Where to Stay in Santorini: Your 2023 Guide to The Best Places

On a flooded ancient volcano, Santorini is the crown jewel of the Cyclades islands. The mesmerizing sunsets and caldera views have long held a grip on travelers who can’t wait to experience this quintessential Greek destination. But choosing where to stay in Santorini can be confusing. Where should I stay Oia or Fira, the pros and cons of each part of the island, or even where you can base yourself for the best views? Well, we are going to answer all of those questions for you in our ultimate guide to the best places to stay in Santorini.

Best Places to Stay in Santorini

Running along the volcanic-burnt landscapes are pristine white homes, with a scattering of blue-domed cathedrals. Cobblestone streets guide you through historic towns where romance and culture meet in equal measure. It’s an island
of pure luxury, where the scars of the volcanic eruption have only recently been discovered.

Stay in stunning Cycladic architecture with each hotel trying in earnest to elevate its surroundings, you can find private terraces and swimming pools to watch the sunset over and over again. It sounds like a dream, and Santorini can be just that.

First, let’s get some of the most popular questions out of the way. After all, you want to have the best vacation you possibly can, and knowing the answers to these questions can help you decide the best place for you to stay in Santorini. One thing you should be prepared for is the cost.

As the popularity of Santorini has grown so have the prices, especially in high season. So, if you are looking for the most beautiful place with the best views be prepared to pay for it.

Where should I stay in Santorini for the first time?

If this is your first time visiting Santorini then you are going to want to stay in either Fira or Imerovigli. Which one you choose will be based on your budget level. We don’t recommend staying in Oia for your first time as it can be extremely crowded and overwhelming.

Fira is great if you are not renting a car as it is the main transportation hub on the island. Imerovigli is a quieter and more secluded option, with stunning caldera views and luxurious accommodations. It is a great option for those looking for a more tranquil and romantic experience.

Is it better to stay in Fira or Oia?

We have stayed in both and recommend staying in Fira over Oia especially if you are visiting during the high season. Oia is incredibly expensive and it gets overcrowded when the cruise ships come in and…