About Fira

A white-and-blue town perched on a dramatic cliffside, Fira is in many ways the iconic Santorini destination. The island’s beautiful capital, it’s a wonderful base for keen amblers eager to explore the community’s narrow cobbled streets on foot. There are some superb little hotels in the area too, with everything from family-friendly restored residences to ultra-luxurious couples’ boltholes. Whether you’re dreaming of a honeymoon escape or a fun-filled holiday as a family, our Gurus’ selection of the best places to stay in Fira is a brilliant starting point.

Amble around town to admire bright independent galleries, clothing and jewellery boutiques, lively cafés and tavernas specialising in fresh seafood. There are beautiful churches to visit including the Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral, as well as fantastic museums. The Museum of Prehistoric Thira is a particularly good stop for those intrigued by the sprawling site of Ancient Thira and the ruins of the Minoan city of Akrotiri, buried under volcanic ash in 1613B.C.

Take the cable car down to the old port for a wander, pick a perch at a taverna to soak up the sunshine over a long lunch, and head to Fira’s sandy beaches to unwind. Santorini’s many other attractions are a short drive away — and the Mediterranean waters beckon. The town is undeniably busy in July and August; consider booking a room at one of the best places to stay in Fira in the spring or early autumn instead.

The Best Places to Stay in Fira

For Boutique Chic

  • Aigialos is a romantic collection of houses with pastel-painted exteriors and space for two to four guests. Chic interiors feature soothing tones, gorgeous sea views framed by painted wooden casements, and antique pieces. A pool and Mediterranean restaurant complete the picture. Charming.
  • Homeric Poems, set right on the cliffside, is a beautiful design-led little hotel with sharp blue, cream and white interiors and natural wood tones. Well-heeled romantics will adore the private terraces, dramatic vistas and plunge pools in the best rooms.

For Families

  • Aria Lito Mansion prides itself on being one of Fira's most family friendly hotels. Simple rooms with flexible spaces for additional beds sit in a pink-painted 20th-century property. Soak up the sunshine as the kids splash around in the pool, or amble along the road to shops, museums and restaurants aplenty. Relaxed and welcoming.
  • Tzekos Villas Hotel is a gorgeous cliffside retreat for romantics. It's also, however, a great family hotel for those with older kids. Larger suites sleep up to four guests, and the refreshing pool is ideal for unwinding after days of exploring the town on foot.

For Romantic Luxury

  • Sun Rocks oozes understated sophistication, with its cool, white and cream guest rooms, intimate terraces and hidden private pools. A hugely indulgent couples' bolthole with dazzling Mediterranean views. Adults only, this is a honeymoon favourite.
  • Athina Luxury Suites offers a glamorous take on classic Cycladic style, with wood accents, gilding and soft furnishings. A dreamy couples' getaway for design aficionados, who will appreciate the organic shape of the hotel pool — plus the private pools and hot tubs — as well as the romantic restaurant.
  • Villa Bordeaux has just four exceptional suites in a restored 19th-century residence. Elegant interiors feature vaulted ceilings, cream tones and contemporary art pieces. The gastronomic restaurant is the only fine dining destination offering French fare of that quality in town. An intimate foodie dream.
  • The Tsitouras Collection will delight fans of heritage luxury with its antique furnishings, striking paintings and sense of opulence. Sumptuous, individually designed suites promise absolute indulgence — as do the rooftop pool and private gourmet dining. Very special.

For Great Value

  • Callia Retreat Suites offers very reasonable rates for its 17 hip, airy guest rooms and suites. Gather at the swimming pool after generous breakfasts, or discover Fira town on foot. The views are glorious.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

  • Fly to Athens International Airport, and hop aboard a ferry from Athens' Piraeus or Rafina ports (via Naxos or Paros), or catch a flight directly to Santoríni International Airport. You can then travel 5km into Fira by bus or taxi.
  • There's plenty to see on Santorini! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Expect hot summers, with temperatures reaching around 33°C between June and August, which is also peak season. For fewer crowds and cooler weather travel in April, May or late September, when you can also find great hotel deals.

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The best hotels in Fira

Aria Lito Mansion

Fira (Main Street)

A stylish retreat, in the heart of the city. This mid-1900's renovated mansion offers creatively designed rooms, with chic contemporary décor, and lovely views of the sea. An outdoor pool, a cosy garden space, in room massages and wine tastings add to the charm. A classy yet modern vibe.

  • Total relaxation - In a quiet and peaceful setting, its the ideal place to enjoy some time out, sit back and relax by the pool or on the terraces.
  • Families - Aria Lito Mansion prides itself on being one of the few truly family friendly hotels in town
  • Romantic Break - A perfect couples getaway with its chic and comfortable interiors, great service and food.
  • Local exploring - Ideally located close to the centre of town as well as the beaches.
from AU$186 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Callia Retreat Suites

Fira

Seriously stylish adults only property in central Fira. Contemporary rooms feature private terraces, the best come with a hot tub. Plus there's large swimming pool with snack bar. Superb location offering easy access to restaurants, sights and activities around. A chic romantic bolthole.

  • Romantic Break - This adults only property offers a chic romantic haven. Book one of the executive suites with private outdoor hot tub!
  • Private Hot Tub - Book one of the executive suite for a private terrace with hot tub
  • Views - Stunning seaviews both from the pool area and private terraces
  • Sights nearby - Located in the centre of Fira
from AU$283 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Tzekos Villas Hotel

Fira

Built amphitheatrically on the edge of the renowned Caldera in Santorini's capital, Tzekos Villas has breathtaking views over volcanic islets and the Aegean sea. Rooms are typically Cycladic — bright white interiors, tiled floors, with verandas overlooking the volcano. Peaceful and romantic.

  • Families - Children are welcome here and several of the rooms can accommodate three or four people
  • Romantic Break - Stunning views from which to watch the sunset and the best rooms with private hot tub
  • Swimming Pool - Outdoor pool with amazing views of the volcano
  • Views - All rooms boast stunning caldera views
from AU$291 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Homeric Poems

Fira (Firostefani)

A sophisticated cliffside hotel all in white with views over the Aegean Sea. Spacious terraces, luxurious rooms and suites, all the mod cons, lovely pool and splashes of modern art. A fabulous spot for couples, honeymooners and families with older children.

  • Local exploring - Homeric Poems is a ten minute walk from the centre of Fira so you can easily get out and about
  • Views - Epic views over the caldera and Aegean Sea
  • Swimming Pool - Freshwater pool; book one of the Grand Suites or the Honeymoon suite with private pool for your own pool
  • Private Hot Tub - The Honeymoon suite not only has a plunge pool, but an outdoor hot tub too!
from AU$469 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Aigialos

Fira

Utterly romantic all white hotel with a collection of sugar cube houses on the cliff top. Each house, from standard to mansion size, sleeps from 2 to 4 people. All have private balconies and elegant interiors furnished with anitque pieces. Small pool and fine-dining Mediterranean restaurant.

  • Romantic Break - With the historic buildings, beautiful interiors, stunning views and fine-dining, this is made for romance
  • Views - Outstanding views of the caldera
  • Restaurant - Gourmet restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine
  • Sights nearby - Ancient Tira archaeological site.
from AU$581 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Athina Luxury Suites

Fira (Santorini)

Perched on the cliffs of the caldera, these boutique suites make a luxurious pied-à-terre in Fira. The soft minimalism typical of contemporary Greek interior design is set off by wood accents and gilding. With a romantic restaurant overlooking the coast, this hotel is a dreamy couples' getaway.

  • Beach Life - Set on the beautiful island of Santorini with sea views from every suite, book this hotel for a luxury seaside getaway
  • Hideaway - Hideout in this pretty hillside hotel; with a bar, restaurant and spa services onsite, there's no reason to leave
  • Romantic Break - The effortlessly chic suites and spectacular views make this hotel an idyllic destination for a romantic break
  • Private Hot Tub - Several of the higher-end suites come with private outdoor hot tub
from AU$615 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
The Tsitouras Collection

Fira (Santorini)

This luxury hotel is located on a thousand-foot cliff in Santorini, Greece. Individually designed suites boast elaborate, antique furniture and living space; doors open out onto a private verandah with sun loungers and sea views. Unwind in the infinity pool after an al fresco dinner; a VIP getaway.

  • Local exploring - Set in close proximity to the Thira ferry, this hotel is in a great location for exploring on Santorini and local islands
  • Romantic Break - Couples love this hotel's discreet touches; book a luxury suites for a romantic private terrace
  • Beach Life - Set on a cliff overlooking the sea, this hotel is a great choice for a luxury beach break
  • Sailing - Visit Santorini's volcano and Thirasia Island on a boat trip; stop off on Thirisia Island for a traditional meal
from AU$745 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Sun Rocks

Fira

A gorgeous hotel with wonderful day areas and terraces dotted around. Spectacular views, lovely restaurant, and creamy rooms. Intimate, very romantic, and oh so chic. A great spot for couples and honeymooners.

  • Romantic Break - This adults only paradise screams romance from every pore with its glorious views and sleek modern style
  • Local exploring - Ideally located in the centre of Thira, so it's easy to get around from here
  • Views - Fabulous sea and sunset views
  • Swimming Pool - Outdoor pool; the Sun Rocks suite has a private pool
from AU$809 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Villa Bordeaux

Fira (847 00 Santorini )

A stunning hotel overlooking a pretty bay with elegant cream stone interiors featuring romantic arches and vaulted ceilings. The simple fresh design continues in the rooms, with pale furnishings, minimalist art and natural materials. Boasting a top-notch restaurant and terrace pool. Fabulous!

  • Local exploring - Conveniently situated in the heart of lively Fira, with a choice of many nearby beaches and island sights to explore
  • Romantic Break - With just a handful of rooms, gourmet food, stunning views and luxury everywhere you turn, this is truly spoiling
  • Foodies - The only French fine dining restaurant on Santorini helmed by famous chef Jerome Castillas
  • Great walks - Hike from Fira to Oia, walk up the island's active volcano or the Skaros Rock viewpoint hike is also beautiful
from AU$1988 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia