Stunning Boutique Hotels in Santorini to Stay At

Wondering where to stay in Santorini? You’re in the right place.

I’ve been to Santorini three times and honestly, I’d go again in a heartbeat. Yes, it’s popular. Yes, it gets crowded. But there’s a reason it draws travelers from around the world. From the wines (some of my favorites anywhere) to those dramatic caldera views you can’t stop staring at, Santorini will find its way into your heart.

That said, not all hotels here are created equal. Some are overpriced or overhyped, and with so many options, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when trying to choose the right one.

That’s why I created this curated list of boutique hotels I’d personally book. These are places that offer more than just a pretty view. Each one is thoughtfully designed, deeply connected to the island, and offers the kind of elevated experience that makes a trip unforgettable.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape, epic sunset views, or a serene base away from the crowds, this guide will help you find the best boutique hotels in Santorini minus the guesswork.

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Just want to book something amazing right away?
🏛 Kivotos Santorini – Bold, dramatic, and design-forward with private plunge pools
🍷 Ducato Wine Villas – Locally owned, vineyard views, and Cycladic charm in Megalochori
🎨 The Vasilicos – An intimate former estate above the caldera with artful, story-rich design

Best Areas to Stay in Santorini

Before we dive into the best hotels, it’s helpful to get your bearings. Santorini may be small, but each village offers a very different experience and where you stay can shape your entire trip.

Here are four excellent places to base yourself and who they’re best for:

Imerovigli

✈️ Best for: Romantic getaways, caldera and sea views without the chaos. This is my personal favorite town to stay in. It’s getting more popular, but still nowhere near as crowded as Oia.

🥂 Vibe: Elevated — both literally and in terms of peace and quiet. Imerovigli sits at the highest point of Santorini’s caldera and feels worlds away from the cruise ship crowds, even though it’s just a short walk from Fira.

📍 Why stay here: You’ll get those dramatic cliffside views (sunsets included), beautiful design-driven hotels, and a more laid-back pace. Many of the island’s most thoughtfully designed boutique hotels are here.

🚗 Rental car needed? Optional. You can walk to Fira and take buses from there or you can also have your hotel call you a taxi. A car is helpful for reaching the beaches or inland wineries, but not essential.

Oia

✈️ Best for: First time in Santorini, honeymooners, iconic views

🥂 Vibe: Picture-perfect and instantly recognizable. Blue domes, cobbled alleys, and luxury boutiques make it Santorini’s most photographed village and also its busiest. Just know that if you stay here, there will be crowds. It’s why I personally prefer Imerovigli.

📍 Why stay here: If you’ve dreamed of waking up to that Santorini view, Oia delivers. While it can feel crowded during the day, staying overnight lets you enjoy the quiet early mornings and stunning sunsets from your private terrace.

🚗 Rental car needed? Not essential if you’re staying put or planning short trips. But Oia is at the far north end of the island, so a car helps if you want to explore more widely.

Pyrgos

✈️ Best for: A quiet, authentic stay with easy access to the whole island

🥂 Vibe: A traditional hilltop village with winding alleys, family-run tavernas, and panoramic views. Fewer tourists, more locals — perfect if you want to slow down.

📍 Why stay here: It’s one of Santorini’s most underrated areas and central to the island, making it easy to reach both the beaches and the caldera towns. Great for travelers seeking a more grounded and peaceful experience.

🚗 Rental car needed? Yes. Pyrgos is inland and best explored with a car.

Megalochori

✈️ Best for: Wine lovers, culture seekers, and travelers looking to skip the crowds

🥂 Vibe: Quiet and romantic, with whitewashed alleys, a village square, and a strong local feel. You’ll be surrounded by vineyards and traditional architecture. Just note, you won’t get those same sweeping ocean views here.

📍 Why stay here: This inland gem is perfect for travelers who care more about wine tastings and charm. It’s close to several of the island’s best wineries and has a growing number of design-forward boutique stays that offer privacy and space.

🚗 Rental car needed? Yes. Megalochori is tucked inland and not heavily serviced by buses. A car gives you the flexibility to explore the rest of the island easily.

👉 By the way, I have the ultimate Santorini travel tips on how to avoid the crowds.

The Best Boutique Hotels in Santorini:

Every hotel in this guide offers:

• Free wifi
• Air-conditioned rooms
• Free private parking
• Shuttle service (some complimentary, others for an additional fee — check with each hotel for details)

Where to Stay in Imerovigli: Boutique Hotels I’d Actually Book

Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, anniversary, or just want a quieter, more elevated base than Oia, these are the hotels I’d personally book.

San Antonio, a Small Luxury Hotel of the World

While not located directly in the heart of Imerovigli village, San Antonio offers the same beautiful views and calm atmosphere that makes this part of the island so special. It’s just a short drive away and feels like its own private slice of the caldera.

This hotel is perfect for couples who want to slow down and soak up the views. The kind of place where you can stay put, unwind, and enjoy the modern amenities without feeling like you’re missing out.

There’s a beautiful infinity pool, a full-service spa, and a cliffside on-site restaurant that serves candlelit dinners overlooking the sea. While the food is upscale and delicious, it’s the setting that steals the show think slow meals with a sunset backdrop and total tranquility.

A Champagne Flight reader who stayed here for her honeymoon shared, “We absolutely loved this hotel. It’s stunning at every single corner.”

Why it’s a Champagne Flight pick:

• Peaceful and secluded, but still close enough to Imerovigli and Oia for day trips or dinner
• The perfect infinity pool for panoramic views of the caldera
• A quiet, adults-only retreat that feels custom-built for couples looking to slow down.

The Vasilicos

Once a private summer house, The Vasilicos is now one of the most intimate and character-rich boutique hotels on the island. With just a handful of suites, each uniquely named and designed, this property is cozy and intimate. Everything here tells a story, from the antiques and handmade furniture to the curated experiences the team can arrange for you.

You won’t find a flashy infinity pool or a crowded lobby. Instead, expect candlelit private dinners on your terrace, local wines from the estate’s cellar, and a front-row seat to the caldera without the crowds.

Each suite features private verandas overlooking the caldera.

Why it’s a Champagne Flight pick:

• A true sense of place: this former family estate feels warm, personal, and distinctly Greek
• Thoughtful design in every detail, from the volcanic stone soaking tubs to the handpicked decor
• Personalized experiences like in-suite breakfast, private sunset dining, and bespoke itineraries

Kivotos Santorini

If you’re looking for something that feels truly different — bold design, moody tones, and modern luxury — Kivotos Santorini is it. This small, design-forward hotel sits on the edge of the caldera and trades the typical all-white Cycladic aesthetic for sleek black stone, deep gray tones, and architectural drama. I’m fully in love with this hotel.

Each suite comes with a private plunge pool or hot tub, and the layout is intentionally private. You won’t see rows of balconies stacked on top of each other here. The vibe is elevated and exclusive, perfect for couples who want something a bit more contemporary.

Kivotos is also home to Mavro, one of the most refined restaurants in the area, with a focus on creative Mediterranean cuisine and a top-notch wine list.

Why it’s a Champagne Flight pick:

• A bold, design-lover’s escape that breaks the mold of typical Santorini hotels
• Each suite feels private and indulgent, with its own plunge pool or hot tub
• Mavro is a standout for modern Greek fine dining with a view

Where to Stay in Oia: Boutique Hotels That Live Up to the Hype

Oia is the most famous village in Santorini — and for good reason. Its whitewashed alleys, blue domes, and spectacular views are instantly recognizable. But with popularity comes crowds, and not every hotel here is worth the high price tag.

I’ve narrowed it down to boutique properties that are worth the splurge. These are places that deliver on design, service, and experience — not just a pretty view. Whether you’re visiting for a honeymoon or your first trip to the island, these are the hotels in Oia I’d personally book.

Canaves Oia Epitome

If you want the beauty of Oia without the nonstop crowds, Canaves Oia Epitome is one of the best places to stay. Located just outside the village above the fishing town of Ammoudi, this luxury boutique hotel offers more privacy, more space, and stunning sunset views.

The design here is modern and minimalist, with clean lines, earth tones, and suites that feel like their own private villas. Every suite comes with its own private outdoor pool or plunge pool, and many offer sunset views right from the private terraces.

You’ll also find excellent service (including room service), a refined restaurant, and a peaceful atmosphere that feels miles away from the chaos even though Oia’s famous alleyways are just a 10-minute walk away.

Why it’s a Champagne Flight pick:

• Ideal for travelers who want the Oia experience without the crowds
• Beautiful, design-forward suites with private pools and contemporary design
• Sunset views and tranquility that feel more like a retreat than a resort

Santo Pure Oia Suites & Villas

If you love the idea of staying near Oia but want a little more space, peace, and breathing room — Santo Pure is a perfect choice. Located just walking distance from the village, this all-suite boutique hotel feels worlds away from the chaos, with a wellness-forward design and earthy, minimalist aesthetic.

Each suite comes with its own outdoor space and the layout of the property gives it a quiet, village-like feel. The interiors blend soft neutrals, wood, and stone, creating the kind of atmosphere where you instantly feel more relaxed.

Santo Pure also leans into the slow travel ethos (which we absolutely love here at Champagne Flight) There’s a beautiful spa, a focus on holistic well-being, and two on-site restaurants with a Mediterranean-inspired, ingredient-driven menu.

Why it’s a Champagne Flight pick:

• Peaceful and spacious — ideal for travelers who want to be near Oia without staying in the middle of it
• Suites that feel more like villas, with a warm, modern design and private outdoor spaces
• A strong wellness program and thoughtful food offering for a truly restorative stay

Oia Mansion

If you’re looking for a stay that’s historic, private, and totally unexpected, Oia Mansion is one of the most unique boutique options in Santorini. This 19th-century neoclassical villa sits in the heart of Oia but feels like a world of its own, with antique-filled interiors, soaring ceilings, and a rooftop terrace that delivers one of the best sunset views on the island.

The entire property is rented as a private stay, making it ideal for families, small groups, or even an intimate wedding. It’s the kind of place where you could book a private chef, sip wine on the rooftop, and feel like you’ve stepped into another time.

Why it’s a Champagne Flight pick:

• A rare opportunity to stay in a restored historic mansion with a real sense of place
• Total privacy, ideal for groups or travelers looking to slow down and connect
• Rooftop views that rival the best in Oia — without the crowds

Where to Stay in Pyrgos: Boutique Hotels You’ll Fall For

Santorini Heights

Perched above Pyrgos, Santorini Heights offers a harmonious blend of luxury, sustainability, and seclusion. This eco-friendly retreat comprises just five villas, each designed with minimalist aesthetics, private pools, and expansive terraces that provide breathtaking views of the island and the Aegean Sea.

The property’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its use of natural materials, organic gardens, and energy-efficient systems. Guests can enjoy homemade breakfasts with ingredients sourced from the on-site garden, ensuring a fresh and authentic culinary experience.

Why it’s a Champagne Flight pick:

• Exclusive and intimate setting with only five villas
• Strong emphasis on sustainability and eco-conscious practices
• Panoramic views and serene atmosphere, perfect for relaxation

Carpe Diem Santorini

Tucked into the hillside just outside Pyrgos village, Carpe Diem is an adults-only retreat designed for total privacy and panoramic island views. With only ten suites each with its own private pool, this boutique hotel feels like a peaceful hideaway, far from the crowds of Oia and Fira.

The focus here is on wellness, serenity, and elevated simplicity. You’ll find light-filled suites, curated in-room breakfasts, a spa offering holistic treatments, and a signature restaurant serving fresh, seasonal Greek cuisine.

What makes Carpe Diem stand out is its ability to offer luxury without flash. It’s discreet, restorative, and designed for travelers who want to slow down and reconnect with nature, with each other, and with themselves.

Why it’s a Champagne Flight pick:

• Just ten suites, each with a private plunge pool and panoramic views
• Quiet, wellness-forward atmosphere ideal for couples or solo travelers
• Refined design and thoughtful service that prioritizes rest and intentionality

North Santorini – A Luxury Spa Hotel

Just a short walk from the heart of Pyrgos village, North Santorini offers a fresh, under-the-radar take on luxury. With a focus on wellness, design, and wine, it’s a quiet, contemporary escape that still feels deeply rooted in its surroundings.

The suites here are bright and modern, with clean lines, soft neutrals, and private plunge pools or hot tubs overlooking the vineyards and sea. The on-site spa is a standout — offering a mix of traditional Greek treatments and more modern wellness rituals — and the restaurant focuses on local flavors paired with an excellent regional wine list.

What sets North Santorini apart is its balance: it’s refined but not pretentious, tucked away but not remote.

Why it’s a Champagne Flight pick:

• A design-forward boutique hotel that’s walkable to Pyrgos village
• Strong wellness and spa program paired with a thoughtful food and wine offering
• Peaceful setting with views over vineyards and the sea — not the caldera, but just as magical in its own way

Where to Stay in Megalochori: Boutique Hotels with Charm and Character

Megalochori is a peaceful inland village that feels worlds away from the cliffside crowds. With winding alleys, neoclassical mansions, and a handful of excellent tavernas, it’s a beautiful choice for travelers who care more about wine, food, and culture than caldera views.

What makes Megalochori special is its still-local feel. You’ll see farmers heading to the fields in the morning and hear church bells in the evening. If you’re looking for a slow, sensory-rich stay that feels deeply connected to the island, this is your spot.

Ducato Wine Hotel & Villas

Set on the edge of Megalochori, Ducato Wine Hotel & Villas is a quiet, independently owned retreat that blends Cycladic simplicity with great design. Each villa has its own private plunge pool and vineyard views, offering guests total privacy in a stunning setting.

The design leans modern but warm, with curved walls, natural textures, and soft neutrals that complement the landscape. It’s a perfect base for travelers who want to relax, visit nearby wineries, and explore the island from a calmer, less-touristy location.

Why it’s a Champagne Flight pick:

• Independent and locally run, with a design-forward but relaxed feel
• Villas with private pools and views over vineyards, not crowds
• Close to the center of Megalochori but feels peaceful and tucked away

Azanti Suites

Just outside the heart of Megalochori, Azanti Suites is a modern, locally owned boutique stay that offers something rare on this part of the island — unobstructed sunset views, total privacy, and a sense of calm that feels worlds away from Santorini’s tourist zones.

With just a handful of suites, each with its own private hot tub or plunge pool, this small hotel is made for travelers who want serenity with style. The design is minimal and elegant, with soft lighting, curved walls, and terraces that open out to the sea and sky.

It’s a place to watch the sunset in silence, wake up to the sound of birds, and reconnect with why you came to Santorini in the first place.

Why it’s a Champagne Flight pick:

• Locally owned and deeply peaceful — no crowds, no noise
• Sunset views and private plunge pools in every suite
• A hidden gem just minutes from Megalochori village

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Boutique Hotel in Santorini

Santorini has no shortage of beautiful places to stay but that’s exactly what makes it hard to choose. This guide was created to help cut through the noise and spotlight boutique hotels that are actually worth your time, money, and memories.

Whether you’re sipping wine on a rooftop in Oia, swimming in a private plunge pool in Imerovigli, or watching the sun set over the vineyards in Megalochori, the right stay can elevate your entire trip no matter if you visit during shoulder season (the best time to visit in my opinion) or the busy summer months.

Every hotel included here is one I’d genuinely consider booking myself— not because it’s trendy or over-the-top, but because it offers something real: thoughtful design, a strong sense of place, meaningful hospitality, and the kind of atmosphere that makes you feel like you’re exactly where you’re meant to be.

If you’re still not sure which area is best for you, I always recommend choosing based on the pace you want. Fast or slow. Cliffside or village. Sunset or stillness.

Whatever Santorini hotel you pick, the island is guaranteed to steal a piece of your heart.

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