Where to Stay in Santorini, Greece: 8 Key Areas for First-Timer Visitors
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You’ve finally booked your dream trip to this Greek island, but now comes the overwhelming question that can make or break your entire vacation: where to stay in Santorini?
With countless villages scattered across this crescent-shaped island, each promising “the best” views and experiences, choosing the right location feels like navigating a maze of impossible decisions.
Should you splurge on Oia’s famous sunsets, play it safe in central Fira, or venture to lesser-known areas that might offer better value but potentially leave you stranded far from the action?
After experiencing Santorini firsthand with my multi-generational family, from navigating accessibility challenges with my mom’s knee problems to finding the perfect balance between budget constraints and must-see experiences, I’ve learned exactly what each area offers beyond the Insta-worthy photos.
Whether you’re honeymooners seeking romance, families needing practical amenities, or budget travelers wanting maximum bang for your buck, I’ll walk you through the honest pros and cons of every major area so you can choose the perfect base for your Santorini adventure.
Where to Stay in Santorini for First Timers
Fira (Thira): The Island’s Capital
Fira is the island’s central hub, offering excellent KTEL bus connections to other parts of the island and attractions.
This makes it ideal for first-time visitors who want easy access to the entire island and don’t want to rent a car. It’s also more budget-friendly to rely on public transport instead of getting a taxi or car hire.
The town is vibrant with plenty of restaurants, shops, and nightlife options, as well as plenty of things to do in Santorini, such as the Museum of Prehistoric Thera, the Archaeological Museum, the Karavolades Stairs down to the Old Harbor, and Fira’s main square, Plateia Theotokopoulou (Theotokopoulou Square).
It also boasts caldera views and many restaurants where you can watch the sunset from.
The only downside is that it can get a little crowded due to cruise ships coming in and using the cable car to ascend to Fira. However, we didn’t find it to be too troublesome, but we were visiting in September, which isn’t high season.
Check my Santorini travel guide for more details on when’s best to visit.
We stayed at Villa Soula, which was great for our group of four. We were given a spacious room that easily fit everyone. We had a terrace and a pool that we definitely enjoyed in the hot weather (the header image is of the pool area)!
Located just minutes down the hill from the main area of Fira, we were able to walk up to attractions and activities such as the Museum of Prehistoric Thira, Plateia Theotokopoulou, and a view of the caldera.
Best For: Families, those who want to be central, and budget travelers
Oia: For Iconic Sunsets
Famous for its postcard-perfect sunsets and blue-domed churches, Oia is the most picturesque village on the island.
It’s perfect for romantic getaways and Instagram-worthy photos, though it tends to be more expensive and crowded during sunset hours because of its fame.
If you’re looking for a tourist-less destination, Oia, Santorini, is likely not worth visiting for you.
But here is where you’ll get those epic caldera views you see all over the internet.
If you can afford it, there are tons of luxury hotels here that have infinity pools or at least private pools if that’s your vibe.
My family and I were on a budget, so we stuck to the beaches instead of getting accommodation with a sunset-facing pool.
Best For: Honeymooners, couples, luxury travelers
Firostefani: The Peaceful Middle Ground
Located between Fira and Imerovigli, Firostefani offers stunning caldera views with a quieter atmosphere than Fira.
It’s within walking distance of Fira’s amenities while providing a more relaxed setting.
The name “Firostefani” literally means “crown of Fira,” highlighting its high position and stunning views.
The village features charming whitewashed buildings with blue-domed roofs, so if you’re looking for a more affordable alternative to Oia on this ‘where to stay in Santorini’ list, this is it.
Best For: Couples of a budget who want serenity but also reasonable access
Imerovigli: The “Balcony of the Aegean”
Perched at the highest point of the caldera rim, Imerovigli offers some of the most dramatic views on the island.
Quieter than Fira and Oia, Imerovigli is considered one of the most romantic villages in Santorini, offering privacy, luxury hotels, and breathtaking sunsets.
Not ideal for those seeking proximity to attractions, restaurants, or bars, as it’s not easily walkable to Oia or Fira.
Best For: Honeymooners and couples seeking tranquility
Kamari: Family-Friendly Beach Town
Kamari is a quiet beach town on the southeast coast, featuring an open-air cinema, making it great for a night out with kids.
It offers black sand beaches, easy bus connections to Fira, and a wide range of affordable accommodations, making it ideal for families and budget-conscious travelers.
Kamari is a great choice for first-time visitors who want a more laid-back experience.
However, Kamari is located farther from the caldera and doesn’t provide the ‘typical’ Santorini views. Additionally, its nightlife is quieter than that of Fira or Oia.
Best For: Budget travelers, families, and beach bums
Perissa: Beach Lovers’ Paradise
Another east coast option with a long black sand beach, tavernas, and water sports is Perissa.
It’s more affordable than the Caldera villages and perfect if you want to spend time at the beach.
My family and I visited here for a few hours and were able to easily access it by KTEL bus. We found it an affordable way to spend the day, as you only have to pay for the services you use, such as a lounger, umbrella, food, or drinks. So, we basically just brought what we wanted with us.
However, as Perissa is further from the main attractions, if you’re on a time crunch, this may not be the place for you.
Best For: Beach bums, sun bathers, or those seeking less-touristy accommodation
Akrotiri: A Historical Base
Home to the famous archaeological site and Red Beach, Akrotiri is quieter and less touristy.
It’s perfect for those interested in history and wanting to avoid crowds.
👙 Just remember to pack non-white clothes, because Red Beach will stain your outfit! Discover even more packing tips on my Santorini what to wear guide!
It is also accessible by KTEL bus, but it is further away from a lot of the main attractions and restaurant offerings, so if you’re in search of nightlife, this may not be the place for you.
Best For: History buffs, beach goers, or those seeking fewer crowds
Pyrgos: For the Wine Lovers
Nestled among agricultural fields, Pyrgos doesn’t provide the caldera views that made Santorini famous, but it’s ideal for wine lovers, hikers, or those seeking fewer crowds!
Situated halfway between the beaches and the caldera, Pyrgos is quiet but still offers a decent variety of restaurants. Due to its location, it’s also more affordable.
For wine enthusiasts, this is the heart of Santorini wine country, so you’ll find plenty of nearby wineries to visit.
As for hikers, a trekking path begins in Pyrgos, passes the Monastery of Profitis Ilias, which is the highest point in all of Santorini, and ends at the archaeological site of Ancient Thera.
Best For: Wine drinkers, hikers, or those wanting a slower pace
Map of the Best Areas to Stay in Santorini
FAQs
Which Area is Better to Stay in, Fira or Oia?
If you’re looking for more budget friendly accommodation, then Fira is your better bet. However, if you’re a luxury traveler, you’re going to love Oia and its infinity pools that overlook the caldera.
Best Places to Stay Without a Car?
If you don’t have a car in Santorini, the best areas to stay are Fira, Firostefani, and Oia due to their excellent public transportation connections.
Related Santorini Travel Guides
- A Useful Santorini Travel Guide: Tips for First-Timers
- What to Wear in Santorini: Greek Island Getaway Packing Guide
- Santorini in 4 Days: Affordable Itinerary for Multi-Generational Families
- 23 Awesome Things to Do in Santorini + Mobility-Friendly Options
- Where to Stay in Santorini: 8 Key Areas for First-Timer Visitors
- How Many Days In Santorini? A Simple Guide For First-Timers
- Is Santorini Worth Visiting? 14 Pros and Cons for Travelers
- Ultimate 3 Day Santorini Itinerary on a Budget
- Is the Akrotiri Archaeological Site Worth Visiting? Visitor’s Guide to Greece’s “Pompeii”
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