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

Wondering where to stay in Santorini? You’re in the right place!

Santorini is one of the most famous Greek islands, but choosing where to stay can make a huge difference to your trip. The island is pretty small, but with winding roads and a lot of traffic during the summer, it can take a while to get from one area to another. Still, there are some fantastic areas to stay in, and the best one depends on the type of trip you’re planning, whether you’re here to see the sights or for a romantic honeymoon.

With that in mind, I’ve broken down the four best areas to stay in Santorini, including hotel picks for different budgets. Let’s get into it!

Where To Stay In Santorini Map

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Overview of the Best Areas To Stay in Santorini

Santorini is pretty small, but where you stay still makes a big difference. The main towns are all fairly close together, especially along the caldera, but the roads are winding and getting around can take longer than you’d expect.

The good news is that the local buses are affordable and fairly regular, but they all run in and out of Fira on a wheel-and-spoke system. This means they work really well if you’re staying in Fira, but journeys can take longer if you’re based elsewhere, as you will need to connect through the capital. So if you plan on doing a lot of exploring and don’t want to rent a car or rely on taxis, which are expensive in Santorini, I definitely recommend staying in Fira.

I stayed in Fira and relied on a mixture of local buses and tours to follow my Santorini itinerary, and it worked perfectly! However, I also really loved exploring the villages of Firostefani and Imerovigli, which are quieter but still close enough to the action to be convenient. Then, you’ve got Oia, which is further out but home to Santorini’s most iconic views – even if you don’t stay here, it’s definitely a must-visit part of the island!

• Fira – Best for first-timers – I loved staying in Santorini’s capital because it was convenient, charming, and just a fun place to be – plus, I definitely got my fill of those iconic caldera views! Panorama Suites is a great option along the caldera in Fira that offers beautiful views at a relatively modest price.

• Oia – Best for luxury travelers – This picturesque area is home to the island’s most iconic postcard spots, and while it’s a bit further from the nightlife scene, it 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 – Best for couples & quiet high-end stays – I loved exploring this quieter, more serene village and admiring all of the beautiful villas here! For me, Altana Heritage Suites is the perfect example of a dreamy Santorini stay.

• Firostefani – Best for quiet yet convenient stays – I think of Firostefani as the Goldilocks area because it’s just a (very scenic!) 15-minute walk to Fira but still far enough away that you get a bit more peace and quiet here. 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

BEST FOR FIRST-TIMERS

Pros

• Central location with easy access to other parts of the island
• Lively atmosphere with great dining, shopping, and nightlife
• A wide range of accommodation options
• Beautiful, with cobbled streets and whitewashed buildings dotted along the caldera

Cons

• Can get very busy, especially during the summer
• Accommodation tends to book up fast

If it’s your first time in Santorini and you want to be in the heart of the action, Fira is the place to be. This is where I stayed during my Santorini trip, and I thought it was the perfect base! 

It’s the island’s capital and main hub, so staying here made exploring the island super easy. The main bus station is here, and all routes go in and out of Fira, so it’s easy to get around without renting a car – and at €2.20 per journey, it’s cheap, too! I used the local buses a lot during my trip, especially for getting to places like Akrotiri and the airport. 

However, I also really enjoyed the lively feel of the town and ate at some wonderful restaurants, from a special sunset dinner at Aris to cheap gyros from Lucky’s! And even though I didn’t stay directly on the caldera path, I still spent a lot of time enjoying those amazing views.

In fact, another of Fira’s perks is that it has a wider range of accommodation than many other parts of Santorini. You’ll find everything from luxury cliffside hotels with caldera views to more budget-friendly stays set a little further back from the edge.

Basically, Fira is a great all-rounder. I especially recommend staying here if you’ve only got a few days in Santorini, as the logistics are just so simple!

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!

No worries if Porto Fira Suites is booked out, Villa Bordeaux is an even more luxurious option in Fira. Sitting on the edge of the caldera, you will have the best views imaginable from your room, the infinity pool, or the sun terrace. 

Cosmopolitan Suites is another high-end, cliffside option in Fira. I especially like that each room has a balcony with sea views, so there’s no such thing as a bad room 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 yogurt, 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.

For another mid-range option, Nissos Thira offers comfortable rooms, just a short walk from Fira Square. You can save some money by staying slightly back from the cliffside, but still enjoy a convenient location and all the perks of this stay.

If you’re looking for a slightly elevated moderate budget option, I love Aria Suites & Villas. Perched on the caldera, you’ll enjoy sweeping views, as well as the high-end service and amenities of the hotel. 

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. And I should know, because I stayed here!

This hotel is set about a 10-minute walk from the caldera, which really brings the price down, and it’s just a 5-minute walk from the bus station, which made sightseeing so easy! Plus, I still had sea views from my room, and it was nice and quiet at night.

The staff here were really friendly and helped me out with everything I needed, from taxis to beach towels, and my room was lovely, with a comfy bed and great air-con. I also like that this hotel is locally owned!

All in all, this place is perfect 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!

If Anessis has no availability for your travel dates, Villa Rose is another budget-friendly pick in Fira. Featuring apartment-style rooms and a short walk from the Caldera, it’s convenient, comfortable, and well-located.

Another great option is Nemesis, sitting on the caldera with stunning views! While it’s tucked away on a quiet street, you’re less than a five-minute walk to the best restaurants, bars, and shopping.

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

Oia 

BEST FOR LUXURY TRAVELERS

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
• Further away from the island’s other attractions

If you’ve ever seen those postcard-perfect photos of Santorini, with whitewashed buildings, windmills, and blue-domed churches, there’s a good chance they were taken in Oia. It’s not the only place on the island with this classic Cycladic architecture, but it is home to some of Santorini’s most iconic photo spots, the ones that have appeared on postcards for decades and, more recently, all over Instagram.

I went to Oia during my Santorini trip, and it really is beautiful, but I will say that it gets busy fast. By around 10 am, there were already queues forming at some of the famous viewpoints, especially where people wanted that exact photo angle. That said, if you’re happy to wander around and enjoy the views without needing the exact same shot as everyone else, it’s much more manageable!

Aside from the crowds, the main downside of Oia is probably that it’s further out from a lot of attractions and activities. However, the bus to Fira only takes about 20 minutes, and most organized tours will pick you up from here!

Oia is best suited to couples, honeymooners, and anyone planning a more glamorous Santorini stay. This is where you’ll find lots of luxury cave hotels, boutique shops, upscale restaurants, and stylish sunset bars – KooKoo Bar is a must-visit, just FYI!

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 treats 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.

Take your Oia stay to the next level at Andronis Luxury Suites. Carved into the cliff, this is one of the most luxurious hotels in Oia, with incredible views, private pools, and elegant features that will be hard to leave.

Another top option is Maregio Suites, not far from Hom Santorini and steps from Oia Castle. Here, you can enjoy private heated pools, room service, and a stunning terrace. 

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.

If Aris Caves is all booked up, consider staying at Alexander’s Suites! Featuring apartment-style rooms with a lot of charm, sea views, an outdoor pool, and a fantastic breakfast – what more could you want?

Caldera Premium Villas is another affordable option in Oia, offering seaview rooms. I love the large pool and motorbike rental service, and you’re a short walk from town and the beach. 

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.

Another budget-friendly option is Marcos Rooms, in case Aethrio Sunset Village is full. The rooms are simple apartments, but still offer amazing sea and sunset views, and are in a central location.

Alegria by Casa Sigalas is a bit more of a splurge, but totally worth it if you’re visiting for a special occasion. Enjoy a private balcony (aka the best sunset spot in Oia!), an infinity pool, or a shaded garden for the ultimate getaway.

Imerovigli 

BEST FOR COUPLES & QUIET HIGH-END STAYS

Pros

• Some of the best sunset views on the island 
• Quiet and romantic 
• Lots of upscale restaurants and beautiful stays

Cons

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

If you’re looking for peace, romance, and some of Santorini’s best caldera views, Imerovigli is a fantastic choice. It’s perched high above the Aegean, and for me, this was the most beautiful section of the caldera path! I walked and ran here from Fira a few times during my trip, and the views honestly stopped me in my tracks every time.

Imerovigli has a much quieter feel than Fira or Oia, so I think it’s especially well-suited to couples and honeymooners. It’s known for luxury hotels and romantic restaurants, but it still feels calm rather than flashy. You’ll also find some more casual family-run tavernas and low-key bars around here, so it’s not all super high-end! 

This village is a little further out, but it still feels very manageable. You can walk from Fira in around 20 to 30 minutes, either along the road or via the caldera path, which is much prettier. You can also hop on the bus and get there in about 5 minutes. While I didn’t stay in Imerovigli myself, all of the tours I did had pickup options from here, so it’s still a pretty convenient base if you’re planning lots of activities.

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!

Take your luxury stay to the next level at Kivotos Santorini. Featuring private plunge pools, the most stunning views, elegant apartments, and top-tier service, this hotel is hard to beat. 

Cocoon Suites is perhaps one of my favorite hotels on the island because it looks like it’s carved into the rockside! The natural architecture pairs well with the vibe of the hotel, as well as the sea views, and a top-rated restaurant and bar. 

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.

I recommend checking out Stella Rocca A Mare if Altana Heritage is all full! Enjoy an on-site hot tub, airport shuttle, and a tiered restaurant overlooking the sea, as well as the details and amenities to make this stay luxurious!

For a more moderate budget stay, Aeolos Art & Eco Suites is an adults-only hotel with style. I love how it offers classic cave architecture, rooms with stunning views, and a lovely outdoor pool you won’t want to leave!

Budget – $

Villa Happening is a fantastic budget-friendly stay in Santorini, especially for travelers who want to be close to the caldera without paying luxury hotel prices. This family-run property sits right in the heart of Imerovigli, just steps from the famous cliffside views, while restaurants, cafés, and mini markets are all within easy walking distance.

The rooms blend traditional Cycladic charm with modern comforts, featuring air-conditioning, private bathrooms, refrigerators, and comfortable furnishings. Many rooms also offer sea and sunrise views, making it easy to start your day with a beautiful Santorini backdrop. I also love the location—while it feels peaceful and authentic, you’re only a short trip from Fira and some of the island’s best attractions.

For travelers looking for a simple, comfortable, and affordable base in one of Santorini’s most sought-after villages, Villa Happening is an excellent choice. Rooms typically cost between €90 and €120 per night.

If Villa Happening is all booked out, Casa Bianca is another budget-friendly stay in Imerovigli Village. It’s a boutique hotel, so it makes for an intimate and homey stay while enjoying the location, top-tier service, and amazing pool!

Above Blue Suites is a standout because it sits on the highest point of the Caldera, so you really can’t get a better view! Each suite includes a balcony, and you can enjoy a massage on-site or walk into town easily. 

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

Firostefani 

BEST FOR QUIET YET CONVENIENT STAYS

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

Firostefani sits just north of Fira, and although it’s technically part of the capital, it feels much calmer. I walked here from Fira a few times during my trip, and it only took around 15 minutes, so it’s a great option if you want to stay close to the action without being right in the busiest part of Santorini.

I think Firostefani is a lovely middle ground. You still get beautiful caldera views, cliffside hotels, and plenty of places to eat along the walking path, but the overall vibe is quieter than Fira. There are fewer bars and less nightlife here, so it’s better suited to couples, families, or anyone who wants a more peaceful base while still being able to walk into Fira for dinner, shopping, or drinks.

There are some really good restaurants in Firostefani too. My tour guide recommended Tholoto, which is a really popular spot, and there are plenty of other restaurants and cafes dotted around the caldera. It’s still very much a tourist-friendly area, but it doesn’t feel quite as busy as Fira or Oia.

Firostefani is also convenient if you don’t want to rent a car. You can walk into Fira easily, or hop on the local bus and be there in minutes if you prefer. For me, it’s a great choice if you want Santorini views and a calmer atmosphere, while still being close enough to Fira to make the logistics simple.

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.

If Dana Villas is all booked up, I recommend Cliff Side Suites in Firostefani. This 4-star hotel is in a fabulous location, just a short walk from Fira Town, and you can enjoy the traditional charm of this hotel!

I also loved Vallas Apartments & Villas for its calm and relaxing atmosphere, which is what Firostefani is known for! You’re still close to Fira but can enjoy the tranquil setting for a truly relaxing vacation.

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.

If the Chic Hotel isn’t available for your dates, check out Margarita Hotel for another high-end stay. This place is great for early risers, as it boasts sunrise views, and guests consistently love the pool and breakfast!

Manos Small World is another top affordable option, not far from the Chic Hotel. It’s the kind of place to slow down and enjoy the views from the panoramic terrace, with Fira being a 5-minute walk away.

Budget – $ 

True to its name, Sun Rocks Boutique 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.

If Sun Rocks Boutique Hotel is full, you can enjoy a lovely stay at Reverie Santorini Hotel! Offering apartment-style rooms at a very affordable rate, you can have a relaxing stay and save your travel budget for other activities. 

Tucked in the hills of Firostefani, Stella Nomikou Apartments is another budget-friendly choice. It offers an outdoor pool, sea views, and a convenient location, all for your ease!

Top 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 my favorite things that I did in Santorini. Each one gave me a unique perspective of this beautiful and varied island, from volcanic hot springs and dramatic coastline to delicious local food and historic villages with pirate lore!

Just a heads-up: these activities are super popular and often fill up early, so I recommend booking in advance! I went in May and booked these activities about 3 months before my trip, but if you’re traveling in June or July, I’d honestly do it even further in advance.

• Customize your perfect day – For ultimate flexibility, I booked this private, tailor-made tour of Santorini and chose the stops myself! I got my perfect Oia photos, a visit to a mountaintop monastery, and time to explore the perfectly preserved village of Pyrgos.

• Sail into the sunset – One of the best things I did was join this catamaran cruise. I snorkeled at Red Beach, swam in the hot springs, and ended the day with a spectacular sunset out on the water. It was magical!

• Taste your way through Santorini’s vineyards – I had the BEST time on this small-group wine tasting tour! I loved trying the island’s unique grape varieties at three very different wineries, including a clifftop winery where I caught a truly spectacular sunset!

• Paddle along the coast – For a more active experience, this south coast sea kayaking tour will have you paddling past sea caves, swimming at Red Beach, and enjoying a coastal picnic. I like this tour because it’s a fun way to see Santorini away from the crowds.

• Eat your way through Fira – I love a good food tour, and I’m not kidding when I say that this walking tour is the best one that I have ever done! I got to try everything from traditional coffee and pastries to Santorini tomato fritters, moussaka, and the most delicious loukoumades, washing it down with local ouzo, raki, and wine!

Thanks for reading!

Santorini really blew me away, and I loved it even more than I thought I would! Having the right base definitely helped me experience the island to the fullest, and I hope this guide has helped you figure out where to stay, whether you’re looking for a convenient base in Fira, a romantic stay in Oia, a peaceful escape in Imerovigli, or a quieter spot close to the action in Firostefani.

Before you go, you can also check out our other Greece blogs to help plan the rest of your itinerary, or browse some of our favorite Santorini tours and activities below!

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