Where to Stay in Santorini: Best Areas & Hotels for Every Budget (2025)

Recommended Santorini Hotels:

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Picking the perfect place to stay in Santorini depends on your budget and what kind of trip you would like so we’re here to help.

If you’re after luxury and amazing caldera views, Oia and Fira are the best spots or a more affordable stay, check out Perissa or Kamari, where you’ll find black sand beaches, budget-friendly hotels, and a laid-back vibe. Are you a first-time visitor? Are you travelling as a family or a couple? First-time visitors might love Fira for its central location, while couples looking for a romantic escape will enjoy the peaceful charm of Imerovigli. The main difficulty we had is that you don’t have only the choice of which hotel to stay in but which area of the island, I found this decision most difficult before our trip.

Whatever your style, there’s a perfect place for you in Santorini! On our first visit to Santorini we stayed in Perissa which we really enjoyed, then we travelled by public transport to other areas of the island, such as Oia and Fira. Perissa suited us as we enjoyed being away from the crowds and the cruise ships, we were able to come back to the beach and to our reasonably priced family-run hotel. I’ll discuss Perissa more below

Overview of Santorini

Santorini has a fascinating history that shaped its unique landscape. A massive volcanic eruption around 1600 BC created the island’s famous caldera and buried the ancient Minoan city of Akrotiri under ash—much like Pompeii. Santorini is the rim of the ancient volcano, shaped like a crescent.

 Today, its whitewashed buildings, blue-domed churches, and stunning sea views make it one of Greece’s most famous destinations. Whether you’re staying in a luxury cliffside hotel or a budget-friendly beachside village, Santorini’s rich past adds to its incredible charm.

Beach or Caldera – Which one suits you best?

A few of Santorini’s main villages—Fira, Oia, Imerovigli and Firostefani —sit along the island’s dramatic caldera cliffs, offering breathtaking views of the volcano and Thirassia Island. These areas are home to the island’s most luxurious hotels, fine dining restaurants, and sophisticated nightlife. You also can’t miss the beautiful sunsets but alongside this these breathtaking views can come at a higher price.

On the other hand, the beach towns, such as Kamari and Perissa, offer a more laid-back and budget-friendly experience. The vibe is casual, with plenty of beachfront tavernas and bars, making them a great choice for those looking to relax by the sea. In recent years high-end hotels have started popping up along the beaches, offering a mix of comfort and affordability.

Santorini is a small island, so no matter where you stay, it’s easy to explore both the beaches and the caldera towns. Many families prefer the beach areas for their child-friendly hotels with pools and restaurants. The Caldera towns are also more difficult to navigate with children, with steep cliffs and many staircases. Whether you choose the stunning caldera views or the sandy shores, Santorini has something for every traveller!

Oia

Oia, known for it’s whitewashed buildings, blue-domed churches and cobbled streets makes the town very picturesque and perfect for honeymooners and couples. You need to go to visit the sunset, being one of the best places in Santorini but expect crowds.

Due to popularity, Oia is very touristy and there are a lot of crowding especially in peak season where there are busloads of tourists mainly from cruise ships. Oia has beautiful shops, luxury fashion and jewellery boutiques as well as some family run stores with handmade garments. There are also dining options with excellent views looking out onto the caldera, it does have a more relaxing atmosphere compared to Fira and the town quietens down by nightfall with a few sophisticated cocktail bars.

Hotel Recommendations!

Budget/Mid-Range hotels in Oia – Muses Cycladic Suites 👉 Aplai Dome 👉 Aspa Villas 👉 Hostel 16 Oia

Hotels with the best sunset view – Adronis Arcadia Hotel 👉 Santo Mine Oia Suites 👉 Thoe Oia Suites (Mid-range option)

🫶 Stunning Views – Oia is famous for its stunning caldera views and world-famous sunsets, you won’t want to leave! Staying here means you’ll have front-row seats to some of the most incredible scenery in Greece.

🫶 Luxury Accommodation – This is where you’ll find Santorini’s most exclusive hotels, many with infinity pools, cave suites, and private terraces overlooking the sea.

🫶 Great Dining Options – Oia has some of the best fine dining restaurants on the island, offering fresh seafood and traditional Greek cuisine with unbeatable views.

👎Expensive – Hotels, restaurants, and even basic amenities tend to be pricier here compared to other parts of the island.

👎Crowded at Sunset – Oia is the most popular spot for sunset views, meaning the streets get packed with tourists in the evening.

👎 Lots of Steps – Oia’s beautiful cliffside location means lots of stairs and steep walkways, which can be challenging for some travellers.

Thira

Fira, the largest town and capital, so for a first-time traveller or if you are travelling solo Fira would be the ideal place to stay. The capital offers the perfect blend of culture, convenience, and stunning views. Perched on the edge of the caldera, it provides breathtaking panoramas of the Aegean Sea and the famous Santorini sunset.

The town is lively and full of charm, with narrow cobblestone streets lined with boutique shops, cozy cafes, and fantastic restaurants. Fira is the central hub for everything, a vibrant nightlife, a town full of energy and the centre for transport options. Whether you want to explore the island’s history, enjoy a vibrant nightlife scene, or simply relax and take in the views, Fira has something for everyone.

Fira has the best selection of bars and clubs on the island, offering everything from relaxed cocktail lounges to lively dance floors. Unlike Oia, where nightlife is more low-key, Fira stays buzzing late into the night, making it perfect for those looking to enjoy Santorini after dark.

Fira’s transport hub makes it the most convenient place to stay if you plan to explore the island. The central bus station connects Fira to all major destinations, including Oia, Perissa, Kamari, and Akrotiri. If you’re not renting a car or ATV, staying in Fira makes it easy to get around without hassle. If visiting in high season especially you will find many tourists as Fira as you will find the port and cruise ships.

Hotel Recommendations!

Budget/Mid-Range hotels in Thira – San Constantino Boutique Villa 👉 Asterolithos, Fira 👉 Bedspot Hostel

Best hotels in Thira – Cosmopolitan Suites 👉 Irene City Villas 👉 Athina Luxury Villas

🫶Vibrant Nightlife – Plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants, making it ideal for those who enjoy a lively atmosphere.

🫶Central Location – Fira is the island’s main hub, making it easy to explore other areas. The central location provides you with excellent transport links to other areas as well as being close to lots of activities.

🫶A range of Accommodation Options – From budget-friendly hotels to luxury stays with caldera views.

👎Crowded, Busy & Noisy – As the island’s capital, Fira can feel overwhelming, especially in peak season with the amount of tourists and lively nightlife. There can also be traffic due to the transport and cruise ships.

👎More Expensive – While there are budget options, caldera-view hotels and drinks and dining can be more pricey.

Perissa

Perissa is a laid-back beach town on the southeastern coast of Santorini, known for its long stretch of black sand beach, relaxed atmosphere, and budget-friendly accommodations. Unlike the caldera-side villages, Perissa offers a more affordable stay while still providing stunning views of the Aegean Sea and the dramatic Mesa Vouno mountain.

This area is perfect for travellers who prefer a quieter, more traditional Greek island experience. Perissa still has a great selection of beachside tavernas and casual bars as well as small family-run hotels, making it ideal for budget-conscious travellers and families. The beach is one of the best on the island, with sunbeds, water sports and beach bars.

While Perissa is a bit farther from Santorini’s famous sunset spots, it’s well-connected by bus to Fira and other parts of the island. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy Santorini’s beauty without the high price tag of the caldera towns.

As I stayed here myself, I would recommend Perissa as there are still excellent restaurants and bars at lower prices, we had a great Greek night on the beach front! We got the bus which was 5 minutes walk away and came around every 30 minutes although this was in high season but there were no issues.

Hotel Recommendations!

Budget/Mid-Range hotels in Perissa – Philoxenia Hotel & Studios 👉 Phevos Villa 👉 Villa Nektaria (Hostel)

Best hotels for families – Aqua Blue Beach Hotel 👉 Filoxenia Luxury Villas 👉 Two bedroom apartment incl car rental and breakfast

🫶Affordable Accommodation – Perissa offers some of the most budget-friendly hotels, guesthouses, and apartments on the island, making it ideal for travelers looking to save money.

🫶Beautiful Black Sand Beach – One of Santorini’s best beaches, Perissa Beach has soft volcanic sand, crystal-clear waters, and plenty of sunbeds and umbrellas. With this comes beach front dining, with fresh seafood and traditional Greek cuisine.

🫶Relaxed Atmosphere – Unlike the bustling caldera towns, Perissa is peaceful and laid-back, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds. With this atmosphere Perissa is also perfect for families.

👎Far from the Caldera Views & Sunsets – Unlike Fira and Oia, Perissa doesn’t have those iconic cliffside views or direct sunset spots.

👎Limited Nightlife – While there are some bars and beach clubs, the nightlife is much quieter compared to Fira and Oia.

👎 Longer Travel Times – While Perissa has regular public transport it takes about 20-30 minutes to reach Fira and even longer to get to Oia, meaning more time spent on transport if you plan to explore the caldera often. Also in Santorini bus times aren’t always reliable and don’t always come on time.

Kamari

Kamari is one of the best places to stay in Santorini if you’re looking for a budget-friendly, beachside escape with a relaxed atmosphere. Located on the island’s eastern coast, Kamari offers a stunning black sand beach, a vibrant yet laid-back vibe, and plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops along its lively promenade.

For entertainment, Kamari also has a popular open-air cinema, perfect for a fun night out. During the high season, a boat taxi connects Kamari to Perissa several times a day. It’s also just a 15-minute bus ride to Fira, making it easy to explore the caldera. To reach Oia, you can transfer buses in Fira and enjoy a scenic 20-minute ride.

Whether you’re a couple, family, or solo traveller, Kamari is a great option for those who want a balance of relaxation, convenience, and value for money.

Hotel Recommendations!

Budget/Mid-Range hotels in Kamari – Villa Angira 👉 Kamarela Studios

Best hotels in Kamari – Sigalas Beach Hotel 👉 Radisson Blu Zaffron Resort, Santorini👉

Acropole Sunrise

🫶Affordable Accommodation – Kamari offers a wide range of budget-friendly hotels, guesthouses, and apartments, making it a great option for all types of travellers.

🫶Beautiful Black Sand Beach – The long, organized beach with sunbeds, umbrellas, and water sports makes it one of the best places to relax by the sea.

🫶Great Restaurants & Bars – The beachfront is lined with tavernas, cafes, and bars offering fresh seafood and traditional Greek dishes at reasonable prices. Kamari is more lively than Perissa with a great mix of entertainment and bars, ideal for all travellers and families.

🫶Easy Access to Public Transport – Regular buses run between Kamari and Fira, making it easy to explore other parts of the island without renting a car. Kamari is only 10 minutes drive from Santorini airport too for an easy transfer!

👎No Caldera Views – Unlike Fira, Oia, or Imerovigli, Kamari doesn’t have the famous Santorini cliffside views or sunset spots.

👎Less Traditional Santorini Feel – While beautiful, Kamari is more modern and doesn’t have the classic whitewashed buildings and blue-domed churches.

👎Far from Oia & Fira – While buses are available, it can take 20-30 minutes to reach Fira and even longer to get to Oia. As shown on the map above, Kamari is slightly closer to Fira than Perissa but you would still need 2 buses for a trip to Oia.

Akrotiri

Akrotiri is a quiet and scenic village on the southwestern tip of Santorini, perfect for travellers looking to escape the crowds. Known for its rich history, it’s home to the famous Akrotiri Archaeological Site, an ancient Minoan settlement well preserved by the ash of a volcanic eruption, like Pompeii.

The area offers breathtaking caldera views, stunning sunsets, and easy access to unique beaches like Red Beach and White Beach. While nightlife and dining options are more limited, Akrotiri provides a peaceful, authentic atmosphere with more affordable accommodations compared to Oia or Fira. It’s an ideal spot for history lovers, couples, and those seeking a relaxing stay.

Having a car is highly recommended in Akrotiri, as hotels, restaurants, beaches, and attractions are spread out across the area. The bus ride from Akrotiri to Fira takes around 20 minutes, and if you’re heading to Oia, you’ll need to transfer in Fira and take another 20-minute ride.

Hotel Recommendations!

Budget/Mid-Range hotels in Akrotiri – Kokkinos Villas (great for families) 👉 Villa Galinia 👉 Elements of Caldera Suites (half price getaway deal)

Best hotels in Akrotiri – Omna Caldera Suites 👉 Vineyard Exclusive Suites 👉 Cabo Este Suites

🫶Peaceful & Less Touristy – Akrotiri is one of the quieter areas of Santorini, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds of Fira and Oia. Akrotiri has a traditional village feel with a laid back atmosphere..
🫶Rich in History – Home to the famous Akrotiri Archaeological Site, often called the “Pompeii of the Aegean,” making it ideal for history lovers.
🫶Beautiful Beaches – Close to Red Beach, White Beach, and Caldera Beach, offering a mix of unique landscapes and great swimming spots.

👎Far from Main Towns – Akrotiri is about 25 minutes from Fira by car, and public transport is less frequent than in other areas.
👎 Limited Nightlife and Dining choices – Unlike Fira and Oia, there are few bars and nightlife options, making it less ideal for partygoers.
👎Need for a Car or ATV – Since buses are less frequent, renting a car or ATV is recommended for exploring other parts of the island.

Imerovigli

Imerovigli, often called the “Balcony of Santorini,” is a stunning village perched on the highest point of the caldera. Known for its breathtaking views, luxury hotels, and peaceful atmosphere, it’s the perfect destination for those seeking a romantic and relaxing stay. It’s known for being the most romantic village along the caldera!

Unlike the busier areas of Fira and Oia, Imerovigli offers an escape with fewer crowds while still being close enough to enjoy the island’s top attractions. The village is famous for its incredible sunset views, charming whitewashed buildings, and scenic hiking trails, including the popular Fira-to-Oia hike along the caldera.

While nightlife and shopping options are limited, Imerovigli’s upscale restaurants and accommodations make it an ideal choice for couples and honeymooners looking for a serene Santorini experience.

Hotel Recommendations!

Budget/Mid-Range hotels in Imerovigli – Nefeli Homes – Adults Only 👉 Annio Santorini 👉 Aghios Artemios Traditional Houses

Best hotels in Imerovigli – SantAnna Luxury Suites 👉 Astra Suites 👉 Ater Albus Collection by K&K 👉 Surupo Suites

🫶 Breathtaking Views – Imerovigli offers some of the most stunning caldera views in Santorini, often without the heavy crowds of Fira and Oia, known as the ‘Balcony of Santorini’
🫶 Great for Hiking – The scenic hike from Imerovigli to Oia along the caldera rim is a must-do experience.
🫶 Close to Fira – Only a short drive (or 30-minute walk) to Fira, giving easy access to nightlife and transportation.

👎 Limited Nightlife and Amenities – Imerovigli is quiet in the evenings, with only a handful of restaurants and bars. If you want vibrant nightlife, you’ll need to head to Fira. You may also need to travel further for a variety of shops & convenience stores.
👎 Few Budget Options – Accommodations in Imerovigli tend to be high-end, with fewer budget-friendly choices compared to other areas.
👎 Hilly Terrain – The steep paths and steps may not be ideal for those with mobility issues or families with small children.

Pyrgos

Pyrgos is one of Santorini’s most charming and traditional villages. The highest village in Santorini, it offers breathtaking 360° panoramic views, especially at sunset. This picturesque village is largely pedestrian-friendly, with winding footpaths leading to charming restaurants, local boutiques, historic churches, and the ruins of a Venetian castle. Surrounding the village vineyards offer wine tastings and tours, adding to its authentic Greek charm.

For those seeking peace and seclusion, Pyrgos is an excellent place to stay. Many hotels here feature private pools or jacuzzi’s, providing a luxurious retreat away from the busier caldera towns. It’s also a great destination for travellers wanting to experience the island’s traditional side with its maze of stairways and historic architecture and for travellers on a budget. While buses connect Pyrgos to Fira and Perissa hourly, renting a car is recommended for easier access to the rest of the island.

Hotel Recommendations!

Budget/Mid-Range hotels in Prygos – Voreina Gallery Suites (Also for families) 👉 Aroma Cavas 👉 SMY Santorini Suites & Villas

Best hotels in Pyrgos – Arotron Santorini 👉 Santorini Sky, Luxury Resort 👉 Santorini Heights

🫶 Authentic Greek Village Feel – Pyrgos offers a more traditional and laid-back atmosphere, away from the tourist crowds. There are fantastic local tavernas offering authentic Greek cuisine.
🫶Stunning Panoramic Views – As the highest village in Santorini, Pyrgos boasts incredible 360° views of the island.
🫶 Close to Wineries – Pyrgos is near some of Santorini’s best wineries, perfect for wine lovers.

👎 No Caldera Views – Unlike Fira, Oia, or Imerovigli, Pyrgos doesn’t have direct caldera or sunset views.
👎 Requires Transportation – While there’s a bus service, renting a car or ATV is recommended for easy access to beaches and other parts of the island.
👎 Farther from Main Attractions – Pyrgos is more inland, meaning longer travel times to reach places like Oia, the beaches, or the port.

Where to Stay as a Family in Santorini?

Santorini is often seen as a romantic destination, but it’s also a fantastic place for families with the right choice of location. The best areas for a family stay in Santorini offer easy access to kid-friendly beaches, spacious hotels, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Kamari and Perissa are the top choices for families, thanks to their long, black-sand beaches, shallow waters, and budget-friendly hotels. These areas have a laid-back vibe, plenty of restaurants with child-friendly menus, and even family attractions like an open-air cinema and mini-golf.

Kamari & Perissa

👉Kamari – Amara Suites – Exceptional 9.9 on Booking.com, rated 9.8 for a stay with kids. A welcoming family run hotel, 300 metres from Kamari beach with a large pool and varied breakfast.

👉Kamari – Alexandra Hotel – A more budget option with very good reviews and situated in the best area of Kamari with a pool.

👉Perissa – Perissa Bay – Superb 9.2 on Booking.com ‘Families particularly like the location — they rated it 8.7 for a stay with kids’. Hotel with outdoor pool, private beach area and terrace, paid airport shuttle service.

For those who prefer to stay closer to the caldera views but still want a quiet and comfortable setting, Fira or Imerovigli are great options. Fira offers easy access to transportation, restaurants, and shops, while Imerovigli provides a peaceful environment away from the crowds.

Fira & Imerovigli

👉Fira – San Giorgio – Located right in the centre of Fira town to shops, restaurants and the bus station. Hotel has family rooms, a small swimming pool and cots on request.

👉Imerovigli – llioperato Hotel – Exceptional 9.5 on Booking.com. ‘Families particulary liked this location, 9.9 for a stay with kids’. Wanting to try something different? Maybe a Cave Apartment with Caldera View? – A family run hotel with traditional features, stunning views and a pool.

If you’re looking for a more authentic experience, Pyrgos is a charming village with traditional Greek architecture, excellent family-run tavernas, and a local feel.

👉Pyrgos – Alleys All-Suite Hotel & Spa – Top pick by families with children, Exceptional 9.7 on Booking.com. Outdoor pool, spa and wellness centre, fitness centre, restaurant and bar.

Read more on TRIPADVISOR for best family resorts in Santorini.

Where to Stay in Santorini on a Budget

Accommodation in Santorini can be pricey, especially in popular spots like Oia and Fira. However, with a little research, it’s still possible to find budget-friendly places to stay and enjoy the island without breaking the bank.

Here are some of my recommendations across the island:

👉Kamari – Elixir Del Mar on the Beach – Set on the main street right on the beach front at only £81 per night with an outdoor pool, views of the beach, restaurant and bar, balcony and Exceptional ratings of 9.5 on Booking.com.

👉Perissa – Philoxenia Hotel & Studios – Where we stayed on our last trip to Santorini, a beautiful scenic family run hotel starting at only £63 per night, the hosts are lovely and guests were staying there who had been times before. A mix of traditional and modern decor with local wine at cheap prices. And an extremely good bakery next door! Also 5 minutes walk to the beach and the high street with the bus stop. Superb 9.3 on Booking.com

👉Fira – Astro Palace Hotel & Suites – A 5* hotel prices starting at a reasonable £96 per night for a standard room. Right in the centre of Fira, you are able to walk to the bus station and to the shops and restaurants in 10 minutes. 2 outdoor pools and spa and wellness centre.

👉Oia – The Museum Project – Set in the Heart of Oia, beautiful pool area and beautiful views with only a walk away into Oia. With many hotels in the surrounding area treble the price, this hotel starts its prices at £86 per night. Superb 9.1 rating on Booking.com.

Read more on TRIPADVISOR for the best budget hotels in Santorini.

Conclusion: Choosing the Best Place to Stay in Santorini

Santorini offers a wide range of accommodations, each catering to different travel styles and budgets. Whether you’re looking for breathtaking caldera views in Fira, Oia, or Imerovigli, a relaxing beachside escape in Kamari or Perissa, or a quieter, traditional village experience in Pyrgos or Akrotiri, there’s a perfect spot for everyone.

If you want stunning sunsets and a lively atmosphere, Oia is the ideal choice. For convenience, nightlife, and easy access to transportation, Fira is the best bet. If you prefer luxury without the crowds, Imerovigli is a fantastic alternative. For families and budget travellers, the beach towns of Kamari and Perissa provide great value. No matter where you choose I’m sure you’ll have a fab time!

Want to know more about Santorini, please read Is Santorini Expensive? Budget Travel as a Couple