1. By the Beach: Kamari - Perissa

For beach lovers, sun-seekers, Santorini’s black sand beaches are the perfect spot. Kamari and Perissa are the most popular beach areas, offering a relaxed atmosphere, watersports, beach bars and pubs and affordable stays. These areas are ideal for friends, couples, and families looking for a laid-back island experience.

Why Stay Here?

✔ Budget-friendly options
✔ Easy access to the beach and water activities
✔ Relaxed, casual vibe

✔ Watch the sunrise

✔ Easy access on foot, no steps

✔ Seaside restaurants and beach bars 

Keep in Mind:

✖ No  caldera views
✖ Less nightlife compared to Fira
✖ Some accommodations may be away from markets and restaurants

2. Cliffside Views: Oia, Imerovigli, Fira, Firostefani

For the iconic postcard-perfect Santorini views, staying on the caldera cliffside is the ultimate luxury. Towns like Oia, Fira, Imerovigli, and Firostefani offer breathtaking scenery, high-end hotels, and the most famous sunset spots.

• Oia – The most famous sunset town, known for luxury and romance.
• Fira – The island’s capital, with vibrant nightlife and shopping.
• Firostefani – A quieter alternative to Fira, still within walking distance.
• Imerovigli – The most peaceful and exclusive of the cliffside towns, perfect for honeymooners.

More Affordable Cliffside Options
While the cliffside hotels are known for their luxury views, there are more affordable options on the opposite side of the caldera or slightly off the main view areas. Staying in these places gives you easy access to the famous scenery without the high price tag.

Why Stay Here?

✔ Best views of the caldera and sunset
✔ Luxury hotels with infinity pools
✔ Great for couples and honeymooners

Keep in Mind:

✖ Expensive in prime view locations
✖ Crowded in Oia and Fira during peak season
✖ No direct beach access

✖ Uphill walking and steps
✖ Some accommodations may not be within walking distance of markets, restaurants, or shops

Alternative Cliffside Stay: Akrotiri
Rising in popularity, Akrotiri’s cliffside offers incredible caldera views without the crowds of Oia and Fira. It's a more tranquil choice, perfect for those looking for a peaceful escape.

3. Traditional Villages: Vothonas, Messaria, Megalochori, Karterados

For an authentic Greek experience, consider staying in one of Santorini’s traditional villages. Here, you’ll find charming whitewashed houses, narrow alleyways, and a slower-paced local lifestyle.

• Vothonas – A hidden gem with unique cave houses.
• Messaria – A lively village known for its wineries.
• Megalochori – A beautiful village with a mix of tradition and elegance.
• Karterados – Close to Fira but with a more local feel and lower prices.

Luxury Can Be Found Here Too!
Many luxury retreats and boutique hotels exist in these traditional villages, offering privacy and charm without the tourist crowds.

Why Stay Here?

✔ Authentic Santorini lifestyle
✔ Unique cave accommodations

✔ Lower prices than the caldera

✔ Picturesque and away from crowds

Keep in Mind:

✖ Further from major tourist spots
✖ Need transportation to visit beaches and main attractions
✖ Some accommodations may not be within walking distance of restaurants or shops

4. Castle Villages: Emporio, Akrotiri, Pyrgos

For those fascinated by history and architecture, Santorini’s castle villages provide a magical stay. These villages were built around medieval castles, featuring winding streets, stone houses, and stunning views.

• Emporio – The largest village in Santorini, with a well-preserved Venetian castle.
• Akrotiri – Famous for its archaeological site, offering a glimpse into Santorini’s ancient past.
• Pyrgos – A traditional hilltop village with panoramic views.

Hidden Luxury
Even in these historical villages, you can find luxury retreats and boutique hotels that mix tradition with comfort.

Why Stay Here?

✔ Unique architecture and historical charm
✔ Less touristy than Oia and Fira
✔ Incredible sunrise and sunset views

✔ Tranquility

Keep in Mind:

✖ Walking uphill, but that's true for almost everywhere on the island
✖ Fewer tourist amenities compared to Fira and Oia
✖ Some hotels and accommodations may be away from shops and restaurants

5. Anywhere Else?

If you’re staying outside the main areas, transportation is key. Santorini is best explored with a car, ATV, or motorcycle. While public buses connect major towns, they don’t always reach remote locations easily.

How to Get Around:

• Car rental – Best for exploring the island at your own pace.
• ATV or scooter – A fun way to move around, especially for solo travelers and couples.
• Private transfers & taxis – More convenient but expensive.
• Local guides – The best way to discover hidden gems and authentic experiences.

No matter where you stay, Santorini is an island full of beauty and charm. Whether you choose the lively beaches, luxurious cliffside hotels, or quaint villages, each part of the island offers something special.

Final Thoughts

Choosing where to stay in Santorini depends on what kind of experience you want:
✅ Beach lovers → Kamari & Perissa
✅ Luxury & sunsets → Oia, Fira, Imerovigli & Firostefani
✅ Authentic Greek life → Vothonas, Messaria, Megalochori & Karterados
✅ Historical & architectural charm → Emporio, Akrotiri & Pyrgos
✅ Off-the-beaten-path → Any remote location, but plan for transport!

Luxury isn’t just on the cliffside – beautiful high-end retreats and hotels can be found all over the island, including traditional villages and beach areas.

Not all accommodations are within walking distance of markets, restaurants, or shops, so transportation should be considered when choosing where to stay.

Wherever you choose to stay, Santorini will leave you breathless.