Santorini may be small, but choosing where to stay can feel overwhelming. Each area has its own personality—some spots are perfect for honeymooners chasing dreamy sunset views, while others cater to budget travelers or those craving nightlife. I’ve stayed in a few different areas, and trust me, where you stay can make or break your trip. Let’s break it all down so you can pick the perfect place.
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1. Oia – The Iconic Sunset Spot (Best for Romance & Luxury)
📍 Best for: Honeymooners, couples, photographers
💰 Price range: $$$$ (Luxury stays)
Oia is the quintessential Santorini experience, the place where nearly every postcard-perfect image of the island is born. Perched on the northern tip, Oia is celebrated for its stunning views of the caldera—a vast, volcanic crater that has shaped the island’s breathtaking landscape. From nearly every vantage point in the village, you’re treated to panoramic views of the deep blue Aegean Sea, dotted with tiny islands, and the iconic whitewashed buildings that have made Santorini famous around the world.
Pros of Staying in Oia:
✅ Best sunset views in Santorini : If you’re lucky enough to find yourself in Oia at sunset, you’ll witness what many call one of the most beautiful sunsets on the planet. As the sun begins to dip below the horizon, the sky transforms into a canvas of fiery oranges, pinks, and purples. It’s no wonder crowds gather each evening to watch this natural spectacle unfold. The atmosphere is magical, with everyone sharing a sense of awe as the sun slowly sinks into the sea, casting its golden light over the caldera
✅ Luxury hotels with stunning cave pools
✅ Quiet and romantic atmosphere
Cons of Staying in Oia:
❌ Expensive (like, really expensive)
❌ Can get crowded, especially at sunset
❌ Limited nightlife and fewer restaurant options compared to Fira
🏨 Top Hotel Picks in Oia:
- Katikies Hotel – Iconic whitewashed suites with breathtaking views
- Canaves Oia Suites – Stunning cave-style rooms with private pools
- Mystique, a Luxury Collection Hotel – Ultra-luxurious cliffside retreat
🔹 Best for: If you’re visiting Santorini for a honeymoon or a special occasion, this is the place to splurge!
For those seeking an unforgettable stay, Oia is home to some of the island’s most luxurious accommodations. Many hotels are built into the cliffs themselves, offering cave-style suites that blend seamlessly with the island’s iconic architecture. These rooms are often equipped with private infinity pools, where you can take a dip while gazing out at the endless sea. Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape or a lavish retreat, Oia’s high-end hotels deliver an experience like no other, combining comfort, elegance, and jaw-dropping views.
In Oia, it’s easy to lose track of time as you wander through its narrow streets, lined with charming shops, art galleries, and quaint cafes. Whether you’re here for the views, the luxury, or the sunset, Oia offers a piece of Santorini that’s impossible to forget.
2. Fira – The Heart of Santorini (Best for First-Timers & Nightlife)
📍 Best for: First-time visitors, nightlife lovers, easy access
💰 Price range: $$-$$$ (Mid-range to luxury)
Fira, the bustling capital of Santorini, is the ideal place to stay if you want a mix of convenience, vibrant atmosphere, and stunning views—all without the hefty price tag that often comes with staying in Oia. As the island’s main town, Fira offers everything you could need, from a wide range of restaurants serving both local and international dishes, to lively nightlife spots where you can sip cocktails while overlooking the caldera. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual meal or a fine dining experience, Fira has plenty of options to satisfy all tastes and budgets.
Pros of Staying in Fira:
✅ Best for first-time visitors – central and well-connected
✅ Lively nightlife scene with bars and clubs
✅ More affordable hotels compared to Oia
Shopping in Fira is also a treat, with everything from local artisan shops selling handmade jewelry and pottery, to boutiques showcasing the latest fashion. It’s the perfect place to find unique souvenirs or even treat yourself to something special. The town’s winding streets are full of charm, making it a joy to explore on foot, with new discoveries around every corner.
When it comes to getting around, Fira is the most convenient spot on the island. With easy access to public transportation, including buses and taxis, it’s simple to explore the rest of Santorini. If you’re planning on renting a car or an ATV, Fira is also where you’ll find the best rental agencies. Plus, it’s just a short drive from other iconic spots like Oia, Pyrgos, and the beaches, so you can enjoy the rest of the island without straying too far from the action.
Cons of Staying in Fira:
❌ Can be loud and busy, especially in peak season
❌ Not as romantic or private as Oia
🏨 Top Hotel Picks in Fira:
- Athina Luxury Suites – Gorgeous cliffside views with infinity pools
- Aressana Spa Hotel & Suites – Boutique hotel with a fantastic spa
- Anteliz Suites – Chic and peaceful with caldera-facing terraces
🔹 Best for: Travelers who want a mix of nightlife, convenience, and affordability.
What really makes Fira stand out, however, is its caldera views. While Oia is often considered the prime spot for the most famous vistas, Fira offers a similar, if not equally stunning, perspective of the caldera. And since hotel prices here tend to be more affordable than in Oia, you’ll get to enjoy the same gorgeous sights without breaking the bank. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or staying for an extended period, Fira offers the best of both worlds: the convenience of the capital with the beauty of Santorini’s iconic views.
3. Imerovigli – The Hidden Gem (Best for Peace & Luxury Without Crowds)
📍 Best for: Luxury travelers, couples, peace-seekers
💰 Price range: $$$ (Luxury stays, but less pricey than Oia)
Imerovigli, often dubbed “Santorini’s best-kept secret,” is the perfect retreat for those seeking the beauty of the island without the bustling crowds that come with places like Oia. Nestled between Fira and Oia, this charming village offers the same stunning, panoramic views of the caldera, but with a much more serene and tranquil atmosphere. It’s a hidden gem where you can escape the hustle and bustle and immerse yourself in the island’s natural beauty.
Pros of Staying in Imerovigli:
✅ Best sunset and caldera views (without the Oia crowds)
✅ Luxurious hotels at a slightly better price than Oia
✅ Quiet and romantic atmosphere
What makes Imerovigli so special is its peaceful vibe. While Oia and Fira can sometimes feel crowded with tourists, Imerovigli maintains a sense of calm, making it ideal for couples looking for a romantic getaway. The village is quieter, with smaller boutique hotels and cozy spots where you can relax and enjoy each other’s company. Many of the accommodations here are built into the cliffs, offering private terraces and infinity pools, allowing guests to enjoy uninterrupted views of the sea and sky in total privacy.
The village is perfect for couples who want to spend quality time together, whether you’re sipping wine on your terrace at sunset, taking a leisurely stroll along the caldera path, or enjoying intimate dinners in a tucked-away taverna. The sunsets in Imerovigli are just as spectacular as those in Oia, but with fewer people vying for the best spot, making it an even more magical experience. The whole atmosphere here feels more relaxed, as if the world slows down for a moment.
Cons of Staying in Imerovigli:
❌ Limited nightlife and restaurant options
❌ Not ideal if you want to be in the center of the action
🏨 Top Hotel Picks in Imerovigli:
- Grace Hotel Santorini – One of the most luxurious hotels on the island
- Cavo Tagoo Santorini – Stunning cliffside infinity pools
- Santorini Princess Spa Hotel – Gorgeous sunset views and top-tier service
🔹 Best for: Couples who want a romantic, quiet getaway without the Oia price tag.
For those looking for luxury without the overwhelming crowds, Imerovigli offers a perfect balance. You get the world-class views and the high-end accommodations Santorini is known for, but with a more laid-back, peaceful environment that makes it feel like a true escape. Whether you’re on your honeymoon or just looking to indulge in a romantic retreat, Imerovigli offers a special kind of Santorini experience that you won’t soon forget.
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4. Kamari & Perissa – Best for Budget Travelers & Beach Lovers
📍 Best for: Budget travelers, families, beach lovers
💰 Price range: $-$$ (Budget-friendly)
If you’re someone who prefers the sound of crashing waves over the view from a cliffside, Kamari and Perissa are two of the best beach destinations in Santorini. Located on the eastern side of the island, these areas offer a completely different experience compared to the more famous caldera-view towns like Oia and Fira. Instead of towering cliffs and whitewashed buildings, you’ll find black sand beaches, laid-back vibes, and a more relaxed atmosphere, perfect for those who want to unwind by the sea.
Pros of Staying in Kamari & Perissa:
✅ Best budget-friendly options on the island
✅ Walking distance to the beach
✅ More local, laid-back vibe
Kamari, with its long stretch of black sand beach, is one of the most popular spots on the island for beach lovers. The beach is lined with cozy cafes, bars, and restaurants where you can enjoy a refreshing drink or a fresh seafood meal while taking in the view of the Aegean. The beach itself is well-equipped with sunbeds and umbrellas, and the shallow waters make it a great spot for swimming, especially for families or those just looking to cool off. Plus, since it’s on the eastern side of the island, the mornings here are perfect for watching the sunrise.
Cons of Staying in Kamari & Perissa:
❌ No caldera views
❌ Longer drive (20-30 minutes) to Fira and Oia
🏨 Top Hotel Picks in Kamari & Perissa:
- Santorini Crystal Blue Suites – Stylish beachfront hotel in Kamari
- Meltemi Village Hotel – Budget-friendly, great for families
- Aqua Blue Hotel – Modern beachfront stay in Perissa
🔹 Best for: Budget travelers and families who prefer a beach holiday.
A short drive away, Perissa offers a similarly relaxed beach vibe but with a bit more space and a quieter atmosphere. The black sand stretches for miles, giving you plenty of room to enjoy the beach without feeling crowded. Perissa is also known for its calm waters, making it another great spot for swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing by the shore. The surrounding area is home to several hotels and accommodations that tend to be more affordable compared to the cliffside hotels in Oia and Fira, so it’s a great choice for those on a budget but still looking to experience the beauty of Santorini.
Whether you choose Kamari or Perissa, both offer a welcome break from the more tourist-heavy areas of the island. These beach towns provide a refreshing, laid-back experience with all the charm and beauty of Santorini but without the high prices or the crowds. If you’re looking for a more peaceful stay by the sea, these beaches are the perfect places to relax, soak up the sun, and enjoy Santorini at a slower pace.
Final Thoughts: Where Should You Stay?
- For the most famous Santorini views: Stay in Oia 🏡🌅
- For nightlife & convenience: Stay in Fira 🍹🎉
- For luxury without crowds: Stay in Imerovigli 🏖️✨
- For a budget-friendly beach trip: Stay in Kamari or Perissa ⛱️🏝️
No matter where you stay, you’ll still get to experience Santorini’s magic—just pick the spot that matches your
