Santorini it is already a very popular destination and is becoming more and more in demand, especially in the high season, from May to September.
If you are wondering which are the best places where to sleep in Santorini (maybe traveling as a couple, with children or even more specifically on a limited budget), this is exactly what I hope you will find in this guide, updated to 2019.
Santorini is part of the Cyclades, a group of islands in the Aegean Sea between Turkey and the Greece.
Famous for its iconic blue and white cube houses and fiery sunsets, Santorini has become one of the most visited places on the planet.
It was impossible for the locals to ignore this fact and, as a result, most of the accommodation options obviously became extremely expensive.
Or rather, Santorini can also be an extremely expensive destination, the "cave hotels" on the side of Oia are not cheap at all and since the island is famous as a honeymoon destination it is very easy to find luxurious and rich hotels. charming.
Read also: the 20 best hotels in Santorini
However Santorini also offers low cost alternative accommodation, has loads of free activities, a cheap public bus system and plenty of places to go even on a tight budget!
- the best areas of Santorini to stay
- 1 - Where to stay in Santorini for the first time: Fira
- 2 - Where to sleep in Santorini in a romantic place: Oia
- 3 - Where to sleep in Santorini with children: Kamari
- 4 - Where to sleep in Santorini for the beaches: Perissa and Perivolos
- 5 - Where to sleep in Santorini on a budget: Firostefani
- 6 - Where to sleep in Santorini for honeymoons: Imerovigli
- 7 - Where to stay in Santorini in a quiet area: Pyrgos
Overview of the best areas of Santorini
Santorini map of Di dramaj on
La choice of the best area to stay in Santorini obviously depends on your interests and budget, but the first decision to make is whether you want to stay close to the beaches o in the cities along the caldera.
Le city they are located on the western edge of the island, are perched on the cliff and overlook the volcano.
Le beaches instead they are located on the opposite side along the east coast of the island.
- Related reading: The best beaches in Santorini
If you have seen one of the cliffs on the west side.
The best cities to stay on the west side are Fira (where everything is lively), Imerovigli (quieter and more reserved), Firostefani (walking distance from Fira but quieter and cheaper) and of course the famous city of Oia.
Caldera cities are the hippest, and this is where the best restaurants, the most sophisticated clubs and the most luxurious hotels are found.
If you are looking for a quieter area with beaches then you have to go to the opposite side, on the east coast and in the a Kamari or Perissa.
I personally recommend you stay in one of the caldera towns as this is where you find what makes Santorini so special - the incredible views and the almost surreal setting.
But everyone has their own needs rightly and in any case the island is small (just think that by car it takes about an hour to go from one end to the other), so even if you decide to stay close to the beach it takes about 30 minutes to reach Fira, while to Oia it takes another 20 minutes.
One thing is certain: wherever you decide to stay, it is inevitable that you will be
stunned by the breathtaking views and your taste buds will be delighted by the kitchen!
The best hotels in Santorini
The infinity pool of the best hotel in Santorini, the Grace Hotel
Economic: Between economic choices of the island certainly should be mentioned Villa Kasteli, a nice hostel in Perissa, near the black sand beach. The hostel offers both shared dorms and private rooms, it is super clean, it is located in an area full of bars, cafes and restaurants and the bus stop is right in front. -> See here prices and availability of Villa Kasteli
Middle: among the options at an average cost, one of the best choices is undoubtedly theAcropole Sunrise, a hotel offering splendid sea views, 5 minutes from the beach of Kamari. The hotel has rooms equipped with all comforts and offers various services including airport shuttle, laundry service and continental breakfast. -> See here prices and availability of Acropole Sunrise
Luxury: undoubtedly the best hotel in all of Santorini, the Grace Hotel Santorini is anyone's dream. Located on the cliff at Imerovigli, offers airy and sunny rooms, infinity pool overlooking the sea and exceptional views at sunset. Perfect for a romantic getaway for 2 or honeymoon couples, the Grace Hotel is truly the most you could wish for -> See here rates and availability of Grace Hotel Santorini
1 - Where to stay in Santorini for the first time: Fira
Fira it is the capital, the largest city on the island and one of the most picturesque places in all of Greece.
Like Oia, Imerovigli and Firostefani also Fira is perched on the cliff and has a wonderful view of the volcano and the ocean.
If you like to throw yourself into the nightlife, if you love shopping, good restaurants and nightclubs, this is the place where you should be because Fira is the center of everything, even of Santorini's nightlife.
In Fira there is also the archaeological Museum with an exhibition of finds from various historical periods.
There are no beaches in Fira, but about 15 km away is Perissa beach, one of the best places to swim in Santorini.
Fira also has the cable car which offers a way to reach the top, as the area is located on a hill, and from which you have a great view of the ocean and the city. If you are not a fan of the cable car, you can walk, but avoid taking the donkey!
Fira is also very nice connected since public transport: in practice with a single bus you can get anywhere on the island, which is no small thing to consider if you do not want to rent a car or a scooter.
The choice of hotels is wide: obviously hotels with a view are expensive, but here you can also find hotels without a view at fair prices (which makes Fira a good choice even for travelers on a budget).
The best hotels in Fira
Il Cosmopolitan Suites
Economic: there are not many really cheap choices in Fira, the few that exist sell out at the speed of light and the quality of the service they offer is not exactly at the highest levels.
Three o'clock economical options anyway take a look at the Santorini Hostel which has conflicting reviews (after all, you pay what you get, we are in Santorini!) and much better Porto Castello.
Middle: spending a little more than a budget hostel in Fira you will find excellent options. Among all they certainly stand out Evaâs House (see prices and availability here) he Down Town apartments (that you can see them here).
Another choice to take a look at is the Niovi, a delightful small family-run hotel.
Luxury: well obviously in Santorini the charming hotel are wasted. Among all the Cosmopolitan Suites - Small Luxury Hotels of the World, a paradise right in the center of Fira.
Just go through its doors to be catapulted into another world: infinity pool overlooking the sea, wonderful views of the caldera and the volcano, style rooms with private or semi private verandas.
Altra TOP choice it's definitely the Lilium Santorini Villa with swimming pool and whirlpool, rooms overlooking the caldera and SPA with massages and facial treatments.
2 - Where to sleep in Santorini in a romantic place: Oia
Like Fira, Oia it has a splendid view of the sea and the classic quaint and colorful architecture of white and royal blue that travel agency brochures have accustomed us to. Without making too many turns of words then, if you are in honeymoon or on a romantic getaway, Oia is one of the places to stay.
It is a small village located on the northern tip of Santorini. Its hilly position and its sea view make it the best place to watch the sunset with your sweetheart.
Indeed, from the castle ruins, a popular tourist destination, the sunset views are nothing short of exceptional. The castle is not just a place to go for the views, but it has a complex and intriguing history.
Oia but has one neo. Brochures often sell it as the best honeymoon destination, but that's not the case in my opinion. Don't get me wrong, there is nothing wrong with Oia, quite the opposite, but in summer it is full of tourists and even if they don't stay there, they come from all parts of the island to visit it.
Objectively this thing to someone on their honeymoon may not even go to genius.
So before you book, try to take a look at the Imerovigli hotel, there are many (but the best that is also the best hotel in all of Santorini is undoubtedly the Grace Hotel Santorini), some perfect for your honeymoon and in a place that is not only magical but also peaceful!
Other articles on Oia
- Top 10 Things to Do in Oia
The best hotels in Oia
Katikies Hotel - The Leading Hotels of the World
Almost all hotels in Oia are luxury hotel.
Among my favorites is the Maregio Suites. Staying here is like stepping into a fairy tale: sunny and spacious suites overlooking the caldera, private pool, traditional and minimal furnishings, a bar available to guests.
But the top of the top is undoubtedly the Katikies Hotel - The Leading Hotels of the World which in addition to one of the best hotels in Santorini, it probably is one of the best in all of Greece. Here you will find the ultimate in luxury.
3 - Where to sleep in Santorini with children: Kamari
In the common imagination, Santorini is the ultimate honeymoon destination where young couples in love dine by candlelight with a view of the ocean and hug each other in front of the fiery sunsets.
All true, but if I told you that Santorini is also good for families even with very little children?
Certainly those traveling with children try to find a place near the beach, right? Santorini is no exception, in fact the most family-friendly places are those that are close to Kamari beaches and Perissa / Perivolos.
Plus Santorini and Greece in general are super safe, so what better place than this especially for families?
Located in the southeastern region of Santorini, Kamari is a small village of only 1800 inhabitants and the black sand of its beach makes it unique and beautiful.
Kamari beach is located under the mountain of Mesa Vouno and is typically equipped with umbrellas and tourists. There is also a promenade that runs along the beach which offers various dining options and the village is literally flooded with dozens of tavernas, cafes, supermarkets and other shops where you can hang out and spend a wonderful summer day.
The best hotels in Kamari
Santorini Kastelli Resort
Cheap and average: the economic and medium choices in Kamari are many and the quality is high.
Economic: undoubtedly among the best we find the Blue Sea Hotel, a family run hotel offering both studios and apartments. The hotel is in a perfect location just 80 meters away from the beach!
Middle: families should take a look at the Santellini Hotel, but it is very difficult to find a place, as for families it is one of the best choices on the island in terms of quality / price ratio.
The Santellini is a cheerful hotel with a swimming pool just a few steps from the beach, ideal for families. This mid-range / budget hotel offers 5 maisonettes (a maisonette is a duplex apartment, which can be on the first floor with attic or on the ground floor with garden) overlooking the pool, each with a double bed in the loft and 2 single sofa beds on the main floor.
A homemade buffet breakfast is included in the room rate, plus they have an all-day poolside bar serving drinks and light fare.
LuxuryLuxury-loving families should check out these two family-friendly resorts instead.
Il Santorini Kastelli Resort is a luxury resort with 7 swimming pools (4 for all guests and 3 semi-private), a holistic spa, a vineyard and a fitness center. Their suites can accommodate up to 4 people. It is located less than 500 meters from the beach and within walking distance of the open-air cinema.
Il Tamarix Del Mar Suites it is a hotel that offers first class service at an all round price accessible. It offers a large outdoor swimming pool and an attached children's pool, a small heated indoor pool in the wellness center, a playground and babysitting service on request.
Almost all the suites and apartments can accommodate 4 to 5 people, although the maisonettes are the most spacious and comfortable. All units include kitchenettes and some include a private outdoor jacuzzi. The poolside restaurant offers daily lunch and a free American breakfast buffet. It is just a 2-minute walk from Kamari Beach and several family-friendly restaurants and beach clubs.
4 - Where to sleep in Santorini for the beaches: Perissa and Perivolos
La Perissa beach it has even more beautiful sand than Kamari, but it is further away from Fira and the west of the island, which makes the visit to the caldera a bit more time-consuming and energy-consuming.
new luxury hotels have opened here, although there are still plenty of great budget hotels and restaurants along the pedestrian street.
Perivolos is an extension of Perissa beach. There is no definitive border between the two countries (Perissa is the northernmost section, Perivolos is the quieter southern section) and Perissa often means both.
In Perissa / Perivolos you will find the best beach bars and restaurants on the island, and overall the best beach life in Santorini. The great thing about Perissa and Perivolos beaches is that the accommodation prices are considerably lower than in the other areas although the area is not lacking in luxury hotels and therefore is also a perfect place to stay in Santorini on a budget.
The only downside (if we can call it that) is that if you stay in the black beaches of Perissa or Perivolos you will not have the famous views that Santorini is famous for.
Perivolos also has some luxury hotels, as well as some great restaurants and beach clubs, especially at the south end of the Agios Georgios beach strip which makes this area perfect for younger people who love beach parties and cocktails. .
The best Hotels in Perissa and Perivolos
Economic: among the economic options the Youth Hostel Anna it is one of the most popular hostels for the really affordable price. The hostel is clean and also offers rooms with private bathrooms.
A fantastic low-priced alternative is Spiridoula Villa, super clean apartments equipped with all comforts, 300 meters from the black beach, close to various shops, cafes and restaurants.
THE Holiday Beach Resort is located in Perivolos, is family run, offers swimming pool and equipped rooms and is about 10 minutes walk from the beach.
Middle: the De_naxia Suites they are apartments with terrace, lounge and swimming pool. The De_naxia Suites are among the best hotels in Perissa as value for money.
5 - Where to sleep in Santorini on a budget: Firostefani
As you can probably guess from its name, Firostefani it is located near the capital of Santorini, Fira.
In fact, even though Firostefani is recognized as a separate village in Santorini, it's actually just an extension of Fira, geographically speaking.
Like Fira, Firostefani is located in the hills and offers great views of the caldera, but accommodations here tend to be a bit cheaper which makes it one of the best areas where to sleep in Santorini on a budget.
The best hotels in Firostefani
Ira Hotel & Spa
In Firostefani there are beautiful hotels at lower prices than Fira or the expensive Oia while remaining on the west side of the island.
Economic: absolutely to take a look at residence Villa Fotini, a traditional structure 20 meters from one of the most famous spots on the island for watching the sunset. The bus stop for Oia is right in front of the hotel.
- Alonia Studios apartments is a traditional complex with views over the Aegean Sea and only 200 meters from Fira. Decorated in a Cycladic style, the studios of Alonia are minimally furnished with kitchenette, air conditioning and satellite TV.
Middle: lâhotel Small World Hands it has a beautiful location and view, spacious and bright rooms, a panoramic terrace with Jacuzzi and is famous for the kindness of the staff.
Another first-class and affordable hotel is the Ira Hotel & Spa, located on the slopes of the cliff and offers a wellness center, a restaurant and a swimming pool with bar with magnificent sea views.
Le Remvi Suites they are slightly more expensive; the rooms, suites and traditional houses are set around a courtyard with private terraces and all have a splendid view of the sea.
6 - Where to sleep in Santorini for the best sunsets: Imerovigli
Imerovigli it is a small village, adjacent to the capital of the island, mostly famous for its splendid sunset views, so much so that it has rightly earned the nickname of âbalcony on the Aegeanâ.
Its hotels and hostels are built around the caldera and it is crisscrossed by narrow paved paths. Bars and pubs are in short supply and is therefore the perfect area for those looking for a quiet area to stay.
Imerovigli is there best area to sleep on honeymoon.
The best Imerovigli hotels
Grace Hotel Imerovigli
Luxury: the facilities in Imerovigli are all of a high standard.
Simply thebest hotel in Santorini, Grace Hotel Santorini, Auberge Resorts Collection, is unrivaled. This is an exclusive, award-winning boutique hotel offering infinity pool overlooking the sea and services of the highest level. This hotel is the right place for a honeymoon truly unforgettable.
Avista Suites: Perched on the cliffs of Imerovigli, Avista offers Cycladic-style suites in a minimal decor with views of the caldera and the volcano.
7 - Where to stay in Santorini in a quiet area: Pyrgos
Pyrgos it is the most charming of the traditional villages of Santorini. From its top, at the highest point of the island, you can enjoy panoramic views that sweep across Santorini.
Most of Pyrgos is pedestrianized, with its labyrinthine paths dotted with restaurants, local boutiques, quaint churches, and the ruins of a Venetian castle. Its hills are lined with vineyards, many offer tours and tasting rooms.
This is an ideal village to be in seclusion, tranquility and live like a local. From the main square it takes about 10 minutes by bus to get to Fira, where you will find more restaurants, nightlife and shops. Oia can be reached in 20 minutes by taking a second bus from Fira.
The best hotels in Pyrgos
Economic: Cultural House it is a good choice, it is located right in the center of the village and is furnished with wooden furniture and rooms with free wifi and air conditioning. The rooms have a beautiful balcony!
Middle: L 'Afoura Houses by K&K is a well-kept gem in a local winery. the well-kept interiors and around there is a magnificent garden. One of my favorite choices!
Luxury: if you want a luxury hotel take a look at the Carpe Diem Santorini â Small Luxury Hotels of the World, the right place for those looking for a somewhat isolated and very, very romantic place. The SPA is exceptional.
An alternative is the Skyfall Suites â Adults Only offering Cycladic style rooms and suites with private pool or jacuzzi. The Skyfall is a very popular hotel so if you like it and find availability book it as soon as possible.
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