Where to stay in Santorini: the best areas for every traveler

Whether you've been to Santorini before or are planning your first trip, choosing where to stay is the first step towards a memorable vacation. Whether you want to admire the caldera from your room or get away from the crowds, we've put together the best villages to stay in and some of the island's most popular hotels.

The best places to stay in Santorini for couples

It's hard to imagine a more romantic place than volcanic Santorini, framed by the deep blue Aegean. The island is ideal for couples, with plenty of places to stay that give you privacy and still put you close to the sights and nightlife.

Grace Santorini is in Imerovigli, with amazing caldera views and unforgettable sunsets. Its rooftop infinity pool lets you swim while you enjoy the view, and it's exclusive enough to give you the privacy you want.

Oia's classic scenery is made for romance, and there are plenty of adults-only hotels, such as Elea Resort. Its suites have private pools, and the hotel serves light meals and cocktails, so you don't even have to leave if you'd rather stay in for the night.

Firostefani is often overlooked, and it's perfect for couples who want a little more privacy. Try the Sun Rocks Boutique Hotel, which feels secluded but is still close to sights such as the Museum of Prehistoric Thera.

The best places to stay in Santorini with a family

Keeping children entertained on Santorini isn't hard: the whole island is a playground of stunning scenery, beautiful beaches and ancient ruins. Some areas are more child-friendly than others, though, so choose a base that suits both you and your little ones.

Kamari gives the whole family wonderful beach days, with local handmade ice cream and warm Santorini sunshine. It's on the east side of the island, so you'll have to travel a little to visit Oia or Fira, but it has a lovely seaside atmosphere and plenty of activities, such as hiking, to keep children busy. Try the Kastelli Resort, which has lots to do on site, such as tennis and swimming, or the Tamarix Del Mar Suites, which has a children's pool.

Staying in Fira can be a great choice for getting around, because it's the easiest place to travel from: the island's buses start and finish here. It has the buzz of a capital while still offering plenty of natural beauty. If you arrive by boat, this is also where you'll come ashore and leave from.

Where to stay in Santorini on a budget

The closer you get to the edge of the caldera, the more expensive hotels become. You can save money by choosing a nice hotel without the view and still enjoy the breathtaking scenery while you explore the island.

The good news for budget travelers is that away from the expensive caldera villages, some of Santorini's most famous beaches have affordable places to stay. A dramatic rock formation frames one side of Perissa's black sand beach, and the views of the sparkling Aegean are amazing. In 2022 you could find hotels with sea views here for under $100 a night, such as Perissa Bay, which has a bar right on the beach.

Santorini is small enough that you can reach almost anywhere on the island in about half an hour, but if you stay away from the busy areas, plan how you'll get around. Renting a scooter, taking the bus or cycling are all good ways to get around Santorini. If you'd rather leave the driving to someone else for a day, a tour of the island with a local is an easy way to see the villages.

Where to stay in Santorini as a solo traveler

Solo travelers looking for nightlife will want to stay in or near Fira, where most of the popular clubs and bars are. You'll also enjoy the beauty of the caldera and Santorini's culture without having to travel far. Budget-friendly options include the Theoxenia Boutique Hotel, with free breakfast, or Hotel Thireas, with sea views. For more luxury, try the Aressana Spa Hotel. If you just want a simple, comfortable place close to the sights, the Melina Hotel is a short walk from the bus station.

For beautiful views, try the Blue Dolphins in Firostefani, near Fira. You can take in the stunning caldera and relax in the hotel's hot tub. Firostefani is close to the bustle of Fira, which makes it convenient for getting around the island, but a little less crowded, even on the busiest summer days. It's an excellent base for exploring the whole island: catch a bus in Fira and visit the most popular places around the island.

The best places to stay off the beaten path

If you want to avoid the crowds, Pyrgos is a charming village with churches, vineyards and some of the most sweeping views on the island. It doesn't get as busy as Oia or Fira, and it has plenty of culture of its own. Try the De Sol Spa Hotel or the budget-friendly Villa Manos. If budget isn't a concern, Pyrgos Kastelli Villas has amazing views.

If you'd like to stay right on the caldera with as few crowds as possible, Imerovigli may be the best-kept secret for watching the sunset. Oia is famous for its views, but Imerovigli is just as dramatic and less crowded. Try Alta Vista Suites to sleep in a traditional cave-style room.

Finding the right base

Whatever your plans for Santorini, you'll find accommodation to suit you. Every area has plenty to offer, and one of the best things about Santorini is that even on a budget you'll stay somewhere stunning: with so many sights on the island, you're never far from something beautiful.

On most islands, beachfront hotels cost the most. On Santorini, the caldera is the main attraction, so beachfront hotels are often the budget-friendly choice. Whether you're traveling alone, as a couple, as a family or for adventure, you'll find a wide choice of hotels to suit your needs, leaving you free to enjoy everything that has made Santorini one of the world's most desired destinations since ancient times.