Santorini is a stunning Greek island that attracts millions of visitors every year. It is famous for its dramatic landscapes, breathtaking views over the caldera, and romantic sunsets. But where should you stay in Santorini to make the most of your trip? In this blog post, we will explore the best areas and hotels in Santorini for different budgets and preferences, based on our research and personal experience.
The Best Areas to Stay in Santorini
The best areas to stay in Santorini depend on what you are looking for. Do you want to be close to the action, enjoy the iconic views, relax on the beach, or explore the local culture? Here are some of the most popular areas to stay in Santorini and what they offer:
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Fira
: Fira is the capital and largest town of Santorini, located on the western edge of the island. It is the most convenient place to stay in Santorini, as it has the main bus station, taxi stand, shops, restaurants, bars, museums, and nightlife. Fira also has some of the best views over the caldera and the volcano, especially from the hotels along the cliffside. However, Fira can get very crowded and noisy during peak season, especially when cruise ships dock at the port. Fira is ideal for travelers who want to be in the center of everything and don’t mind the hustle and bustle. -
Oia
: Oia is the second-largest town in Santorini, located on the northern tip of the island. It is the most picturesque and romantic place to stay in Santorini, with its whitewashed houses, blue-domed churches, narrow alleys, and stunning sunsets. Oia is also home to some of the most luxurious hotels in Santorini, many of them with private pools and terraces overlooking the caldera. However, Oia can also get very crowded and expensive during peak season, especially around sunset time. Oia is ideal for travelers who want to splurge on a dreamy vacation and don’t mind sharing it with other tourists. -
Imerovigli
: Imerovigli is a small village located between Fira and Oia, on the highest point of the caldera. It is the most peaceful and secluded place to stay in Santorini, with some of the best views over the caldera and the sunset. Imerovigli has a few shops, restaurants, and cafes, but it is mostly a residential area with elegant hotels and villas. However, Imerovigli can also be quite isolated and expensive, as there is no public transportation and you will need to walk or take a taxi to get to other places. Imerovigli is ideal for travelers who want to relax in a quiet and scenic setting and don’t mind being away from the action. -
Kamari
: Kamari is a lively beach resort town on the southeast coast of Santorini, opposite the caldera. It has a long black sand beach with sunbeds, umbrellas, water sports, beach bars, and restaurants. Kamari also has a variety of hotels, from budget-friendly to upscale, as well as shops, supermarkets, an open-air cinema, and a water park. However, Kamari does not have any views over the caldera or the sunset, as it faces east. Kamari is ideal for travelers who want to enjoy the beach life and have more options for accommodation and entertainment. -
Perissa/Perivolos
: Perissa and Perivolos are two neighboring beach towns on the south coast of Santorini, connected by a long black sand beach. They have a similar vibe to Kamari, with sunbeds, umbrellas, water sports, beach bars, and restaurants. Perissa and Perivolos also have a range of hotels, from budget-friendly to upscale, as well as shops, supermarkets, an ancient site (Ancient Thera), and a water taxi service to Kamari. However, Perissa and Perivolos do not have any views over the caldera or the sunset either. Perissa and Perivolos are ideal for travelers who want to enjoy the beach life and have more space and tranquility. -
Pyrgos
: Pyrgos is a traditional village located on a hilltop in the center of Santorini. It is one of the oldest settlements on the island, with a medieval castle (Kasteli), churches (including one with 33 domes), museums, and wineries. Pyrgos has a charming atmosphere and panoramic views over the whole island, including the caldera and the sunset. Pyrgos also has a few hotels, restaurants, and cafes, but it is mostly a quiet and authentic place. However, Pyrgos can be quite hard to reach and navigate, as it has steep and narrow streets and limited public transportation. Pyrgos is ideal for travelers who want to experience the local culture and history and don’t mind being off the beaten path.
The Best Hotels in Santorini
The best hotels in Santorini vary depending on your budget and preferences. Santorini has hundreds of hotels to choose from, from cozy guesthouses to lavish resorts. Here are some of the best hotels in Santorini for different budgets and preferences, based on our research and personal experience:
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Best Budget Hotels in Santorini
: If you are looking for a cheap but comfortable place to stay in Santorini, you can find some great deals on the beach towns or the inland villages. Some of the best budget hotels in Santorini are:-
Kavalari Hotel
: A charming hotel in Fira with traditional cave rooms, a rooftop terrace, and caldera views. -
Astir Thira Hotel
: A modern hotel in Fira with spacious rooms, a swimming pool, and caldera views. -
Aqua Santorini
: A stylish hotel in Firostefani with minimalist rooms, a jacuzzi, and caldera views. -
Aura Suites
: A cozy hotel in Firostefani with elegant rooms, a plunge pool, and caldera views. - <a href=”https://www.bing.com/travel/hotels/detail?q=Santorini%20best%20areas%20and%20hotels&id=YXNwYXJ0bW
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