Santorini’s top places to stay for various types of travellers. What to know before your first holiday! You are now ready to go on your trip to Santorini Island. You’ve created a list of all the places you want to see and gathered information on how to navigate the town easily. Cheers! But the most important question is: where to stay in Santorini? Yes, addressing this question is difficult. Each village in Santorini is stunning in its way. The island boasts colourful streets, stunning views, distinctive terrain, lovely summers, and the famous volcano.
Visitors are drawn to the island’s wild beauty. There are limitless thrill-seeking activities and entertainment possibilities. No matter the season, it’s a lovely spot to explore and be appreciative. Santorini has a rich culture and many beautiful sights. Where to stay in Santorini depends on tourists’ needs, expectations, and tastes.
Where to stay in Santorini
Santorini is renowned for its whitewashed settlements perched on cliffs, offering stunning vistas of the Aegean Sea. The three main towns are Oia, Fira, and Imerovigli. The island’s most famous spot is Oia, renowned for its stunning sunsets, luxurious hotels, and iconic blue domes. Santorini’s city, Fira, boasts a higher concentration of restaurants, bars, and stores. Between Oia and Fira, Imerovigli offers tranquillity and stunning vistas.
Kamari or Perissa, located on the southeast coast of Santorini, is great for beach holidays. Black-sand beaches and laid-back vibes characterise these communities. Finally, staying in Pyrgos or Megalochori lets you experience local culture without crowds. Traditional architecture and local restaurants make these communities more authentic Santorini.
6 Best Places to Stay in Santorini
1. Oia
For good reason, Oia is one of Santorini’s most popular cities. Most postcard-perfect Santorini photos were taken at Oia. It has some of Santorini’s most famous blue-domed churches, stunning sunsets, and magnificent hotels on the caldera. Oia has several attractions for a tiny town. Wander the picturesque lanes, visit the Maritime Museum, or enjoy a romantic supper at one of Santorini’s greatest caldera-view restaurants. For a workout, walk to Ammoudi Bay, a little fishing community with a beautiful port and some of the island’s greatest seafood eateries.
See the Santorini sunset at Oia Castle. It fills up rapidly, especially in summer, so arrive early. Oia’s crowds may be its biggest drawback. Cruise ship guests throng the village during the day, making it difficult to navigate the narrow streets. Everyone congregates at sunset, making it worse. Luckily, most people leave after evening, and mornings are peaceful, so you may enjoy Oia more casually. Unfortunately, Oia is Santorini’s most costly town (or maybe it’s a tie with Imerovigli), so budget travellers should look elsewhere.
For a premium accommodation with amazing panoramic views and romantic feelings, Oia is one of the greatest locations to stay in Santorini. Regular buses from Oia to Fira and other sections of Santorini make exploring the island easy. Oia is located on Santorini’s northernmost tip, so getting to neighbouring towns and attractions can take some time.
2. Fira
Santorini’s capital, Fira, is in the centre. Most adore Fira since it’s usually busy and welcomes all travellers. As the island’s largest town, it offers a range of budget-friendly and luxury hotels. It’s amazing since you can find something for any budget. Fira is a great place to start your trip around the island. The main bus terminal provides easy access to nearby towns and attractions by bus.
Santorini’s northern and southern portions are easily accessible from its central location. Fira has many attractions besides being a transportation hub. Take a cable car to the old harbour, visit the Museum of Prehistoric Thera (if you only visit one museum in Santorini), or stroll through the picturesque lanes and sip Greek coffee. Nightlife is great in Fira. Dancing until dawn is possible in many taverns and clubs. The Volkan Cinema shows Mamma Mia under the stars. If you want a lively mood and a good location, Fira is the best hotel in Santorini.
3. Imerovigli
Imerovigli, above Fira, is the caldera’s highest point. The “balcony of the Aegean” offers Santorini’s best views. Imerovigli is perfect for a romantic break. It’s one of the quietest caldera towns on Santorini, making it an ideal destination for honeymooners. Imerovigli is famed for its luxury cave hotels and villas, making it a popular choice for a luxurious holiday. As you can see, it’s not the cheapest place to stay in Santorini, but there are other possibilities.
Must-see: Skaros Rock, a volcanic rock formation that defended Imerovigli. Near the cliff is a stunning blue-domed chapel for Instagram shots. Imerovigli has a few restaurants and pubs, but you can walk to Fira or take a taxi for more. The many flying dress photoshoots at Imerovigli are annoying. Not because I dislike flying dress photoshoots—I’ve done one and loved it! However, it’s getting out of hand, and having multiple photoshoots at once can make the streets hectic.
Imer Villas’ most popular blue-domed chapel was just in front of our hotel last time, and people lined up to take photos. In addition, Imerovigli is a tranquil and picturesque hotel in Santorini with caldera views.
4. Kamari & Perissa
Kamari and Perissa are perfect for conventional beach holidays. Water activities and black-sand beaches are available in these southeast Santorini villages. For a tranquil getaway, come to Perissa Beach, which is longer and wider. Both beaches include sunbeds and umbrellas for hire, although Kamari Beach is more popular and busy. Many restaurants and bars border the beaches, making them ideal for eating or drinking in the sun.
Accommodations in both towns range from affordable hotels to luxury resorts. Most coastal hotels have spectacular sea views. Kamari and Perissa are adjacent to each other on the map, but a large mountain range separates them from a seaside route. If you visit both towns, you will need to drive for 25 minutes. If you’re interested in history, you must visit Ancient Thera, located on top of the mountain between Kamari and Perissa. Explore a Greek city and enjoy stunning views from its vantage points.
The highest peak in Santorini, Profiti Ilias Monastery, is another wonderful attraction. Driving from Kamari and Perissa is worth it for the sights and monastic history. The beaches are far from the caldera villages, so if you plan to spend most of your time at the beach or if it’s not your first time in Santorini, stay in Kamari or Perissa.
5. Pyrgos
Pyrgos, located in central Santorini, is often overlooked by tourists, yet it is worth a visit. This charming village is one of most favourite spots on the island and offers a more peaceful and authentic experience than other towns. If you want to rest in Santorini, Pyrgos is a good choice!
Traditional Pyrgos has whitewashed structures and blue-domed churches. We adore exploring its little lanes and getting lost in its charm. Due to its hilltop location, the community has many ups and downs. The Venetian Pyrgos Kallistis Castle is a feature. The village’s top offers excellent island views. Visit at sunset for a spectacular experience.
Pyrgos’ boutique hotels and beautiful villas make up for its tiny size. At cheaper pricing, certain luxury hotels can compete with Oia and Fira. Pyrgos, in central Santorini, is a great base for sightseeing. It’s conveniently located near the airport and ferry port, making it easy to arrive and depart the island. Pyrgos has numerous transport connections; however, renting a car makes touring the island easier.
6. Megalochori
We highly recommend visiting Megalochori, another hidden treasure of Santorini. Even as island tourism grows, this traditional town has maintained its charm and way of life. Megalochori, in southern Santorini near the ferry terminal, is quieter and more authentic than Oia and Fira. Many vineyards surround the village, affording sea and caldera views. This island has some of the top wineries, so do a wine tasting trip while you’re here.
For a local experience, Megalochori is one of the best hotels in Santorini. There are a few things to do in this small town, but that’s part of its beauty. Megalochori is a good base for exploring the island by car. Fira, Santorini’s capital, as well as Kamari and Perissa’s black-sand beaches, Red Beach, and the Akrotiri Archaeological Site, are all within a 15-minute drive.
Best Place for Honeymoon
Couples looking for an amazing honeymoon should visit Santorini! Private pool hotels are great for honeymoons. Though pricey, they provide stunning views of Santorini’s cliffs, promising unforgettable romantic moments. Top hotels with private pools and exquisite honeymoon suites are listed below.
Visitors to Santorini feel like they’ve entered a storybook. Add a luxurious hotel with a pool to complete the perfect holiday. With your partner and favourite drinks, you may enjoy Santorini’s splendour and live the dream beside your plunge pool. In addition to a private pool, these luxury hotels offer a range of other unique amenities to make your trip truly memorable.
The greatest family-friendly Santorini hotels are Kamari, Perivolos, and Perissa on the shore. Daily walks are allowed at an oceanfront resort! Your kids will enjoy playing on the beach while you relax and read on the shore. Beach hotels are cheaper than those on the other half of the island. Kamari and Perissa offer a range of seafront restaurants, small landmarks, shops, and cafes. It’s also a fantastic family walk.
Best Place for Couples
Best place to stay in santorini for couples for a romantic getaway, consider Caldera or Pyrgos hotels. Luxury and comfort await at these hotels, guaranteeing royal treatment! They are cheaper than Caldera hotels without sacrificing luxury. If you can’t afford a Caldera hotel, you can stay in Pyrgos village and be treated royally!
Best Santorini Hotels for Friends and Nightlife
Fira is the best Santorini hotel for friends. This area has beautiful scenery and a lively nightlife. The shopping district is where you can experience the island’s energy and action. The stunning Caldera view will leave guests stunned every time they arrive.
A walk through the picturesque lanes during the day will bring you harmony, while a loud party at night will let you forget your concerns. Many restaurants, cafes, pubs, and clubs invite you to relax, enjoy the scenery, or dance and have a great time. Fira has the best places to eat, shop, and have fun. Clothing stores, gift shops, tourist shops, supermarkets, and other services are also available.
Best Place for Families and Kids
On the shore, Kamari, Perivolos, and Perissa are the best family friendly Santorini hotels. Stay near a beach and walk every day! Your kids will enjoy playing on the beach while you relax and read on the shore. Beach hotels are cheaper than those on the other half of the island. Kamari and Perissa offer a variety of seafront restaurants, small landmarks, shops, and cafes. It’s also a fantastic family walk.
Best Place for Solo Travellers
Staying in Fira, the capital, is the best option to maximise your solo Santorini Island exploration. This place is perfect for shopping or enjoying Santorini’s nightlife! You can easily move around the island from Fira, the only central bus port.
Which is a better place to stay: Oia or Fira?
You can stay in both Fira and Oia while you’re in Santorini. Each has its unique vibe and things to see. Which one is best for you will depend on what you want when you get there.
Fira, the island’s centre, is active and useful. This makes it a very convenient place to stay while visiting other parts of Santorini. Fira is a very lively place, with numerous shops, restaurants, bars, and activities to enjoy at night. Akrotiri and Oia are both easily accessible, with the main bus stop making it very convenient to get to them. Fira has more affordable accommodations for any budget, making it perfect.
Oia is a lovely, beautiful village. Its hotels and picturesque viewpoints offer stunning sunsets. A couple seeking tranquillity would love this charming area with various hotels offering magnificent rooms or suites. Luxury boutique hotels with infinity pools and caldera views make Oia the perfect romantic escape. Due to its exclusivity, Oia restaurants and hotels are more pricey. Unlike Fira, it has a quieter nightlife with romantic dinners and relaxed evenings. Due to its distance from the port and airport, Oia has fewer buses to other regions of the island.
Fira is a better choice for a lively, convenient base with cheaper options. Travellers who want calm, elegance, and beautiful sunsets should visit Oia. Divide your stay between the two to enjoy both!
Santorini Budget Hotels for a Comfortable Stay
Santorini’s Kamari, Perissa, Perivolos, and Karterados districts have many affordable hotels. Caldera hotels are more luxurious and pricey. However, you can book early to secure an economical room with a good view. Hotel listings are here.
The summer bus connects Kamari, Perissa, Perivolos, and Karterados every 15 minutes. Where To Stay In Santorini for an amazing, fun-filled holiday with Low Cost Vibes, locate an affordable luxury hotel in a popular Santorini location!
FAQs about Where To Stay In Santorini
Oia and Fira are the best areas—Oia for stunning sunsets and luxury, Fira for nightlife and central access.
Avoid staying near the ferry port (Athinios) or remote inland villages if you want easy access to main attractions.
Oia is considered the nicest town, known for its iconic whitewashed houses, caldera views, and romantic sunsets.
