Hi Dave! Thanks for all of the great information on your site! My fiance and I will be traveling to Greece (Crete then Santorini) in early May for our honeymoon. I was looking at Mystique and think it would be great for us. Are the Vibrant Suites still nice even though they are the lowest category suites? Their website indicates they are located on the upper levels of the hotel, and I want to make sure they are still private enough. Thanks!
Mystique is a wonderful hotel and the Vibrant Suites are still very nice. There is good privacy in this area of Oia – not a lot of walk-by traffic – and Mystique is down some stairs from the main road so I’d be surprised if privacy was an issue.
Hi Dave! Thanks for this absolutely wonderful website! I aced it, read every single page!
I’ll be staying 2 nights at Dreams Luxury, Imerovigli, and 3 nights at Oia this coming October. Which hotel at Oia has more privacy, is more luxurious, less people looking into your private area: Katities or Santorini Secret?
Sara
Both have pretty good privacy. There are a few suites at Santorini Secret near the foot path that can be seen from above but most are very private. Katikies is a larger hotel and thus less privacy from other guests but very few suites can be seen from the foot path.
Hi Dave,
What an amazing website – the most informative guide I’ve ever come across!!
My boyfriend and I are visiting Santorini for 4 nights Mid-October to celebrate my birthday. We are staying by Kamari beach at the Hippocampus hotel for the first 2 nights and in Oia for the following 2 nights. I’m struggling to choose a hotel and was hoping you could do as you have done for many before and let us know which you think we should pick! The budget is c. £250 per night, outdoor hot tub is a must and I’d ideally like a Caldera view over a sunset view. Top 3 are Santorini Secret, Filotera Suites and Theodora suites… your opinion would be much appreciated. Could you please also recommend a restaurant in either Oia / Fira / Imerovigli with good food and a sunset view? Thanks in advance for your help!
Vanessa
It would be between Santorini Secret and Filotera – both wonderful. I think the pool at Filotera is a little bigger while the pool at Santorini Secret is more picturesque as it’s “almost” an infinity pool.
Hi Dave !
I just returned from Santorini and I have to say I agree with you Grace was my favorite; it was just stunning and the service was superior to that of any hotel I’ve ever stayed in. After, we stayed at Katikies for about 24 hours then were ‘upgraded’ to a bigger room in Andronis Luxury Suites. I was wondering if that is common? I don’t think the two hotels are affiliated and I agreed to the upgrade because the room in Andronis had such an amazing view from the terrace. Maybe Katikies overbooked? I kind of felt like they were pushing me to choose that room in Andronis even though we were already in a very nice superior suite at Katikies. Also, I used your website to plan my holiday (I acknowledged you in my survey at Grace) but I noticed you didn’t say much about Andronis. Their restaurant was one of my favorites because of the wine tasting which I believe is the best table in all of Oia. We were there for four hours and didn’t want to leave. Just wondering what your thought is on what happened. Thanks!!
Sevda
Yes, Grace is wonderful isn’t it? As for the Katikies to Andronis switch, I’ve never heard of that either. But, all the hotel owners know each other so I’m guessing Katikies was overbooked and contacted Andronis and pre-arranged a room for someone – they just had to find that “someone”. I too, think Andronis is wonderful and know exactly the view and table you’re talking about. I have had trouble with communication with them in the past. Often when I contact them (both as SantoriniDave and anonymously as a potential guest) they fail to respond to questions or respond once then ignore follow up questions. I should say that’s not totally uncommon for Santorini hotels but it’s more common with Andronis than others.
We’re deciding between the Superior suite at Esperas or the Allure suite at Mystique — we’re looking for a combination of great veranda, great view and great hotel. What do you recommend? Thanks very much.
Both are great hotels. The biggest difference is the view. Esperas has a sunset view but doesn’t have a complete caldera view. Mystique has a wonderful caldera view but no sunset view. Esperas is much closer to central Oia but has more steps. Both hotels have a good deal of privacy (compared to other Oia hotels).