These are the most beautiful villages on Santorini
March 26, 2024
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Where is the best place to stay during a vacation to Santorini? This iconic Greek island is known for its white houses, blue domes, luxury cave hotels and breathtaking sea views. Santorini offers countless options for a fine stay. From cozy Airbnb accommodations to luxurious hotels, there is something for everyone. Use our Santorini accommodation tips to determine where on the island is the best place to stay. One thing is certain: on Santorini you will enjoy a crazy vacation!
The best places to stay on Santorini
Scattered across the island you will find several villages where you can stay. The most famous villages on Santorini are Oía, Imerovigli, Fira and Firostefani. Based on the tips below, decide which village you prefer to stay in during your vacation on Santorini.
1. Fira: bustling and centrally located on Santorini
Fira is the capital and the liveliest place on the island. Here you will find a fine mix of conviviality, culture and nightlife. We stayed in Gianna Suites, a beautiful and affordable stay a 10-minute walk from the center of Fira. Some rooms even have a private hot tub on the balcony, great for a relaxing moment overlooking the city.
In the center of Fira you will find many restaurants, stores, clubs and bars. It is where you will find some of the tastiest restaurants on the island. We have collected the best addresses for you in our article on The best hotspots on Santorini.
Staying in or just outside the center of Fira guarantees friendliness, liveliness and many amenities at your fingertips. Moreover, the beaches of Santorini are easily accessible from Fira. Rent a scooter, car or - as we did - a quad bike, and you'll have your feet in the sand within 30 minutes.
2. Firostefani: quieter and more affordable than Fira
Firostefani is a charming, typical Cycladic village with narrow streets, traditional white houses and views of the Caldera. It is just a bit higher than Fira, but you can walk there in about 10 minutes, making it a fine base. Compared to Fira, staying in Firostefani is often a bit more affordable. You will find atmospheric boutique hotels, small-scale accommodations and fine apartments, often with sea views. Highly recommended is Smaro Studios, where you'll stay in a luxury suite with its own hot tub, views of the volcano and a full breakfast on your balcony every morning.
In short, Firostefani is ideal if you want to stay near Fira, but prefer a little more peace and quiet and are looking for affordable accommodation on Santorini.
3. Imerovigli: romantic stay ánd the most beautiful views of the Caldera
We found Imerovigli to be truly the most beautiful village on Santorini. It is definitely recommended if you want to enjoy your honeymoon on Santorini or are looking for luxury. Most tourists can be found around sunset in Fira and Oía, but from Imerovigli it is just as beautiful and a lot quieter. In the hours before sunset, we walked around the beautiful streets of Imerovigli. Each turn amazed us with a new and breathtaking panoramic view of the Caldera.
A recommended place to stay is the Santorini Princess Spa Hotel, with spacious rooms, panoramic sea views and a lovely heated outdoor pool. Here you will enjoy luxurious facilities such as a spa, hot tub and a sun terrace where you can completely unwind.
4. Oía: Santorini's most iconic and photogenic spot
Oía is undoubtedly the most famous village on Santorini, and for good reason. Its colorful buildings, charming streets and world-famous sunset make it an absolute dream spot.
But keep in mind the crowds! About four in the afternoon, it gets increasingly crowded, and finding a parking spot then can be a challenge. Parking is also strictly controlled. Be sure to park in designated zones.
Oía is also the most expensive place to stay on Santorini, and even one of the priciest places in all of Greece when it comes to accommodations. We enjoyed visiting Oía one evening to soak up the atmosphere and watch the sun sink into the sea. Dreaming of a special stay? Then Canaves Ena a super-deluxe option to dream away for a while, such as for a honeymoon or a special occasion to go extra grand.
Prefer a more budget tip? Then compare the various options on Booking.com and look for package deals to Oía on Santorini.
5. Staying on the beach on Santorini: Kamari, Perissa and Perivolos
Not everyone chooses to stay in the larger villages of the island. You can also choose to stay on the coast. Ideal if you are traveling with children or if you like a beach vacation. Santorini has a fine coastline with extensive black pebble and sand beaches. For family travel, the resort of Kamari is best suited. The beach, beach clubs, taverns and hotels are within walking distance of each other. From Kamari, the idyllic villages of Santorini are easily and quickly accessible.
As good alternative beach destinations, you can also stay in Perissa or Perivolos. These beach towns are located on Santorini's famous Black Beach. On this coastline you will find more beach bars and there are more parties at night than you will find in Kamari.
Accommodations in the coastal towns are generally a lot cheaper than those in the well-known villages of Fira, Oia, Firostefani and Imerovigli. Highly recommended is Hotel Aegeeis in Perissa: an affordable stay with modern and stylishly decorated rooms, a beautiful outdoor pool and within walking distance of both Perissa Beach and Perivolos Beach.
Book a package holiday to Santorini
Do you fancy a vacation where everything is taken care of? Then booking a package holiday to Santorini is of course ideal. One of the advantages is that in a package trip often the transportation to and from the airport at destination is arranged, but you also have on site and contact person of the respective travel agency. Well-known travel companies that offer trips to Santorini are:
More tips for your vacation on Santorini
Santorini is an island to dream of: stunning sunsets, atmospheric streets, white houses with blue domes and unique beaches. But that's not all! We have discovered the island extensively and are happy to share all our tips with you. From fine eateries to special attractions and beautiful hikes, you will get the most out of your trip.
To do on Santorini: the hike from Fira to Oía: one of the most beautiful walks on the island;
The most beautiful beaches on Santorini: from Black Beach to Red Beach;
The most beautiful villages to visit on Santorini: discover charming spots such as Pyrgos and Megalochori;
The best things to do on Santorini: from taking a catamaran cruise to wine tasting.
Travander
At Travander, we’re all about exploring hidden gems, unique destinations, and off-the-beaten-path travel experiences. Our motto, “Let’s Travel and Wander,” reflects our passion for discovering both local treasures and faraway adventures. As experienced travel bloggers and travel consultants, we share insider tips, personal stories, and practical advice to help you make the most of every trip. From city breaks and weekend getaways to tailor-made travel itineraries, we guide you to the most beautiful and inspiring places. Explore the world with Travander and let us spark your next unforgettable adventure!
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