Petit Palace Suites
Couples can find a cliffside romance at the Petit Palace Suites, which are close enough to enjoy the amenities of Fira but just far enough away to feel away from the bustle. The 23 suites are just next to Agia Irini's chapel on Fira's outskirts.
Multiple suites offer private jacuzzis or even pools on private terraces. There's also a shared hotel pool complete with a poolside bar. The Elia restaurant adjacent to the pool deck offers views out over the Aegean and gourmet local food and wine. Schedule a massage or beauty treatment, yoga session, or tour via boat, car, or more when you're ready to explore.
Archipel Mansion
Perched at the highest point in Fira, a 10-minute walk from the center of town, the Archipel Mansion has a 180-degree view of the Santorini archipelagos and caldera in addition to its commitment to giving guests the "ideal balance of contemporary Greek island life."
The hotel consists of a three-bedroom neoclassical mansion and an adjacent studio, each with its own private entrance, united around a sunny courtyard perfect for relaxing. Take in details that speak to the property's history, with an eclectic mix of family heirlooms and modern touches. Every detail of your stay can be tended to, from pre-arrival food and wine provisioning to an arrival night dinner at the villa to in-house beauty services.
Enigma Suites
Families in search of amenities like a caldera view and hot tubs should head to the Enigma Suites. The hotel's eight suites were fully renovated in 2020, with a calm, organic decor inspired by island nature. Each suite has its own caldera-view patio, and the three jacuzzi suites live up to their names by adding a private hot tub to the terrace.
Amenities like natural mattresses and sunbeds will keep you indoors and outside comfortable. Breakfast is served each day in the hotel's open-air cafeteria. Once you've fueled up, head out for a day of sailing, beaching, or other excursions that you can book through the concierge, or stay in and book a massage instead.
Kastro Suites
The seven suites of the Kastro Suites in Fira are ideal for families due to their large rooms with multiple beds available, though other travelers can also take advantage of the caldera views and comfortable spaces. Some rooms are even carved into the cliffside, keeping them cool literally and figuratively.
Enjoy the views from your room's balcony or terrace, or take a dip in the pool. Make a quick visit to the snack bar, where you'll get a front seat for sunset views, or head out to explore Fira's many restaurants and shops on foot. If you'd like to go farther afield, the hotel can arrange car or motorbike rentals, boat tours, or shuttle services.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Manos Small World
Enjoy a blend of tradition and modernity at Manos Small World in the village of Firostefani. Room capacities range from two to four guests, and all include those caldera views and crisp white accents. Private balconies have unobstructed caldera views, and inside the rooms, the walls are decorated with local art.
If you can tear yourself away from the balcony, there's plenty within easy access of the hotel. The main square of Firostefani is less than 200 feet (60 m) away, and the neighboring town of Fira is about a five-minute walk away.
Mill Houses Santorini Suites
The elegant simplicity of Mill Houses Santorini Suites makes it an excellent luxury option for even the fussiest families and couples. Suites are designed in the minimalist Cycladic style, with high ceilings and contemporary design features carved into the cliffside.
All accommodations include a kitchenette and a private balcony overlooking the sea, and some offer a private outdoor jet tub. Visit the Mylos restaurant for refined Asian and Mediterranean cuisine, wine, and cocktails alongside the caldera. Take a dip in the pool or head out on a wine-tasting tour while the staff decorates your room with flowers and candlelight.
Dreams Luxury Suites
There are just six suites at Dreams Luxury Suites, contributing to its air of exclusivity. The houses were originally built more than 100 years ago but now blend that history with modern amenities thanks to a designer renovation. Families who want a slightly larger suite can find one here, as can couples who want a bit of privacy.
All the suites are designed in the traditional Cycladic style and have their own private terrace with either a swimming pool or jacuzzi overlooking the caldera (many have both). Start your day in style with an American-style Champagne breakfast, indulge with a private massage or beauty treatment, and keep it romantic with a private candlelight dinner on your terrace.
Kasimatis by La Perla
Find refuge in a former wine storage cave at Kasimatis by La Perla. This luxe but well-priced accommodation on the cliffside is adults-only, making it ideal for honeymooners or travelers who don't want their stays interrupted by splashing.
Rooms have either pool or caldera views and private patios, and superior rooms and suites also include a private outdoor hot tub. Grab a book from the mini library in the lobby and set yourself up to lounge amid the bold white lines and gray details.
Olia Villas & Suites
The six villas of Olia Villas & Suites rise up from the cliffside with twisting, geometric architecture that echoes their natural surroundings. Step among the olive trees on the terrace and into your own private world, complete with private plunge pools, caldera views, and fabrics in neutral, organic tones.
You'll find a coffee machine in the room to start your day, along with options for fitness classes, massages, and simply lounging on the terrace. Book a horseback riding, windsurfing, or hiking tour, or hike the scenic trail between Imerovigli and Fira on your own, with just over a mile (2.2 km) to walk. Fira is just a three-minute drive away, but Imerovigli itself also has plenty to offer.
Ambassador Aegean Luxury Hotel & Suites
The apartments of the Ambassador Aegean Luxury Hotel & Suites are hidden in less-busy Akrotiri, near Santorini's most famous archaeological site (thought to be the basis for stories about Atlantis). But those who make it to this hidden gem get no-less-impressive caldera views, private pools (the property has a total of 40), and luxury amenities like a private helipad and golf carts for moving around the property.
The 40 rooms, suites, and villas are housed in the traditional Cycladic white cubes, with options including cave rooms, two-bedroom suites, and villas that can sleep up to 14 guests. The Cabo Rosso restaurant, next to the shared pool, serves fresh Aegean cuisine, from just-baked breakfasts delivered to your suite to poolside cocktails to dinner under the stars. If you prefer a larger swimming space, dive into the infinity pool and its volcano views, or opt for a softly lit cave escape with a natural wellness treatment in the spa. Furry friends need not feel neglected either; the Ambassador also offers a hospitality pet care program.
Makris Beach Hotel
If you're more beach than Caldera, head for the Makris Beach Hotel. Located off the black sands of Kamari Beach, this hotel is ideal for budget travelers who are willing to trade caldera views for a lower price tag. Families will appreciate the proximity to the beach and restaurants, smooth terrain, and lack of crowds, though you will need to drive or hop on a bus to get to the island's cliffside.
Each room comes with a private balcony for maximum views. Sun loungers and boat excursions can be arranged through the hotel depending on how adventurous you're feeling that day, and the on-site Prince Restaurant serves local products in its seaside location.