Spectacular Santorini, the crescent of multicoloured rock around the bright blue ocean, with the blue and white sugar cube architecture cut right into the cliffs, is one of the world’s most spectacular views. For many visitors it’s the view which lures us in, and the fascinating culture, history and architecture which makes us want to return as quickly as possible. It’s tough competition choosing the best hotel views on Santorini. So many hotels have spectacular terraces, or private balconies, which open out over the caldera. But our Gurus have narrowed it down to the very finest in their list of Santorini's best hotels with a view. They’ve rated uninterrupted caldera views in Imerovigli, a honeymoon classic in Thira with a ‘wowzer’ infinity pool and some amazing converted cave houses in Oia with their own private balconies. But don’t take their word for it, they’ve provided photos too…

For a Special Occasion

William Abranowicz

• The Perivolas Lifestyle Houses are a collection of 300 year old cave dwellings, arranged in a cliff-terrace, and now converted into 21 21st century luxurious apartment villas, that overlook an idyllic infinity pool and the caldera. One of the things our Gurus love most about this property is the variety – some of the villas are large, with private pools and lush gardens, while some feature hot tubs, and vast vaulted ceilings - all of them have incredible views. This is an adults only property, and all of them are romantic and intimately laid out. There’s also a shared gardens, a fancy spa, and a contemporary Greek restaurant, which is private for hotel guests.
• The Ikies Traditional Houses are along a similar line, a five star collection of rooms, suites and maisonettes cut into the cliff face, all facing out onto dreamy caldera views. Ikies has all the sugar-cube charm of the best of Santorini’s architecture, with each of the 13 rooms benefiting from its own unique charm - they all have fantastic views, though - some also have private terraces and hot tubs. Inside guest will discover classic white-on-white decor, with vaulted ceilings, polished concrete floors and plenty of unique details. Breakfast, and suppers can be served on your private terrace, or you can stroll into Oia.

For Romantics

• The Andronis Luxury Suites sit atop Oia’s cliffs, offering spectacularly caldera views - especially from the infinity pool, and restaurant - which is perched out over the water surrounded by its own rock garden. The rest of the hotel’s 33 rooms and suites are carved into the cliff-face, in the traditional, white-on-white, Cycladic style, but have contemporary features, like brushed concrete floors and bathrooms. The fancier rooms have their own hot tubs or plunge pools - all with a view, and there’s a sleek, luxurious spa to share. No kids allowed.
• Canaves is a another beautiful, traditional white Cycladic building, this time perched atop the cliffs at Oia. What sets Canaves apart for us is the variations in their 18 rooms and suites, all traditional - with cave-like spaces and vaulted ceilings, but all different in scale and orientation, with different outdoor spaces available to each. If you want a private plunge pool or expansive private terrace then Canaves can deliver. Their hotel pool has a swim-up bar and a white chandelier.
• Homeric Poems is a sophisticated cliffside hotel with 20 rooms and suites, a lovely pool and numerous sun terraces. There are beautiful views from almost everywhere, plus contemporary art to look at when you’re facing away from the views. Its cave-style rooms are creatively decorated, and vary from room to room, but all feel fresh, stylish and spacious. Suites sleep up to four, and some of them have private plunge pools and hot tubs too. There’s no restaurant, but there is a bar, and they serve snacks and breakfast on your private terrace, or in the bar.
• The Athina Luxury Suites are a collection of 14 stylish suites, overlooking the caldera in Thira. This is traditional cave hotel meets contemporary design, with lots of natural materials used in conjunction with the traditional stone, and there are lost of design pieces being used in conjunction with traditional minimalism. Some suites have private hot tubs, and all 14 have private terraces. There’s a romantic restaurant, with views over the caldera, and Thira.

For a Pool with a View

• It’s a niche category, but Santorini’s infinity pools provide some seriously ‘wowzer’ photos. One of the most impressive infinity pools on Santorini can be found at Grace Santorini. It’s cut into the cliff edge, as if it’s about to cascade, waterfall-like, into the caldera, and it has a poolside bar and restaurant, so you can enjoy the views even longer. Grace Santorini is a great pick for a special occasion too, with 22 rooms and suites, in the Cycladic style, but with a luxurious, contemporary twist: think polished concrete floors, and spacious bathrooms. The most luxurious have private balconies and hot tubs too.
• Chromata is another incredible pick in Imerovigli, which, like Grace Santorini has miraculous caldera views from a spectacularly appointed infinity pool. Like Grace it’s a traditional Cycladic building, carved into the cliff, with vaulted rooms and plenty of white paint. Chromata has a simpler flavour to the decor, with white marble floors, gauzy linens and the odd Aztec throw. There are 25 rooms and suites in all - some with private plunge pools and hot tubs, a poolside Mediterranean restaurant, and that incredible infinity pool…

For Families

• If you’re in Santorini with your family, then Esperas, which has a collection of 17 suites, studios and villas - all with kitchenettes and fantastic views, is a great option. The decor is rustic white Cycladic, and the rooms are charming, with private balconies and splashes of art, plus the views this article is all about.
• The Apanemo Hotel offers stunning caldera views from its postcard-perfect position on the cliffs at Akrotiri. The views from the stepped pool and terrace are incredible, but the majority of the 27 apartment-style suites have private terrace or balconies with incredible views too. Outside the Apanemo couldn’t be more perfectly Cycladic, with plenty of white paint, bougainvillea, succulents, blue accents and natural stone, and inside the rooms offer Mediterranean-style comfort. There’s no restaurant, but they offer an impressive buffet breakfast each day.
• The Astra Suites are a collection of 27 Cycladic-style rooms and suites, decorated in whites with splashes of bright colour. Some have private balconies, some private hot tubs, but they all have access to a lovely Greek restaurant and spectacular infinity pool, complete with a lounge/ bar area - and magical views of the caldera. There’s also a sauna and steam room. The family suites are ideal for two adults and two children.

For an Island Escape

• At the Pegasus Suites & Spa guests are treated to incredible caldera views from their own private plunge pools, or a private hot tub - or both! on their private terrace, for each of the 18 suites has private outdoor space. The hotel’s gourmet restaurant overlooks the caldera too, with the wonderful ‘sugar cube’ architecture of Imerovigli in the foreground. Inside the rooms offer smart white simplicity in typical Cycladic style. And there’s a wonderful spa, complete with hammam, sauna and a range of treatments.
• Oia’s Kirini Suites and Spa is a collection of five-star suites in the traditional Cycladic style - but with chic, European feeling decor that’s still predominantly white and pale-wood coloured, but is definitely more ornate than the traditional simplicity. Each suite also has incredible views, and there’s a luxurious spa, with relaxation ‘pods’ cut directly into the cliff-face, and a fantastic seafood restaurant. Privacy and style.

For Luxurious Facilities

• San Antonio’s stunning, uninterrupted views of the caldera can be seen from the private balconies of all of its 25 rooms, and from the pool, which sits in front of all of them like a turquoise terrace. The rooms benefit from beautiful white decor, butler service, and an extensive spa menu - and some have private outdoor hot tubs. San Antonio also has a stylish gourmet restaurant and space for regular yoga classes - also with a view.

For a Villa with a View

• The Aenaon Villas is a complex of seven villas, built into the cliffside on the route between Oia and Imerovigli - so slightly out of the way. Each of the villas is stylishly decorated with white furnishings against white walls: traditional, but contemporary too. The villas all have private outdoor space, and two have private plunge pools - and they share a gorgeous infinity pool with an incredible ocean view.
• The Kapari Natural Resort has been carved right into the cliff-face at Imerovigli, in the traditional Santorini style, with vaulted ceilings and stepped terraces. The décor in the 19 rooms and suites is traditional too, with plenty of white and neutral tones. The most romantic of the rooms have private terraces with hot tubs, and incredible caldera views, but even the simplest rooms have private terraces, and all are memorable for all the right reasons. The restaurant and wine bar are too. Romantic, but also family friendly – The Private Residence can accommodate up to 15 people.
• Aigialos is a wonderfully romantic collection of 16 clifftop villas - sleeping between two and four, converted from a community of neoclassical houses once owned by the head of the island’s navy. Each villa has a private balcony and elegant furnishings, including antiques and design pieces, and there’s definitely a home-from-home feeling - if your home is quite luxurious. The villas share a gourmet Mediterranean restaurant, and and elegant pool with a hot tub.

For Great Value

• The Remezzo Villas are a stylishly converted collection of typical, 18th century Cycladic villas, converted into 12 rooms and suites - some with private balconies or terraces, and all with incredible views. And there’s a beautiful pool. Inside vaulted ceilings, white walls and cave-like details have been updated with colourful floors, mid-century furnishings and elegant finishes. There’s no restaurant, but there is a terrace bar, and you’re within a short walk of lots of bars and restaurants.
• The 11 room Hotel Ilioperato is a charming, traditionally Cycladic choice in Imerovigli, with whitewashed walls inside and out, and stepped terraces. Each room or apartment has a private terrace or balcony, and small kitchenettes - the deluxe accommodation features private hot tubs too, and the largest apartments sleep up to five. There’s no restaurant, but breakfast is delivered to your door.

Still not sure where to book?

• You could expand your search to include all the best places to stay in Santorini?
• Or refine your search by location to just the best places to stay in Thira? or the best places to stay in Oia?
• Or you could consider our Guru's recommendations for the best luxury hotels on Santoríni? or the best hotel pools on Santoríni?
• Or you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for pesonalised advice.

  • Pegasus Suites & Spa Imerovigli (Santorini) 18 rooms from $334

    
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    Views  -  The property has incredible view's over Santorini's caldera

    Swimming Pool  -  Heated outdoor pool with stunning views, plus an indoor hydrotherapy pool in the spa.

    Spa  -  The "Heaven Spa" features a hammam, and sauna and offers a range of treatments.

    Private Hot Tub  -  Several suites have a private hot tub either on the terrace or in the room

    

    A grown up, all suites property with breathtaking views over Santorini's famous caldera. Built in typical Cycladean style, smart all white suites offer every luxury and many come with either private hot tub or plunge pool or both! Gourmet restaurant and spa too. Romantic heaven! See More

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  • Grace Santorini Imerovigli 22 rooms from $715

    
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    Romantic Break  -  Beautiful all white accommodations, most with private plunge pool, superb views and award winning dining

    Views  -  Panoramic sea views

    Swimming Pool  -  Wonderful infinity pool with stunning sea views - the largest of its kind on Santorini

    Restaurant  -  Seaview restaurant specialising in Mediterranean cuisine

    

    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Tablet, I Escape

    A hotel cut from the cliff's edge with wow factor views and indulgent surroundings. All white rooms, suites and a palatial villa with fabulous private balconies and hot tubs. Lovely Mediterranean restaurant and extensive spa. Truly romantic and luxurious. See More

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  • Perivolas LIfestyle Houses Oia (Oia) 21 rooms from $639

    
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    Romantic Break  -  With a wide range of luxurious accommodations, many with private pool, superb views and delicious food this is very romantic!

    Hideaway  -  Set in 300 year old caves this stunning seaside property feels a-million miles away from everything.

    Restaurant  -  Serves contemporary Greek cuisine using locally sourced ingredients, exclusively for the hotel guests

    Sailing  -  Take a boat across the lava islands for magical views of the sulphur exuding caldera.

    

    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, I Escape

    A collection of lifestyle houses converted from 300 year old caves, built into the hillside. Spectacular views and complete tranquility meets laidback luxury and style. Stunning infinity pool, beautiful terraced gardens, and superb contemporary Greek cuisine. A wildly romantic destination. See More

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  • Ikies Traditional Houses Oia 13 rooms from $444

    
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    Romantic Break  -  Stunning views, private terraces with hot tubs, private dining — what more could you ask for?

    5* Luxury  -  Chic minimalist interiors, indulgent bathrooms, and private hot tubs almost as standard!

    Views  -  Fabulous views over the Caldera and the Aegean Sea

    Private Hot Tub  -  Most rooms have their own private outdoor hot tub with a view; some are indoor

    

    Five star Santorini-chic designed for honeymooners and romantic getaways. Charming, unusual suites and maisonettes carved from the cliff face. Dreamy Caldera views, private hot tubs, all white minimalist decor. A very romantic spot within walking distance of Oia town centre. See More

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  • San Antonio Imerovigli 25 rooms from $356

    
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    Total relaxation  -  Relax on your private terrace or by the infinity pool, then indulge in top notch dining

    Romantic Break  -  Stunning rooms and suites, epic views, gourmet cuisine — romance defined!

    Views  -  Stunning uninterrupted views of the caldera

    Private Hot Tub  -  Several suites have private outdoor hot tubs

    

    Recommended by  -  CN Traveller, Small Luxury Hotels

    Luxury clifftop accommodation oozing Santorini chic! Gorgeous all white suites with private hot tubs, butler service and balconies. Gourmet restaurant, spa suite, and all-round perfection. An ideal choice for romantics, honeymooners, and weddings. See More

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  • Chromata Imerovigli 25 rooms from $406

    
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    Honeymoons  -  Sun, sea in a wonderously romantic honeymoon suite with private terrace, secluded hot tub and sleek modern interiors.

    Sailing  -  Sail around the island and take in the stunning white villages and deserted beaches.

    5* Luxury  -  Chromata is undoubtedly one of the most luxurious hotels on the island

    Restaurant  -  Poolside Chroma Restaurant serves elegant modern Mediterranean cuisine

    

    Recommended by  -  Tablet, Small Luxury Hotels, Mr & Mrs Smith

    Tradition meets contemporary cool on the most spectacular island in Greece. A series of cave houses in the cliffside, with white on white decor broken with stylish aztec bed throws. Impossibly perfect infinity pool and an intimate poolside restaurant both boast killer views. Ideal for honeymooners. See More

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  • Esperas Oia 17 rooms from $406

    
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    Romantic Break  -  Romantics will love the views, private hot tubs or pools and great Greek cuisine

    Families  -  With some accommodation units sleeping up to four this is a good family pick

    Views  -  Stunning sea and caldera views

    Swimming Pool  -  Small outdoor pool and the best suites come with their own plunge pool

    

    Recommended by  -  I Escape

    All white rustic chic accommodation ranging from studios to suites to separate villas overlooking Oia's coastline. Charming rooms have splashes of art, kitchenettes, private balconies and spectacular views. Beautiful, romantic, family friendly too. See More

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  • Remezzo Villas Imerovigli (Santorini) 12 rooms from $239

    
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    Romantic Break  -  Beautifully simple rooms and suites the best with private hot tubs and sensational views

    Boutique  -  Simply done in typical Cycladic style with beautiful white on white decor and luxurious bathrooms

    Private Hot Tub  -  Several of the suites come with their own outdoor hot tub

    Views  -  Terraces with panoramic views over the caldera

    

    Nestled on the cliffside, the restored 18th century villas have classic Cycladean features: white washed walls, vaulted ceilings & curved edges. Spacious suites and rooms with private balconies for enjoying the jawdropping views. No restaurant but a short walk from local eateries. Totally romantic. See More

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  • Apanemo Hotel Akrotiri (Cyclades) 27 rooms from $166

    
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    Romantic Break  -  Take some time for yourselves at this romantic spot — boasting plush accommodation, stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere

    Beach Life  -  Apanemo offers seaside chic rooms just a 15 minute walk from the nearest beach

    Local exploring  -  There is a free shuttle service to the whole Akrotiri area

    Families  -  Apartment style accommodation and a children's pool

    

    The lovely Apanemo Hotel, in Akrotiri on Santorini, offers stunning views of the Aegean. Apartment-style accommodation decorated in a typically Mediterranean fashion. Enjoy a rich buffet breakfast each morning and be sure to make use of the hot tub to fully unwind! A peaceful spot. See More

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  • Aenaon Villas Imerovigli, Santoríni 7 rooms from $500

    
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    Chic  -  Beautifully stylish interiors manage to honour the traditional architecture whilst offering the smartest of stays

    Romantic Break  -  Stunning all-white interiors, outstanding location, views to die for and some villas with private pool...

    Outstanding location  -  Cliffside location right on the edge of Santorini's Caldera, on the path between Oia and Imerovigli

    Views  -  Panoramic views over the Aegean Sea and caldera, plus unbeatable sunsets

    

    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Fodors

    A cluster of white villas house seven ultra-chic all-white rooms with huge private terraces offering a seamless blend of tradition and contemporary luxury. Dreamy sea views from its clifftop site, and a gorgeous infinity pool. Ideal for honeymooners, couples, and families with older children. See More

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  • Canaves Ena Thera, Santoríni 18 rooms from $570

    
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    Romantic Break  -  Beautifully stylish luxury accommodation with breathtaking views; book one of the top end suites for a private pool

    Local exploring  -  A perfect base to explore Oia's winding cobbled streets with local bakeries, art galleries and artisan shops

    Restaurant  -  The Infinity Modern Bistro & Bar is open all day for classic Greek cuisine

    Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor infinity pool; and several suites have their own pools too

    

    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith

    In a picturesque village, this luxury hotel seems surreal. Perched on a cliff side, beautifully designed with white on white keeping in mind the traditional Cycladic style, rooms offer private terraces. The suites come with a private pool and the restaurant serves great food. Super romantic. See More

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  • Katikies Kirini Oia from $556

    
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    Total relaxation  -  With a serene coastal setting, excellent on site cuisine and deluxe spa, it's ideal for a relaxing holiday.

    Romantic Break  -  Luxurious suites and a heavenly location combine to create the perfect place for a romantic getaway.

    Sights nearby  -  Visit Santorini's volcano and Thirasia Island just three miles away.

    Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool and the top end suites come with private pool

    

    Recommended by  -  Relais & Chateaux, Tablet

    Fantastic, five-star hotel facing out over the Aegean Sea. Fastidiously designed in line with Cycladic style, the suites are elegant and luxurious with crisp, whitewashed decor. The deluxe spa feature relaxing pods carved into the cliff and the restaurant serves delicious seafood. A clifftop wonder. See More

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  • Andronis Luxury Suites Oia (Santorini) 33 rooms from $590

    
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    Romantic Break  -  Couples love the amenities at this hotel, particularly the adult focus and the possibility of a private hot tub or pool

    Beach Life  -  With beautiful sea views from the hotel, and easy access to local beaches, this is a great base for seaside break

    Honeymoons  -  Make yours a luxury honeymoon by booking a suite with a private infinity pool

    Sights nearby  -  Take an impressive helicopter trip from the hotel across the Aegean to some of the most renowned Greek islands

    

    This seafront luxury hotel in Oia offers stunning vistas across the Aegean. The suites have classic interior design with stonewashed bathrooms and nautical colours; the best lead onto a private infinity pool overlooking the sea. Don't miss the clifftop restaurant and sleek spa. A breathtaking hotel. See More

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  • Hotel Ilioperato Imerovigli 11 rooms from $181

    
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    Value chic  -  With its stunning view and charming, simple style Ilioperato represents excellent value on this expensive island

    Romantic Break  -  Amazing views, sunsets to die for and even your own private hot tub (in certain rooms) — a romantic haven

    Families  -  The spacious apartments offer excellent options for families, with some sleeping up to five

    Views  -  Stunning caldera views from both rooms and pool terrace

    

    A lovely Four star hotel with a collection of rooms and apartments that have small kitchenettes and private balconies. Fantastic sea views, traditional Santorini white and blue decoration, swimming pool. Excellent value, very romantic. See More

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  • Astra Suites Imerovigli 27 rooms from $302

    
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    Romantic Break  -  Romantics will love the higher-end suites which either come with private hot tub or pool

    Families  -  Family suites are perfect for two adults and two children

    Views  -  Panoramic views of the caldera and the Aegean Sea

    Restaurant  -  Five Senses Restaurant offers Greek and Mediterranean fine dining cuisine

    

    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith

    Wonderful boutique hotel with funky rooms and suites. Splashes of bright colour throughout all white rooms, all with private balconies, some with private hot tubs or pools. Lovely Greek restaurant and swimming pool lounge area. Great for romantic getaways and family holidays. See More

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  • Homeric Poems Fira (Firostefani) 20 rooms from $322

    
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    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!

    

    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith

    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. See More

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  • Kapari Natural Resort Imerovigli 19 rooms from $334

    
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    Families  -  The Private Residence can accommodate between 2 and 15 guests and is ideal for larger family groups

    Romantic Break  -  Kapari offers rooms with private hot tubs, chic interiors and fabulous food

    Views  -  Stunning views of the Caldera

    Private Hot Tub  -  The Up & High Suite, Honeymoon Suite and Private Residence all feature a private outdoor hot tub

    

    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith

    Very luxurious rooms and suites carved from the cliff face. Neutral tones, natural materials, clean lines, plus all the mod cons and a few private hot tubs. Excellent wine bar and restaurant with fantastic sea views. Romantic and very chic. See More

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  • Aigialos Fira 16 rooms from $399

    
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    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.

    

    Recommended by  -  Tablet, Fodors

    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. See More

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  • Athina Luxury Suites Fira (Santorini) 14 rooms from $422

    
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    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

    

    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. See More

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Written by Kat Parr Mackintosh

posted Wednesday, 24th April 2024