If you’re dreaming about waking up to a white terrace, a glass of wine, and the Aegean Sea glowing below, then yes — you’re in the market for the Best Hotels in Santorini with Caldera View.
It’s the image that made you fall in love with Santorini in the first place. But booking the perfect room isn’t always simple. “Sea view” doesn’t always mean caldera. Some places look straight into a neighbor’s rooftop. Some are hidden behind power lines. And others involve 235 stairs and mild regret.
So if you want that view – the one you saw in all those photos – here’s a no-nonsense list of the best caldera-view hotels in Oia, Imerovigli and Fira. Based on obsessive research, real reviews, and way too much time on Booking.com.
Oia is the village that appears on 90% of Santorini postcards. Whitewashed houses spilling down the cliffs, cobalt-blue domes, and the sunset.
But here’s the truth: it’s breathtaking… and it’s busy. If you’re dreaming of quiet breakfasts on your terrace, come in May or late September. In July, even the cats look annoyed.
Oia vibes:
✨ Ultra-romantic
📸 Made for photoshoots
💶 $$$
👟 Lots of stairs, no cars
🍴 Upscale restaurants + hidden tavernas
Who it’s for: honeymooners, photographers, “I came here for the view and I’m not ashamed” people
Who should maybe skip it: anyone who hates crowds, or panics at €18 cocktails
Katikies Hotel – Think: dreamy arches, pink flowers, and infinity pools made for Instagram. See latest deals
Mystique Hotel – Luxe, minimalist, ultra-private – not cheap, but absolutely unreal. Book here
🌄 Imerovigli – Like Oia, but introverted
If Oia is the Instagram queen, Imerovigli is the wise older sister who doesn’t need attention to be impressive. It’s perched at the highest point of the caldera, offering the same views with 90% less noise.
Here, you’ll find quiet lanes, dramatic cliffs, and sunsets that you don’t have to fight 300 tourists for. Many locals say this is the best place to stay if you want that Santorini vibe without the chaos.
Imerovigli in a nutshell:
🌅 Epic sunsets, minus the selfie sticks
🍷 Romantic, intimate
🧘 Perfect for chilling, reading, watching
📵 Slightly remote – fewer shops/restaurants
🪜 Still a lot of steps
Who it’s for: couples, introverts, calm-seekers, people who pack books Who should skip: party animals, souvenir addicts
Best Imerovigli Hotels:
Grace Hotel Santorini – Sleek design, jaw-dropping views, and a killer sunset bar. See photos & book now
Astra Suites – Perfect balance of luxury and local charm. Also: incredible breakfast. View rooms & prices
Honeymoon Petra Villas – A lesser-known gem, great value, and that classic cliffside feel. Check current rates
🛏️ Pro tip: Imerovigli is all about quiet mornings and dramatic sunsets – ideal if you’re not into crowds.
🏙️ Fira – Loud, lively, and surprisingly scenic
Fira (a.k.a. Thira) is the island’s capital – which makes it the most connected, most walkable, and arguably the most practical place to stay. What it lacks in pure charm, it makes up for in convenience.
But here’s the surprise: Fira also has amazing caldera views, especially from the right hotels. Plus, you’re a few steps from bars, buses, shops, and late-night gyros.
Fira experience:
🛍️ Walkable streets, shopping
🚌 Main bus station for the whole island
🍹 Nightlife, cafés, people-watching
🛏️ Wide range of hotels – from budget to boutique
🚧 Slightly noisier + less “village” feel
Who it’s for: first-timers, explorers, people who like to be in the action Who should skip: those who want serenity, romance, silence.
Top Fira Hotels with Caldera View:
Athina Luxury Suites – Elegant, walkable, with a pool that looks straight into the crater. Check availability here
Aria Suites & Villas – Private, stylish, and surprisingly peaceful for such a central location. Compare prices
Abyssanto Suites – Newer option with boutique flair and great location. Book your stay
Where to Stay: Oia vs Fira vs Imerovigli (coming soon)
3-Day Santorini Itinerary – With Map & Links (coming soon)
✅ Final tip:
If waking up to the caldera is on your bucket list, don’t wait. These hotels book out fast – and you don’t want to end up with “partial sea view” from a side alley.
