Best Area to Stay in Santorini: A Complete 2026 Guide
In search of the best area to stay in Santorini, especially if it’s your first time visiting? I spent four days in Santorini and fell in love with this bucket-list worthy Greek island! While it’s relatively small, there are several regions or places you can choose from to base yourself. This guide will help you decide the best area for your trip!
As you research the best area to stay in Santorini, I’ve outlined the top regions and why they should be considered. There are also a couple of maps to help with the planning! So let’s dive in to help you pick the perfect place for your Santorini vacation!
Quick Picks for Santorini Greece
- Luxury: Aspaki Exclusive Hotel by Art Maisons (Oia)
- Boutique Hotel: Hom Santorini (Oia)
- Mid-Range: Mythical Blue Luxury Suites (Fira)
- Budget: Asterias Mini Coastal Apartments (Perivolos)
- Beach: Istoria, a Member of Design Hotels (Perivolos)
- Honeymooners: Grace Hotel Santorini (Imerovigli)
- Solo: Bedspot Hostel (Fira)
Quick Comparison Table: Best Areas to Stay in Santorini
| Area | Best For | Vibe | Views | Price Range | Standout Pick |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oia | First-timers, honeymooners, photographers | Iconic, romantic, dramatic | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Caldera | $$$–$$$$ | Aspaki Exclusive Hotel by Art Maisons |
| Fira | Central base, budget & mid-range travelers | Lively, walkable, social | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Caldera | $$–$$$ | Athina Luxury Suites |
| Imerovigli | Couples wanting quiet luxury | Serene, upscale, romantic | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Elevated caldera | $$$–$$$$ | Grace Hotel Santorini |
| Southern Beaches (Perivolos / Kamari / Perissa) | Beach lovers, longer stays, best value | Relaxed, beachy, casual | ⭐⭐ Beach views | $–$$$ | Istoria (Design Hotels) |
| Pyrgos | Culture lovers, quieter stays | Traditional, local, peaceful | ⭐⭐⭐ Island panoramas | $$–$$$ | North Santorini – A Luxury Spa Hotel |
| Akrotiri | Scenic, laid-back travelers | Quiet, spacious, scenic | ⭐⭐⭐ Sea & caldera | $$–$$$ | Phos The Boutique |
My Go-To Travel Tools
Hotels | Booking.com
Hotels & Cars | Expedia
Tours | Viator
Research & Hotels | Tripadvisor
Travel Insurance | Insubuy
Oia | Iconic Sunsets & Luxury
When considering the best area to stay in Santorini, Oia (pronounced ee-uh) is probably what you see when admiring photographs of Santorini! This whitewashed town on the side of a cliff is absolutely iconic!
When considering the best place to stay for honeymooners, Oia will top the list! The town oozes romance, dramatic Aegean views, classic Cycladic architecture, and beautiful sunsets! It has become the poster town for Santorini and all the Greek islands.
You’ll find restaurants, cliffside cafes, shops, and plenty of accommodation options in this Santorini village! Yet, it’s the caldera views, dramatic cliffs, and magical sunsets that actually set it apart. Because Oia is such a premium location, accommodations range from ultra‑luxury cliffside suites with private plunge pools to more affordable boutique options that still offer that magical Oia atmosphere.
If you love photography, this is one of the best places on the island for stunning scenery and if you’re looking for a romantic getaway, this is the best area to stay in Santorini!
Quick Summary – Who Oia Is Best For
- Romantic Getaways/Honeymoons: Best choice for couples chasing those iconic caldera sunsets and luxury experiences.
- Photographers: Oia’s views are the stuff of postcards (and every Greek island brochure), so staying here means you’re never far from a great shot.
- First‑Timers Who Want Views: Even mid‑range and budget choices can offer caldera glimpses and great proximity to sunset paths.
- Pros: Supreme views, iconic location, walkable to restaurants and cafes.
- Cons: Prices are high, lots of stairs, and it can feel crowded at peak times.
Quick
Picks
- Luxury: Aspaki Exclusive Hotel by Art Maisons
- Mid-range: Hom Santorini
- Budget: Caves 1880
- Solo: Hostel 16 Oia
Oia Highlights
- Oia Sunset – The world-famous Santorini sunset draws crowds to the caldera edge for golden-hour views that are nothing short of magical.
- Winding Streets & Whitewashed Houses – Narrow alleys lined with whitewashed homes and blue-domed churches create picture-perfect photo opportunities at every turn.
- Boutique Shops – From handmade jewelry to local art, Oia is full of charming stores for unique souvenirs and one-of-a-kind finds.
- Amoudi Bay – A short hike down leads to this waterfront village, where you can swim, enjoy fresh seafood, jump a cliff or watch fishing boats come and go.
- High-End Dining – Oia has plenty of cliffside restaurants offering romantic dinners with panoramic views of the caldera and Aegean Sea.
- Art Galleries & Local Culture – Small galleries showcase Santorini artists, and cultural exhibitions offer insight into the island’s history and creative scene.
- Caldera Views & Hiking Paths – Walk the cliffside trails for stunning vistas of the volcanic islands and sparkling blue waters below.
- Luxury Hotels & Infinity Pools – Many of the island’s top luxury hotels are in Oia, featuring private terraces, infinity pools, and unmatched views.
Luxury & Upscale Stays (Best for Couples & Special Occasions)
These properties deliver the classic Santorini “wow” and offer cliff views, stunning pools, romantic terraces, and top‑tier service.
- Andronis Luxury Suites – Seafront luxury with private plunge pools and an intimate vibe that’s perfect for honeymoons.
- Andronis Arcadia – A serene retreat with expansive views, refined dining, and luxury touches throughout.
- Mystique, a Luxury Collection Hotel – A top‑tier cliffside property combining chic minimalist design with Aegean panoramas, ideal for bucket‑list stays.
- Aspaki Exclusive Hotel by Art Maisons – one of the flagship properties of the Art Maisons, offering luxurious suites, many with private jacuzzis, plunge pools, or balconies overlooking the Caldera
- Art Maisons Oia Castle – Part of the Art Maisons luxury collection in Oia, these cliffside suites blend historic charm with modern comfort, offering direct sunset views and private outdoor plunge pools.
- Perivolas (near Oia) – Although technically a bit beyond Oia proper, this iconic property is world‑famous for cave suites and sunset views.
Tip: Most luxury hotels in Oia offer features like private plunge pools, cliffside terraces, and sunset service, but prices can vary widely depending on season (shoulder months are often far better value).
Mid‑Range & Boutique Picks (Great Value with Views)
These options balance location, style, and cost — still giving you that Oia charm without the ultra‑luxury sticker:
- Pezoules of Oia – A boutique hotel with striking caldera views and a peaceful infinity pool — great for couples who want the looks without the highest prices.
- Anemoessa Villa – Classic Cycladic style with stunning views, close to Oia’s main sights and often listed as one of the best value stays in the area.
- Hom Santorini – A stylish, modern hotel in Oia offering caldera views, minimalist design, and a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere than many cliffside stays.
- Sun Angelos Oia – Luxury Cave Suites – Offers traditional cave-style suites with private terraces and caldera views, giving you a quieter, more authentic Oia experience without the ultra-luxury price tag.
Budget‑Friendly Options (Good Views Without the High Cost)
Oia is notoriously pricey, but there are options that give travelers the iconic experience without going full luxury:
- Caves 1880 – A charming traditional cave stay with simple rooms and caldera views, offering an authentic Oia experience at a more approachable price point.
- Hostel 16 Oia – One of the most affordable places to stay in Oia, with dorms and private rooms in a central location just steps from sunset viewpoints and village streets.
- Sunset Paradise Oia – A small, budget-conscious property known for sunset-facing terraces and basic but comfortable rooms close to Oia’s iconic viewpoints.
Budget note: “Budget” in Oia is relative as even basic hotels in the village tend to cost more than similar options in Fira or inland areas. Shoulder seasons (April–May, September–October) often yield the best rates, which is why I consider it the best time to visit Santorini!
Fira | Central & Accessible
When deciding on the best area to stay in Santorini, Fira is the island’s lively capital and transportation hub. If you want convenience, walkability, and easy access to everything Santorini has to offer, Fira is one of the smartest places to base yourself.
Unlike Oia’s ultra-romantic vibe, Fira feels more energetic and social, but still offers the Santorini magic! It also sits dramatically on the caldera cliffs, offering incredible views similar to Oia, but at more accessible price points.
If you plan to utilize the bus, then Fira is a perfect base! Every bus route connects in Fira, so it’s easier to explore the island if you are relying on public transport. Of course, with it being centrally located it’s convenient regardless of your chosen transportation.
Fira is packed with restaurants, cafes, bars, shops, museums, and viewpoints. Accommodations range from luxury caldera hotels with infinity pools to affordable hotels just a short walk from the cliff edge. And is generally easier on the wallet than Oia.
If you want flexibility without renting a car, Fira is often the most practical and well-rounded place to stay. Santorini’s walkability is largely centered around towns like Fira, as the island itself is too large to explore entirely on foot. With the main bus station and ferry connections nearby, Fira makes it easy to get around the island.
Quick Summary – Who Fira Is Best For
- Central: Central location makes it easy to explore Oia, beaches, wineries, and archaeological sites.
- Travelers Without a Car: Best bus connections on the island and walkable access to tours and ferries.
- Mid-Range & Budget Travelers: More accommodation variety and better value than Oia.
- Social Travelers: Lively nightlife, bars, and sunset spots without the premium Oia price tag.
- Pros: Central hub, great caldera views, wide hotel selection, strong nightlife.
- Cons: Can feel busy and crowded, especially midday and during cruise ship hours.
Quick
Picks
- Luxury: Athina Luxury Suites
- Mid-range: Mythical Blue Luxury Suites
- Budget: San Giorgio
- Solo: Bedspot Hostel
Fira Highlights
- Caldera Walkway – A stunning cliffside promenade with uninterrupted caldera views, perfect for sunset strolls and photography.
- Central Bus Station – The island’s main transportation hub, making it easy to reach Oia, beaches, wineries, and ancient sites without a car.
- Dining & Nightlife – From rooftop cocktail bars to casual tavernas, Fira has some of the most diverse dining and nightlife on the island.
- Shopping Streets – Lively pedestrian streets lined with boutiques, souvenir shops, jewelry stores, and local goods.
- Museums & Culture – Home to important sites like the Museum of Prehistoric Thera, offering insight into Santorini’s ancient history.
- Cable Car to the Old Port – A scenic ride connecting Fira to the harbor below, often used by cruise passengers and ferry travelers.
- Sunset Views Without the Oia Crowds – Fira offers incredible sunset viewpoints that are often less congested than Oia’s famous spots.
Luxury & Upscale Stays (Views + Convenience)
These hotels combine caldera views with prime locations.
- Katikies Garden Santorini – A refined luxury retreat set slightly back from the cliffs, offering tranquility with easy access to Fira’s center.
- Athina Luxury Suites – Cliffside suites with infinity pools, sunset views, and one of the best central locations in Fira.
- Cosmopolitan Suites – Elegant boutique hotel with panoramic caldera views and personalized service near the heart of town.
- Villa Bordeaux – A neoclassical mansion turned luxury hotel with dramatic sunset views and a fine-dining restaurant.
Mid-Range & Boutique Picks (Best Value in Santorini)
Fira shines when it comes to stylish, well-located hotels that won’t break the bank.
- Aria Suites – Spacious suites with caldera views and a quieter feel while still walkable to Fira’s center.
- Enigma Suites – Boutique cliffside hotel offering sunset views and private terraces at a more approachable price.
- Porto Fira Suites – Traditional cave-style suites right on the caldera, known for excellent value and location.
- Mythical Blue Luxury Suites – A boutique cliffside hotel in Fira offering elegant suites, an infinity pool, and sweeping caldera views.
- Villa Thiranthemis – A charming, traditional-style villa perched on the caldera edge, known for its spacious rooms, sunset views, and quieter atmosphere just steps from Fira’s main walkway.
Budget-Friendly Options (Central & Practical)
Fira and the surrounding area offer some of the best budget accommodation options on the island, especially compared to Oia.
- San Giorgio – A simple, budget-friendly hotel near the caldera edge in Fira, offering clean rooms and an excellent central location within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and sunset viewpoints.
- City Break – A no-frills, affordable hotel in the heart of Fira, ideal for travelers who want easy access to buses, dining, and nightlife without paying caldera-view prices.
- Costa Marina Villas – A value-focused property near Fira’s port and main pedestrian areas, featuring traditional Cycladic styling and spacious rooms that make it a solid pick for budget-conscious travelers.
- Pension Ptolemeos – A highly affordable, family-run guesthouse in central Fira offering clean, simple rooms and an unbeatable location close to the bus station, shops, and restaurants.
- Bedspot Hostel – One of Santorini’s best-known hostels, ideal for solo travelers looking to meet others.
Budget note: Staying just a few minutes’ walk away from the caldera edge in Fira can dramatically reduce prices while still keeping you close to everything.
Consider Fira Outskirts | Quieter & Better Value
Just outside Fira’s busy center, the surrounding neighborhoods offer a calmer atmosphere, more space, and noticeably better hotel value. These areas are ideal if you want easy access to Fira’s restaurants, buses, and caldera views — without paying premium prices or dealing with constant crowds.
Staying on the outskirts often means larger rooms, easier parking, and hotels with pools, while still being just a short walk, bus ride, or drive from the heart of Santorini’s action.
Best for: Budget-conscious travelers, longer stays, travelers with a car, and those who want Fira’s convenience without the chaos.
Imerovigli | Upscale & Romantic
When deciding on the best area to stay in Santorini for a quieter, but still refined experience, Imerovigli is a great choice. This elegant village sits at the highest point of the caldera and offers some of the most breathtaking views on the island.
Imerovigli has all the drama of Oia, but without the heavy crowds. It also sits conveniently between Oia and Fira, making exploration of both towns accessible. Somehow, during my four days in Santorini, I only drove by Imerovigli, so this might be the best area on the island for a quieter stay, while still being close to the action.
Accommodations here lean toward boutique and luxury stays, many with infinity pools and private terraces overlooking the caldera. While prices are generally high, they’re often slightly better value than Oia for similar views and amenities.
If your ideal Santorini stay involves slow mornings, sunset dinners, and uninterrupted caldera views, then Imerovigli may be the perfect fit.
Quick Summary – Who Imerovigli Is Best For
- Couples & Honeymooners: One of the most romantic areas on the island with fewer crowds and a peaceful vibe.
- Luxury Travelers Who Want Quiet: High-end hotels and boutique stays without Oia’s chaos.
- View Lovers: Some of the highest and widest caldera viewpoints in Santorini.
- Walkers & Hikers: Direct access to the famous Fira–Oia caldera walking path.
- Pros: Incredible views, calm atmosphere, upscale hotels, beautiful sunsets.
- Cons: Limited nightlife, fewer budget options, dining choices are more refined than casual.
Quick
Picks
- Luxury: Grace Hotel Santorini
- Mid-range: Caldera’s Dolphin Suites
- Best Views for Value: Santorini Princess Spa Hotel
Imerovigli Highlights
- Skaros Rock – A dramatic rock formation and historic fortress site offering one of the most scenic sunset and photo spots in Santorini.
- Caldera Walking Path – One of the most beautiful sections of the Fira–Oia hike passes directly through Imerovigli.
- Panoramic Caldera Views – Elevated position means uninterrupted views across the volcano and Aegean Sea.
- Romantic Dining – Quiet, upscale restaurants ideal for sunset dinners and special occasions.
- Peaceful Evenings – Nights here are calm and intimate, perfect for travelers avoiding party scenes.
- Luxury Cave Hotels – Some of Santorini’s most beautiful cave-style suites and infinity pools are found here.
Luxury & Upscale Stays (Quiet Romance & Views)
Imerovigli excels when it comes to refined, romantic accommodations that prioritize privacy and scenery.
- Grace Hotel Santorini – One of the island’s most iconic luxury hotels, known for flawless service, an infinity pool with jaw-dropping views, and a serene, adults-focused atmosphere.
- Atoles Retreat – A serene boutique hideaway offering stylish suites, a peaceful atmosphere, and elevated views, ideal for travelers seeking a quieter, more intimate stay away from Santorini’s busiest areas.
- Astra Suites – Elegant suites perched on the caldera with private terraces and sunset-facing views, offering classic Santorini romance.
- Santorini Princess Spa Hotel – A luxury retreat slightly removed from the center, ideal for travelers who value space, tranquility, and spa amenities.
- Honeymoon Petra Villas – A romantic, cliffside hotel known for its sweeping caldera views, and sunset-facing terraces that are ideal for couples and honeymooners.
Good to know: If peaceful luxury and views matter more than nightlife or shopping, Imerovigli often delivers better overall value than Oia, especially during the shoulder seasons.
Mid-Range & Boutique Picks (Luxury Feel, Better Value)
While Imerovigli leans upscale, there are boutique properties that offer exceptional views without the ultra-luxury price tag.
- Caldera’s Dolphin Suites – Boutique cave-style suites with private balconies and panoramic caldera views.
- Absolute Bliss Imerovigli Suites – Adults-only property offering refined design, sunset-facing rooms, and a quiet, romantic setting.
- Hotel Katerina’s Castle – Caldera Cave Hotel – A charming boutique stay with traditional Cycladic architecture and excellent value for its location.
Budget Reality Check
Imerovigli is not a budget-heavy area, and truly cheap accommodations are rare. Travelers on a tighter budget may want to stay slightly inland or in nearby Fira and visit Imerovigli for sunsets and walks instead.
However, there are some more affordable options worth considering if you’re a budget conscious traveler.
- Meroviglia Boutique Hotel – An intimate boutique hotel offering minimalist Cycladic-style suites, caldera views, and a peaceful atmosphere just outside the busiest areas of Santorini.
- Luna Rossa Santorini – A stylish boutique hotel featuring elegant suites with caldera views, private terraces, and a romantic atmosphere just a short walk from Santorini’s main viewpoints.
- Abrazo Villas – A boutique collection of stylish cave-style villas offering caldera views, private terraces, and a serene, romantic setting just outside the crowds.
Southern Beaches | Budget-Friendly & Beach-Focused
If you’re looking for a more relaxed, affordable side of Santorini, the southern beach towns are a fantastic option. Areas like Perivolos, Perissa, and Kamari trade dramatic caldera cliffs for long stretches of volcanic sand beaches, laid-back vibes, and much better value accommodations.
These areas are ideal if your priority is beach time, space, and budget rather than sunset crowds and cliffside views. Instead of stairs and steep paths, you’ll find flat walkable streets, beach clubs, and hotels with pools just steps from the sea.
Since I visited Santorini with a friend, we chose Perivolos and enjoyed a stay at Asterias Mini Coastal Apartments. We were across the street from the beach and it was so quiet when we were there the end of May! Of course, the lounge chairs lining the beach made me aware just how busy the beaches will get with the busy summer season.
If you’re visiting Santorini on a tighter budget, staying longer than a few days, want a Five-Star stay for more affordable prices or simply want a more relaxed beach holiday, the southern beaches are one of the smartest places to stay.
Quick Summary – Who the Southern Beaches Are Best For
- Budget Travelers: Some of the most affordable hotels and apartments on the island.
- Beach Lovers: Direct access to Santorini’s famous black-sand beaches.
- Longer Stays: Easier, more livable areas without crowds or constant stairs.
- Families & Casual Travelers: Flat terrain, spacious rooms, and relaxed dining.
- Pros: Best value, beach access, calmer atmosphere, more space.
- Cons: No caldera views, less “iconic” Santorini scenery, farther from Oia.
Quick
Picks
- Luxury: Istoria, a Member of Design Hotels
- Mid-range: Viva Nove Suites
- Budget: Asterias Mini Coastal Apartments
Southern Beaches Highlights
- Black Sand Beaches – Wide volcanic beaches perfect for swimming, lounging, and water sports.
- Beach Clubs & Sunbeds – Casual beach clubs with food and drinks delivered right to your lounger.
- Laid-Back Dining – Affordable tavernas, seafood restaurants, and beachfront cafés.
- Calmer Evenings – Relaxed nightlife without the party scene of Fira or the crowds of Oia.
- Better Hotel Value – Larger rooms, pools, and beachfront access for a fraction of caldera prices.
- Easy Swimming Conditions – Generally calmer waters compared to the caldera side of the island.
Luxury & Upscale Stays
- Costa Grand Resort & Spa (Kamari) – Modern resort right on Kamari Beach with pools, private sunbeds, and beachfront access.
- Anastasia Princess Luxury Beach Residence – Adults Only (Perissa) – Upscale, beachfront suites with private terraces, infinity pools, and direct access to Perivolos Beach.
- Santorini Kastelli Resort (Kamari) – A family-friendly beachfront property in Perivolos featuring modern rooms, multiple pools, and easy access to restaurants and nightlife along the sand.
- Istoria, a Member of Design Hotels (Perivolos) – A chic, contemporary property near Kamari Beach offering modern rooms, a rooftop terrace, and easy access to the sand and local dining.
Mid-Range
- Meltemi Village (Perissa) – Charming resort a short walk from Perissa Beach, offering pools, comfortable rooms, and family-friendly vibes.
- Anezina Villas (Perissa) – Cozy, budget-conscious villas near Perissa Beach offering simple accommodations, private terraces, and quick access to the shoreline and local tavernas.
- Viva Nove Suites (Perivolos) – Modern, stylish suites near Perivolos Beach with private balconies, pool access, and a relaxed beachfront vibe for couples and small groups.
- Anassa Deluxe Suites (Kamari) – Beach‑adjacent suites in Kamari with a pool, relaxed Mediterranean design, and easy access to the sand and seaside dining
Budget Stays (Best Value on the Island)
Southern beach towns shine when it comes to affordable accommodations:
- Smaragdi Studios (Perivolos) – Small, basic rooms and apartments near the beach, perfect for couples or solo travelers wanting beachfront access.
- Asterias Mini Coastal Apartments (Perivolos) – A budget friendly stay across the street from a black sand beach. My friend and I stayed here during our four days in Santorini!
- Roula Villa Studios & Apartments (Perissa) – A relaxed, budget‑friendly option near Perissa Beach offering simple, comfortable studios and apartments just steps from the sand and local tavernas.
- Villa Markezinis (Perivolos) – Budget-friendly Perivolos hotel with a pool, just a short walk from the beach and seaside dining.
- Oscar Hotel (Kamari) – Budget-friendly Kamari hotel with simple rooms, a seasonal pool, and just steps from the beach and local restaurants.
- Villa Maina (Kamari) – Comfortably located steps from Kamari’s black‑pebble beach, this friendly, affordable aparthotel offers simply styled rooms with balconies or terraces and quick access to seaside restaurants and the shore.
Budget note: If caldera views aren’t a priority, the southern beaches often provide the best overall value in Santorini, especially during peak summer months when Oia and Fira prices skyrocket.
Additional Areas in Santorini | Quiet, Local & Less Touristy
If Oia, Fira, and Imerovigli feel too busy or expensive, Santorini has several lesser-known areas that offer a more peaceful, authentic experience. Of course, the island of Santorini is only so large, so you can really stay anywhere on the island, especially if you rent a car.
While I wouldn’t suggest first time visitors to Santorini trade the magic of those cliffside views, these areas can be ideal for repeat visitors, longer stays, or travelers who want to see a different side of the island.
Pyrgos | Traditional Village & Central Location
Pyrgos is one of Santorini’s most charming traditional villages, known for its winding alleys, hilltop castle ruins, and relaxed, local atmosphere. Sitting slightly inland, it offers panoramic views across the island without the constant crowds of Oia or Fira.
This area feels authentically Greek, with family-run tavernas, small cafés, and quiet streets that come alive in the evenings. Pyrgos is also centrally located, making it easy to reach beaches, wineries, and major towns by car.
If you’re looking for a peaceful base with local character, and don’t mind not having the stunning views, then Pyrgos is a great alternative.
Best for: Travelers seeking a quieter stay, culture lovers, longer visits
Pros: Authentic feel, central location, better value
Cons: Limited nightlife
Akrotiri | Laid-Back & Scenic
Akrotiri sits on the southern tip of Santorini and is best known for its famous archaeological site and dramatic red-sand beach. This area feels noticeably quieter and more spread out than the island’s main towns.
Staying here offers a slower, more relaxed pace with beautiful coastal scenery and small boutique hotels. It’s an excellent choice if you plan to rent a car and want to explore lesser-visited parts of the island.
Akrotiri is ideal for travelers who prioritize tranquility and space over nightlife and shopping. You can still enjoy the dramatic views here, but from a different perspective!
Best for: Relaxed stays, beach lovers, history fans
Pros: Peaceful atmosphere, scenic coastline, unique beaches
Cons: Limited dining options, car recommended
Good to know: These areas won’t deliver the classic Santorini cliffside postcard views, but they often provide a more affordable, authentic, and stress-free experience — especially during peak summer months.
Quick
Picks
- Luxury: Phos The Boutique (Akrotiri)
- Mid-range: Aegean Blue Suites (Pyrgos)
- Budget: Maeva Suites Santorini (Pyrgos)
Luxury & Boutique (Romantic & Refined)
- Phos The Boutique (Akrotiri) – A serene luxury property in Akrotiri with stylish rooms, an infinity pool, and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for couples or travelers looking to relax away from the caldera crowds.
- North Santorini – A Luxury Spa Hotel (Pyrgos) – Cliff-edge luxury hotel with modern suites, a full spa, infinity pool, and panoramic caldera views.
- Elessa Hotel (Pyrgos) – Comfortable, well-located hotel in Pyrgos with modern rooms, sea views, and easy walking access to village tavernas and sunset vantage points.
Mid-Range (Comfortable & Well-Located)
- Goulielmos Hotel & Spa (Akrotiri) – A charming mid-range hotel in Akrotiri offering panoramic sea views, traditional decor with modern comfort, and easy access to local beaches and the archaeological site.
- Divino Caldera (Akrotiri) – Elegant mid-range hotel with stylish rooms, caldera views, and a peaceful location overlooking Akrotiri’s coastline.
- Aegean Blue Suites (Pyrgos) – Boutique property offering contemporary suites, private balconies, and panoramic views of the sea and vineyard-dotted hills from central Pyrgos.
Budget (Authentic & Affordable)
- Maeva Suites Santorini (Pyrgos) – A relaxed, value-focused option in Pyrgos with simple suites, a pool, and a tranquil setting that’s ideal for travelers seeking local charm on a budget.
- Villa Galinia (Akrotiri) – Relaxed Akrotiri stay with a pool and sea/caldera views, just a short walk from local beaches and the archaeological site.
- Kastro Mansion (Pyrgos) – A budget-friendly apartment style accommodations in the heart of Pyrgos with cozy Cycladic rooms, charming terraces, and a truly local village feel without the premium price.
Best Area to Stay in Santorini For…
When you’re looking for the best area to stay in Santorini, there are ways to help you narrow it down. Let’s break it down quickly by category.
Couples or Honeymoon (Wow Factor)
If I am ever blessed enough to return to Santorini, Oia will be where I choose to stay! It’s absolutely dreamy and romantic!
Imerovigli is a good second option as well. It’s close enough to Oia, but far enough away to have less touristy crowds.
First-Time Visitors
Ultimately, if it’s in your budget and you want the quintessential Santorini stay, then Oia should be your focus. Fira is also a great option as it is centrally located and also offers amazing views. Both towns have plenty of restaurants as well, making them ideal bases.
Without a Car
If you plan on using the bus system then Fira is where you want to stay. Every bus connects in Fira so it’s the easiest base for your trip.
Oia also works well because it is a place you will visit more than once during your Santorini itinerary.
Imerovigli sits between Oia and Fira, so it can be a good quiet option with easy access to both towns.
I stayed in the southern end of the island at Perivolos. My friend and I rented ATVs to get around a couple days and the tour we booked offered pickup and dropoff other days. However, if you don’t want to ride around the island by car or ATV, stay in the northern half.
Budget or Solo Travelers
The southern beaches like Perivolos or Kamari are great budget friendly options! I stayed in Perivolos with a friend and really enjoyed our stay.
Fira is great as well since it’s centrally located and every bus connects in this capital of Santorini.
Santorini Accommodations Interactive Map
More Help Planning Your Santorini Trip
Make the most of your Santorini adventure with these guides:
- How I Spent Four Days in Santorini—A Trip to Remember! – My personal experience and day-by-day plan to see the island’s highlights.
- What to Do in Santorini in 3 Days | Sun, Sea, and Sunsets – Quick itinerary for first-timers or short stays.
- Santorini vs Mykonos: Honest Greek Island Comparison + Travel Tips – Can’t decide if you want to add Mykonos to your trip?
- Is Santorini Walkable? – Understanding Santorini’s walkability.
- What to Pack for Santorini in May: The Ultimate Guide – Carry-on friendly essentials and seasonal tips.
- Best Time to Visit Santorini | Less Crowds & Better Weather! – Why I love the shoulder season!
FAQ
Should I stay in Oia or Fira?
If it’s your first time in Santorini and you want that iconic “wow” factor, Oia is the better choice. The sunsets, whitewashed cliffs, and caldera views are what most people picture when they dream of Santorini.
Fira is a better option if you want a central base, more nightlife, easier transportation, and better value, but it feels busier and less romantic than Oia.
Where is the best area to stay without a car?
Fira is the easiest place to stay without a car because it’s the island’s main transportation hub. All bus routes connect here, and you can easily reach Oia, the beaches, wineries, and tours.
That said, Oia also works well without a car if you plan to stay mostly in the village and book tours with hotel pickup.
What’s the quietest part of Santorini?
Imerovigli is the quietest area with dramatic caldera views. It offers the same stunning scenery as Oia but with far fewer crowds and a more peaceful atmosphere, making it ideal for couples and honeymooners.
For an even calmer, more local experience, Pyrgos and Akrotiri are also excellent choices.
Where is best for sunset photos?
Oia is the most famous place for sunset photos in Santorini, thanks to its cliffside viewpoints, blue-domed churches, and sweeping caldera views.
For equally beautiful sunsets with fewer crowds, Imerovigli offers higher vantage points and wide-open views that are perfect for photography.
What’s the cheapest area to stay?
The southern beach towns like Perivolos, Perissa, and Kamari, offer the best value on the island. You’ll find larger rooms, beach access, and lower prices compared to caldera-side towns.
For budget-friendly stays closer to the action, Fira outskirts and Pyrgos also provide great value without the high price tag of Oia or Imerovigli.
Of course, if you plan your trip around the shoulder months, which are the best time to visit Santorini to avoid crowds, you’ll get the added benefit of better prices!
Best Area in Santorini to Stay
The beauty of Santorini is there are so many great places to stay that still deliver charm, stunning views, interesting landscapes and all at varying budgets. While I love Oia for the wow factor, there are plenty of breathtaking sights!
I hope you were able to find the best area to stay Santorini for your trip! This island will leave you breathless with its beauty and fond memories with its charm, at least it did for me. So I hope you enjoy your trip to this bucket-list worthy Greek island!
6 Comments