Best Hotels in Santorini: 15 Beautiful Stays

The best hotels in Santorini depend on whether you want spectacular caldera views, a private plunge pool, easy beach access, or a comfortable base for exploring the island. Oia and Imerovigli are particularly attractive for romantic cliffside stays, while Fira offers convenience and Kamari and Perissa provide better access to beaches.

This guide to the best hotels in Santorini compares 15 beautiful properties across the island, including luxury cave suites, boutique accommodation, private-pool retreats, and beachfront resorts. You will also learn which locations suit couples, families, first-time visitors, and travelers trying to control accommodation costs.

Before choosing a property, understand one important difference: caldera-view hotels generally offer dramatic volcanic scenery but may involve steep stairs and higher prices. Beach hotels provide easier access to swimming areas and often offer a different accommodation experience.

If you are planning a wider Greek island vacation, explore our guide to beautiful holiday destinations for additional inspiration.

15 Best Hotels in Santorini at a Glance

The best property depends on your preferred location, accommodation style, and travel budget. Use this comparison to narrow your choices before checking room availability and the final booking price.

Important: This is an editorial comparison, not a live availability or price ranking. Room facilities, age restrictions, seasonal opening dates, and services can change. Confirm the exact room category before booking.

How to Choose the Best Hotels in Santorini

Start by choosing the part of Santorini that matches your holiday rather than selecting a hotel based on photographs alone. The island has distinct accommodation areas, and each creates a different experience.

1. Decide Between Caldera Views and Beach Access

Hotels in Oia, Imerovigli, Fira, and Firostefani are popular because they overlook Santorini’s volcanic caldera. Many offer terraces, outdoor pools, and panoramic views.

However, these properties are not necessarily close to a swimming beach. Many are built into steep cliffs, and reaching some rooms requires walking down multiple steps.

Beach accommodation in Kamari, Perissa, and Perivolos offers a different advantage: convenient access to the coastline, flatter surroundings, and more resort-style properties.

Choose according to your priorities:

• Caldera scenery: Oia or Imerovigli.
• Restaurants and transportation: Fira.
• Beach access: Kamari or Perissa.
• Quiet village atmosphere: Megalochori or Pyrgos.

2. Match Your Accommodation to Your Budget

Luxury suites with private pools usually occupy a different price category from simple beach-area hotels and guesthouses. The most expensive room is not automatically the best choice for every traveler.

Compare the complete accommodation cost, including taxes, breakfast, transfers, parking, cancellation conditions, and any additional charges.

For more accommodation-planning advice, visit our hotel and accommodation travel resources.

3. Check Accessibility Before Reserving

Some of the most beautiful caldera properties are accessible only through pedestrian paths and staircases. This can become inconvenient when traveling with large suitcases, young children, or anyone who has difficulty using stairs.

Ask the hotel these questions:

• How far is the nearest vehicle drop-off point?
• Are there stairs between reception and the room?
• Is luggage assistance available?
• Does the property have an elevator?
• Is the swimming pool private or shared?

Pro tip: Request the exact room location before paying. Two rooms in the same hotel can have very different views, privacy levels, and walking distances.

5 Best Hotels in Oia, Santorini

Oia is ideal for travelers who want famous sunset scenery, beautiful architecture, luxury accommodation, and a memorable village atmosphere. It is one of the island’s most recognizable places, but its popularity also means higher accommodation demand.

1. Canaves Oia Suites – Best for Luxury Cliffside Accommodation

Canaves Oia Suites is an excellent option for travelers seeking private-pool accommodation and dramatic caldera scenery.

Located near the entrance of Oia, Canaves Oia Suites combines luxury accommodation with views across the volcanic landscape and Aegean Sea. Its suites and villas are designed around the island’s distinctive cliffside architecture.

The property is particularly suitable for couples celebrating an anniversary, honeymoon, or special occasion. Private outdoor spaces make the accommodation itself an important part of the holiday.

What makes it appealing:

• Suites with private pools or plunge pools.
• Views across the caldera.
• Convenient access to Oia’s main village route.
• Luxury accommodation for special occasions.

Consider before booking: Premium accommodation can require a substantial budget. Check the exact suite category and whether the pool is heated for your travel dates.

Best for: Couples, honeymooners, and luxury travelers.

2. Katikies Santorini – Best for a Romantic Hotel Experience

Katikies Santorini is a strong choice for couples who want traditional Oia scenery combined with luxury hotel facilities.

The property is known for its whitewashed cliffside architecture, multiple infinity pools, and suites overlooking the caldera. Its setting creates the classic Santorini atmosphere many international visitors hope to experience.

The hotel works particularly well for travelers who want to spend time enjoying the accommodation rather than using it simply as a place to sleep.

What makes it appealing:

• Several infinity swimming pools.
• Cliffside suites and scenic terraces.
• Private outdoor accommodation features in selected categories.
• Convenient access to Oia’s village environment.

Consider before booking: Check age restrictions, room access, and whether the selected suite includes a private pool or hot tub.

Best for: Romantic holidays and special occasions.

3. Perivolas – Best for Traditional Cave-Style Luxury

Perivolas suits travelers who prefer a peaceful luxury retreat with traditional cave-inspired design.

The property occupies a scenic position in Oia and is known for its distinctive accommodation built around the island’s architectural character.

Rather than choosing a hotel simply for its proximity to busy sightseeing streets, travelers staying here can prioritize relaxation, views, and time around the property.

What makes it appealing:

• Traditional cave-style suites.
• Infinity swimming pool.
• Scenic caldera-facing accommodation.
• A quieter luxury atmosphere.

Consider before booking: The property has age restrictions for most accommodation, so families should check the applicable policy and villa exceptions.

Best for: Adults seeking a peaceful luxury stay.

4. Andronis Luxury Suites – Best for Private Pool Accommodation

Andronis Luxury Suites is worth considering when privacy and individual outdoor facilities are major booking priorities.

The property offers luxury suites overlooking the caldera, with private heated pools or hot tubs in its suite categories. This makes it appealing to couples who want a more private accommodation experience.

The location also allows visitors to explore Oia’s restaurants, shops, and viewpoints without staying far from the village’s main attractions.

What makes it appealing:

• Private heated pools or hot tubs in suites.
• Caldera-facing accommodation.
• Luxury interiors and outdoor spaces.
• Access to Oia’s village attractions.

Consider before booking: Check the property’s age policy and compare individual suite layouts before choosing a room.

Best for: Couples and travelers seeking private luxury.

5. Esperas – Best for Sunset Views

Esperas is a beautiful option for visitors who want a distinctive Oia setting and views of the Aegean Sea.

The hotel features traditional cave-inspired accommodation and a setting that makes the surrounding scenery an important part of the experience.

Some suites feature plunge pools, while the property also has a cave-style swimming pool. The combination of traditional architecture and sea views makes it particularly attractive for a romantic island stay.

What makes it appealing:

• Traditional cave-style rooms.
• Scenic sea and sunset views.
• Swimming facilities with distinctive architecture.
• Access to Oia’s picturesque streets.

Consider before booking: Check the age policy and the precise direction of your room’s view. Not every room category offers identical scenery.

Best for: Couples and visitors prioritizing sunset scenery.

4 Beautiful Hotels in Imerovigli

Imerovigli is an excellent choice for travelers seeking impressive caldera views without staying in Oia’s busiest village environment. It is particularly attractive for couples and visitors who value quiet surroundings.

6. Grace Hotel – Best for Luxury Views and Infinity Pool Facilities

Grace Hotel is an outstanding option for travelers who want a luxury cliffside stay with impressive pool facilities.

Located in Imerovigli, Grace Hotel belongs to the Auberge Collection and offers an elevated position overlooking Santorini’s caldera.

The property has a heated infinity pool and a selection of rooms and suites with plunge pools. Its location also provides views toward Skaros Rock and the surrounding volcanic landscape.

What makes it appealing:

• Heated infinity swimming pool.
• Plunge pools in many accommodation categories.
• Caldera-facing setting.
• Quiet surroundings compared with central Oia.

Consider before booking: The hotel has an age policy, generally requiring guests to be at least 14, with an exception for its villa. Confirm the current policy directly.

Best for: Luxury travelers and couples.

7. Cavo Tagoo – Best for Private Pools and Scenic Accommodation

Cavo Tagoo is an appealing choice for travelers who want a modern luxury property with private outdoor facilities.

The hotel is situated in Imerovigli, where the elevated landscape provides spectacular views across the volcanic caldera.

Selected accommodation categories include private pools or hot tubs, making it particularly suitable for visitors who want to spend plenty of time relaxing at their hotel.

What makes it appealing:

• Heated infinity pool.
• Private pool or hot tub options across suite categories.
• Modern accommodation design.
• Scenic caldera views.

Consider before booking: Compare the facilities included in each room category and confirm the exact pool arrangement.

Best for: Couples, luxury travelers, and scenic holidays.

8. Astra Suites – Best for a Scenic Relaxing Holiday

Astra Suites is a good choice for visitors who want comfortable suites and impressive views in Imerovigli.

The property is known for its caldera-facing accommodation and infinity swimming pool. Selected suite categories also offer private pools.

Its location is particularly suitable for travelers who prefer a quieter base and want to enjoy the surrounding scenery without staying in Oia’s busiest streets.

What makes it appealing:

• Infinity swimming pool.
• Suites overlooking the caldera.
• Private pools in selected room categories.
• Relaxed Imerovigli atmosphere.

Consider before booking: Confirm the precise room location, outdoor space, and accessibility arrangements.

Best for: Couples and scenic island holidays.

9. Anastasis Apartments – Best for a Peaceful Stay

Anastasis Apartments is suitable for travelers who want a quieter Imerovigli property with swimming and relaxation facilities.

The accommodation includes an infinity pool and Jacuzzi facilities, with private Jacuzzis available in selected units.

Its setting is useful for travelers who want to enjoy the caldera landscape while avoiding the constant activity of Oia’s main sightseeing streets.

What makes it appealing:

• Heated infinity pool.
• Jacuzzi facilities.
• Private Jacuzzis in selected accommodation.
• Scenic location in Imerovigli.

Consider before booking: Check the hotel’s age restrictions and ask whether your chosen unit includes a private Jacuzzi.

Best for: Couples and travelers seeking peaceful accommodation.

3 Best Hotels in Fira, Santorini

Fira is one of the most practical places to stay in Santorini because it combines restaurants, shopping, nightlife, caldera scenery, and the island’s main bus connections.

For first-time visitors who want to explore several parts of the island without depending entirely on private transportation, Fira is a particularly useful base.

10. Aigialos – Best for Traditional Accommodation

Aigialos offers a traditional accommodation experience in Fira for visitors who appreciate historic-style surroundings.

The property is known for its distinctive suites and caldera-facing location. Its small-scale character makes it different from larger resort properties elsewhere on the island.

What makes it appealing:

• Traditional accommodation style.
• Scenic caldera location.
• Suites with distinctive character.
• Convenient access to Fira’s attractions.

Consider before booking: Confirm room accessibility, available facilities, and whether the selected category provides the view you expect.

Best for: Couples and visitors interested in traditional accommodation.

11. Cosmopolitan Suites – Best for Central Luxury

Cosmopolitan Suites is a strong option for travelers who want a luxury hotel in Fira with an infinity pool and caldera views.

The property provides an attractive combination of scenic accommodation and convenient access to the island’s main town.

Staying in Fira makes it easier to reach restaurants, shopping streets, and public transportation connections than staying in some of the more remote cliffside locations.

What makes it appealing:

• Infinity swimming pool.
• Caldera-facing accommodation.
• Central Fira location.
• Suites with outdoor relaxation facilities.

Consider before booking: The infinity pool is unheated, according to published property information. Check seasonal conditions before planning a swimming-focused stay.

Best for: Couples and visitors wanting a central luxury hotel.

12. Villa Renos – Best for a Convenient Caldera Stay

Villa Renos is worth considering for travelers who want a caldera-facing hotel within Fira.

The property offers scenic accommodation and a swimming pool overlooking the surrounding landscape. Selected room types also include whirlpool facilities.

Its location makes it a useful option for travelers who want to combine scenic accommodation with access to Fira’s restaurants and transport connections.

What makes it appealing:

• Caldera-view swimming pool.
• Scenic accommodation.
• Whirlpool facilities in selected room categories.
• Access to central Fira.

Consider before booking: Confirm whether your selected room includes a whirlpool and check the exact view from its terrace.

Best for: Couples and first-time visitors.

3 More Beautiful Hotels in Other Santorini Areas

Travelers who do not need a famous cliffside address can find attractive alternatives in Megalochori, Kamari, and Perissa. These areas offer different advantages, especially for visitors prioritizing quieter surroundings, beaches, and accommodation value.

13. Vedema – Best for a Traditional Village Retreat

Vedema is an attractive option for visitors who want to stay away from the busiest coastal villages.

Located in Megalochori, this resort-style property offers a different experience from the compact cliffside hotels in Oia and Fira.

The village environment provides a quieter atmosphere, making the property suitable for travelers who want to balance sightseeing with relaxed time at their accommodation.

What makes it appealing:

• Location in traditional Megalochori.
• Two swimming pools.
• Resort-style accommodation.
• Selected villas with private pool facilities.

Consider before booking: Megalochori is less convenient for travelers who want to walk to a major transport hub. Compare taxi, bus, and rental-car arrangements.

Best for: Couples, families, and visitors seeking a quieter village stay.

14. Costa Grand Resort and Spa – Best for a Beach Holiday

Costa Grand Resort and Spa is a good option for visitors who prefer beach access and resort facilities over cliffside accommodation.

Located in Kamari, the property offers access to the island’s eastern coastline and a different holiday atmosphere from Oia and Imerovigli.

Kamari is particularly useful for travelers who want to spend time by the sea, enjoy nearby restaurants, and explore the island without paying exclusively for caldera-view accommodation.

What makes it appealing:

• Beachfront location.
• Swimming pool facilities.
• Children’s pool.
• Resort-style accommodation.

Consider before booking: Kamari has a black-pebble beach rather than the famous caldera scenery. Check beach access and the facilities included in your room rate.

Best for: Families, beach lovers, and resort-focused travelers.

15. Stelios Place – Best for Value-Conscious Travelers

Stelios Place is worth considering if you want a simpler property near Perissa Beach rather than an expensive cliffside suite.

Perissa is known for its long stretch of dark volcanic sand and a more beach-focused holiday atmosphere.

The property provides a swimming pool with Jacuzzi facilities, making it a practical option for visitors who want to enjoy the beach area and keep accommodation spending under control.

What makes it appealing:

• Location in Perissa.
• Swimming pool with Jacuzzi.
• Access to the beach area.
• Suitable for travelers comparing simpler accommodation options.

Consider before booking: Compare room size, air conditioning, breakfast availability, and cancellation conditions. Do not assume that a lower advertised rate includes every service.

Best for: Budget-conscious couples, solo travelers, and beach visitors.

Which Area Is Best for Staying in Santorini?

The best location depends on whether you value scenery, convenience, quiet surroundings, or beach access most. The following comparison can help you choose the right accommodation area before comparing individual hotels.

Best Place to Stay for First-Time Visitors

Fira or Firostefani is a practical starting point for first-time visitors who want convenient access to restaurants, sightseeing, and public transportation.

Fira is the island’s main transport hub, which makes it easier to organize day trips and reach other villages. Firostefani offers a quieter atmosphere while remaining close to central Fira.

Best Place to Stay for Couples

Oia and Imerovigli are excellent choices for couples who prioritize caldera scenery and romantic accommodation.

Oia offers recognizable village scenery and sunset viewpoints, while Imerovigli is often more suitable for travelers seeking a quieter environment.

Best Place to Stay for Families

Kamari and Perissa are often more practical for families who want beach access, flatter surroundings, and resort-style facilities.

Before booking a cliffside hotel, check its minimum-age policy, stair access, pool safety arrangements, and room configuration.

7 Practical Tips for Booking the Best Hotels in Santorini

Compare the full cost and the actual room facilities before paying for accommodation. These seven checks can help you avoid common booking problems.

1. Book Around Your Travel Season

Most seasonal Santorini hotels operate mainly during the warmer months. Availability and prices can change considerably between spring, summer, and autumn.

July and August are particularly popular, so travelers visiting during peak summer should compare accommodation earlier rather than waiting until the last moment.

2. Compare the Exact Room Category

Hotels often advertise several accommodation types with different views, sizes, and outdoor facilities.

A standard room, a caldera-view suite, and a private-pool suite can have significantly different prices. Compare the actual room description rather than relying only on the hotel’s main photographs.

3. Calculate the Complete Accommodation Cost

Use this simple comparison:

Total accommodation cost = Room price + taxes + additional fees + transportation costs + optional services.

For example, a hypothetical four-night booking could look like this:

These are example figures, not current hotel quotations or official tax rates. Check the applicable Greek accommodation levy and payment conditions for your travel dates.

4. Check Transportation Before Choosing a Remote Hotel

Some hotels are located away from the main bus routes and popular sightseeing areas. If you intend to explore multiple villages, calculate how much transportation will cost over the entire stay.

Read our airport transfer and transportation resources to understand the importance of arranging arrival and departure journeys in advance.

5. Review Cancellation Conditions

Non-refundable hotel reservations can sometimes have attractive prices, but they provide less flexibility when travel arrangements change.

Compare free-cancellation deadlines, deposit requirements, payment dates, and refund conditions before confirming your reservation.

6. Check Accessibility and Luggage Assistance

Cliffside hotels can involve narrow walkways and numerous stairs. Ask about luggage assistance and the nearest vehicle access point, particularly if you are arriving from the port with several suitcases.

7. Compare Direct Booking With Hotel Platforms

Check the hotel’s official website alongside reputable booking platforms. A direct reservation may offer different room choices or conditions, while a booking platform may provide a more convenient comparison.

Compare the final price, included breakfast, cancellation policy, payment conditions, and benefits before deciding.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Booking Santorini Accommodation

The biggest booking mistake is choosing a hotel based entirely on its photographs without understanding its location and practical facilities.

• Booking only for the view: A spectacular caldera terrace does not automatically provide beach access or convenient transportation.
• Ignoring stairs: Ask how difficult it is to reach the room from the nearest road.
• Assuming every room has a private pool: Check the exact room description and included facilities.
• Ignoring seasonal opening dates: Confirm that the property operates during your travel dates.
• Overlooking age policies: Some luxury properties have minimum-age requirements.
• Comparing only nightly prices: Include taxes, transfers, breakfast, and other additional costs.
• Staying too far from planned activities: Calculate the transportation time and cost before booking.

For broader vacation planning, explore our package tour resources and compare accommodation with the rest of your holiday arrangements.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Hotels in Santorini

These answers address common accommodation questions to help you choose the right Santorini hotel before booking.

Final Takeaway: Which Santorini Hotel Should You Choose?

The best hotel in Santorini is the one that matches your preferred scenery, budget, and travel style rather than simply having the most impressive photographs.

• Choose Canaves Oia Suites or Katikies Santorini for luxury accommodation in Oia.
• Choose Grace Hotel or Astra Suites for a quieter caldera-view experience in Imerovigli.
• Choose Cosmopolitan Suites or Villa Renos for accommodation in central Fira.
• Choose Vedema for a quieter village retreat in Megalochori.
• Choose Costa Grand Resort and Spa for a beach-focused holiday in Kamari.
• Choose Stelios Place for a simpler stay near Perissa Beach.

Before confirming your reservation, compare room facilities, seasonal availability, cancellation terms, accessibility, and the complete cost of your stay.

Santorini offers several different accommodation experiences. Choosing the right location first will make it much easier to find a hotel that supports the holiday you actually want.

Sources and Further Hotel Research

Use the following official and destination resources to verify hotel facilities, seasonal availability, and practical travel information before booking:

• Canaves Collection – official hotel information and accommodation options.
• Katikies – official property information.
• Grace Hotel, Auberge Collection – hotel facilities and accommodation information.
• Visit Greece – official Greek tourism information.
• KTEL Santorini – public bus information and transportation planning.

Editorial note: The Offers Guy has not independently inspected or stayed at every property listed. Hotel descriptions are based on published property information and destination research. Facilities, operating dates, room categories, and prices may change. Verify details directly with the hotel before making a reservation.