Discover the Ultimate 2024 Guide to the Best Area to Stay in Santorini

While Santorini isn’t a large island, choosing where to stay can dramatically shape your trip – from luxury cave hotels perched on the caldera to laid-back beach resorts and traditional villages away from the crowds.

With that, let’s jump into each neighborhood and from there we’ll do a breakdown of a few popular requests.

Best Area To Stay In Santorini

Just like deciding when the best time to visit Santorini is, trying to decide the best area to stay in Santorini is equally as important and challenging, especially if it’s your first time.

Let this be your guide in learning about the different towns on the island, the pros and cons of each, and what there is to do and where to eat in each area.

Towns Of Santorini

Santorini isn’t a large island but there are a number of towns that are quite distinct with many pros and cons.

The primary towns recommended for your trip to Santorini are:

• Fira – Capital of Santorini and the center of action for shopping, restaurants, nightlife, and transportation. This is also one of the popular spots to see the sunset.
• Firostefani – Just next door to Firostefani, this is slightly quieter than the often busy Fira but has equally great views.
• Imerovigli – This is one of the quietest parts of the trail that connects Fira with Oia along the caldera that doesn’t necessarily have many restaurants but has some of the best boutique properties and a few of the best restaurants on the island.
• Oia – Inexplicably tied to Santorini for the iconic sunset, Oia is picturesque with more of an up-scale vibe to cater to all of the type of travellers that stay here.
• Pyrgos – Inland, there are a number of charming towns. With its maze of pedestrian footpaths, Venetian castle, local boutiques, and churches, this is a tranquil place to stay where you’ll feel more like a local.
• Megalochori – This traditional village has an awesome authentic feel to it with a number of great restaurants. While usually not on most lists, there’s also a hidden gem of a 5-star resort here.
• Akrotiri – This is the southern peninsula of the island that is best known for being the site of the prehistoric town. You’ll find many of the famous beaches here, lighthouse, and a spread of properties along the caldera.
• Perivolos & Perissa – A long stretch of black sand beach on the southern part of the island that’s low-key and great for families.
• Kamari – This seaside village on the east coast of the island is the closest to the airport and has direct black sand beach access. It has a family-friendly atmosphere.

You may want to consider checking if hotel corporate codes can offer you any discounts or benefits.

Remember to pack a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce waste during your trip.

When renting a car in Santorini, look for car rental coupon codes to save money. Discover Cars and RentalCars are good starting points to find the best deals.

Use Skyscanner’s “Everywhere” feature to find the best flight deals to Greece from your local airport.

Make sure you have travel insurance for your trip. HeyMondo is a recommended option for travel insurance.

Check out our travel deals page for the latest discounts and offers.

Don’t forget to read our Greek Islands Travel Guide for more tips and insights on traveling in the Western Cyclades. The cathedral in Fira is a marvel to behold, with stunning sculptures surrounding it. If you’re interested in prehistoric Thira, you can visit the Museum of Prehistoric Thira for fascinating information and artifacts. The Santorini Cable Car offers transportation to and from the old harbor, providing great views of the caldera cliff. It’s a better option than riding donkeys, which should be avoided.

In Fira, you can simply wander the streets and alleys, exploring shops, galleries, and beautiful architecture like the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist. The best time to visit is close to sunset, where you can find a spot to watch the sunset, such as the main square or near Franco’s Bar.

When in Fira, make reservations at restaurants and bars, and consider visiting the Nomikos agency to print ferry tickets. The town can get crowded, especially around the Fira Theotokopoulou Main Square. For dining with a view, check out restaurants like Argo Restaurant, Volcano Blue, and V Lounge Cafe & Cocktail Bar.

If you’re staying in Firostefani, you’ll enjoy caldera views and a quieter atmosphere compared to Fira. The town is close to Fira and Imerovigli, offering a convenient location. While there are fewer properties with caldera views in Firostefani, hotels here are typically more affordable than in Fira.

Some recommended hotels in Firostefani include Ira Hotel & Spa for budget travelers, Callia Retreat Suites for mid-range options, Homeric Poems for luxury accommodations, and Chic Hotel Santorini for chic views. In Firostefani, you can visit the Three Bells of Fira church and walk part of the Fira to Oia trail for breathtaking views of the caldera. The best vantage point for viewing all of Fira can be found here. Book a walking photo session with this photographer in Imerovigli. Interested in learning how to photograph Santorini and the stars at night? Check out the Night and Astro Photography workshop. If you’re looking for a guided hike from Fira to Oia, consider booking the Guided Fira to Oia Hike tour.

Here are a few additional things you should know about Imerovigli:
– Limited parking available, so renting a car for multiple days is not recommended
– Awesome restaurants to try include Anogi, Avocado Restaurant, and Kapari Wine Restaurant
– The view changes based on your location in Imerovigli, with some properties offering unique views of Skaros Rock
– Consider whether your hotel is above or below the main walking path for different views

For accommodations in Oia, here are some recommendations:
– Budget: Kiklamino Sunset Suites
– Guest House: Anima Residence
– Mid-Range: Katikies Santorini
– Luxury: Art Maisons Oia Castle

Overall, Oia is best for first-time visitors, luxury travelers, iconic Santorini sunsets, photography, and romantic getaways. It offers a different vibe compared to Fira and is known for its picturesque views and upscale atmosphere. For an unforgettable stay, reserve the elegantly designed Honeymoon Suite featuring a spacious balcony and a private outdoor hot tub. Enjoy the minimalistic design and luxury amenities for a truly special experience.

For a different experience, you could opt for day tours with daily pickups.

While the town offers plenty to do and see, your options for restaurants, bars, and shops are more limited.

Best Hotels In Pyrgos

Things You Need To See And Do In Pyrgos

• Castelli of Pyrgos – Visit this Venetian castle at the top of the hill for stunning views of the island and breathtaking sunsets.
• Santo Winery – Explore one of the best wineries on Santorini and enjoy wine tasting.

Suggested Activities In Pyrgos

• Island Bus Tour – Explore Akrotiri, Pyrgos, Fira, and the Red Beach on a day tour of Santorini.
• Santorini Half-Day Sunset Wine Tasting – Enjoy local wine and tapas while watching the sunset on this island tasting tour.

Where To Stay In Megalochori

What’s Here?

Megalochori offers a charming village atmosphere with blue-domed churches, bell towers, and whitewashed architecture, closer to the caldera with vineyards and wineries.

Uncover traditional cave houses, a large city gate, and a picturesque town square in Megalochori.

Wine enthusiasts will enjoy the vineyards and wineries in the region, making it an ideal destination for wine tasting.

Experience a quieter, less touristy vibe in Megalochori with opportunities to explore the town without large crowds.

Why Stay In Megalochori?

Escape the tourist crowds and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere of Megalochori, where you can enjoy a more authentic Santorini experience.

Discover luxury resorts and B&Bs in Megalochori, offering caldera views and a peaceful setting away from the bustling towns.

Indulge in local tavernas and cuisine, unique to Megalochori, for a taste of traditional Greek dining.

Disadvantages Of The Megalochori

Accessing other parts of the island may require relying on local transportation or renting a car, as Megalochori is off the beaten path.

There are fewer options for dining, shopping, and entertainment in Megalochori compared to busier tourist areas.

Best Hotels In Megalochori

Guests have access to a sauna, Turkish steam bath, on-site dining, and complimentary breakfast.

In Megalochori, visitors can explore a traditional underground cave, experience the Lost Atlantis museum, visit wineries like Venetsanos, Gavalas, and Boutari, and enjoy activities such as the Petra Kouzina Cooking Experience, small-group horse riding, electric bike tours, and guided village tours.

Akrotiri is best for history lovers, scenic caldera hotels, exploring archaeological sites, beach hopping, and a relaxed atmosphere. The area features the Prehistoric Town of Akrotiri, southern beaches, and a lighthouse for sunset viewing.

Staying in Akrotiri offers stunning cliff views at a more affordable price, a quieter and trendier atmosphere, and excellent dining options. However, the area is more spread out, requiring a car for transportation and lacking the bustling town feel found in other parts of Santorini.

Recommended hotels in Akrotiri include Acrothea Suites and Villas for budget accommodation, Kokkinos Villas for mid-range options, and Apanemo Hotel & Suites for family-friendly stays. Also ideal for families, the property offers a children’s pool and spacious suites for larger groups. Please remember to plan your day around the [bus schedules](https://www.ktel-santorini.gr/index.php/en/).

While the number of luxury hotels and upscale restaurants is increasing, Perivolos and Perissa are not known for those amenities. These areas are more suited for travelers seeking a relaxed beach experience.

### Best Accommodations in Perivolos & Perissa

#### Budget
– **Stelios Place:** A budget-friendly hotel offering renovated rooms, air conditioning, private balconies, and multi-person accommodations. Located steps away from the beach, it’s a convenient choice for travelers on a budget.

#### Mid-Range
– **Meltemi Village Hotel:** This hotel features an outdoor pool, whirlpool, gym, garden, restaurant, and bar. With spacious suites for up to five guests, it’s a great family-friendly option with excellent service.

#### Perissa’s Best
– **Aqua Blue Beach Hotel:** Situated on Perissa Beach, this modern hotel offers walkout beach access, multiple pools, a gym, and spacious suites with private balconies. Breakfast is included, and there are plenty of nearby restaurants for dining options.

#### Perivolos’ Best
– **Istoria:** A trendy Design Hotels property in Perivolos featuring stylish suites, private terraces, and rooms with outdoor hot tubs. Guests can enjoy breakfast, a large pool, spa services, and on-site dining.

### Things to See and Do in Perivolos & Perissa

– **Perissa Beach:** Known for its unique black pebbles, this beach offers a one-of-a-kind experience with views of the mountain and gentle waves.
– **Perivolos Beach:** Quieter and sandier than Perissa Beach, this area offers a more relaxed atmosphere.

### Suggested Activities in Perivolos & Perissa

– **Transfer from Perissa to Oia:** Book a transfer to save time traveling to Oia.
– **ATV Tour:** Explore the open roads and nearby towns with an ATV tour.
– **Wine and Food Tour:** Learn about Santorini’s history and cuisine with a tour ending at Perissa Black Sand Beach.
– **ATV and Scooter Rental:** Convenient rental services available for exploring the area.

### What You Need to Know About Perivolos & Perissa

– **Beach tips:** Wear good sandals for the hot sand and look for areas without chair rentals for more privacy.
– **Beach chair rentals:** Affordable options are available for daily rentals.
– **Great for backpackers:** Budget-friendly accommodations are plentiful in the area.
– **Main street becomes pedestrian:** After 2PM, part of the beach road in Perissa is closed to cars.
– **Restaurants to try:** Savvas Popeye Taverna, Mama’s Food, Fratzeskos Fish Tavern, and Santa Irini Bakery are recommended.
– **Bars:** Local favorites include Dorians Bar, Tranquilo, and Margarita.

### Where to Stay in Kamari

Kamari is best for families, beach holidays, proximity to the airport, dining options, and visitors without rental cars.

### What’s in Kamari?

Kamari features a long promenade with shops, tavernas, cafes, and bars, as well as the popular Kamari beach with black sand and pebbles. The village is home to the ruins of an ancient sanctuary dedicated to Poseidon.

### Why Stay in Kamari?

Kamari offers a black sand beach experience similar to Perivolos and Perissa but is slightly closer to Fira. The village has a more upscale and resort-like feel compared to its counterparts.

### Disadvantages of Kamari

If you’re seeking romantic caldera views, Kamari may not be the ideal choice. You visit Kamari for its beach experience and to enjoy the promenade, but keep in mind that Kamari is a self-contained village. To explore other parts of the island, you’ll need to rely on car rentals, the local bus, or tour pickups. While Kamari has a good number of restaurants, none of them are particularly memorable.

💡 Good to know: Kamari is only a short drive from the airport, so you may occasionally notice aircraft overhead during the day.

Here are some recommended hotels in Kamari:

– Budget Beach Front: Makris Beach Hotel
– Budget Resort: Tamarix Del Mar Suites
– Mid-Range: Chez Sophie
– Luxury: Santorini Kastelli Resort

Things to see and do in Kamari include visiting Kamari Beach, exploring Ancient Thera, checking out Gaia Winery, and enjoying an outdoor cinema experience. Additionally, suggested activities in Kamari include taking a Santorini helicopter flight, trying a traditional fishing experience, and renting an ATV or scooter.

When it comes to Kamari beach tips, make sure to wear good sandals or water shoes, take advantage of free beach chairs with a drink purchase, and be prepared for massage vendors on the beach. Overall, Kamari offers great value for families with affordable options for food, drinks, and accommodations.

For additional Santorini hotel recommendations, consider staying in Firostefani or Imerovigli for the best Caldera views, Imerovigli for a honeymoon trip, and Perivolos and Perissa for a family-friendly stay. If you’re a solo traveler, look for accommodations in areas with affordable options and easy access to nightlife and activities. If you are a solo female traveler, finding a safe area is important. In that case, Fira is recommended as the best area to stay in Santorini. Despite the high prices, there are affordable accommodations available in town.

For backpackers who are more price-sensitive and willing to stay a bit farther from the caldera area, Perissa and Perivolos are ideal choices, with Kamari being a close second.

If you have limited time and want to stay centrally located to avoid relying on the bus, Fira and Firostefani are the best areas for short trips to Santorini.

For those looking for affordable accommodations with caldera views, consider staying in Akrotiri, where you can find villas with a view at a good price.

For nightlife enthusiasts, Fira is the liveliest part of the island, but for a quieter stay after partying, consider Firostefani.

When it comes to sunset views, Oia is a popular choice, but Imerovigli offers a stunning view that is equally impressive and less crowded.

For those seeking absolute luxury and top-notch accommodations, Fira has several luxury properties to choose from.

For a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience, consider staying in the Megalochori area, a traditional village with world-class accommodations.

If it’s your first time in Santorini and you want a well-rounded experience, Firostefani offers a good balance of what all travelers are looking for.

Overall, if you want the best of everything in terms of location, views, price, food, privacy, and convenience, Imerovigli is considered the best area to stay in Santorini.

• Camera or smartphone with extra storage – Santorini is one of the most photogenic destinations in Greece. Make sure you have plenty of space for sunset photos and videos.
• Portable power bank – Long sightseeing days and constant photo-taking can drain your battery quickly, so having backup power is always handy.
• Universal travel adapter– Greece uses Type C and Type F plugs with 230V electricity, so bring a universal adapter if you’re traveling from outside Europe.

Choosing The Right Spot To Stay In Santorini

Choosing where to stay in Santorini comes down to the type of trip you’re planning. Oia is perfect for iconic sunsets and luxury escapes, Fira offers the best mix of restaurants, nightlife, and transport connections, while Imerovigli is ideal for couples seeking peace and breathtaking caldera views. If you’re looking for a more authentic side of the island, villages like Pyrgos and Megalochori provide a slower pace away from the crowds, while Kamari, Perissa, and Perivolos are excellent choices for beach lovers and families.

Another question you need to ask yourself is, “do I want to stay somewhere with caldera views”? That’ll narrow down your options quickly. At the end of the day, you honestly can’t go wrong no matter where you stay in Santorini.

No matter your budget or travel style, Santorini has a neighborhood to match. By understanding what each area offers, you’ll be able to choose a base that helps you make the most of your time on one of Greece’s most beautiful islands.

Frequently Asked Questions