Santorini is one of the most breathtaking destinations in the Greek Cyclades archipelago.
Unsurprisingly, you’ll often find it topping lists of the best places in the world. Still, your Santorini experience will differ depending on where you base yourself.
So, what’s the best location to stay in Santorini? The answer depends on your preferences – are you here for the romance or the partying? The beaches or the culture?
In my guide, I share seven of the best locations in Santorini to help you decide where to book a hotel!
Author Bio: Jessie Moore
Jessie Moore is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.
This post contains affiliate links.
Map of the best locations to stay in Santorini
Use my map to see where all the best locations to stay in Santorini can be found:
1. Oia
Best for: Romantic sunsets
Top Oia hotels:
Oia is perhaps the most famous town in Santorini and has become the poster child of the Greek Islands.
There’s a reason why Oia is the most-visited spot in Santorini. It gives you a full view of the white-washed Greek houses and is the best place for watching sunsets.
You can’t come to Santorini without stopping by Oia. However, don’t be surprised by the prices either.
Oia is home to boutique tourist shops, luxury hotels, and fine dining restaurants.
Staying in the heart of it all gives you access to all these provisions – but I’d recommend preparing your wallet accordingly!
2. Fira
Best for: Nightlife
Top Fira hotels:
Just a stone’s throw away from Oira is Fira, another major town on Thira.
Fira is where you’ll find the best shopping and dining spots in Santorini. It has a fantastic array of activities and tourist attractions.
I love Fira because of its vibrant nightlife. You just can’t miss the illuminated architecture in Fira once the sun sets!
3. Imerovigli
Best for: Quiet relaxation
Top Imerovigli Hotels:
Many visitors argue that Imerovigli is the best place to stay in Santorini. This is because it offers the same view of the caldera without the rowdy crowd.
Also known as the Princess of Santorini, Imerovigli is the go-to spot for people on their honeymoons.
If you want a relaxing trip, I recommend Imerovigli for its wonderful spas.
4. Perissa
Best for: Beach lovers
Top Perissa Hotels:
Perissa is a seaside village along the east coast. Popular for its volcanic beaches, Perissa is also one of the cheaper places to stay in Santorini.
This location is the top choice for people who want to stay closer to the sea.
Here, you can scuba dive, do water sports activities, or simply swim in the crystal clear waters of the black sand beach.
The water is teeming with fish, so don’t forget to bring your snorkel!
5. Akrotiri
Best for: History enthusiasts
Top Akrotiri Hotels:
Akrotiri is one of the main attractions of Santorini because of its archaeological site. It houses ruins from the Bronze Age, all buried under volcanic ashes.
You may want to stay at Akrotiri if you enjoy viewing ancient artefacts and visiting museums. I suggest booking a bus tour to the various Akrotiri excavation sites.
Don’t forget to stop by the stunning Akrotiri Bay and Red Beach for some Greek traditional mezedes!
6. Kamari
Best for: Cultural experiences
Top Kamari Hotels:
Kamari is the perfect place to stay if you want to immerse yourself in Greek culture.
This village is where the Ancient Thera is located. It’s a historical site where you’ll find remains from the Roman and Byzantine periods.
Kamari boasts open-air cinemas, black pebble beaches, and a local winery. It has everything you need to get the full Greek experience!
7. Megalochori
Best for: Adventurers
Top Megalochori hotels:
Megalochori is at the centre of Santorini – in fact, it even has a rock formation called the Heart of Santorini. Yet few people know about this hidden gem.
Megalochori is off the beaten path, but I believe it’s worth coming here.
What makes Megalochori special is its rich history. It’s home to vineyards, historical mansions, and pirate hideaways.
Megalochori also has a labyrinth of alleys and streets that adventurers will love exploring!
Santorini is a natural paradise for people looking to experience the Greek islands. But the best location to stay in Santorini depends on your priorities and budget.
In my opinion, all of these places are magical, just for different reasons. Do you have any favourite locations to stay in Santorini? Let me know in the comments below!
If you’re planning a trip, make sure you read my guides before you go:
- 10 dreamy day trips from Santorini
- 10 incredible luxury hotels in Santorini
- 10 gorgeous boutique hotels in Greece
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