A stay by the caldera suits views and village life, while other parts of the island offer a different base for beaches and excursions. A smaller property can leave more room in your budget; a hotel with a view makes the stay itself a bigger part of the trip. Check steps and transport arrangements when travelling with luggage.
Plan your stayThe caldera and villagesBefore bookingChoose views or proximity to the sea
Three ideas for your days
01
Walk from Fira to Oia with a guide
Follow the edge of the caldera from Fira towards Oia on a private guided hike. Along the way, you pass whitewashed villages and open sea views. The route is longer than a city walk, so consider your fitness and bring suitable shoes.
See Santorini's volcanic coast from a catamaran with swimming stops near the island's beaches. The tour includes a barbecue meal, drinks and transfers from your accommodation. The boat does not dock directly on the beaches; you swim from the boat when conditions allow.
Combine Santorini's villages and viewpoints with its wine tradition on a private tour. A guide and private transport make it easier to see different sides of the island in one day, with a tasting of local wines included.
May to September are worth considering for island stays. June and September offer alternatives to busy July and August; the sea may still feel cool in May.