When researching before our trip to Greece, one of the hardest parts was deciding where to stay in Santorini. It is a big choice determining what side of the island and subsequently what town to stay in while being realistic with our budget. Those factors combined made it a a bit tricky to pick a place to stay. Here is our guide to the different areas on the island to help you decide where to stay in Santorini.
For most people the biggest decision is choosing to stay on the western, cliff side of the island or near the beach on the eastern side of the island. In general you will find places are more expensive on the west side because that is where most people stay and that is what Santorini is famous for. The west side also features views of the nearby caldera (which we will discuss below) which makes accommodations a premium along the water. The other side, the eastern side, features Santorini’s beaches and is generally a bit more affordable but perhaps not quite the view you think of when you think of Santorini.
West Side of Santorini
There are four main towns on the western side of Santorini that most people who visit tend to stay in. Fira, Firostefani, Imerovigli and then Oia. They are all located along the western cliff side of the island providing amazing views of the Caldera.
Wait, What exactly is the “Caldera”?
A Caldera is a large crater formed by a volcanic eruption. The Santorini Caldera is actually the submerged area that the main island curves around.
The main island of Santorini, sometimes also called Thira, is a crescent shape. Its shape comes from the submerged volcano that creates the dramatic cliffs overlooking a protected bay. Looking out from Fira you see two islands in the middle formed from the eruption. Close to Oia is the nearby island of Thirasia completing this group of islands.
Because of it’s shape, the location of the islands as well as the dramatic cliffs, it makes for incredible views from these western towns especially during sunsets.
Fira
Fira is located about 25 minutes from the Port in Santorini where you will likely arrive by most ferries. Here you will find the most options in terms of restaurants, bars and shops. It is very lively with many white stoned pathways running along the water.
The choices for accommodations range from very high end expensive on the cliffside to more budget friendly the farther from the cliff you get. The cliffside accommodations with infinity pools overlooking the Santorini caldera can run you quite an expensive rate per night. While it definitely is the quintessential Santorini experience and also quite romantic, it definitely was not in our budget and may not be realistic for everyone.
- We stayed in Fira and really enjoyed it. We liked the options in terms of restaurants and walking access to the town. It also was close to the bus to get to and from the ferry. Additionally were able to easily take the bus between Fira and Oia.
- While we stayed in Fira we did not stay on the cliffs facing the caldera. We were on the inland side facing east. It was significantly cheaper than any cliff-facing options we were looking at. So if you definitely want to stay in Fira consider looking a little farther back from the cliffs for more budget friendly options.
Travel Truth: When we were booking our Fira accommodations we knew it wasn’t water front but we weren’t completely sure where it was on the other side due to how Airbnb shows locations. It ended up being in a very quiet area and no more than a 10 minute walk from all the restaurants in Fira. Make sure when you’re booking to look closely at the location so you can see what the walking paths are to get to the caldera! We usually use Google Maps before booking a place to see whats around it. Even without an address, you can (usually) use other landmarks to get an idea of where a place is.
Firostefani
The next town directly north of Fira is Firostefani. It is smaller than Fira but close enough to still enjoy all the benefits that Fira has to offer. If you’re looking for a bit quieter of a spot but close to everything then Firostefani is right for you.
- There are a few restaurants right in Firostefani as well as a few hotels. You can easily walk along the pathway to Fira in no more than 10 minutes.
- To Do: Visit the Three-Bells of Fira located at the Virgin Mary Orthodox Church in Firostefani. This iconic spot features the classic blue-dome church with the three bells overlooking the caldera.
Imerovigli
Imerovigli is another 10-15 minutes walk past Firostefani along the cliffside. It is even quieter than Firostefani and has a more secluded feel. You will find even less restaurants here but again you can walk along the pathway down to Fira in no more than 30 minutes.
- The views from Imerovigli are incredible because of its location on the island as well as its high position! Be ready for some amazing sunsets if you stay in Imerovigli.
- Imerovigli would be a good spot for couples wanting a little more seclusion but still access to more restaurants and bars.
- To Do: Skaros Rock is an excellent hike if you’re looking for amazing views! There are quite a few stairs to get out to it but looking south you get views of Fira and the south of the island. Looking opposite you see the north of the island and Oia at the tip. Of course, looking straight you get unobstructed views of the blue waters.
Oia
Oia is on the northern tip of Santorini. It features the famous blue-dome churches you’ve probably seen when looking at pictures of Santorini. It is similar to Fira with lots of people, restaurants, bars, and other things to do. You will find very, very nice hotels in Oia as well. In fact, some of the nicest hotels in Santorini are in Oia.
- Oia is very popular with visitors so prepare for crowds.
- Oia is also known, because of its location looking straight into the water, for amazing sunsets. Make sure you get to a place to watch the sunset early to stake out a spot without fighting amongst a crowd!
- Similar to Fira, there are many expensive options for accommodations looking out on the water, however, there are less expensive options that do not have views of the caldera.
East Side of Santorini
The east side of Santorini has a different feel than the western side. Low to the water, you will find Santorini beaches on this side of the island. If you’re trying to decide which side to stay in think about what activities are more important to you. You can easily stay on one side and go to the other side for the day. In general we think it would be easier to stay on the western side and have more amenities close by and go to the beach by bus one day but that’s just our preference!
Travel Truth: Don’t be surprised when the beaches in Santorini don’t look like the white sandy beaches you expect! Santorini beaches will either be rocky beaches (like most you find in Europe) or some have darker, volcanic sand. Just a heads up so you’re not totally surprised!
Kamari Beach
Probably the most popular beach on Santorini is Kamari Beach. It is located on the east side of the island with close access to hotels and restaurants.
- This is a good spot for families looking for access to the beaches but you can easily take the bus to Fira. It shouldn’t be more than 20 minutes which makes it easy to see the Caldera and western-facing sights.
- You can find some very nice almost beach resort style hotels and some more affordable options because you’re on the other side of the island now.
Perissa Beach & Perivolos Beach
South of Kamari Beach you will find Perissa Beach which continues on to become Perivolos Beach. You will find a blend of both expensive options (especially at Perivolos Beach) and much more simple, affordable options for hotels.
- Because of its southern location, getting to Fira from Perissa Beach or Perivolos Beach will take you a bit longer. If you’re planning to only go for a day it’s not a big deal but just keep that in mind if you’re looking to go to the west side each day.
Travel Truth: When we were planning our trip, the east side of Santorini felt a little like unchartered territory. I think, in order to save our budget and experience a bit more of the island, we would try to stay on the eastern side next time. It really depends on your budget but also your plan for your trip. We came straight from Mykonos where we spent a few days enjoying the beach so we were looking for a different experience on Santorini. Plus, it being our first time visiting Santorini, we wanted to spend as much time as possible on the cliffs.
Wherever you stay, Santorini is a beautiful island and has lots to discover! Our highlight was without a doubt the Fira to Oia Hike. You can read our 10 Tips to Hike Fira to Oia if you’re thinking about doing it too!
How do you choose a place to stay?
