Are you wondering which hotel to choose in Santorini? In this article, we’ll be looking at some of the spots where your time within Santorini will be more enjoyable. No matter if you’re a lover of natural wonders or just beachside relaxation, Santorini offers sights and sanctuary areas for everyone.
Here are 5 of the best areas to stay in Santorini, with all their must-know details to help you plan the trip of a lifetime.
FIRA
The capital city of Santorini, Fira (also called Thera or Thira) is the busiest of Santorini’s towns which makes it a great choice for those who are not familiar with the island’s layout. The caldera side offers some of the most beautiful panoramas on the whole island, while countless restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops keep the place hopping.
There’s plenty to do and see in Fira there are plenty of museums that are worth visiting. It’s Santorini Archaeological Museum and Museum of Prehistoric Thira are awe-inspiring artifacts discovered from various sites throughout the years.
Fira is a paradise for both drink and food lovers alike, offering a delicious selection of traditional Tavernas and trendy eateries in addition to local wineries and breweries like Santos Winery and Santorini Brewing Company.
If you’re bored of the beach There are also private boat excursions offered, as well as guided hikes on the coastline. Of all the places to stay in Santorini, you can’t be wrong choosing the capital.
There are several accommodation options that are available in Fira that range from huge villas and restored palaces to smaller accommodations and rentals in the Cycladic style each with stunning views. Backpackers can also find moderately priced hostels offering basic facilities like food and WiFi.
Imerovigli
Only 30 minutes away from Fira by foot, Imerovigli is known for its distinctive accommodation. The collection of extravagant hotels includes apartments and suites which are converted caves that some claim to have the most stunning sunset views of Santorini.
Imerovigli provides a less secluded atmosphere as compared to Fira, making it perfect to be a base within Santorini for families and couples. The tranquil streets and picturesque surroundings create a romantic evening, and the beaches nearby are a wonderful place to relax in the daytime.
Thanks to its convenient location, it’s quite straightforward to navigate Santorini’s island from Imerovigli, with several transportation options available. Visitors can take an Ekklisia Theoskepasti hike that will take tourists past the 13th-century ruins of the Venetian fortress of Skaros that was built into Skaros Rock and the trail ultimately ends at the iconic location that is Theoskepasti Church.
Akrotiri
It is believed that the Akrotiri peninsula has a stunning mixture of traditional rusticism and modern-day appeal. The most notable feature is its Minoan ruins, Akrotiri is still very much a functioning village with a large proportion of its inhabitants being craftsmen and farmers.
The original village was destroyed in the earthquake of 1956 earthquake and was rebuilt on the top of the fortress which had also been destroyed. Since the town of its origin was constructed on the site of the ruin, visitors get a fascinating and stunning glimpse into the past.
The most well-known beaches in Akrotiri comprise Red Beach, Vlichada, Perivolas, Perissa Perissa Caldera Beach.
Although many travelers choose to make Akrotiri the ultimate day trip It’s important to note that there are some beautiful accommodations and villas that provide various specialties and services that are free like food wine, food, and suggested excursion tours.
Firostefani
The village of Firostefani is long thought of as a separate community however, it’s a Northern extension to Fira and is one of the most enjoyable areas for a stay when in Santorini. The village is typically viewed as an alternative to Fira which has stunning views of the ocean and the volcano, and equally stylish accommodations, however, at a calmer pace than Fira, which is more popular with tourists.
Firostefani is home to plenty of amazing bars, cafes, and eateries to visit along with its own shopping district in the middle of the town.
One of the most interesting places to visit is the Agios Nikolaos monastery which was established in the 14th century and is situated within Fira along with the village Imerovigli. Visitors can choose from a variety of accommodation options that range from comfortable studios to private villas.
Karterados
The village of Karterados is located close to the center of Santorini just 2km away from Fira. While evidence of ancient settlements has been discovered in the area, the town was established in the 17th and 19th centuries, when wealthy businessmen and captains established it as their primary location of residence.
Karterados overlook an expansive vineyard valley on one side and the sparkling sea on the other. This makes for the perfect scenic holiday in Santorini. A wander through the village will show the luxurious residences of the village’s founding families and the more traditional, older cave homes and there is the Church of Ascension which has its towering steeple, shouldn’t be missed. In addition, visitors will find bars, cafes, restaurants as well as a supermarket that is never out of stock.
The beach in Karterados, reached by the main road, comprises dark volcanic pebbles as well as transparent blue waters and interesting rock formations that are dotted throughout.
The resort’s private villas, hotels, and apartments reflect the distinctive architecture of the region and can be found from expensive to affordable.
