Where to Stay in Santorini, Greece: 4 Best Areas & Hotels

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Planning a dreamy Santorini getaway but not sure where to stay? Well, worry no more because you’re in the right place!

After exploring every inch of this sun-soaked Greek island, we’ve made it simple for you by narrowing it down to the four best areas, because who has time to sort through endless options? So whether you’re after the bustling vibe of Fira, the romantic sunsets of Oia, the peaceful charm of Imerovigli, or the laid-back vibe of Firostefani, we’ve got you covered. 

We’ve also included our favorite hotel options for every budget. Seriously, this guide is the only one you’ll need to pick your perfect place to stay.

Where To Stay In Santorini Map

Overview of the Best Areas To Stay in Santorini

Each area in Santorini has its own distinct vibe, from the bustling energy of Fira to the serene romance of Oia. But one of the best things about staying on this stunning island is how easy it is to get around. Basing yourself in one spot doesn’t mean you’ll have to miss out on exploring the others! The bus system is reliable and affordable, and for more flexibility, renting a car is a great option.

• Fira – We think that Santorini’s bustling capital is ideal for those who want to be in the heart of the action, thanks to its multitude of shops, restaurants, and nightlife. Panorama Suites is a great mid-range option in Fira that offers beautiful caldera views.

• Oia – A picturesque area that’s a bit further from the nightlife scene but more than makes up for that with its luxurious hotels and jaw-dropping sunsets! If you’re seeking a romantic stay in this honeymoon hotspot, Aris Caves delivers on views but won’t break the bank.

• Imerovigli – We love this quieter, more serene alternative to Fira and Oia because of its incredible caldera views, although it’s a bit of a walk from Fira. Altana Heritage Suites is located here, and we think that it’s one of the most beautiful boutique hotels on the entire island! 

• Firostefani – We think of Firostefani as the goldilocks area because it’s just a 15-minute walk to Fira but still far enough away to give off a more relaxed vibe. Chic Hotel Santorini is an incredible place to stay and really gives you a lot of bang for your buck on this famously pricey island.

Where to Stay in Santorini 

Fira

If it’s your first time in Santorini or you want to stay in the heart of the action, Fira is the place to be! As the island’s capital and largest town, Fira is a vibrant hub packed with cliffside restaurants, lively bars, and plenty of shopping. Oh, and it’s perched on the caldera cliff, so it offers the jaw-dropping volcano views that you come to Santorini for. 

Fira is also a convenient place to stay since it’s home to the island’s main bus station. So if you base yourself here, exploring nearby areas like Oia and Akrotiri is super easy, and the island’s famous beaches will be within easy reach. 

But as much fun as it is to party it up in Fira, it’s still brimming with cultural gems like the Archaeological Museum of Thera, the Museum of Prehistoric Thera, and the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. Families will find plenty to do, too, as there are lots of kid-friendly tavernas and attractions around.

Despite its buzzing atmosphere, Fira still has quieter corners tucked just off the main streets, where you can escape the crowds and enjoy a more laid-back vibe. Plus, it offers a wider range of accommodations than other parts of the island, from cliffside luxury hotels with caldera views to budget-friendly stays set a little further back from the edge.

It’s a great all-rounder and a solid base for exploring everything that Santorini has to offer!

Pros

• Central location with easy access to other parts of the island
• Lively atmosphere with great dining, shopping, and nightlife
• Wide range of accommodation options

Cons

• Can get very busy, especially during the summer

Luxury – $$$

Porto Fira Suites is dreamy—there’s no other word for it! It’s a gorgeous white hotel with stylish cave-like rooms and a swimming pool that you will never want to get out of. There’s also a sun terrace with epic views and a restaurant that serves yummy cuisine and great drinks. I really can’t think of a more beautiful place to stay in Fira!

The hotel offers an unbeatable location, as you can walk to many of Fira’s best museums and nightlife hotspots in less than 10 minutes. However, the rooms are soundproofed, so you won’t be disturbed at night. Junior suites here typically range between €350 and €650+ per night, and they sell out fast!

Check out all of the options and book your stay here! 

Mid-range – $$

Panorama Suites in Fira is all about location, location, location. It’s perched on the caldera cliff with jaw-dropping sea views, and the Archaeological Museum of Thera is just a 4-minute walk away, as is Santorini’s main bus station. 

Well, actually, I lied. This hotel is also beautiful, with a stunning swimming pool that overlooks the Aegean Sea and bright, chic rooms. I love the fact that breakfast is included every morning, and I’m not talking about a complimentary bowl of cornflakes, either.

You get fresh Greek yoghurt, pastries, fruit, and more right by the pool, and if that doesn’t start your day on a high note, then I don’t know what will! Rooms typically start around €250–€350 per night, depending on the season.

Book in advance here to secure the best rate!

Budget – $ 

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly stay in Fira that doesn’t skimp on cleanliness or comfort, Anessis is a fantastic pick. It’s an aparthotel that offers well-equipped rooms with air-conditioning and an outdoor pool to cool off after a day of exploring the island.

I also like that you can relax and enjoy sea views on the sun terrace without having to spend a dime. Anessis may be a budget option, but it’s still super central. It’s a 4-minute walk from the Museum of Prehistoric Thera, and there are plenty of public transport options nearby, so getting around Santorini is a breeze.

All in all, this place is a solid choice for budget-conscious travelers who still want to be close to the action. Rooms here start at €100 per night—a real bargain in Santorini terms!

Check prices and book your budget-friendly stay here!

Related Read: If you’re looking for some activities to add to your Santorini itinerary, have a look at our 10 favorite things to do here!

Oia 

If you’ve ever Googled Santorini and seen all those photos of whitewashed buildings with blue domes cascading down the cliffs towards the Aegean Sea, you were probably looking at Oia. This village is the postcard-perfect part of Santorini, but its beauty isn’t the only good reason to stay here (although it’s definitely reason enough!)

I would highly recommend Oia to anyone looking for a glamorous Santorini vacation. After all, this is where you’ll find many of the island’s best boutique shops and upscale restaurants. And while the nightlife here isn’t as buzzing as it is over in Fira, there are plenty of stylish bars and sophisticated sundowner spots. Cheers!

In fact, Oia is perhaps the best place on the island to enjoy the sunset. We love visiting Ammoudi Bay here, not least because this charming fishing port is home to some of Santorini’s best seafood tavernas. 

As you can probably surmise, Oia is perfect for a romantic vacation, but it’s also a great area for families, as it’s removed from the more raucous nightlife and the paths are generally stroller-friendly. However, it can get very crowded here, so be prepared to contend with lots of other tourists! 

Pros 

• One of the most beautiful parts of the island
• Lots of luxurious hotels with breathtaking caldera views
• Romantic and family-friendly

Cons

• Can get very crowded during high season 
• More expensive than other areas of Santorini
• Fewer nightlife options than Fira

Luxury – $$$ 

Hom Santorini is an elegant adults-only hotel in Oia, perfect for a romantic escape—or even a honeymoon! This 4-star property combines modern design with traditional Cycladic architecture, but honestly, the infinity pool with panoramic sea views is really the crown jewel of this place. I also love that there’s a fancy spinning and pilates studio on site.

The staff here treat you like family, and the hotel is tucked away from the crowds, so it’s a real peaceful retreat. Meanwhile, there’s a lovely hot tub, a gorgeous sun terrace, and a pool bar where you can sip drinks all day long while admiring the Aegean scenery. Bliss!

Double rooms here cost between €350 and €700 per night, but you could even go all out and get a master suite with your own private pool at around €1,125.

See available room types and secure this luxurious stay here!

Mid-range – $$

Aris Caves is welcoming, charming, and offers gorgeous Aegean views. It won’t break the bank either, so it ticks all of my boxes! 

The studios and apartments here are bright and airy, with private balconies made for lingering over a morning coffee or an evening sunset. Each one comes with a kitchenette so you can self-cater (and save!), plus they’re soundproofed for a peaceful night’s sleep.

There’s even a shared hot tub overlooking the caldera—hello, dream views! The location is ideal too: you’re just a short stroll from Katharos Beach and the heart of Oia, but far enough away to escape the crowds. Add in the warm welcome from the lovely hosts, and it feels like a little slice of paradise. Studios start at €275 per night.

Check prices and availability for Aris Caves at Booking.com!

Budget – $

Aethrio Sunset Village is a fantastic budget-friendly stay in Oia. It’s an aparthotel that offers spacious, family-friendly apartments and studios, as well as sea views and an outdoor pool. There are kitchenettes where you can prepare your own meals, and breakfast is included, which further saves you money. 

With high ceilings, a seafront location, and Katharos Beach close by, Aethrio Sunset Village really does have everything you’ll need. It delivers great facilities, excellent value for money, and a laid-back, friendly vibe—what’s not to like? Studios here typically cost between €150 and €290 per night.

Browse room options and secure your stay at Aethrio Sunset Village here!

Imerovigli 

If you’re seeking peace and romance away from the crowds, Imerovigli is the place to be! It’s perched at the highest point along Santorini’s caldera, offering some of the island’s most breathtaking sunset views. And best of all, these views are unobstructed by nearby islands, unlike in Fira or Firostefani. 

I think that Imerovigli’s serene, sophisticated vibe would suit couples and honeymooners really well. Well, that and the fact that it’s known for its luxury hotels and upscale dining! 

But if you want something more casual, you can also find family-owned restaurants serving authentic Greek fare around here, and a few low-key bars—just my vibe! You definitely won’t find any all-night clubs here, though, so it’s ideal if you want a tranquil stay away from the hustle and bustle.

And if you do find yourself craving a little more action, Fira is just a 20–30 minute walk away. Or if you don’t want to walk, buses run every 30–60 minutes throughout the day, and the ride only takes about 5 minutes!

Another reason why I love staying in Imerovigli is that it’s home to the Skaros Rock hike. This is a super scenic trail that leads to a striking rock formation with incredible views of the Aegean Sea. Meanwhile, Pori Beach is just an 11-minute drive away.

It’s the kind of place where you can truly slow down, soak up the views, and feel like you have Santorini all to yourself!

Pros

• Some of the best sunset views on the island 
• Quiet and romantic 
• Lots of upscale dining options

Cons

• Hotels tend to be pricier than Fira or Firostefani
• Parking can be a challenge
• Limited nightlife

Luxury – $$$ 

Eteoro Suites is a stylish and newly renovated aparthotel with stunning sea views. The rooms are chic and modern with soundproofing and lots of natural light. I love the luxurious bathrooms, too!

A complimentary breakfast is served every morning out on the sun terrace, with tons of delicious options. Many of the island’s best hiking and walking trails are nearby, and the Archaeological Museum of Thera and Megaro Gyzi are just a short walk from the property. There’s also a very inviting pool that offers gorgeous sea and caldera views, so this place really does have everything.

Cave suites here cost between €500 and €1,100 per night, or you can plump for a grand suite with its very own pool!

Check availability and reserve your stay over at Booking.com!

Mid-range – $$

Altana Heritage Suites is an absolute gem of a hotel in Imerovigli. It combines historic Greek charm with modern luxury, and I think it represents great value for money, especially in this exclusive part of the island. With breathtaking sea views, a serene ambiance, and elegant, Cycladic-style architecture, I challenge you not to fall in love with this place!

Whether you’re unwinding by the swimming pool, soaking in the hot tub, or doing yoga on the sun terrace, you’ll be surrounded by the kind of Aegean beauty that feels straight out of a postcard. Apartments here normally cost between €300 and €600 per night.

Check availability and book your stay at Altana Heritage Suites here!

Budget – $

Abelonas Retreat is a charming and budget-friendly aparthotel that offers guests a peaceful escape with stunning caldera views. The property features a sparkling swimming pool, sun terrace, and poolside bar, so it’s the perfect spot to relax and soak up the Santorini sunshine.

The rooms here are bright and airy, with fun splashes of color. They have air-conditioning, walk-in showers, and cozy balconies where you can take in the pretty views. The property is also close to popular attractions like the Archaeological Museum of Thera and Megaro Gyzi, while activities like boating and scuba diving are just a short drive away.

For those seeking a serene stay with plenty of amenities without breaking the bank, this is an excellent pick. Studios here cost between €120 and €300 per night.

Check out all room categories and secure your stay here!

Related Read: To help you have the best trip possible, we created this epic 3-day Santorini itinerary full of the best things to do and places to eat!

Firostefani 

Firostefani is technically part of Fira, sitting just a short stroll north of the capital. But with its relaxed vibe and quieter streets, it truly feels like its own little world. I have a real soft spot for Firostefani because it offers the best of both worlds. It’s a charming area with a peaceful, laid-back atmosphere, and it boasts some of the most stunning caldera views on the island, especially at sunset.

Yet at the same time, Fira is just a 10-minute walk away, so that you can easily enjoy its vibrant restaurant and nightlife scene, then retreat back to the peace and quiet when you’re ready. I also love the fact that hotels in Firostefani are typically carved into the cliffside, creating that iconic, postcard-perfect Santorini aesthetic, but without the crowds!

Meanwhile, for those on a budget, Firostefani offers a mix of accommodations that won’t break the bank but still deliver those swoon-worthy views. There are lots of quaint cafes and traditional tavernas here, too, so it’s an ideal base for couples and families, or anyone who wants to enjoy a more local vibe. 

Santorini is very touristy nowadays, so I love staying in Firostefani to experience a more authentic side of the island while remaining central. It’s easy to get around without a car, too, but there’s plenty of free parking around if you do end up hiring one.

Pros

• Stunning caldera views
• Fewer crowds
• Close to Fira and the main attractions

Cons

• Fewer dining and entertainment options than Fira 
• Lacks direct access to beaches

Luxury – $$$

Dana Villas & Infinity Suites offers a truly extraordinary luxury experience with its breathtaking views of the caldera and volcanoes. There’s an epic infinity pool with daybeds perched within the water itself, and the Cave Pool suites even have their own private pools!

Meanwhile, you can enjoy an incredibly generous complimentary breakfast each morning, and the friendly, personalized service means you won’t have to lift a finger for the entire duration of your stay. Deluxe double rooms here start at around €420 and can go up to €700+ per night during peak season. Book ahead to get the best prices.

Find the most competitive rates over at Booking.com!

Mid-range – $$

Now I may have listed Chic Hotel Santorini as mid-range due to its reasonable prices, but make no mistake: this place is pure luxury! It offers an elegant retreat with stunning views of the caldera, which you can enjoy from the refreshing swimming pool, the tranquil sun terrace, or your own private balcony.

Breakfast is included, and the hotel has a flexible rescheduling policy, so no worries if your plans change. Free parking is available for those who wish to rent a car, or the island’s main bus station is a 17-minute walk away, so getting around the island is super easy when you stay here! Standard suites here start at €200 per night.

Check out all room categories and book your stay here!

Budget – $ 

True to its name, Sunset Hotel has a stunning rooftop with a prime view of the sunset over the Aegean Sea. I also love the gorgeous modern bathrooms and the hot tub, which is the perfect place to relax after a day of soaking in the Santorini sunshine! Meanwhile, each room has its own terrace or patio if you’d like a little more privacy.

Attractions like Merago Gyzi, the Archaeological Museum, and Skaros are close by, and Sachi Cocktail & Brunch Bistro is just steps away. Trust me, you’ll definitely want to come here for brunch and a cocktail! Rooms here cost between €180 and €380 per night, depending on the season.

Get the best price by booking in advance right here!

Other Activities to do While in Santorini

Now that you’ve picked your favorite area to stay and booked your hotel, it’s time to plan out the fun stuff! Here are a few of our favorite things we did in Santorini. Each one gave us a unique perspective of the island—from land, sea, and even through its local flavors. Just a heads-up: these activities are super popular and often fill up early, so we recommend booking in advance!

• Customize your perfect day – For ultimate flexibility, we booked this private, tailor-made tour of Santorini and chose the stops ourselves! Whether it was photo ops in Oia, exploring hidden villages, or visiting the black sand beaches, our guide helped us see the island our way.

• Sail into the sunset – One of the best things we did was join this catamaran cruise. We swam, snorkeled, ate a barbecue lunch on board, and ended the day watching the sunset from the water. Magical doesn’t even begin to cover it.

• Taste your way through Santorini’s vineyards – We joined this small-group wine tasting tour and loved learning about the island’s volcanic soil and unique grape varieties. The views from the wineries were incredible, and the local wine even better!

• Paddle along the coast – For a more active experience, we took part in this south coast sea kayaking tour. We paddled past sea caves, swam at Red Beach, and even stopped for a beach picnic. It was such a refreshing way to see a quieter side of Santorini.

• Eat your way through Fira – We’re big fans of food tours, and this walking tour around Santorini’s capital did not disappoint. We sampled Greek coffee, local cheeses, loukoumades, and more—all while soaking up local history from our guide. Come hungry!

Renting a Car in Europe

Exploring Europe by car is a fantastic way to uncover hidden gems—think charming villages, scenic countryside, and off-the-beaten-path spots that trains and buses might miss. Driving here is generally straightforward, but it’s good to be prepared for some regional quirks.

We always use Discover Cars to book our rentals and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in Europe

• Know the local rules: Most countries drive on the right, except the UK, Ireland, Cyprus, and Malta. Road signs and driving laws can vary, so do a quick check before you go.
• Practice defensive driving: In parts of Europe, especially in the south, driving can feel fast-paced and a little unpredictable. Make sure you stay alert and keep a safe following distance.
• Insurance is essential: I highly recommend adding full coverage insurance to your rental. Whether it’s a parking lot ding or a chipped windshield on a mountain road, full protection gives you peace of mind. Plus, it’s super affordable through Discover Cars!
• Pick the right vehicle: Most rentals in Europe are manual, and automatic cars are limited, so book early if that’s what you need. A compact car is also ideal for narrow roads and tight parking. On Discover Cars, you can easily filter for everything you need.
• Watch for restricted zones: Many cities have low-emission or restricted traffic zones. Driving into these without a permit can result in fines, so always check local rules if you’re heading into a city center.
• Be prepared for border crossings: While crossing borders is usually easy within the Schengen Zone, some rental companies require you to declare your travel plans in advance. Always check with Discover Cars if you’re planning to drive into another country.

What You Need to Rent a Car in Europe

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.
• If you’re from outside the EU, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended—and in some countries, it’s legally required.
• A credit card in the driver’s name is typically needed for the security deposit.
• Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. If you’re under 25, expect a young driver surcharge—and in some countries, the minimum age may be higher.

Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Europe on your own terms!

Thanks for reading!

While in Santorini, you’ll be soaking up sunshine, exploring dreamy villages, and watching those famous sunsets—but having the right place to stay makes all the difference! Whether you’re after a romantic luxury suite or a charming, budget-friendly base, we’ve rounded up the best options across the island’s top areas to make planning easy.

Before you go, be sure to check out our other Greece blogs here to help build your itinerary—or take a look at some of our favorite Santorini tours and activities below to make your trip even more unforgettable!

How to Spend THREE Days in Santorini: 3-Day Itinerary 

10 Best Things to do in Santorini, Greece

10 Best Things to do in Mykonos, Greece