Discover the most breathtaking accommodations on Greece’s most photogenic island
Santorini, with its iconic white-washed buildings cascading down volcanic cliffs, attracts over 1.5 million visitors annually. They come for the boundless beauty, dramatic caldera views, fantastic Mediterranean cuisine, and those legendary sunsets that paint the sky in hues of orange, pink, and purple each evening.
While exploring the charming streets of Oia, relaxing on unique black and white sand beaches, or sailing around the coast are all memorable activities, many travelers find themselves captivated by the island’s ultra-luxurious hotels. These exceptional properties offer perfect views, world-class dining, and unforgettable experiences that capture the essence of Santorini.
Let’s explore the most extraordinary hotel options this Greek paradise has to offer.
Andronis Boutique Hotel
Location: Oia
Starting Rate: $1,410 per night
Perched dramatically on the cliffs of Oia, Andronis Boutique Hotel combines classic Cycladic architecture with lavish touches to create a truly spectacular retreat. This award-winning property features an exquisite bright blue infinity pool overlooking the Aegean Sea, the acclaimed Lauda Restaurant with panoramic caldera views, and elegant suites with private plunge pools.
Guests can enhance their stay through the hotel’s excellent experiences program, which includes guided tours and wine tastings at local vineyards.
Why We Love It: The intimate atmosphere and caldera views create a truly inviting experience.
What to Consider: Being a luxury property means peak season pricing can be quite high.
Andronis Luxury Suites
Location: Oia
Starting Rate: $991 per night
Just minutes from its sister boutique property, Andronis Luxury Suites offers the same elevated quality with meticulously designed accommodations featuring private pools. The hotel’s Lycabettus Restaurant deserves special mention—perched at the edge of the cliff, it provides some of the most spectacular sunset views on the entire island.
Don’t miss the Mare Sanus Spa during your stay for ultimate relaxation.
Why We Love It: The panoramic views and exceptional dining create truly memorable experiences.
What to Consider: The hotel only welcomes adults and children over 13, making it unsuitable for families with younger kids.
Canaves Oia Boutique Hotel
Location: Oia
Starting Rate: $633 per night
Behind Canaves Oia Boutique Hotel’s contemporary design lies a fascinating history—the property is built inside 17th-century caves once used to store wine. The Chaidemenos family transformed these historical spaces into stunning luxury accommodations that now feature chic suites with private plunge pools and breathtaking ocean views.
For those wanting to explore beyond the hotel, private sailing and yachting excursions are available to guests.
Why We Love It: The 17th-century caves transformed into elegant rooms open to gorgeous panoramic views of the crystal-clear waters below.
What to Consider: The open-air restaurant means you might miss an on-site meal if the weather doesn’t cooperate.
Canaves Oia Epitome
Location: Oia
Starting Rate: $530 per night
Canaves Oia Epitome blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings, creating a peaceful retreat just outside the hustle and bustle of central Oia. This award-winning property offers suites with private plunge pools, though the common infinity pool is equally perfect for days of sunbathing with a view.
Like its sister property, the hotel offers exclusive sailing and yachting adventures for guests seeking maritime exploration.
Why We Love It: Its slightly secluded location provides a peaceful retreat from Santorini’s crowds.
What to Consider: If you want to be in the center of Santorini’s action, this location might feel a bit removed.
Katikies Santorini
Location: Oia
Starting Rate: $690 per night
Katikies Santorini earned the prestigious title of best resort in Greece in 2023—and with good reason. Despite its relatively small size, this exclusive property offers three infinity pools, expansive sun decks, fine dining, and access to the spa at sister property Katikies Kirini.
While every room boasts spectacular views, the plunge pool suites are worth the splurge for their generous outdoor living space.
Why We Love It: The limited number of rooms creates an intimate, private retreat atmosphere.
What to Consider: Multiple levels and numerous steps might present challenges for some guests.
Andronis Arcadia
Location: Oia
Starting Rate: $754 per night
For those seeking complete relaxation, Andronis Arcadia serves as the ultimate sanctuary. Beyond its stunning views and luxurious accommodations, the hotel’s Evexia Spa offers signature treatments and multi-hour wellness rituals. Don’t miss the unique Kneipp pools—two L-shaped walking pools with stone bottoms that provide natural reflexology.
Why We Love It: The spa-centered luxury ensures total relaxation and rejuvenation.
What to Consider: The hotel’s live music events can sometimes create a livelier atmosphere, which might not suit those seeking complete tranquility.
Mystique, a Luxury Collection Hotel
Location: Oia
Starting Rate: $843 per night
Mystique exudes effortless cool from every corner. This adults-only retreat features clean, simple aesthetics with earthy tones complemented by dazzling blue infinity pools that appear to cascade over the cliff edge to the sea below.
Guest rooms feature artisan-crafted furnishings and private balconies, while the hotel’s private cave offers exclusive wine tastings focusing on Santorini’s exceptional volcanic vintages.
Why We Love It: The property has style oozing from every detail.
What to Consider: Open only to guests 16 and older, families with younger teens need to look elsewhere.
Vedema, A Luxury Collection Resort
Location: Megalochori
Starting Rate: $254 per night
Located in the quaint village of Megalochori, Vedema offers a glimpse into traditional Greek village life. Housed in what was once a wine cellar, then a private mansion, this charming property is ideal for families or groups thanks to its spacious suites and full estates like the five-bedroom Nafsika Estate with private pool and butler service.
Why We Love It: Its secluded location provides an authentic glimpse of traditional Greek village life.
What to Consider: The hotel is somewhat isolated from main tourist spots, making transportation essential.
Istoria
Location: Perivolos
Starting Rate: $385 per night
With just 12 suites, Istoria offers an intimate experience in a true work of art. The cream-colored buildings with soft, rounded corners are punctuated by olive trees and cacti, all set against striking black sand beaches.
Each suite carries a unique name that translates to “story” in different languages—Storia (Italian), Tarina (Finnish), and Recit (French)—all featuring Greek bath amenities, plush bathrobes, and sumptuous linens.
Why We Love It: The boutique size ensures a private, personalized experience.
What to Consider: The location is farther from many main tourist attractions.
Grace Hotel, Auberge Resorts Collection
Location: Imerovigli
Starting Rate: $651 per night
This award-winning cliffside property provides sensational views of both the Aegean Sea and iconic Skaros Rock. Guests can enjoy the infinity pool or book a suite with a private plunge pool and terrace for complete privacy.
For dining, Varoulko Santorini serves exceptional Greek cuisine accompanied by some of the most spectacular views on the island.
Why We Love It: Its dramatic cliffside location creates an impression of floating above the world.
What to Consider: The cliffside setting means navigating many steps, which can be challenging for some guests.
Perivolas
Location: Perivolas
Starting Rate: $564 per night
Carved directly into the cliffs above the Aegean Sea, family-owned Perivolas blends perfectly with the landscape. The white-washed rooms feature delightful pink accents for a festive touch.
While the pools and dining areas are certainly worth enjoying, the wellness suite is a must-visit with its outdoor jacuzzi, steam room, sauna, and extensive menu of facial and body treatments.
Why We Love It: The family-owned property offers an exceptionally welcoming atmosphere.
What to Consider: Its location is slightly removed from town, requiring transportation to reach tourist sites.
Erosantorini
Location: Fira
Starting Rate: $741 per night
Erosantorini offers something rare on Santorini—space. Set on two acres, this private estate comprises just five suites that can be rented individually or as a complete buyout accommodating up to 10 adults and four children.
Everything here is customized to your preferences, from bespoke meals to personalized adventures including archaeological tours, sailing excursions, and exclusive wine tastings.
Why We Love It: The extensive grounds provide unparalleled privacy for those wanting the island to themselves.
What to Consider: Located outside central Fira, transportation is necessary for exploring the town.
NOŪS Santorini
Location: Mesaria
Starting Rate: $329 per night
NOŪS Santorini combines style with substance. Beyond its stunning white-washed walls and ultra-cool interior design, the hotel prioritizes sustainability through innovative programs like recycled gray water irrigation and locally-sourced produce for its restaurant.
Despite its eco-conscious approach, the property doesn’t compromise on luxury or aesthetics.
Why We Love It: The beautiful property houses an impressive art collection.
What to Consider: Its location away from main tourist areas makes a rental car advisable.
The Vasilicos
Location: Imerovigli
Starting Rate: $422 per night
Once the private home of an avid art collector, The Vasilicos honors its artistic heritage while offering stunning sea views from every suite. Private hot tubs and plunge pools complement the accommodations, while the in-house chef prepares romantic candlelit dinners featuring local specialties.
Why We Love It: Every detail shows thoughtful consideration, down to locally-made ceramic dishes.
What to Consider: The terraced design means navigating multiple levels, which can be challenging for guests with mobility issues.
Santorini Sky
Location: Pyrgos Kallistis
Starting Rate: $133 per night
Located at one of the highest points on the island, Santorini Sky offers truly unmatched views. From this elevated position, visitors can see the island’s white-washed homes dotting the landscape all the way to the Aegean Sea.
The property consists of a collection of villas, including the spacious Master Villa with king-size bed, full kitchen, and private pool—perfect for those planning an extended stay.
Why We Love It: The high-elevation location provides the most expansive views on Santorini.
What to Consider: The altitude means driving is necessary to visit Santorini’s main attractions.
Essential Tips for Visiting Santorini
Best Time to Visit
While summer offers perfect weather, it also brings crowds and premium prices. Consider visiting during shoulder seasons (May-early June or September-October) for pleasant weather with fewer tourists.
Transportation
Santorini has its own international airport serving domestic Greek and European destinations, making it one of the more accessible Greek islands. Ferry service connects Santorini to other islands and Athens.
Accessibility Considerations
Santorini’s dramatic topography creates challenges for visitors with mobility limitations. Most hotels are built on terraced cliffs with multiple levels and numerous stairs. Contact properties directly to discuss specific accessibility needs before booking.
Reservations
Due to Santorini’s immense popularity, booking accommodations well in advance is essential, particularly for these top-tier properties during peak season.
Whether you’re planning a romantic honeymoon, milestone celebration, or simply treating yourself to the vacation of a lifetime, Santorini’s luxury hotels offer unforgettable experiences combining stunning natural beauty with exceptional Greek hospitality. From clifftop infinity pools to private wine tastings in ancient caves, these extraordinary properties create memories that will last long after your tan fades.
