The best places to stay in Santorini

Are you planning a getaway in the Cyclades Jewel? Discover our tips and favorites to choose where to stay in Santorini.

When you think about Cyclades , it is usually the breathtaking landscapes of Santorini that come to mind. The contrast between brown and rugged cliffs, water with deep reflections and white and blue houses is striking.

These riches make it one of the most popular destinations of Greece and attract every year a crowd of tourists.

To help you spend an unforgettable stay on the island, we have selected for you the best places to stay in Santorini. No doubt you will find in our list a corner of paradise that matches you!

View available accommodation in Santorini:

On which side of the house?

Santorin presents two different faces, on the one hand, and on the other side beaches. First of all, here are their respective strengths to guide your research.

Caldera side

It is on the west coast that you will find the postcard landscapes that nourish the imagination associated with Santorini. You will enjoy the incredible view of this marvel of caldera, but also of splendid sunsets.

You will also discover some of the most beautiful villages on the island, from the uncontournable Oia to the capital, Fira. On the other hand, keep in mind that prices on the Caldera side are particularly high, as it is the most popular area to stay in Santorini.

Beach side

The southeast bank is a good alternative to stay in Santorini. First, prices are significantly lower than the caldera side.

Then, and above all, this coast also has its own wealth, including dark sand beaches characteristic of the island. It is ideal for visitors who wish to spend a relaxing holiday in beautiful seaside villages.

To enjoy a breathtaking view

Imagine the caldera bathed by the dewd light of a sublime sunset... Here are the most beautiful villages to stay in Santorini to enjoy this unforgettable show.

Fira

Loved in the heart of the coast that encircles the caldera, the capital of the island offers a very beautiful view. A diving view of the “new volcano” (Nea Kameni).

Fira is also an ideal starting point to discover the landscapes otherwise thanks to a boat trip. Accommodation in Fira is large and relatively expensive.

Choose if possible accommodation in the heights and with a terrace to enjoy sunsets by sipping a glass of ouzo.

Oia

At the northern tip of the island, perched on an impressive cliff, is Oia, the second largest city. Often described as the most beautiful village of Santorini, Oia offers a superb view of the caldera.

In fact, its traditional houses themselves form a splendid landscape, punctuated with blue domes and immaculate bells. Loger in Oia allows to enjoy these assets outside peak hours.

However, this option is not within the reach of all scholarships, as Oia focuses a lot of luxury accommodations.

Imerovigli

It is said from Imerovigli that it is, from all the villages of Santorini, the one where the view is the most beautiful. His name, moreover, derives from the word "glaz" which means "view" or "watch".

In Imerovigli, the look embraces an incredible panorama of the caldera and takes the measure of the place. In addition, the village faces one of the symbols of Santorini, the rock of Skaros and its ruined fortress.

Firostefani

The pretty quiet village of Firostefani is a 10-minute walk from Fira. Nestled in the heights, it offers a plunging view of the caldera but also on the capital.

In addition, the atmosphere in the village remained more traditional and less agitated than in Fira. For these reasons and thanks to its many hotels, Firostefani is an excellent choice of village where to stay in Santorini.

To enjoy animation and nightlife

Fira

Capital of Santorini, Fira is also the beating heart. The many visitors mix with the 1,600 locals who live there this year.

The city is full of bars and restaurants and there are also some clubs. This is undoubtedly the best place to go out in Santorini.

With its many shops, Fira will also delight lovers of shopping. For night birds and those looking for animation, Fira is the perfect place to stay in Santorini.

Oia

Very lively, the beautiful Oia has many bars and restaurants. If you don't fear the crowd, don't miss the Sun Spirit Cocktail Bar and its breathtaking view.

Oia will seduce lovers of shopping, but also of art. Indeed, many artists had a lightning blow for the village to the point of setting up and opening galleries.

Perissa and Perivolos

On the beach side you will also find particularly live villages. Perissa and Perivolos are part of it. These pleasant seaside resorts attract many visitors thanks to their black sandy beaches and crystal clear waters.

For those who dream of a relaxing and lively holiday, these are very good places to stay in Santorini. There are many hotels, bars and restaurants, but also charming traditional taverns.

For a romantic stay

With its delicious landscapes and legendary sunsets, Santorin is the perfect destination for a romantic trip.

Oia

In this context too, Oia rises to the top of the list of the best places to stay in Santorini. Why not make a nice gift by booking a room in one of the beautiful hotels in the village?

Firostefani

The village has everything for a perfect stay at two: a superb view, a romantic atmosphere, good restaurants. In addition to this, there is some tranquility, something rare in Santorini.

Megalochori

Further south, Megalochori is a traditional preserved village. Perched on a hill, it is surrounded by vineyards some of which visit. If you are looking for your romantic stay in Santorini a place away from the tumult, you will not be disappointed. In Megalochori, you will discover another facet of the island.

Thirassia

Thirassia is an island in the heart of the caldera, which faces Santorini. Only 150 residents live on this 9 km2 rock block. What is more magical and romantic than feeling away from the world? There are few accommodations in Thirassia but it is worth looking for the rare pearl.

For a family stay

Santorin is perfect for a family holiday both active and relaxing.

Kamari, Perissa, Perivolos

The beachside villages are a very good choice for families looking to stay in Santorini. Kamari, Perissa and Perivolos are perfect, of course, for swim enthusiasts and nautical activities. But they also offer other possibilities, for example the visit of the ancient site of Thera located nearby.

Fira

If you want to get the best out of your family holiday in Santorini, nothing better than staying in Fira. Indeed, the central location of the capital and its bus lines allow you to visit the entire island easily. Fira is also the perfect starting point for boat trips in the caldera and the islands around.

For authentic holidays

Others, more confidential, hide inside the land.

Emporio

Emporio is a large village south of the island. The medieval print is strong in its architecture, carefully renovated. Largely ignored by tourists, Emporio does not lack charms or points of interest.

This includes a medieval fortress and beautiful churches. By staying in one of the many villas for rent in Emporio, you can easily reach the beaches of the south.

Pyrgos

From the top of its hill, Pyrgos offers a beautiful view of the island. More authentic than the villages of the coast, Pyrgos will allow you to discover the hidden face of Santorini.

You will be close to Mount Mesa Vouno which will delight lovers. The village also houses the remains of a medieval castle.

Writing selection

At Wanderlix, we like to get out of the beaten paths. Some of the places mentioned are for us real blows of heart, and here is why.

First, Imerovigli We've got it. With its picturesque houses and stunning views, it is in a way the quintessence of Santorini’s riches. At the same time, it is still relatively preserved, making it an excellent alternative to Oia.

Then we were more than seduced by Megalochori . In this beautiful village which is one of the most traditional of the island, we live Santorini otherwise, far from the crowds. On its living central square or in its vineyards, we reconnect with the history of the place and feel like a local!

We hope that these tips will help you to find you and to find the ideal place to stay in Santorini. Whatever option you choose, your stay on this fascinating island should be rich in emotions.