Blue Dolphins Apartments & Suites, Santorini

Pros

• Rooms and suites are relatively spacious and offer incredible views over the Aegean Sea and Santorini's Caldera.
• The hotel is perfectly situated in the village of Firostefani, just a 20-minute walk from the island capital of Fira.
• A complimentary continental breakfast is a real highlight, featuring a variety of homemade and locally-grown treats served on the rooftop veranda or in your room.

Cons

• Some previous guests noted a smell from the rooms' pipes and drains.
• There's no pool or spa on-site, but the Honeymoon Suite has a private Jacuzzi. 
• The hotel has no restaurant, and a set breakfast menu means dietary restrictions can't be accommodated.

Authenticity

Blue Dolphins Apartments & Suites embraces Santorini's classic aesthetic of white limestone walls and blue accents throughout its nine unique rooms and suites. This is a small boutique property, so you won't find amenities like a pool or restaurant, but its tucked-away location in charming Firostefani and frankly spectacular views over the Caldera and the coast make it a perfect bolthole for those looking for a more authentic slice of Santorini.

Location

Located in the village of Firostefani, you'll find yourself just a 5-minute walk from the village's central square, which offers a peaceful alternative to Santorini's larger towns. The bustling capital of Fira is an easy 7-minute drive or a pleasant 20-minute walk away, and the hotel's position along the trail connecting Fira with Oia puts you in the perfect position to explore the island's landscapes and attractions on foot. The airport is reachable in 15 minutes by car, and the main ferry port of Athinios is a 25-minute drive south.

Rooms & Bathrooms

The theme at Blue Dolphins is Cycladic simplicity, with an airy blend of whitewashed walls, painted accents, and tile floors. Room options include compact Standard Doubles with sea views, Romantic Suites offering more spacious layouts and private balconies, and a Family Suite with two bedrooms to sleep up to four guests. Splash out on the Honeymoon Suite for a private terrace complete with a large Jacuzzi, or book the Canava Cave House to sleep up to five guests (though the latter is darker and doesn't have the same sea views). Bathrooms are newly renovated, and all rooms have air-conditioning and free WiFi.

Amenities

The hotel's complimentary continental breakfast is a favorite among past guests. Served on your own private terrace or on the rooftop veranda overlooking the Caldera, the breakfast spread features fresh fruit, Greek yogurt, homemade cakes and jams, eggs, cheese, cold cuts, fresh bread, juices, coffee, and more. The hotel doesn't have a pool or spa, but there's a tour desk, luggage storage, and a shuttle service for an added fee. Parking is free but limited, and lots of narrow paths and stairs mean the hotel isn't wheelchair-friendly or suitable for those with limited mobility. 

Family-Friendliness

While not particularly family-friendly—there are no child-oriented amenities here—Blue Dolphins welcomes children. Cribs are free, and extra beds (for older children) are available for an added fee. The Family Suite sleeps four across two bedrooms, complete with a private terrace. Pets are allowed to stay upon request.