15 Best Hotels in Santorini: Where to Stay for an Unforgettable Trip
Choosing where to stay in Santorini can make or break your trip.
The island offers everything from iconic cave hotels carved into volcanic cliffs to affordable guesthouses with stunning views. But with hundreds of options across Oia, Fira, Imerovigli, and beyond, how do you choose?
We’ve stayed in Santorini multiple times and researched dozens of properties to bring you this guide to the best hotels in Santorini. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon in a luxury cave suite or looking for budget-friendly stays with caldera views, we’ll help you find your perfect match.
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Quick Comparison: Best Hotels in Santorini by Category
Here’s our quick pick for each category:
- Best Overall: Katikies Hotel (Oia) — Iconic luxury cave hotel with infinity pools
- Best for Honeymoons: Canaves Oia Suites — Ultra-romantic with private plunge pools
- Best Mid-Range: Athina Luxury Suites (Fira) — Caldera views without the Oia price tag
- Best Budget: Pension Petros (Fira) — Clean, central, affordable
- Best Cave Hotel: Mystique Hotel (Oia) — Authentic cave suites with dramatic design
- Best Quiet Location: Astra Suites (Imerovigli) — Peaceful luxury away from crowds
- Best Value: Blue Dolphins Apartments (Firostefani) — Great views at fair prices
Best Luxury Hotels in Santorini (€400+ per night)
These are the dream properties—iconic cave hotels, private infinity pools, impeccable service, and unforgettable caldera views.
1. Katikies Hotel — The Icon
Location: Oia
Price: €€€€ (€500-1200/night)
Best for: Honeymoons, special occasions, Instagram moments
Katikies is the hotel you’ve seen in every Santorini photo. White-washed cave suites cascade down the cliffs, each with private terraces overlooking the caldera. The infinity pools seem to merge with the Aegean Sea.
What we love:
- Every room has caldera views
- Three stunning infinity pools
- Gourmet breakfast delivered to your terrace
- Impeccable service and attention to detail
- Prime Oia location near the castle
Keep in mind: Very expensive. Lots of stairs (not suitable for mobility issues). Books out 6+ months ahead in peak season.
2. Canaves Oia Suites — The Romantic Hideaway
Location: Oia
Price: €€€€ (€600-1500/night)
Best for: Couples seeking ultimate privacy and romance
Canaves takes luxury to another level with private plunge pools in most suites, outdoor heated jacuzzis, and butler service. This is where you go to completely disconnect from the world.
What we love:
- Private plunge pools in most suites
- Personalized concierge service
- In-room spa treatments available
- Quieter part of Oia (away from main crowds)
- Exceptional breakfast with champagne
Keep in mind: One of the priciest hotels on the island. Minimum stay requirements in high season.
3. Mystique Hotel — The Dramatic Cave Experience
Location: Oia
Price: €€€€ (€450-900/night)
Best for: Design lovers, authentic cave hotel experience
Mystique embraces Santorini’s volcanic landscape with authentic cave architecture, earth tones, and minimalist luxury. It feels raw and dramatic yet incredibly comfortable.
What we love:
- Authentic cave suites carved into cliffs
- Striking dark stone and earthy design
- Two infinity pools with caldera views
- Excellent on-site restaurant (Charisma)
- Adults-only property (peaceful atmosphere)
Keep in mind: Dark cave interiors aren’t for everyone. Steep walk from Oia center.
4. Astra Suites — The Quiet Luxury
Location: Imerovigli
Price: €€€€ (€400-800/night)
Best for: Couples wanting caldera views without Oia crowds
Astra Suites sits in peaceful Imerovigli, offering the same stunning caldera views as Oia but with a much more tranquil atmosphere. It’s romantic luxury without the tourist chaos.
What we love:
- Spectacular caldera sunsets without crowds
- Cave suites with hot tubs
- Walking distance to Skaros Rock
- Intimate property (only 18 suites)
- Peaceful location away from tourist crowds
Keep in mind: Not in Oia (but honestly that’s a plus). Limited dining options nearby.
5. Grace Hotel — The Modern Minimalist
Location: Imerovigli
Price: €€€€ (€500-1000/night)
Best for: Design-conscious travelers seeking contemporary luxury
Grace Hotel brings sleek, modern design to Santorini’s traditional cave architecture. Think white-on-white minimalism with pops of Greek blue and stunning infinity pool.
What we love:
- Stunning infinity pool (one of the best on the island)
- Modern, bright interiors
- Excellent Santoro restaurant on-site
- Champagne lounge with 360° views
- Adults-only atmosphere
Keep in mind: Less traditional cave feel (more contemporary hotel). Premium pricing.
Best Mid-Range Hotels in Santorini (€150-400 per night)
These hotels offer excellent value—caldera views, cave suites, and great service without the luxury price tag.
6. Athina Luxury Suites — Best Value in Fira
Location: Fira
Price: €€€ (€250-450/night)
Best for: Couples wanting luxury on a mid-range budget
Athina delivers the cave hotel experience with caldera views at nearly half the price of Oia properties. The suites feel luxurious and the infinity pool is stunning.
What we love:
- Authentic cave suites with caldera views
- Beautiful infinity pool
- Central Fira location (easy access to restaurants/shops)
- Excellent breakfast included
- Friendly, helpful staff
Keep in mind: Not in Oia (but Fira is more convenient). Some rooms can be small.
7. Andromeda Villas — The Oia Alternative
Location: Oia
Price: €€€ (€300-550/night)
Best for: Staying in Oia without breaking the bank
One of the more affordable options in Oia that still delivers caldera views and cave-style rooms. It’s proof you don’t need to spend €1000/night to stay in Oia.
What we love:
- Prime Oia location near the castle
- Cave-style rooms with caldera views
- Rooftop hot tub with sunset views
- Walking distance to restaurants and shops
- Good value for Oia
Keep in mind: Not as luxurious as top-tier Oia hotels. Shared hot tub (not private).
8. Blue Dolphins Apartments & Suites — Best Value Overall
Location: Firostefani
Price: €€ (€150-280/night)
Best for: Budget-conscious couples wanting caldera views
This is the sweet spot: caldera views, traditional cave-style rooms, and excellent service at prices that won’t ruin your budget. It’s in quiet Firostefani, between Fira and Imerovigli.
What we love:
- Incredible value for caldera-view rooms
- Traditional cave architecture
- Friendly family-run atmosphere
- Quiet location but walkable to Fira (10 minutes)
- Good breakfast included
Keep in mind: No pool. More basic amenities than luxury hotels.
9. Oia Mare Villas — The Hidden Gem
Location: Oia
Price: €€€ (€280-500/night)
Best for: Couples seeking privacy in Oia
Tucked away in a quieter part of Oia, this small property offers intimate luxury without the crowds. Each villa has a private outdoor hot tub.
What we love:
- Private hot tubs on every terrace
- Away from main Oia crowds
- Caldera views from most rooms
- Personalized service (small property)
- Good value for Oia
Keep in mind: 15-minute walk to Oia center. No pool.
10. Panorama Boutique Hotel — The Underrated Option
Location: Fira
Price: €€ (€180-320/night)
Best for: Central location with caldera views on a budget
Right in the heart of Fira with stunning caldera views, yet somehow still affordable. The cave-style rooms are cozy and the terrace breakfast is memorable.
What we love:
- Prime Fira location on caldera rim
- Cave rooms with views
- Excellent breakfast with caldera views
- Walking distance to everything in Fira
- Friendly staff
Keep in mind: Rooms are small. No pool. Can be noisy at night (near bars).
Best Budget Hotels in Santorini (€80-150 per night)
Yes, you can stay in Santorini on a budget. These hotels offer clean, comfortable rooms without caldera views—but you’ll save hundreds per night.
11. Pension Petros — Best Budget Pick in Fira
Location: Fira
Price: € (€80-140/night)
Best for: Budget travelers wanting central location
Pension Petros is the go-to budget option in Fira. Rooms are simple but spotlessly clean, and you’re a 5-minute walk from the caldera and all of Fira’s restaurants.
What we love:
- Unbeatable price for Fira location
- Very clean rooms
- Helpful, welcoming staff
- Walking distance to everything
- Good breakfast included
Keep in mind: No views. Basic amenities. Small rooms.
12. Hotel Keti — Traditional Budget Option
Location: Fira
Price: € (€90-150/night)
Best for: Budget travelers wanting traditional Cycladic style
Hotel Keti offers simple rooms in a traditional white-washed building. It’s family-run, spotless, and perfectly located in the heart of Fira.
What we love:
- Traditional Cycladic architecture
- Central Fira location
- Clean, well-maintained rooms
- Family-run hospitality
- Breakfast included
Keep in mind: No views. Basic facilities. Small bathrooms.
13. Santorini View — Budget Beach Option
Location: Kamari Beach
Price: € (€70-120/night)
Best for: Beach lovers on a tight budget
If you prioritize beach access over caldera views, Kamari is the most affordable area. Santorini View offers simple rooms steps from the black sand beach.
What we love:
- Cheapest area on the island
- 2-minute walk to Kamari Beach
- Many restaurants and bars nearby
- Pool on-site
- Good for families
Keep in mind: No caldera views. 15-20 min drive to Fira/Oia. Less romantic atmosphere.
14. Villa Manos — Perissa Budget Stay
Location: Perissa Beach
Price: € (€75-130/night)
Best for: Beach access and budget pricing
Villa Manos is a simple, clean guesthouse in Perissa—Santorini’s longest black sand beach. Perfect if you want to swim daily and save money.
What we love:
- Very affordable
- Walking distance to Perissa Beach
- Pool on property
- Friendly staff
- Quiet area (good for sleep)
Keep in mind: Far from Fira/Oia. No views. Basic facilities.
15. Smaragdi Hotel — Best for Solo Travelers
Location: Fira
Price: € (€85-145/night)
Best for: Solo travelers and backpackers
Smaragdi offers small, clean rooms in central Fira at rock-bottom prices. It’s no-frills but perfectly functional.
What we love:
- Central Fira location
- Very affordable
- Pool area for relaxing
- Social atmosphere (good for meeting travelers)
- Breakfast included
Keep in mind: Very basic. Small rooms. No views. Can be noisy.
Where to Stay in Santorini: Area by Area Guide
Choosing the right area is just as important as choosing the right hotel. Here’s what you need to know:
Oia — Most Romantic (But Priciest & Most Crowded)
Best for: Honeymoons, special occasions, Instagram photos
- Most iconic views and sunsets
- Highest concentration of luxury cave hotels
- Most expensive area
- Extremely crowded at sunset (June-Sept)
- Charming but touristy restaurants
Fira — Most Convenient (Central Hub)
Best for: First-time visitors, convenience, nightlife
- Island’s capital with everything nearby
- More affordable than Oia
- Easy access to buses, taxis, rental cars
- Still has beautiful caldera views
- Can be noisy at night (bars/clubs)
Imerovigli — Peaceful Luxury (The Best of Both Worlds)
Best for: Couples seeking quiet romance with caldera views
- Highest point on the caldera (best views)
- Much quieter than Fira and Oia
- Walking distance to Skaros Rock
- Fewer restaurants (but walkable to Fira)
- Upscale hotels
Firostefani — Quiet Middle Ground
Best for: Couples wanting caldera views without crowds or high prices
- Between Fira and Imerovigli (10-min walk to Fira)
- Caldera views at better prices
- Peaceful but still convenient
- Limited restaurants
Perissa/Kamari — Beach Towns (Most Affordable)
Best for: Beach lovers, families, budget travelers
- Black sand beaches
- Cheapest area on the island
- No caldera views
- 15-20 minute drive to Fira/Oia
- More relaxed, less romantic vibe
How to Choose the Right Hotel in Santorini
Set Your Priorities
Ask yourself:
- Is this a once-in-a-lifetime trip? (Splurge on Oia)
- Do you want caldera views from your room? (Add €100-200/night)
- Will you spend much time at the hotel? (If not, save money)
- Do you prefer peace or convenience? (Imerovigli vs Fira)
Book Early (Seriously)
- Best hotels in Oia/Imerovigli book out 6+ months ahead (peak season)
- Book 3-4 months ahead for mid-range hotels
- Budget hotels fill up 1-2 months ahead
- Shoulder season (May, Sept, Oct) has better availability
Read Reviews Carefully
- Check recent reviews (within past 6 months)
- Look for complaints about noise, stairs, cleanliness
- Check Google Maps reviews (more honest)
- Verify photos match reality
Consider These Factors
- Stairs: Caldera hotels = lots of stairs. Not suitable if you have mobility issues.
- Transfer from airport/port: Hotels in Oia are 30-40 min from airport. Fira is 15-20 min.
- Breakfast: Included breakfast saves €15-25/person daily.
- Pool: Nice to have but you’ll spend most time exploring.
- Cave vs standard room: Cave rooms are authentic but can be dark and humid.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth staying in Oia?
Yes, if you’re celebrating a special occasion and want the most iconic Santorini experience. However, Fira and Imerovigli offer similar caldera views at much better prices. Oia is beautiful but extremely touristy and expensive.
How much should I budget for a hotel in Santorini?
Budget: €80-150/night (no caldera views, basic rooms). Mid-range: €150-400/night (caldera views, cave hotels, pools). Luxury: €400+/night (prime Oia locations, private pools, top service). Most couples spend €200-350/night for good mid-range properties.
Do I need a hotel with caldera views?
Not necessarily. You’ll spend most of your time exploring the island, and you can enjoy caldera views from restaurants and public viewpoints. That said, waking up to caldera views from your private terrace is a magical experience worth considering if your budget allows.
When should I book my Santorini hotel?
Book 6+ months ahead for luxury hotels in Oia during peak season (July-August). Book 3-4 months ahead for mid-range properties. Shoulder season (May, September) has better availability but still book 2-3 months ahead for best selection.
Are cave hotels worth it?
Cave hotels are the quintessential Santorini experience—carved into volcanic cliffs with unique architecture. They stay naturally cool in summer. However, they can be dark, humid, and have limited natural light. If you’re sensitive to enclosed spaces, consider standard rooms with terraces instead.
What’s the best area to stay in Santorini for first-timers?
Fira is best for first-timers. It’s central, convenient, and more affordable than Oia while still offering caldera views. You’re close to restaurants, shops, car rentals, and bus connections. You can easily visit Oia for sunset without paying Oia hotel prices.
Should I stay near a beach in Santorini?
Only if beach access is your top priority and you’re on a tight budget. Beach areas (Kamari, Perissa) are the cheapest but lack caldera views and require 15-20 minute drives to reach Fira/Oia. Most visitors prefer staying on the caldera and visiting beaches during the day.
Do hotels in Santorini have elevators?
Most caldera hotels do NOT have elevators due to the cliff-side architecture. Expect lots of stairs. If you have mobility concerns, specifically look for hotels with elevator access or stay in beach areas (Kamari/Perissa) which have flat terrain.
Suggested Internal Links
- “Santorini Travel Guide” → Link to /islands/santorini/
- “Santorini Itinerary” → Link to /islands/santorini/itinerary-3-5-days/
- “Santorini Beaches” → Link to /islands/santorini/beaches/
- “Best Restaurants in Santorini” → Link to /islands/santorini/best-restaurants/
- “Santorini for Couples” → Link to /islands/santorini/romantic-couples/
- “Greek Islands Guide” → Link to /islands/
- “Car rentals in Greece” → Link to /plan-your-trip/car-rentals/
Ready to Book Your Dream Santorini Hotel?
Now that you know the best hotels in Santorini, it’s time to secure your perfect room—especially if you’re traveling in peak season.
Start by comparing prices across booking platforms. We recommend checking both Booking.com and the hotel’s direct website (sometimes direct bookings offer better rates or perks).
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Pro tip: Book refundable rates when possible. Santorini hotel prices fluctuate, and you can sometimes rebook at a lower rate closer to your trip.
Don’t forget to arrange your rental car or ATV ahead of time—having your own transportation makes exploring Santorini so much easier.
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