🏨 Santorini areas for a holiday: Fira, Oia, Imerovigli and the beaches

On Santorini, the area matters more than the hotel.

A beautiful room in an inconvenient village can easily spoil a trip. The caldera, the beach and the inland villages give you three completely different holidays: one with volcano views and staircases, one with the sea on your doorstep and no view, and one with peace and quiet and a rental car. Below we go through all thirteen bases on the island, from Fira to Thirasia, with the pros, the cons and the hotels in each.

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Where to stay on Santorini: the short answer

💡 In short:

First trip and easy logistics: Fira.
Couples and the widest caldera view: Imerovigli.
A compromise between view and quiet: Firostefani.
Postcard Santorini and sunsets: Oia, but it is expensive and crowded.
Families and the beach: Kamari, Perissa or Perivolos.
Quiet and lower prices if you rent a car: Akrotiri, Pyrgos, Megalochori.
Bus routes and transport: 09/2026, checked on the official KTEL Santorini website

For most first-time visitors, the best base is on the caldera. That means Fira, Firostefani, Imerovigli and Oia. This is where you find the cave hotels with terraces, the sunset restaurants and the path along the crater rim. This view is what brings almost every visitor to the island.

The inland villages suit those who have already seen the caldera or are renting a car. Pyrgos, Megalochori and Akrotiri are calmer and noticeably more affordable. There are no crowds in the evening, but there are squares, old churches and wineries close by.

Practical tips before you book

Village first, hotel second. The most common mistake on Santorini is a beautiful hotel in the wrong area. Staying on the caldera, by the beach and in a village feels like three different trips. Decide which one is yours, and only then start browsing hotels.
A caldera view and a sunset view are not the same thing. Many of the best caldera hotels look out at the volcano and the sea, but not at the sunset. The sunset hotels in Oia face north and north-west, towards the open Aegean, not into the crater.
A private pool is not always private. On the caldera, the term means a small plunge pool for your party only. The terrace may still be visible from walkways, restaurants and neighbouring rooms. Ask about the layout if privacy matters to you.
Pool heating matters. In April, May, early June, late September and October, unheated water can be too cold. Especially when it is windy. Check for this in the room description.
There are no beaches on the caldera. Fira, Firostefani, Imerovigli and Oia sit on the cliffs. You get views, restaurants and sunsets there, but you cannot walk down to the water for a swim.
With children, the beach resorts are easier. Kamari, Perissa and Perivolos have flat streets, big pools, lower prices and simpler cafes, and swimming is easy.
Book early. From May to October, the best caldera-view rooms, family hotels and suites with a private pool sell out months ahead. For July, August and early September, start looking 6-9 months in advance if you want a specific hotel or room category.
An arrival transfer is worth booking ahead. Santorini airport is small and overcrowded in season. The Athinios ferry port sits below a steep slope, it is hectic, and you cannot walk out of it. For late arrivals, families, luggage and cliffside hotels, a pre-booked car pays for itself.

Grace Santorini sits right above Skaros Rock in Imerovigli. This is the highest village on the caldera, and the view from here is the widest on the island. We cover this hotel and the village's other strong options in the Imerovigli section.

Three types of area: caldera, beach and villages

Choosing where to stay on Santorini comes down to three options. They are the caldera view, the convenience of the beach, or the quiet feel of a village. Each one does a different job, and there is no one-size-fits-all answer.

For a first trip, we recommend the caldera villages. They are expensive, cramped in places, and hard work with luggage or limited mobility. But this is exactly what the island is known for. The view of the volcano, the flooded crater and the white houses on the cliff edge sets Santorini apart from every other Greek island.

Caldera villages: the best view

Fira, Firostefani, Imerovigli and Oia stretch along the western edge of the cliff. They look out over the caldera and the volcano opposite. This is where you find the cave hotels, plunge pools, private terraces, blue domes and the walking path from Fira to Oia.

The price of this view is clear: high rates, crowds, stairs and no beach. Rooms are often small for the money. In many hotels, steep steps lead to the room and you have to carry your suitcase by hand. But if this is your first trip to Santorini, and possibly your only one, the view justifies the cost.

Fira: the best choice for a first trip. Restaurants, nightlife, shops, buses and easy logistics. Noisy and commercial, but very convenient.
Firostefani: the best compromise. A superb caldera view, calmer than Fira, and an easy walk to restaurants, bars and buses.
Imerovigli: for couples, a honeymoon and high-end hotels. The widest caldera view. Quiet and romantic, but less convenient than Fira.
Oia: the classic postcard village, boutiques, honeymoon hotels and sunsets. Beautiful, expensive, crowded and not the best base for getting around the island.

Beach resorts: swimming and price

The island's main beach resorts lie on the east and south-east coast. There is no caldera view there. In exchange you get lower prices, roomier rooms, bigger pools, flat streets and direct access to the sea.

The beaches here are black volcanic sand and pebbles, not soft white sand. They are striking, get scorching underfoot in summer and look nothing like the beaches of Naxos or Paros. But for families, sea lovers and anyone who wants to save money, Kamari, Perissa and Perivolos can be an excellent base.

Kamari: a simple, lively resort for families, with everything close at hand. Good hotels, a long promenade, inexpensive restaurants and convenient buses to Fira.
Perissa and Perivolos: the best beach base on the island. A long black sand beach, sunbeds, tavernas, water sports and beach clubs. Perissa is simpler and cheaper. Perivolos is more stylish and more spacious.

In practice this means: choose the beach if you are travelling with small children, want to save money, are avoiding stairs, or care more about swimming than about the sunset.

Inland villages: atmosphere and local life

The villages in the middle of the island are quieter, more traditional and more affordable than the caldera. They work best for those who rent a car, are coming back for a second visit or want to see a less touristy Santorini.

You will not get the classic clifftop view in the morning. What you will get is village squares, old churches, wineries, free parking and a break from the crowds.

Pyrgos: a hilltop village around a Venetian castle. Panoramic views, winding lanes, good restaurants and far calmer than Oia.
Megalochori: a wine village with a cosy square, old mansions, bell towers and tavernas. Quiet, romantic and handy for the wineries, the Akrotiri excavations and the south coast beaches.
Emporio: the island's largest traditional village, with the medieval Kasteli quarter. Less polish, fewer tourists, and easier to live in with a car.
Messaria: central, practical and more local than touristy. A good place to look for inexpensive accommodation and to drive around the island from.

Important: the inland villages are not the best choice for a first trip without a car. But if you have already seen the caldera, want to save money or prefer villages to tourist hubs, they are a sensible option.

Quiet spots: Akrotiri and Thirasia

Akrotiri: a quiet, spread-out area where it is hard to manage without a car. Some of the hotels on the southern edge of the caldera face north, towards Fira, Imerovigli and Oia, and the view from there is superb. Nearby are the excavations, the viewpoint above Red Beach, the lighthouse and the south coast beaches. There is no nightlife and no convenient bus travel here.
Thirasia: the quietest option of all. It is a separate island facing Santorini across the caldera. It feels like Santorini before mass tourism: a few tavernas, simple guesthouses and almost no polish. Great for seclusion, but not for those who want the full set of experiences on a first trip.

Kayaks in a bay beneath the cliffs of Akrotiri

This sunset was shot in Pyrgos, the highest village on the island. The view from here is wider and calmer than from the caldera. Next we tackle the main question: stay on the cliff edge or by the sea.

Caldera or beach: which to choose

If you are choosing between the clifftop villages and the black sand resorts, remember one thing. On Santorini, the best places to stay are on the caldera, not by the beach.

On most Greek islands, the best hotels sit by the sand. Santorini works differently. The most striking hotels, restaurants and views are concentrated on the cliff edge in Fira, Firostefani, Imerovigli and Oia. The beach resorts are simpler, cheaper, flatter and better for swimming. But they do not give you the classic Santorini view.

Staying on the caldera

The caldera villages give you the Santorini you have seen in photographs. Cave hotels, white terraces, infinity pools above the sea, sunsets and clifftop walks. This is where the island looks its most dramatic and least like anywhere else.

Who it's for:

first-time visitors who want the classic view;
couples, honeymoons and anniversaries;
fans of high-end hotels, and photographers;
short trips where you want the impact straight away;
those who want restaurants, wine bars and sunset terraces close by.

The catch:

hotels cost noticeably more than in the beach resorts;
rooms and pools are smaller for the same money;
lots of stairs, steep paths and trouble with luggage;
Oia and Fira are packed, especially during the day and at sunset;
there is no proper swimming beach within walking distance;
many boutique hotels are adults-only or poorly suited to small children.

The verdict on the caldera: if this is your first trip and your budget allows it, stay on the caldera. The view is the reason to come. You can take a day trip to the beach, but you cannot recreate sunrise over the volcano from a beach hotel.

This shot shows Imerovigli, the highest point of the caldera. Oia is visible on the horizon. From here it is easy to see why couples choose this village in particular.

Staying by the beach

The beach resorts offer a more relaxed and affordable holiday. They feel like an ordinary Greek beach resort: flat streets, seaside tavernas, beach bars, sunbeds, simple hotels and easy entry into the water.

Who it's for:

families with small children;
those watching their budget;
those who want a pool, space and walks without stairs;
long trips where a caldera view every day is not essential;
anyone who wants to swim often and keep logistics simple.

The catch:

there is no caldera view;
there is no classic sunset over the volcano either;
you need a bus, car, taxi or transfer to reach Fira, Oia, Imerovigli, the wineries and Akrotiri;
restaurants are simpler and beach-oriented, with few serious food destinations;
the black sand and pebble beaches get very hot in summer.

The verdict on the beach: by the sea you get more space for your money. Rooms are larger, pools are bigger, access is easier and prices are lower than in the caldera villages. It is a sensible choice for families, budget travellers and anyone who wants a simple, calm base.

Our conclusion: who should stay where

First trip and couples: stay on the caldera. Choose Imerovigli for romance and the view, Fira for convenience and nightlife, Firostefani as the best compromise, and Oia for the classic postcard and high-end hotels.
Families with small children: stay by the beach. Flat streets, pools, simple restaurants and easy access to the sea make life much easier.
Tight budget: take a room in Fira without a caldera view, or choose Kamari, Perissa or Perivolos. Spend the money you save on a boat trip, a wine tour or one dinner with a caldera view.
Return trip: take a look at Pyrgos, Megalochori or Akrotiri if you want quiet and are willing to rent a car.
The best of both worlds: split your trip. Spend 3-4 nights on the caldera, then 2-3 nights by the beach to unwind and save money. This works well on a long trip. On a three-night trip, changing hotels is not worth it.

The best hotels on Santorini by type of trip

Below is a short list of hotels by purpose. The names come up again in the area guides, along with their location and features. Start with the category that matches your trip.

View of the Santorini caldera and Nea Kameni from Fira

Breakfast on a balcony at Homeric Poems in Firostefani. The hotel appears in two categories on the list at once: for couples and for the caldera view.

High-end hotels: Grace Santorini, Katikies, Canaves Oia Suites, Kivotos, Athina Luxury Suites, Saint.
Boutique hotels: Tsitouras Collection, The Vasilicos, Carpe Diem.
For couples and honeymoons: Homeric Poems, Aenaon Villas, Katikies, Charisma Suites, Cosmopolitan Suites, Santo Pure.
With a sunset view: Astra Suites (Imerovigli), Athina Luxury Suites (Fira), Sun Rocks (Firostefani), Esperas (Oia), Santo Mine (Oia), Santo Pure (Oia).
Best pool: Nous Santorini.

If you are choosing among the high-end hotels, start with prices at Grace Santorini on Trip.com. This hotel lands in several categories at once more often than any other.

A family breakfast on the terrace at Oia Mansion. The villa faces the sunset and sleeps up to eight guests, so it suits families and groups.

For families: Aria Suites (Fira), Andronis Concept Wellness Resort (Imerovigli), Andronis Arcadia (Oia), Oia Mansion (Oia), Sea Breeze Beach Resort (Perivolos).
For privacy: Aenaon Villas, Carpe Diem Santorini, Coco-Mat Hotel, Vedema.
Close to the nightlife: Katikies Garden, Cosmopolitan Suites, Enigma Suites.
Mid-range with a caldera view: Kavalari Hotel, Keti Hotel, Belvedere Suites, Reverie Santorini.
Mid-range without a view: Costa Marina Villa, San Giorgio, Petini's Place, Santellini Hotel.
Villas: the villa with a private pool at Grace, Nafsika Estate, Aria Villas, Oia Mansion, Patina Vivera Estate.

A room at Katikies in Oia. The walls with their rounded vaults echo the shape of the caldera's traditional cave houses.

A room at Homeric Poems in Firostefani. The doors open straight onto a terrace above the caldera.

A villa at Aria Suites in Fira. Several villas stand side by side here, so it suits families, couples and small groups.

The view of Oia's blue domes and the caldera from a suite at Oia Spirit. It is one of the village's most recognisable angles.

A room at Anteliz Suites in Firostefani. The hotel stands on the notional boundary between Fira and Firostefani.

A balcony at Astra Suites in Imerovigli. Skaros Rock is visible directly opposite.

A suite with a private pool at Sea Breeze Beach Resort in Perivolos. It shows how much space the beach hotels give you.

A suite at Reverie Santorini in Firostefani. A small pool and a shared rooftop terrace with a view make it an affordable way to stay in a clifftop village.

A suite at Danae Suites in Finikia, next to Oia. Good value for money.

The Patina villa at Patina Vivera Estate in Pyrgos. Six bedrooms, a private pool, a hot tub and an outdoor kitchen. The villa stands next to an old church, and you can see the sea from the terrace.

Fira: the capital, transport and nightlife

From here on we look at each village and each beach resort in turn: what the area does well, who it will not suit and which hotels are worth a look there. We start with a map showing where the island's bases sit in relation to the caldera, the airport and the beaches.

Fira suits a first trip, nightlife, shopping, restaurants, the caldera view, getting around by bus, families and budget stays. It is the capital and main town of Santorini, and for most first-time visitors it is the best base.

Night panorama of the white houses of Fira on Santorini

Fira has a caldera view, the most restaurants, the best nightlife, the most shops and the easiest bus connections. If you want your Santorini holiday to be lively and convenient, choose Fira.

The Santorini caldera from the air at sunset

The town sits on the caldera cliff, like Oia, Imerovigli and Firostefani. From here you can see the volcano, Thirasia and the Aegean Sea. The view is superb, but Fira is not as polished and romantic as Oia, nor as quiet as Imerovigli. Its strength is variety. In a few minutes you can walk from a clifftop cocktail bar to a cheap gyros stand, a jewellery shop, a museum, a club and the bus station.

Our advice is this: if it is your first time on Santorini and you are unsure, go for Fira or Firostefani. Fira is stronger on restaurants, buses, nightlife and convenience. Firostefani is better if you want a similarly central location but a calmer atmosphere.

The catch: Fira is crowded, especially from late morning until sunset, when cruise ship passengers and day trippers fill the streets. The central streets by the cable car, Gold Street and the caldera path are jammed with people in July, in August and on days with big cruise calls.

The town is a maze of narrow streets, staircases, clifftop restaurants, small hotels, souvenir stalls, jewellery shops, churches, bars and viewpoints. It is not a beach resort. The nearest popular beach is in Kamari, about 20 minutes away by taxi, car or bus (according to the map).

For nightlife, Fira is well ahead of the island's other villages. The bars fill up after sunset, and the clubs stay open late into the night in July, in August and at weekends in season. If you want quiet nights, pick a hotel away from the bar streets and do not book rooms near the central alleys.

This sunset was shot at MarinEra, a restaurant and cocktail bar in Fira. The tables stand right on the edge of the caldera, so sunset seats here are worth booking in advance.

Fira remains Santorini's transport hub. The main bus station is here, and almost every route starts or ends in town, according to the operator KTEL Santorini (as of 09/2026). That makes Fira the best base if you do not want to rent a car. From here you can reach Oia, Imerovigli, Firostefani, Kamari, Perissa, Akrotiri, the ferry port and the airport directly or with one simple change. In summer the buses can be overcrowded, hot and chaotic. With luggage, a pre-booked transfer is still the more comfortable way to get to the port and the airport.

Who Fira suits

Who it's for:

you are visiting Santorini for the first time and want the easiest base;
you want a caldera view with restaurants, shops, bars and transport close by;
you are not planning to rent a car and will get around by bus;
you want nightlife within walking distance;
you want a wider choice of hotels and lower prices than in Oia or Imerovigli.

Not for:

you want a quiet honeymoon atmosphere: choose Imerovigli or Oia;
you want to step out of your hotel straight onto the beach: choose Kamari, Perissa or Perivolos;
you dislike crowds, cruise traffic and busy pedestrian streets;
you have limited mobility and need flat streets without steps.

Hotels in Fira

Fira has the widest choice of hotels of any caldera village. There are high-end suites with plunge pools, mid-range hotels with a view, simple guesthouses and cheaper rooms further back in town. Rooms with a caldera view cost far more, especially from June to September.

Hotels further back in town are a sensible choice if location matters more to you than the view. You will be a five-minute walk from the caldera and pay noticeably less. Book the best caldera hotels early, especially for May to October. Budget and family rooms also go quickly, because Fira is the most practical base on the island.

Fira is not perfect, but it works. For most travellers, especially first-timers, it offers the best combination of view, convenience, food, nightlife and transport on Santorini.

The pool at Athina Luxury Suites looks straight out over the caldera, and poolside cocktails here come with a view of the volcano. This is our top pick among the high-end hotels in Fira.

The best hotels in Fira: Athina Luxury Suites, Katikies Garden, Cosmopolitan Suites, Aria Suites, Enigma Suites, Ethos Vegan Suites.
Mid-range: Kavalari Hotel, San Giorgio, Costa Marina Villa.

Before booking, check available dates at Athina Luxury Suites: sunset-view rooms are the first to go in season.

Firostefani: a caldera view without the crowds

Firostefani suits sunsets, the caldera view, couples, a quiet stay, a first trip and easy access to Fira. The village begins just north of the capital, and the boundary between them is barely noticeable.

The white houses of Firostefani on a Santorini hillside

Firostefani is a 10-15 minute walk north of Fira along the caldera path (according to the map). It is one of the best places on Santorini if you want a caldera view without the chaos of the capital. The name translates as "crown of Fira", and it describes the village's position precisely. It sits a little higher and further out than Fira, the atmosphere is calmer, and the view of the volcano and the sea is slightly more elevated.

There is no clear line where Fira ends and Firostefani begins. Roughly speaking, you can draw it at the bar Volkan on the Rocks and the Anteliz Suites hotel. Further north the streets get quieter, the hotels more private, and the sunsets are just as beautiful as in Fira, sometimes even better.

For many first-time visitors, Firostefani is the best compromise. The village is close enough to Fira to walk to restaurants, the bus, the shops and the bars. And it is far enough away that you sleep soundly and do not feel you are in the middle of a tourist conveyor belt.

This sunset was shot from the rooftop terrace of the restaurant To Briki in Firostefani. The view from here takes in the volcano and the open sea.

Like the other caldera villages, Firostefani is built in tiers down the slope. Hotels, restaurants, cave suites, terraces and footpaths are stacked one above another, so there is a good view from many spots. It is not as dramatic as Imerovigli and not as famous as Oia, but it is simpler, more practical and better value.

Firostefani has a small but useful set of restaurants, cafes and grocery shops, a bakery, a few small stores and a good bookshop. There is no real nightlife. For most guests that is a plus. When you want bars, clubs, more restaurants or a night-time buzz, Fira is an easy walk away. When you want quiet, you head back uphill to Firostefani.

The stretch of the caldera path through Firostefani is one of the most beautiful on the island. To the south it leads to Fira. To the north the path runs to Imerovigli and, if you keep going, on to Oia. For many travellers this is the main reason to choose the village: you do not need a car to see the best of the central caldera.

Fira bus station is a 15-20 minute walk from most Firostefani hotels (according to the map). Buses run along the road between Fira and Imerovigli with a stop near the village, but we do not recommend planning a transfer with luggage around that stop. For the airport and the ferry port, book a taxi or private transfer in advance. For trips to the beaches, the wineries, Akrotiri or Oia, the buses are fine. Even then, it is easier to walk to the station in Fira than to wait for a short ride in Firostefani and then change.

Who Firostefani suits

Who it's for:

you want a caldera view without Fira's crowds and noise;
you want to walk to restaurants, shops, bars and the bus;
you are a couple or a first-time visitor and want romance with practical logistics;
you want a lower price than in Oia or Imerovigli without giving up the view;
you like quiet evenings and a short walk to the nightlife when the mood takes you.

Not for:

you want lots of restaurants, bars and shops right at your door: choose Fira;
you are after the most dramatic high-end clifftop hotels: choose Imerovigli;
you want postcard Oia: stay in Oia, but be ready for higher prices and crowds;
you want a beach holiday: choose Kamari, Perissa or Perivolos.

Hotels in Firostefani

Hotels in Firostefani are not cheap, especially those with a caldera view. But they are better value for money than in Oia and Imerovigli. Rooms further back in the village can be surprisingly affordable and still very convenient. Caldera-view suites with plunge pools sell out early for May to October, so book ahead if the view matters to you.

Firostefani is neither the liveliest nor the most luxurious village. But that is exactly why it suits many travellers. You get the caldera, the sunset, the walking path and easy access to Fira, without every moment of the trip turning into a crush and extra expense.

The view of the caldera and the volcano from the pool at Anteliz Suites. The hotel sits on the southern edge of the village, closest to Fira.

The best hotels in Firostefani: Tsitouras Collection, Anteliz Suites, Sun Rocks, Homeric Poems, Belvedere Suites, Dana Villas & Infinity Suites.
Mid-range: Reverie Santorini Hotel, Villa Ilias, Blue Dolphins Apartments.

First on the list is the boutique hotel Tsitouras Collection, which is worth viewing on Trip.com: Tsitouras Collection.

Imerovigli: the highest point of the caldera

Imerovigli suits couples, honeymoons, lovers of sunsets and the caldera view, high-end hotels, a quiet stay and romantic dinners. The village sits at the very highest point of the caldera, and the view from here is the widest on Santorini.

The white houses of Imerovigli on the caldera slope

The most famous view on the island is from Oia. The most convenient is from Fira. But for height, sunset, volcano view and privacy, Imerovigli has almost no rivals. If the view from your room is what matters most to you, this village goes to the top of the list.

It is the quietest and most romantic of the main caldera villages. This is where we would send most newlyweds, couples and anyone who wants to see that famous Santorini view without a crowd at the door. The northern part of Imerovigli is especially peaceful, and it is home to some of the best high-end hotels with private terraces.

The catch: Imerovigli is a quiet village. It has good restaurants, a few cafes, a couple of small grocery shops and some calm wine bars and lounges, but there is no real nightlife and almost no shopping. If you want lively streets, late bars and a wide choice of restaurants, choose Fira. If you want blue domes and postcard streets, choose Oia. If you want the best hotel on the caldera, choose Imerovigli.

The restaurants here are stronger than you would expect from such a small village. Athenian House is the place for a big romantic dinner: refined Greek cuisine and a caldera view. Avocado is simpler and friendlier, the food is consistently good, especially the Mediterranean dishes, and there are options for vegetarians. Anogi is a lively taverna with reasonable prices and one of the best casual tavernas near the caldera. The hotel restaurants in Imerovigli have also improved noticeably, especially in the high-end hotels. Book a sunset table in advance and be prepared to pay extra for the view.

The photo shows the path from the village to Skaros Rock. Stone steps lead down to the isthmus, and from there the trail loops around the rock.

The path to Skaros Rock starts in Imerovigli and is one of the best short walks on Santorini. It is steep in places and exposed to the sun, but the view back to Imerovigli and across the caldera is superb. You can do Skaros as a walk in its own right or add it to the hike from Fira to Oia. Take water and set out in the morning or towards evening.

Fira is about a 25-minute walk south along the caldera path (according to the map), depending on your hotel and how often you stop for photos. Firostefani is closer, a 10-15 minute walk. Oia is a long but very beautiful hike north. Buses to Fira run along the main road between Oia and Fira, but the central bus station is still in Fira.

You do not need a car if you are staying on the caldera, walking to restaurants and booking tours with hotel pick-up. A car is useful if you want to drive yourself to the beaches, the wineries, Pyrgos, Akrotiri and the quieter parts of the island. Parking is scarce in Imerovigli, and hunting for a space in high season is frustrating.

Who Imerovigli suits

Who it's for:

you want the best caldera view on Santorini;
you are on a honeymoon, an anniversary or a romantic trip;
you want a quiet village with excellent hotels and private terraces;
the view and the atmosphere matter more than nightlife and shops;
you like the idea of starting the Fira to Oia hike and the walk to Skaros Rock from here.

Not for:

you want lots of restaurants, bars and shops a few steps away: choose Fira;
you want Oia's famous streets and blue-dome photo spots: choose Oia;
you are on a tight budget: rooms further back in Fira, in Firostefani or in the beach resorts are better value;
you dislike stairs: many of the best hotels are built into the cliff, with a lot of steps down to the rooms;
you want a beach holiday: choose Kamari, Perissa or Perivolos.

Hotels in Imerovigli

Hotels in Imerovigli are among the most expensive on the island, especially the caldera-view suites with plunge pools. But this is where spending big is justified. A private terrace in Imerovigli can be the best part of your trip. If you are paying Santorini prices for a view, it makes more sense to do it here than in busier Oia.

Book the best hotels early, especially for June to September. Rooms further back in the village and small guesthouses are cheaper, but Imerovigli is not the place to go bargain hunting.

Imerovigli is not for everyone, and that is its strength. It is quiet, beautiful, romantic and slightly inconvenient. For couples who want to see the caldera at its most dramatic, it is the best village to stay in on Santorini.

The terrace at Astra Suites in Imerovigli looks out over the caldera and Skaros Rock. This hotel is also on the list of the best sunset-view hotels.

The best hotels in Imerovigli: Grace Santorini, Astra Suites, Aenaon Villas, Kivotos, Iconic, Cavo Tagoo, Andronis Concept Wellness Resort, White Pearl Cavalieri.
Mid-range: Merovigliosso, Aghios Artemios Traditional Houses.

If you are choosing a sunset terrace, check prices at Astra Suites on Trip.com before you start comparing the village's other hotels.

Oia: the postcard village in the north

Oia suits couples, honeymoons, shopping, sunsets, the caldera view, high-end hotels, romantic restaurants and families. It is the most famous village on Santorini, and with good reason.

Blue domes and white houses of Oia on Santorini

Oia brings together the white lanes, blue domes, cave hotels, high-end suites, boutiques and postcard views that most people picture when they hear the word "Santorini". If you want classic Santorini and are prepared to pay for it, choose Oia.

The village sits on the northern tip of the island and curves around the caldera. From here you can see the volcano, Thirasia, Ammoudi Bay and the open Aegean. Oia is beautiful, polished, expensive and very crowded in high season. It looks its best early in the morning, after sunset and outside the peak summer months. From late morning until sunset, especially in July and August, the main streets resemble a slow queue of people holding phones.

The biggest misconception about Oia is that every hotel has a sunset view. Most do not. Many of Oia's best hotels face south, into the caldera: their view of the volcano and the sea is stunning, but there is no direct sunset. A smaller group of hotels on the north-western edge face the sunset over the Aegean, but they have no real caldera view. Only a handful of hotels combine both.

The ruins of the Venetian castle in Oia make a good photo spot. This is the island's most popular place to watch the sunset, so it pays to claim your spot early.

For a wander around the shops, Oia is the best on the island. You will find jewellery, clothing, ceramics, art, sandals, linen and upmarket souvenirs. Prices are higher than in Fira, but the setting is prettier and the selection more carefully curated. We would not go to Oia for cheap shopping.

The restaurants here are good but vary in standard. Elinikon is a good choice for a sunset view and Greek food. Candouni is one of the warmest and most atmospheric restaurants in the village: good food, live Greek music on some evenings and a more local feel than many of the caldera-view restaurants. For seafood and a completely different setting, walk down or take a taxi to Ammoudi Bay.

Among the restaurants in Ammoudi Bay, Ammoudi Fish Tavern stands out. The tables are set right beside the quay with its boats.

Ammoudi is a small fishing port below the village. You reach it by a long staircase or by road. The fish tavernas are touristy but fun and of good quality. Ammoudi Fish Tavern stands out even among its neighbours. From the bay, a gravel path skirts the rocks and comes out at a spot for swimming and cliff jumping by the islet of Saint Nicholas. It is fun, but there is no sandy beach, and the place is not suitable for small children or anyone unsteady on rocks.

In the village centre, Oia is generally convenient for families. The pedestrian streets are flatter than in Fira or Imerovigli, and many restaurants welcome children. Important: many of the cliffside hotels have steep stairs and age restrictions, so families need to choose a hotel carefully. The best family options are on or near the main pedestrian street, not far down the slope.

The hike to Fira, one of the best walks on Santorini, starts from Oia's main pedestrian street. Most people walk it the other way, from Fira to Oia, because finishing in Oia is more spectacular. But starting from Oia works perfectly well too. Either way, take water, wear proper shoes and do not set out in the middle of the day.

The catch: Oia is not the most convenient base for getting around the island. The village is in the far north, so the journey to the airport, the port, the beaches, Akrotiri, Pyrgos and the wineries takes longer than from Fira or Imerovigli. Buses run between Oia and Fira, and you change in Fira to go further. If you travel outside the village a lot, renting a car or booking transfers is easier. Parking is difficult in high season, and taxis are hard to find before sunset.

Who Oia suits

Who it's for:

you want the most famous and photogenic village on Santorini;
you are on a honeymoon, an anniversary or a trip where you are willing to spend more;
you care about boutiques, romantic restaurants and polished hotels;
you are prepared to pay for atmosphere and location;
you want to stay somewhere that is especially beautiful early in the morning and late in the evening.

Not for:

you cannot stand crowds: Oia has the worst crush on the island, especially at sunset;
you want the best price: Fira, Firostefani and the beach resorts are better value;
you want convenient transport around the island: getting around from Fira is much easier;
you want nightlife: Oia has stylish bars, but it goes quiet in the evening far earlier than Fira;
you want a beach holiday: choose Kamari, Perissa or Perivolos.

Hotels in Oia

Oia's hotels are the most expensive on Santorini, and the best rooms sell out early. Read the room description carefully: "caldera view", "sea view", "sunset view" and "volcano view" can mean very different things.

If you want the sunset right from your terrace, filter hotels by which side of the village they are on, not by the photos. Hotels on the southern side give you the caldera, and hotels on the north-western side give you the sunset over the sea.

White hotel with a pool above the caldera in Oia

A two-bedroom villa at Canaves Oia Suites. It has a spacious private terrace with a plunge pool and a large private infinity pool.

Oia hotels with a caldera view: Katikies, Canaves Oia Suites, Saint.
Oia hotels with a sunset view: Santo Mine, Santo Pure, Charisma Suites, Andronis Arcadia, Canaves Epitome, Domes Novos, Esperas.
Mid-range: Aspa Villas, Anemomilos Hotel.

The caldera hotels in Oia are the first to sell out, so check rooms at Katikies on Trip.com in advance. If you want a villa with a large pool, compare dates at Canaves Oia Suites.

Akrotiri: sunsets, excavations and quiet

Akrotiri suits sunsets, the caldera view, archaeology, beaches, a crowd-free stay, getting around by car and more reasonable prices. It is the best area on Santorini if you want a caldera view, history, quiet and value, and do not need to be in the thick of things.

Ancient clay vessels at the Akrotiri excavations

Akrotiri is not a single village in the way Fira or Oia are. The name is used for a small inland village, for the archaeological site and sometimes for the whole south-western peninsula. When a hotel says "Akrotiri", check exactly where it is.

Ruins of ancient Akrotiri under the roof of the shelter

The village itself is small and traditional: a few tavernas, churches, local houses and the remains of a Venetian castle. It is pleasant but sleepy. You do not come here for shopping, nightlife or a wide choice of restaurants. You come because the surrounding peninsula has some of Santorini's most interesting sights, its quietest views and its best-value caldera-view hotels.

The area's main attraction is the excavation of ancient Akrotiri, a Bronze Age settlement preserved under volcanic ash. It is often compared to Pompeii, although Akrotiri is older, smaller and covered by a modern protective roof. The site is fascinating and easy to visit, even if you are not a fan of ruins.

This is what the excavations of ancient Akrotiri look like from inside. The visitor walkways run above the streets and the remains of houses, so you see the settlement from above.

Close to Akrotiri are some of the most unusual beaches on Santorini. Red Beach is spectacular, but we do not recommend it for a long lazy day. The cliffs there are unstable, the approach is awkward and it gets busy. Come for the view and the photos, then move on. White Beach is reached by boat, and it is more of a curiosity than a must-see. Caldera Beach is small, quiet and good for a simple swim with a caldera view. Vlychada Beach is further east and is one of the best beaches on the island: strangely shaped volcanic cliffs, a marina nearby and a calmer atmosphere than in Kamari or Perissa.

The lighthouse on the western tip of the peninsula is one of the best sunset spots on the island. You do not get Oia's recognisable backdrop, but you do get open sea, fewer people and far more calm. The romance here is simple and rugged. Outside summer, bring a light jacket and do not count on any facilities. The car park fills up before sunset, but it is still far less chaotic than Oia.

The best hotels in Akrotiri are not in the village centre. Most are along the caldera rim or scattered across the peninsula, with wide views of the volcano, Fira and Oia. The view is superb, and prices are lower than for similar rooms in Oia, Imerovigli or Fira. The catch: convenience. You will be further from restaurants, shops, nightlife and the main bus station.

A car is strongly recommended in Akrotiri. The peninsula is spread out, and from most hotels you cannot walk to a restaurant. With a car, the area really opens up. Without one, you will spend more time waiting for buses, booking transfers or limiting your outings. It is best to rent a car on Santorini through DiscoverCars before you arrive, especially for July and August.

Who Akrotiri suits

Who it's for:

you want a caldera view for less than in Oia, Imerovigli or Fira;
you plan to rent a car and explore the island on your own;
you want a quieter, less touristy base;
you are interested in ancient Akrotiri, Red Beach, Vlychada Beach, the wineries and sunset at the lighthouse;
you do not need nightlife or lots of restaurants within walking distance.

Not for:

you want a classic clifftop village: choose Fira, Firostefani, Imerovigli or Oia;
you do not want to rent a car: Fira is far easier without one;
you want nightlife, shops and a wide choice of restaurants;
you want to walk everywhere straight from your hotel;
you are coming for one or two nights and want maximum convenience.

Hotels in Akrotiri

Akrotiri is one of the best areas on Santorini for those who have already seen the main caldera villages or who prefer quiet, space and value to bustle. It is a sensible choice for long trips, return visits and couples who want a pool, a view and a car for daytime outings.

If it is your first visit and you only have two or three nights, choose Fira, Firostefani, Imerovigli or Oia. But for the right traveller, Akrotiri is an excellent base: fewer people, lower prices and more calm, with some of the island's best sunsets and most interesting sights close by.

White Cycladic houses with palm trees on Santorini

The view from the bedroom and the terrace with a private hot tub in the Caldera Residence room at Coco-Mat Hotel in Akrotiri. The bed faces a panoramic window onto the caldera.

The best hotels in Akrotiri: Coco-Mat Hotel, Astarte Suites, Cape 9 Villas and Suites, Santorini Princess Presidential Suites, Maison des Lys.
Mid-range: Kalestesia Suites, Apanemo Hotel & Suites.

If you want a caldera view right from your bedroom, see prices at Coco-Mat Santorini on Trip.com.

Pyrgos: a hilltop village and wineries

Pyrgos suits sunsets, traditional village atmosphere, a crowd-free stay, winery visits, quiet and more reasonable prices. It is the best choice if you want a traditional village, fewer people, good food, wineries nearby and a wide view over the island in place of the classic caldera cliff view.

The white village of Pyrgos on a hill among vineyards

For a first trip, Pyrgos is not the obvious choice. But it is one of the most rewarding bases for those who want Santorini to feel slower, more local and unpolished.

White houses and a blue-domed church in Pyrgos

The village sits on a hill in the middle of the island, below Mount Profitis Ilias, the highest point on Santorini. From the upper lanes and the castle ruins, the panorama takes in almost the whole island: vineyards, villages, the sea, the airport runway, the caldera rim and both coasts. The sunset here is superb, but not the same as in Oia or Imerovigli. There is no dramatic view of cliffs and volcano. You get a wider, quieter, more pastoral sunset, with far fewer people around.

Pyrgos is one of the prettiest inland villages. Narrow footpaths, stone houses, churches, small shops, boutique hotels and the ruins of a Venetian castle at the top. Most of the old village is pedestrian-only, and that is part of its charm. It is a good place to wander, climb, stop for coffee and find quiet corners. The catch: luggage, parking and steep streets can be a hassle.

This is not a nightlife base and not a beach base. Pyrgos has good restaurants, cafes, wine bars, galleries and a few local shops, but it has neither Fira's energy nor Oia's glamour. That is the point. If you want late bars, easy buses and a wide choice every evening, choose Fira. If you want a beautiful village with better prices and no crowd pressure, Pyrgos is a strong option.

The restaurants here are better than many guests expect. Pyrgos has excellent places, from simple tavernas to more refined restaurants with a sunset view. It is also one of the best bases for the wine region. Many of Santorini's wineries are a short drive away, and the vineyards around Pyrgos make the landscape feel nothing like the caldera villages. If tastings are a priority for you, Pyrgos is a very logical choice.

Hotels here are smaller, quieter and better value than in the caldera villages. Many are restored traditional houses, cave-style suites or boutique hotels with private pools and hot tubs. The views vary widely. Some rooms have a wide view over the island or the sea. Others look onto village lanes or a courtyard. Do not assume that a "Pyrgos view" means a caldera view.

A car is strongly recommended in Pyrgos. Buses connect Pyrgos with Fira and some of the beaches, but the timetable is not as convenient as when you stay in Fira, and services are limited in the evening. With a car, Pyrgos becomes an excellent central base: the wineries, the beaches, Akrotiri, Fira, the airport and the quiet inland villages are all easy to reach. Without a car, you can feel cut off here.

Who Pyrgos suits

Who it's for:

you want a quieter, more traditional Santorini village;
you plan to rent a car and drive around the island;
you like wineries, local restaurants and inland scenery;
you want lower prices than in Oia, Imerovigli or Fira;
you have already seen the caldera villages or want something less obvious.

Not for:

you want the classic caldera cliff view right from your hotel: choose Fira, Firostefani, Imerovigli or Oia;
you do not want to rent a car: Fira is far easier with the buses;
you want nightlife, shops and lots of restaurants a few steps away;
you want to stay near the beach: choose Kamari, Perissa or Perivolos;
you have limited mobility: the old village has steep streets, steps and uneven paths.

Hotels in Pyrgos

Pyrgos is one of our top alternatives to the caldera villages, but it suits a particular type of traveller best. It is quiet, atmospheric, central and better value. Pyrgos does not give you the classic "hotel above the caldera". In return you get a beautiful village, superb sunsets, good food, wineries nearby and a calmer version of the island.

From the pool terrace at Elessa Hotel you can see the eastern side of the island and, on a clear day, the island of Anafi on the horizon.

The best hotels in Pyrgos: Carpe Diem, Santorini Sky, North Santorini, Elessa Hotel, Voreina Gallery Suites, Skyfall Suites, Patina Vivera Estate (villas).
Mid-range: Cultural House.

If you want a pool with an eastward view, open prices for Elessa Hotel in Pyrgos and compare them with the caldera hotels.

Kamari: a beach holiday for families

Kamari suits families, beach lovers, budget stays, casual restaurants, low-key evenings and those who like a local feel. It is the simple beach option, especially for a trip with children.

Kamari has a long black sand and pebble beach, a flat pedestrian promenade, plenty of casual restaurants, beach bars, minimarkets, car rental offices and hotels that are far better value than in the caldera villages.

The black pebble beach of Kamari beneath the Mesa Vouno rock

Kamari is not the place for a clifftop view, sunsets or honeymoon romance. It is a practical beach base. You stay here for the pool, the beach, simple food, lower prices and fewer stairs. For families, older travellers and anyone who wants an easy Santorini, Kamari works well.

The beach is volcanic, made of dark sand and pebbles. It gets scorching underfoot in summer, so bring sandals or water shoes. The water is clean, deep blue and refreshing, but in places it gets deep quickly. Most of the beach is set up with sunbeds and umbrellas belonging to restaurants or beach clubs. In high season, expect to order drinks or food or to pay for a sunbed, depending on the section.

The promenade is the best part of Kamari. It is flat, mostly pedestrian and easy for walks with children and pushchairs. Restaurants line the beach, and although few of them are culinary discoveries, many are friendly, fun and perfectly good for a relaxed dinner. We would not send foodies here for the best dinner on Santorini. But it is one of the best places on the island to simply eat without planning.

Hotels in Kamari offer larger rooms, bigger pools and lower prices than in the caldera villages. Many are family-run and simple, with no luxury. Some look like neat boutique hotels, but the area's main advantage is price. For the money you would pay for a small room further back in Fira, in Kamari you can get a better hotel with a pool by the beach.

In the evenings there is more to do in Kamari than in most beach resorts. It is not Fira's nightlife, but there are beach bars, cocktail spots, casual restaurants, shops, mini golf and an open-air summer cinema at the entrance to the resort. Films are shown in English with Greek subtitles. Doors open at 20:30, the screening starts at 21:30, and seats cannot be reserved (checked on 15.09.2026 on the cinema's official website). In season, arrive early.

Transport is one of Kamari's strong points. In summer, buses to Fira run frequently, and the journey takes about 15-20 minutes (according to the map). The route map is published by the operator KTEL Santorini. In Fira you change for Oia, Akrotiri, the ferry port and other villages. That makes Kamari one of the best beach bases if you do not want to rent a car. Important: in July and August the buses are overcrowded and there are few late services, so when time and speed matter, take a taxi or a transfer.

Kamari is also handy for the airport: it is about 10 minutes away by car (according to the map). That is useful for arrivals and early departures, but it also means aircraft noise. It is not constant, and most guests do not notice it. If you are a light sleeper, choose hotels away from the part of the resort closest to the airport.

In the warm months, Kamari and Perissa are linked by a seasonal water taxi that rounds the foot of Mount Mesa Vouno. When it is running, it is a fun and useful trip. But do not build firm plans around it: wind, swell and the season all affect the service.

Who Kamari suits

Who it's for:

you want a simple beach holiday with restaurants and shops close by;
you are travelling with children and want flat streets, pools and simple food;
you want better-value hotels than in the caldera villages;
you do not need a sunset or caldera view from your hotel;
you want a decent bus to Fira and the rest of the island.

Not for:

you want the classic Santorini clifftop view: choose Fira, Firostefani, Imerovigli or Oia;
you want romantic cave suites and private plunge pools;
you want the island's best restaurants within walking distance;
you are sensitive to aircraft noise;
you are dreaming of soft golden sand: Santorini essentially has no such beach.

Hotels in Kamari

Kamari is one of the most practical places to stay on Santorini. It is not the prettiest resort, and nobody comes here for the headline caldera view. But for beach days, family trips, quiet evenings and better-value hotels, it is hard to beat.

The white courtyard of Villa Anneta hotel in Kamari

Radisson Blu Zaffron Resort sits by Kamari beach. The long pool is surrounded by palm trees and sunbeds.

The best hotels in Kamari: Radisson Blu Zaffron Resort, Sandblu Resort, Santorini Kastelli Resort, Bellonias Villas, Viva Nove Suites, Nikki Beach Resort & Spa (on Monolithos Beach).
Mid-range: Tamarix Del Mar Suites, Santellini Hotel.

For a family holiday by the beach, start with prices at Radisson Blu Zaffron on Trip.com.

Perissa and Perivolos: the best beach area

Perissa and Perivolos suit families, beach lovers, budget stays, beach clubs, long trips and casual restaurants. For a proper beach holiday, this is the best part of Santorini.

Perissa beach from above, with sunbeds and the white town

The beach here is long, flat and well equipped, and it is easier to settle in on than most beaches on the island. The sand is black and volcanic with pebbles, generally finer than in Kamari, but still not soft and golden. It gets very hot in summer, so bring sandals or water shoes. The water is clean and good for swimming, and the beach has plenty of sunbeds, umbrellas, bars, restaurants, water activities and simple hotels.

Aerial view of Perivolos and the coastline

There is no clear boundary between Perissa and Perivolos beaches. Perissa is the northern, livelier part below Mount Mesa Vouno. Perivolos is longer, more spacious and lies further south. Agios Georgios is the quiet southern end of the same stretch of beach. In conversation, the whole area is often simply called "Perissa".

Perissa offers more budget hotels, rooms for thrifty travellers, simple tavernas, beach bars, minimarkets and the main bus stop. It is the best choice if you want the easiest access to buses and lower prices.

Perivolos is more expensive and more spacious. It has more stylish beach clubs, some of the best beach restaurants on the island, a few high-end hotels and a more relaxed atmosphere. Perivolos is a better fit for couples and those who want better beach clubs and a bit more room. The southern end at Agios Georgios is quieter and calmer, but inconvenient without a car.

The catch: location. Perissa and Perivolos are further from Fira, Oia, Imerovigli and the caldera than Kamari is. If you plan to spend every evening in the caldera villages, this base will not suit you. If you want to swim every day, eat by the beach and make the occasional trip around the island, it works well.

Hotels here are better value than in the caldera villages, and the rooms are larger. You will find everything from simple budget hotels to polished beach resorts and a few high-end boutique hotels. It is convenient for families because the ground is flat, the beach is long and prices are gentler than in Oia or Imerovigli.

The restaurants are good for simple food by the beach, but not for fine dining. Perivolos has the more stylish beach clubs and generally stronger restaurants, while Perissa has more affordable tavernas and casual places. In summer, many beach clubs expect you to order food or drinks in exchange for a sunbed, and the best spots can be expensive. Always check the sunbed rules before you settle in.

Allow about 25-45 minutes for the bus to Fira (according to the map), depending on traffic, route and season. In high season, a small water taxi connects Perissa and Kamari around the foot of Mesa Vouno. It is a fun way to see both resorts, but the service depends on the weather and the season, so do not treat it as guaranteed public transport.

Who Perissa and Perivolos suit

Who it's for:

you want the best beach base on Santorini;
you want better prices and roomier rooms than on the caldera;
you are travelling with children and want flat streets, simple food and beach days;
you like beach clubs, casual restaurants and a relaxed summer atmosphere;
you plan to rent a car or are happy with longer bus rides to the caldera.

Not for:

you want to stay close to the caldera: choose Fira, Firostefani, Imerovigli, Oia or Akrotiri;
you want romantic hotels and sunset terraces;
you want nightlife that goes beyond beach bars and summer fun;
you are coming for just two or three nights and want classic Santorini.

Hotels in Perissa and Perivolos

We recommend Perissa and Perivolos for families, long trips, beach holidays and anyone who wants more space for their money. These are not the most atmospheric places on Santorini, and you will not get the caldera picture here. But for swimming, sunbeds, affordable hotels and a summer mood, this is the strongest beach area on the island.

The Recit suite at Istoria hotel on Perivolos beach. The room has a private outdoor hot tub.

The best hotels in Perissa and Perivolos: Istoria, Sea Breeze Beach Resort (on Exomitis Beach), Orabel Suites, Santo Miramare Beach Resort, Aqua Blue Beach Hotel.
Mid-range: Meltemi Village Hotel, Smaragdi Hotel.

The beachfront suites in Perivolos are worth comparing at Istoria on Trip.com before you travel.

Megalochori: a wine village in the south

Megalochori suits families and lovers of local atmosphere, wineries, a quiet stay, traditional villages and more reasonable prices. The village sits right at the heart of Santorini's wine region.

White houses and churches in the village of Megalochori

Megalochori is one of the best villages for those who want a quiet traditional base but not total isolation. The village is several centuries old and has some of the best-preserved traditional architecture on the island: white houses, neoclassical mansions, arched doorways, bell towers, cave houses and narrow lanes that wind their way into small courtyards. It is charming without feeling like a stage set, as Oia does in places.

There are no big shopping streets and no nightlife here, but there is an unhurried pace and a local feel. The village square is one of the most pleasant on the island for a quiet drink or dinner. In the evening, once the day trippers have left, the lanes are a pleasure to walk.

There are not many restaurants, but enough for simple dinners. You will find tavernas, cafes, tasting rooms and a few more refined restaurants at nearby hotels. If you want a new restaurant every evening within a five-minute walk, stay somewhere else. But if you like simple local dinners and short trips to wineries and neighbouring villages, it is a good base.

Wine is one of the main reasons to stay in Megalochori. The village is surrounded by vineyards, and several wineries and tasting rooms are very close by. If you are planning a wine trip to Santorini, Megalochori and Pyrgos are the two best inland bases. You can reach the nearest wineries by car, by taxi or on an organised wine tour. The last option is the safest and simplest if everyone wants to taste. It is worth browsing a selection of wine tours and excursions on Santorini on GetYourGuide in advance.

Buses connect Megalochori with Fira, Perissa and Akrotiri, but you cannot rely on them the way you can when staying in Fira. With a car, the village becomes far more convenient and opens up Akrotiri, Vlychada Beach, Pyrgos and the south coast beaches.

Who Megalochori suits

Who it's for:

you want a traditional village with a calm local atmosphere;
you plan to rent a car and drive around the island;
you are interested in the wineries, Akrotiri, Pyrgos and the south coast beaches;
you do not need nightlife or a constant caldera view;
you want a quiet family holiday or a villa away from the main tourist streets.

Not for:

you want the classic clifftop caldera view right from your hotel;
you do not want to rent a car and are counting on convenient public transport;
you want lots of restaurants, shops and bars within walking distance;
you want a beach holiday.

Hotels in Megalochori

The Megalochori list has four high-end hotels and one mid-range option. The choice here is more about atmosphere and space than about a caldera view.

Vedema Resort in Megalochori is built around a winery that is several centuries old. The large pool is surrounded by sunbeds and greenery.

The best hotels in Megalochori: Vedema Resort, Alti Suites, Athermi Suites, Santorini Heritage Villas.
Mid-range: Hotel Star.

If you want a resort in the wine region, see rooms at Vedema on Trip.com.

Emporio: the largest traditional village

Emporio suits budget stays, local atmosphere, traditional architecture and long trips with a car. It is the largest traditional village on Santorini.

A narrow alley between the white walls of the village under a blue sky

Emporio is one of the best places to stay if you want a local base away from the caldera crowds. The village is neither polished nor glamorous, and that is its appeal. You get a maze of medieval lanes, cave-style houses, old churches, simple tavernas and prices far lower than in the famous clifftop villages.

Houses in the village of Emporio with a white bell tower

The name comes from the word for "trade" and recalls the village's historic role as a commercial centre. The heart of Emporio is Kasteli, a compact medieval fortified settlement built to protect residents from pirates. The lanes here are narrow, shady and atmospheric, with arches, staircases and houses packed tightly together. For walking, it is one of the most interesting villages on the island.

Emporio is close to Perissa and Perivolos, so the village works well if you want the feel of a traditional village but plan to spend a lot of time on the beach. Fira is about 20 minutes away by car (according to the map). A car is strongly recommended. There is a bus, but we would not choose this base for easy public transport and evenings in the caldera villages.

Stay here for the price, the atmosphere and the space. Do not stay here for a caldera view, nightlife, shopping or easy logistics. Emporio is best for return trips, long stays, families in villas and those who value local character over a postcard view.

The church of Panagia Mesani (the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary) in Emporio. The church has a white bell tower and a blue dome.

The best hotels in Emporio: Timedrops Santorini Villas, Rock Villas, Nalas Suites.

For a long trip with family or a group, compare the Timedrops villas on Trip.com.

Messaria: the centre of the island and a practical base

Messaria suits budget stays, local atmosphere, a central location, inexpensive villas and hotels on the caldera rim. The village sits almost in the middle of Santorini and remains one of the island's most practical low-key bases.

Messaria is more modern and livelier than Pyrgos or Megalochori. It has local shops, bakeries, tavernas, cars in the streets and everyday island life. It is not the prettiest village on Santorini, but it is useful, central and good value.

White churches with blue domes in Messaria

The western edge of Messaria reaches the caldera. There you will find high-end hotels and villas with a superb view of the volcano and the sunset, often for less than similar hotels in Fira, Imerovigli or Oia. Important: these hotels are not in the walkable village centre, so do not book them for evening strolls around the village. You are paying for the view, the privacy and the road access.

In the village centre the atmosphere is local: simple restaurants, grill tavernas and neoclassical mansions. Among them is Argyros Mansion, the only restored mansion of its era on Santorini that is open to visitors. Dinner in the shade of the trees on the patio of the Pentozali taverna is one to remember.

For those who do not want to rent a car, central Messaria is one of the best-connected spots outside Fira. Buses stop here regularly on the routes between Fira, Kamari, Perissa and Vlychada. But Messaria is still much easier with a car, especially for trips to Oia, Akrotiri and the wineries and for evening dinners out.

Choose Messaria for its central location and price, not for romance. The village suits practical travellers, villa lovers, return trips and anyone who wants road access without the full price of the caldera villages.

The view of the caldera and Athinios port from Celestia Grand hotel in Messaria. The pool sits right on the edge of the slope.

The best hotels in Messaria: Celestia Grand, Petit Palace Suites, Volcano View Hotel, Kallos Imar Hotel, Amity Suites, Markezini's Suites.
Mid-range: Kalisperis Hotel.

You can find a caldera view for less than in Fira if you check prices at Celestia Grand on Trip.com.

Finikia: Oia's quiet neighbour

Finikia suits a crowd-free stay, good-value accommodation near Oia, local atmosphere, a quiet break for couples and villas. It is a small traditional village just beyond Oia, and it faces east, not into the caldera.

Sunset over the sea and the dark silhouette of the coast

Finikia is one of the most sensible places to stay if you want easy access to Oia without paying full Oia prices and without sleeping in the middle of the crowds.

The village is separate from Oia, although some nearby hotels advertise themselves as "Oia". Finikia has cobbled lanes, old cave houses, orchards, small churches, quiet restaurants and a more local rhythm. It does not have Oia's dramatic caldera edge, but it is calmer and more human in scale.

From the centre of Finikia, it is about a 15-minute walk to the start of Oia's marble pedestrian street (according to the map). That makes it easy to walk into Oia early in the morning or after sunset, when the village looks its best. One of Santorini's best wineries, Domaine Sigalas, is nearby. You can walk to Baxedes Beach if you do not mind a long and not especially scenic walk.

Finikia is best for couples and families who want a good-value base near Oia, spacious villas and quiet evenings. The catch: there is no caldera view from the room, few restaurants on the doorstep, and getting around the island is inconvenient. People usually travel to Fira via Oia or by taxi, transfer or rental car.

Every cave villa at 270 Oia's View in Finikia has a private pool or hot tub, and the largest sleep up to 10 guests.

The best hotels in Finikia: 270 Oia's View, Elysian Santorini, Danae Suites, Sophia Boutique Hotel.
Mid-range: Red Stone Villa, Lotza Studios.

Suites offer good value for money near Oia, so check availability at Danae Suites in advance.

Thirasia: the island across the caldera

Thirasia suits a crowd-free stay, local atmosphere, seclusion and simple accommodation. It is a quiet island facing Santorini across the caldera.

Sailing boats in a bay off the rocky coast of Thirasia

Thirasia was once part of the same volcanic landmass, and today it feels like a much slower, rougher and simpler version of Santorini. It is a great place to escape the crowds, but we would not recommend it to first-time visitors who are coming for the full Santorini experience.

The island has a few tavernas, simple guesthouses, walking trails, churches, black volcanic sand beaches at Riva and Ormos Korfou, and the clifftop village of Manolas. It is also home to Mikra Thira Winery and the abandoned cave village of Agrilia. Do not expect polished hotels, nightlife, convenient transport or a wide choice.

Mikra Thira Winery on Thirasia. The modern building with its latticed facade stands on the hillside.

The only way to reach Thirasia from Santorini is by water. From Ammoudi Bay below Oia, small passenger boats run to Riva and Ormos Korfou. Large car ferries sometimes run from Athinios port to Riva, but the timetable is limited and seasonal. Always check the current timetable locally before planning an overnight stay or a day trip. If you miss the last boat back, your options will be few.

Stay on Thirasia only if you are deliberately looking for quiet, simplicity and a slow pace. For most travellers, the island works better as a day trip than as a base.

The best hotels on Thirasia: Santa Irini Retreat, Perivolas Hideaway, Evanthia Best View, Agrilia Secluded Cave House.
Mid-range: Thirassia Paradise Suites.

Oia at golden hour, shot from a helicopter during a tour over Santorini. From the air you can clearly see how the village stretches along the caldera rim eastwards from Ammoudi Bay.

The easiest way to compare available rooms across all the island's areas at once is the search form below. Enter your dates and filter the results by the village you chose after reading this guide.

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⁉️🤔 Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to stay on Santorini for a first trip?

For a first trip, choose a village on the caldera. Fira is the most convenient for restaurants, buses and nightlife. Firostefani gives you the same view and is calmer in the evenings. Imerovigli suits couples for its widest view, and Oia for the classic postcard, if you are ready for high prices and crowds.

Which is better: staying on the caldera or by the beach?

The caldera gives you the island's headline view, cave hotels and sunsets, but it costs more and involves a lot of stairs. The beach resorts of Kamari, Perissa and Perivolos are cheaper, flatter and better for swimming. If your budget allows, spend 3-4 nights on the caldera and 2-3 nights by the beach.

Where to stay on Santorini with children?

Families with small children will find Kamari, Perissa or Perivolos easier. They have flat streets, big pools, simple restaurants and easy access to the sea. On the caldera, many hotels are adults-only and steep steps lead to the rooms. In Oia, choose family hotels on the main pedestrian street.

Do you need a car on Santorini?

If you are staying in Fira or another caldera village and taking tours with pick-up, a car is not essential. Buses run from Fira to almost every part of the island. For Akrotiri, Pyrgos, Megalochori, Emporio and Finikia, a car is strongly recommended: there are fewer buses, and services are limited in the evening.

Do all hotels in Oia have a sunset view?

No. Many of Oia's best hotels face south, into the caldera, and you cannot see the sunset directly from them. Hotels on the north-western edge face the sunset over the sea, but without a real caldera view. Read the description carefully: "caldera view", "sea view" and "sunset view" mean different things.

How far ahead should you book a hotel on Santorini?

For May to October, the best caldera-view rooms, family hotels and suites with a private pool sell out months ahead. Rooms further back in the villages and in the beach resorts stay available for longer.

In short: what to book

The main decision on Santorini is made before you choose a hotel: caldera, beach or village. The caldera gives you the view people come to the island for. The beach gives you space and price. The inland villages give you quiet, but almost always require a car.

If it is your first trip and you have no car: go for Fira or Firostefani.
If you are on a honeymoon or an anniversary: go for Imerovigli, or Oia for the classic postcard.
If you are travelling with small children: go for Kamari, Perissa or Perivolos.
If you are returning and renting a car: go for Pyrgos, Megalochori, Akrotiri or Emporio.
If you want a cheaper caldera view: look at Akrotiri and the western edge of Messaria.
If you want quiet close to Oia: go for Finikia.

Book your accommodation first, especially for summer: you can view Santorini hotels on Trip.com for all areas at once.

Boat trips and wine tours are easy to find on GetYourGuide, and a car for Akrotiri, Pyrgos and the southern villages is best booked through DiscoverCars before you arrive.

Caldera, beach or village: how to choose where to stay on Santorini

Where to stay on Santorini: the short answer

Practical tips before you book

Three types of area: caldera, beach and villages

Caldera villages: the best view

Beach resorts: swimming and price

Inland villages: atmosphere and local life

Quiet spots: Akrotiri and Thirasia

Caldera or beach: which to choose

Staying on the caldera

Staying by the beach

Our conclusion: who should stay where

The best hotels on Santorini by type of trip

Fira: the capital, transport and nightlife

Who Fira suits

Hotels in Fira

Firostefani: a caldera view without the crowds

Who Firostefani suits

Hotels in Firostefani

Imerovigli: the highest point of the caldera

Who Imerovigli suits

Hotels in Imerovigli

Oia: the postcard village in the north

Who Oia suits

Hotels in Oia

Akrotiri: sunsets, excavations and quiet

Who Akrotiri suits

Hotels in Akrotiri

Pyrgos: a hilltop village and wineries

Who Pyrgos suits

Hotels in Pyrgos

Kamari: a beach holiday for families

Who Kamari suits

Hotels in Kamari

Perissa and Perivolos: the best beach area

Who Perissa and Perivolos suit

Hotels in Perissa and Perivolos

Megalochori: a wine village in the south

Who Megalochori suits

Hotels in Megalochori

Emporio: the largest traditional village

Messaria: the centre of the island and a practical base

Finikia: Oia's quiet neighbour

Thirasia: the island across the caldera

⁉️🤔 Frequently asked questions

In short: what to book