Where to stay in Santorini

Fira is one of the top choices for those wondering where to stay in Santorini for the first time. As the island’s capital, it’s a lively hub with plenty to offer, from cultural experiences to incredible dining spots. With a fantastic mix of cafés, restaurants, and traditional tavernas, it’s the perfect place to sample authentic Greek cuisine. Beyond the food, Fira is also great for shopping, whether you’re after boutique fashion, local spices, or unique souvenirs.

Those searching for the best place to stay in Santorini will be hard-pressed to find many better options than Fira. Its old port offers a charming contrast to the city’s more modern boutiques and is also the perfect place to while away an evening or two. You can even book excursions from the port – with one of the most popular being a trip out to the caldera, a feature resembling a volcanic cauldron.

But if you’d rather stretch your sea legs a little further, sailing the island’s coastline is also incredibly popular. And if you want to socialise and enjoy a drink in the evening, this could be the place for you!

If you’re wondering where to stay for families on your Santorini holiday, you may have just found your answer. Kamari has a number of beaches where the kids can play and explore, each offering different coloured sands.

Black, red, and white-sand beaches are all within easy reach of Kamari. Having been awarded Blue Flag certification, Kamari’s beaches are incredibly safe – meaning you won’t have to worry about your little ones when they dip their toes into the water.

If your kids are slightly older, the water sports facilities here could be great activities to try out together. And the sheer number of cafés and tavernas in the surrounding area means even the fussiest eaters will be catered for. 

Yes, there are beaches available all over Santorini, but Black Beach is the place you want to be if sand quality is your priority. If you're looking for the best areas to stay in Santorini for beach lovers, consider Perissa or Kamari, where you’ll find long stretches of volcanic sand and plenty of beachfront tavernas.

Not only do its volcanic beaches offer the quintessential image of Santorini, but you will also find it boasts acres of soft sand, a perfect bright-blue sea, loungers, parasols and every type of water-sporting activity under the sun.

Sun-worshippers will find Black Beach the ideal spot to while away their days with a book in hand, while adrenaline-seekers can get their fix with jet skiing, scuba diving, and windsurfing all on offer. Whether you’re after relaxation or adventure, beach holidays in Santorini provide the perfect mix of stunning scenery and exciting water sports.

They don’t come much prettier than Oia – which the locals rate as the most beautiful town in all of the Cyclades. Those searching for the perfect sunset snaps to post on Instagram should choose Oia as their base. It’s also one of the top choices for where to stay in Santorini for couples, offering romantic cliffside hotels, candlelit restaurants, and breathtaking caldera views.

Offering incredible views isn’t the town’s sole virtue because there are many great shopping opportunities, too. Even if you’re not staying here during your Santorini holiday, you’ll want to spend at least an evening in the town. Many holidaymakers share this view on this Greek island – just observe the increased footfall in the town from 4 pm onwards when the golden hour for photographers is fast approaching. 

Couples who enjoy a bit of romance or a honeymoon destination should find Oia a perfect destination. Numerous boutiques and artisan studios provide a magical backdrop to a holiday filled with wonderful little moments, while the dramatic cliffs offer incredible options for an evening stroll.