Figuring out where to stay in Santorini Greece feels overwhelming, right? You see those iconic white houses clinging to cliffs, endless blue domes, and sunsets that look photoshopped. But throw in terms like Caldera, Oia, Fira, budget, luxury, steps... it's a lot. Been there myself a few times, gotten lost in those narrow paths dragging luggage (never again!), paid too much for a tiny room with a view, and also found absolute gems that made the trip.

This isn't some generic list copied from brochures. It’s the real talk you need to match your travel style and wallet without falling into tourist traps. Forget just chasing the sunset view – let’s find the spot where you’ll actually enjoy waking up.

Santorini's Main Villages: What's the Vibe Really Like?

Picking the right village is the biggest decision when deciding where to stay in Santorini Greece. Each one has a distinct personality, pros, and cons that go way beyond the postcard shots. Getting this wrong can mean crowds, inconvenient transport, or missing out on what you actually came for.

Oia: Famous Sunsets & High Prices (Is it Worth it?)

Oia (pronounced ee-ah) is THE poster child. Those blue domes, windmills, and sunset views over the caldera? Stunning. Absolutely stunning. But here’s the reality check:

• The Good: Unbeatable photo ops, feels iconic, highest concentration of luxury boutiques and fine dining, unique cave houses. The sunset spectacle is a genuine bucket-list moment.
• The Not-So-Good: Gets incredibly crowded (like, shoulder-to-shoulder packed) from late afternoon onwards. Expensive. I mean, *really* expensive for hotels, food, everything. Limited budget options exist but are basic. Navigating the narrow, stepped pathways with luggage is a nightmare (pack light or pay for porter services). Can feel overly touristy.
• Who it's best for: Honeymooners splurging on luxury, photographers chasing the perfect shot, travellers who prioritize iconic views above all else and don’t mind crowds.
• Who might hate it: Budget travellers, families with young kids/strollers, anyone with mobility issues, travellers seeking authentic local life or peace and quiet.

My take? Oia is worth a visit, even just for an afternoon stroll and sunset drinks (book a table!). Sleeping there? Only if you have a serious budget and you're prepared for the circus. That view doesn't come cheap or easy.

Fira: The Busy Hub (Center of Everything?)

Fira is the capital, the main transport hub, and the island's beating heart. It's vibrant, chaotic, and convenient.

• The Good: Huge variety of accommodation (budget hostels to high-end hotels), endless restaurants, bars, clubs, shops. Best public bus connections to other villages. Central location. Some caldera views (though often interrupted by buildings).
• The Not-So-Good: Can be noisy, especially at night near the clubs. Less of that "traditional" charm compared to Oia or Imerovigli. Busy streets feel crowded. Finding authentic local experiences takes more effort. Views aren't consistently breathtaking like in Oia/Imerovigli.
• Who it's best for: Travellers who want easy access to everything, nightlife lovers, budget-conscious explorers, first-time visitors wanting convenience, groups with varied interests.
• Who might hate it: Travellers seeking serenity, romantic getaways focused purely on views, those easily overwhelmed by crowds and noise.

Stayed here my first trip. Fantastic for getting around easily and having options late at night. But you definitely feel like you're in a busy tourist town, not a tranquil Greek island escape. Good base, maybe not the dreamiest spot.

Imerovigli: The Peaceful Panorama (& Steep Paths)

Often called the "Balcony to the Aegean," Imerovigli sits on the highest point of the caldera rim between Fira and Oia. It offers arguably the most dramatic and uninterrupted views.

• The Good: Breathtaking panoramic caldera views, significantly quieter and more relaxed than Fira or Oia. High concentration of luxury hotels and romantic suites (many with private plunge pools). Feels more exclusive. Great starting point for the Fira-Oia hiking path.
• The Not-So-Good: Very quiet nightlife (few restaurants/bars compared to Fira/Oia). Limited budget accommodation. Getting anywhere requires buses, taxis, or walking (the path to Fira is beautiful but takes 30-45 mins). Everything is built on cliffs - be prepared for lots and *lots* of steps.
• Who it's best for: Honeymooners, couples seeking romance and tranquillity, luxury travellers, view connoisseurs, those wanting a calmer base close to both Fira and Oia.
• Who might hate it: Party seekers, budget travellers, families with young kids (steps!), anyone with mobility challenges, travellers who want immediate buzz and lots of dining options within 2 minutes walk.

Perfect if your idea of bliss is a private plunge pool overlooking the volcano with a glass of Assyrtiko wine. Less perfect if you want to stumble home from a bar at 2 am easily.

Firostefani: Fira's Quieter Neighbor (Sweet Spot?)

Literally meaning "Crown of Fira," Firostefani clings to the caldera rim just a 10-15 minute walk north of Fira. It offers a compelling compromise.

• The Good: Stunning caldera views almost on par with Imerovigli. Significantly quieter and less hectic than Fira. Easy, scenic, mostly flat walk along the caldera edge into Fira center. Wider range of prices than Imerovigli, including some excellent mid-range options with great views. Famous blue dome church (Three Bells of Fira) is here.
• The Not-So-Good: Fewer restaurants and shops than Fira. Minimal nightlife. Still involves steps, though generally less intense than Imerovigli/Oia.
• Who it's best for: Travellers wanting caldera views and relative peace without Imerovigli's premium price tag, those who like the idea of being close to Fira's action but not *in* it, couples, photographers.
• Who might hate it: Party animals, travellers needing tons of nightlife options at their doorstep, those strictly on a shoestring budget.

Honestly, Firostefani might be Santorini's best-kept secret for balancing view, price, and proximity to Fira. Found a lovely family-run place here once with a terrace view that cost half of what a similar room in Oia would.

Beyond the Caldera: Beaches & Villages for a Different Santorini

Staying on the caldera rim isn't the only (or cheapest!) option. The east and south coasts offer beach life and traditional villages.

Kamari & Perissa: Black Sand Beaches & Resort Vibes

These neighbouring resorts on the southeast coast boast long stretches of unique black volcanic sand beaches.

• The Good: Direct beach access, wide range of accommodation (lots of good-value family hotels/apartments), abundant restaurants/cafes/bars lining the promenades. More relaxed, resort-like atmosphere. Great water sports options. Easier access to ancient sites like Ancient Thera (steep climb!). Generally more affordable than caldera rim villages. Flatter terrain - easier walking.
• The Not-So-Good: No caldera views. Beach is volcanic sand (can get scorching hot in midday sun!). Feels less distinctively "Santorini" and more like other Greek islands. Can be crowded in peak season. Requires bus/taxi to reach Fira/Oia (20-30 mins).
• Who it's best for: Families with kids (beach, pools, amenities), budget travellers, beach lovers, those preferring a relaxed resort vibe, travellers planning lots of island tours/wine tours where caldera views aren't the daily focus.
• Who might hate it: Travellers dreaming of iconic caldera views and cliffside villages, romantic couples seeking exclusivity, those wanting the quintessential Santorini postcard experience.

Stayed in Perissa with friends. Loved the chilled vibe, long beach walks, and affordable seafood tavernas. Missed the caldera magic though. Bring sandals that can handle hot sand!

Pyrgos: Charming Hilltop Village (Off the Beaten Path)

Santorini's former capital, Pyrgos sits inland on the island's highest hill, offering panoramic 360-degree views.

• The Good: Authentic, traditional Cycladic village charm without the intense crowds of Oia/Fira. Stunning panoramic views (including caldera views from higher points). Quieter pace of life. Excellent local tavernas often better value. Less expensive accommodation. Fascinating medieval castle ruins at the top.
• The Not-So-Good: No direct caldera *edge* views like rim villages. Limited tourist infrastructure (fewer shops, specific tourist restaurants). Minimal nightlife. Requires transport (bus/car) to reach beaches or Fira (about 15 mins drive).
• Who it's best for: Travellers seeking authenticity and local life, photographers, those with a rental car, visitors on a second trip wanting a different perspective, budget-conscious travellers wanting charm.
• Who might hate it: First-time visitors prioritizing caldera views and convenience, beach lovers, those wanting lots of dining/shopping options within steps.

Pyrgos feels like stepping back into a quieter Santorini. Sunset from the castle ruins is sublime, shared mainly with locals. Finding where to stay in Santorini Greece that feels real? Pyrgos delivers.

Akrotiri: History Buffs & Quieter Sunsets

Famous for the incredible Minoan Bronze Age archaeological site buried by volcanic ash (think Greek Pompeii), Akrotiri is a quiet village on the southwest tip.

• The Good: Proximity to the Akrotiri archaeological site (a must-see). Quieter, more local feel. Excellent sunset views over the caldera from spots like the Venetian Lighthouse (far fewer crowds than Oia!). Red Beach is nearby (though access can be tricky). Generally lower prices.
• The Not-So-Good: Limited accommodation and dining options directly in the village. Feels somewhat isolated without your own transport. No real "village center" buzz. Far from Fira/Oia (bus/car essential).
• Who it's best for: History enthusiasts, travellers seeking peace and quiet, sunset lovers wanting an alternative to Oia madness, those with a rental car, budget travellers.
• Who might hate it: Travellers wanting vibrant atmosphere, easy access to shops/restaurants, proximity to the main hubs.

The sunset at the lighthouse here is spectacular and crowd-free. But you'll definitely feel off the main track.

Matching Your Travel Style to the Perfect Santorini Spot

Knowing the villages is step one. Step two is matching them to *who you are* as a traveller. Let's cut to the chase.

For Honeymooners & Couples Seeking Romance

You want the wow factor, privacy, and that magical Santorini feeling.

• Top Pick: Imerovigli. Hands down. The views are unbeatable, the atmosphere is serene, and the luxury cave hotels with private plunge pools are designed for romance. It’s quiet, exclusive, and feels special. Firostefani is a close second for similar views at a slightly better price point, still very romantic.
• Consider: High-end cave suites in Oia if you must be in the heart of the famous village and budget is no object. Be prepared for crowds outside your hotel door.
• Avoid (Generally): Fira (too noisy/busy), Kamari/Perissa (no caldera views), Pyrgos/Akrotiri (less convenient for romantic dinners/might feel too quiet).

Splurge on that room with the plunge pool overlooking the caldera. In Imerovigli or Firostefani, it feels worth it. In Oia, you're paying a massive premium partly for the address.

For Families (Especially with Kids)

Space, convenience, amenities, and maybe a pool or beach are key. Caldera steps with strollers? Forget it.

• Top Pick: Kamari or Perissa. The black sand beaches (bring water shoes for hot sand!), family-friendly hotels with pools, flat promenades lined with casual eateries, and more spacious accommodation options make life easier. Good value.
• Consider: Larger villas or apartments on the outskirts of Fira (look for areas with easier access/less intense steps) or in Messaria (inland, central, fewer views but good transport links). Some larger hotels on the caldera rim cater to families but verify step access *very* carefully.
• Avoid (Generally): Oia and Imerovigli (steps are brutal, accommodation is cramped/expensive, not kid-focused). Pyrgos/Akrotiri might be too quiet/isolated for kids wanting activities.

Staying beachside removes so much stress. Trying to navigate Oia's crowded, stepped lanes with a tired toddler? Recipe for disaster.

For Budget Travellers & Solo Explorers

Stretching your euros, meeting people, and good location matter.

• Top Pick: Fira. The widest range of hostels, budget hotels, and affordable rooms. Best public transport hub. Most dining options across all price points. Easy to meet people. Central for exploring.
• Consider: Kamari/Perissa for good-value apartments/hotels near the beach. Pyrgos offers charming budget rooms and cheaper local tavernas if you don't mind being away from the main action. Firostefani sometimes has mid-range gems with partial views.
• Avoid (Generally): Oia (budget options are rare and basic). Imerovigli (luxury-focused, very few budget choices).

Fira hostels are sociable and put you right where the buses leave. Found a great little guesthouse in Pyrgos once that felt like a steal.

For Groups of Friends

Vibes, options, nightlife potential, and space to hang matter.

• Top Pick: Fira. Offers everything: nightlife, diverse restaurants, shopping, and accommodation for different budgets within the group (hostels to nicer hotels). Best transport links for group excursions. Central location.
• Consider: Villas or larger apartments in Messaria or Karterados (inland villages near Fira - more space, pools, often better value, short bus/taxi to Fira). Kamari/Perissa if the group prioritizes beach time and a relaxed resort vibe.
• Avoid (Generally): Oia/Imerovigli (too quiet/romantic/expensive for most groups). Pyrgos/Akrotiri (too isolated for group activities/nightlife).

Renting a villa with a pool inland near Fira can be fantastic value and fun for a group wanting their own space but easy access to the buzz.

For Photographers & View Seekers

The shot is the priority – sunrise, sunset, caldera, villages.

• Top Pick: Oia or Imerovigli. Oia has the iconic blue domes and windmills. Imerovigli offers the most dramatic, expansive caldera panoramas with fewer obstructions. Staying here means you're on location for golden hour magic without a commute.
• Consider: Firostefani (great central caldera views, Three Bells church). Akrotiri Lighthouse for unique sunset perspectives away from Oia crowds.
• Avoid (Generally): Kamari/Perissa (no caldera views). Deep inland villages without elevation (Pyrgos itself has great views *from* it, but not necessarily *of* the caldera from within).

Staying on the rim means you can shoot Oia at sunrise (quieter!) or capture the caldera glow without rushing. Worth the splurge if photography is your main goal for the trip.

Key Factors Beyond Location When Choosing Where to Stay in Santorini Greece

Picking the village gets you halfway. Don't overlook these crucial practicalities that can make or break your stay.

Budget Reality Check: From Hostels to Cave Suites

Santorini has a price range wider than the caldera. Be brutally honest with your budget.

• Luxury (€400+/night): Caldera-view suites/cave houses with plunge pools in Oia, Imerovigli, Firostefani. Boutique hotels. Expect high design and service.
• Mid-Range (€150-€400/night): Hotels in Fira (some with partial views), nicer hotels in Kamari/Perissa, traditional cave houses slightly off the main paths in caldera villages, apartments with pools inland.
• Budget (Under €150/night): Hostels and basic rooms in Fira, studios/apartments in Kamari/Perissa, simple pensions in Pyrgos, rooms away from the caldera edge in rim villages. Manage expectations – a "view" here might be minimal.

Tip: The price difference for essentially the same room with a caldera view vs without can be staggering (think double or triple). Ask yourself how much time you'll *actually* spend on that balcony gazing at the view. Maybe a great view from the hotel terrace bar is enough?

Transportation: Getting Around is Trickier Than It Looks

How will you get from A to B? This impacts your location choice massively.

• Buses: The KTEL network connects major villages (Fira, Oia, Kamari, Perissa, Akrotiri, Pyrgos) relatively frequently and cheaply (around €2-€3 per trip). Fira is the central hub. Timetables change seasonally – check upon arrival. Can be crowded in peak season.
• Taxis: Expensive and limited in number. Fares are regulated but add up fast (e.g., Fira to Oia can be €25-€35). Hard to find late at night or in remote spots. Book ahead via phone/app if possible.
• Car/ATV/Quad Hire: Offers freedom, especially to explore inland villages, wineries, and beaches at your own pace. Essential if staying in Pyrgos, Akrotiri, or inland areas. Parking is challenging (and expensive) in Fira and Oia. ATVs/Quads are popular but require caution (accidents are common). Book well in advance in summer.
• Walking: Fantastic *within* villages and along the Fira-Oia caldera path (bring water, hat, sunscreen!). Impractical for longer distances between villages due to heat, hills, and lack of safe pedestrian paths on main roads.

Thinking about where to stay in Santorini Greece without considering how you'll explore the rest of the island is a mistake. If you hate relying on timetables or paying for taxis, staying near Fira or having your own wheels becomes essential.

Accommodation Type: Picking Your Base

Santorinihas diverse lodging. What suits your needs?

• Traditional Cave Houses: Unique Santorini experience. Built into the volcanic rock. Naturally cool in summer. Often have stunning caldera views (and price tags!). Can feel cave-like (dark interiors, sometimes damp). Steps are guaranteed. Primarily found in Oia, Imerovigli, Fira, Firostefani.
• Boutique Hotels: Focus on design, service, and often (but not always) caldera views. Range from small gems to larger luxury properties. Common in all caldera rim villages and Kamari/Perissa beaches.
• Larger Resorts/Hotels: More common in Kamari/Perissa and inland areas near Fira. Offer pools, spas, multiple restaurants. Often better for families. Usually less characterful than cave houses/boutiques.
• Apartments/Studios: Good value, especially in Kamari/Perissa, inland villages, or budget options in Fira. Offer kitchenettes for self-catering.
• Hostels: Primarily in Fira. Best for solo travellers/budget groups.
• Villas: Great for groups/families wanting privacy and space. Typically found inland or on the outskirts of villages.

Booked a cave house once. The coolness was bliss in August, the view incredible. But the constant dim artificial light inside got old after a few days, and hauling groceries up those steps... yeah.

Seasonality: Timing is Everything

Your experience hinges massively on when you visit.

• Peak Season (July-August): Guaranteed hot, sunny weather. Maximum crowds, highest prices (especially accommodation), hardest to book everything. Book *everything* (flights, hotels, car, popular restaurants) 6-12 months in advance.
• Shoulder Season (April-June, September-October): Best time to visit for most people. Pleasant weather (warm days, cooler evenings), fewer crowds than peak, lower prices, easier bookings. Sea warm enough for swimming from late May. April/October evenings can be cool/chilly.
• Low Season (November-March): Many hotels, restaurants, and shops shut down completely. Very quiet. Cooler, wetter weather possible. Only recommended if you specifically seek solitude and don't mind limited services. Some hotels in Fira/Kamari remain open year-round.

Visited in late September. Weather was perfect, crowds manageable, prices were noticeably cheaper than July quotes I'd seen. Early October can be a sweet spot. July/August? Hard pass for me, the heat and crowds are intense.

Top Picks: Hotels & Stays We'd Actually Consider (By Category)

Based on location, value, and unique offerings, here are some solid options across different villages and styles. These aren't generic lists; they reflect places with genuine merit or unique character for their category. (Prices are approximate shoulder season ranges - peak season significantly higher!).

Best Views (Caldera Magic)

• Chromata (Imerovigli): Modern luxury perched dramatically. Infinity pool seems to spill into the caldera. Not cheap, but wow. (€€€€)
• Kapari Natural Resort (Imerovigli): Beautifully renovated traditional houses. Great balance of luxury and Cycladic charm. Excellent service. (€€€€)
• Aenaon Villas (Oia): If Oia is a must, this offers stylish suites with private plunge pools and views, slightly removed from the very worst crowds. Still Oia-priced. (€€€€)
• Ikies - Traditional Houses (Oia): Classic cave houses done beautifully right in the heart of Oia. Expect steps and crowds outside, but authenticity inside. (€€€€)
• San Antonio Suites (Firostefani): Fantastic value for the location and caldera views compared to Oia/Imerovigli. Chic minimalist design. (€€€)

Best Value (Smarter Spending)

• Zannos Melathron (Pyrgos): A restored mansion in the heart of Pyrgos. Unique architecture, fantastic views from the restaurant/bar (not always rooms), authentic feel. Great mid-range option. (€€ - €€€)
• Villa Manos (Karterados near Fira): Family-run traditional apartments with pools. Great hospitality, quiet location near Fira without the Fira prices/noise. Excellent value. (€€)
• Kavalari Hotel (Firostefani): Offers some of the most affordable *actual* caldera views on the rim. Traditional cave rooms, basic but charming. Steps! (€€ - €€€)
• Matina Hotel (Kamari): Reliable, well-reviewed family hotel steps from Kamari beach. Pools, good breakfast, spacious rooms. Solid beach resort value. (€€)
• Caveland Hostel (Karterados near Fira): Unique hostel set in a converted 18th-century winery cave complex. Pool, social vibe, excellent for solo travellers. Dorms and private rooms. (€)

Best for Families

• Narkissos Hotel (Kamari): Right on Kamari beach promenade. Spacious family rooms/apartments, large pool, kids' pool. Easy everything. (€€)
• Rose Bay Hotel (Perissa): Modern studios/apartments close to Perissa beach. Pools, family rooms, relaxed vibe. (€€)
• Villa Ilias (Messaria near Fira): Self-catering villas/apartments with private pools. Space, privacy, and easy access to Fira by bus/short taxi. Great for groups/families wanting independence. (€€€)
• Santorini Kastelli Resort (Kamari): Large resort complex with multiple pools (including kids'), extensive gardens, kids' club, multiple dining. Full-service beach resort experience. (€€€)

Your Santorini Stay: Common Questions Answered (The Stuff You Really Want to Know)

Let's tackle those nagging practical questions about where to stay in Santorini Greece that forums and generic guides often gloss over.

Is it better to stay in Oia or Fira?

Sigh, the eternal question. It entirely depends:

• For Iconic Views & Photos: Oia wins, hands down. That sunset view is unmatched visually.
• For Convenience & Nightlife: Fira wins easily. Better transport, more dining/drinking options, central location.
• For Luxury & Romance: Oia and Imerovigli are top contenders, but Imerovigli offers more serenity.
• For Budget: Fira has way more affordable options.
• For Avoiding Crowds: Neither is great, but Fira outside the core nightlife zone is better than Oia during sunset madness.

Honestly? If it's your first trip and you can only pick one, Fira offers more flexibility to explore the whole island without constant transport headaches. Oia is a must-visit, but staying there feels like you're paying a massive premium for the privilege of navigating crowds.

How many days in Santorini is enough?

• Minimum Viable Trip: 2 full days (3 nights). Enough to see Oia, Fira, maybe a beach or winery. Very rushed.
• Recommended: 3-4 full days (4-5 nights). Allows you to settle in, explore key villages (Fira, Oia, maybe Pyrgos or Imerovigli), relax at a beach, visit Akrotiri, do a wine tasting, hike part of the caldera path, and watch sunset from different spots without rushing.
• Ideal: 5+ full days (6+ nights). For a truly relaxed pace, exploring more beaches, inland villages, multiple wineries, boat trips, and enjoying downtime at your accommodation.

Less than 3 full days feels frantic. You spend more time checking in/out and commuting than enjoying.

Can you stay in Santorini without a car?

Yes, absolutely, especially if you base yourself wisely:

• Best Bases Without a Car: Fira (best transport hub), Firostefani (easy walk to Fira buses), Kamari/Perissa (good beach bus connections), Oia (good bus hub for the north).
• Manageable but Less Convenient: Imerovigli (reliant on buses/taxis to go anywhere else).
• Tricky Without a Car: Pyrgos, Akrotiri, Messaria/Karterados (require walks to bus stops, less frequent service).

Relied solely on buses for a week. From Fira, it was fine for getting to Oia, Kamari, Perissa, and the airport. Getting back late from Oia sunset meant taxi queues. Doable, but requires planning around schedules.

Is it worth staying on the caldera?

The million-dollar question (literally!).

• Yes, if: The iconic caldera view is your #1 priority for Santorini AND you have the budget for it (expect to pay significantly more) AND you understand the step situation. The experience of waking up to that view is undeniably special.
• Maybe Not, if: Budget is tight, you prioritize beach time/family amenities, you have mobility issues, or you plan to be out exploring the island most of the day (meaning less time enjoying the view you paid a premium for). Fantastic alternative views exist from restaurants/bars without the room cost.

Stayed on the caldera once. The view was magical with morning coffee. But honestly, after that first day, we were out exploring so much we barely used the expensive terrace. Next trip, stayed beachside and used the savings for amazing meals and tours. Preferred it.

What area has the best sunset views?

• Oia: The classic, iconic sunset view over the caldera and the famous windmill. It's stunning. However, it's also incredibly crowded. You'll be sharing it with thousands.
• Imerovigli: Offers expansive, often less obstructed sunset views over the caldera with fewer crowds than Oia. More relaxing.
• Firostefani: Similar caldera sunset views to Imerovigli, slightly more central.
• Akrotiri Lighthouse: A dramatic alternative sunset spot looking back towards the caldera cliffs. Far fewer people. Requires transport.
• Fira: Sunset views exist but are often partially obstructed by buildings and not as panoramic as Oia/Imerovigli.

The "best" is subjective. Oia has the fame, but Imerovigli or the Akrotiri Lighthouse offer arguably more enjoyable experiences without the sardine-can feeling.

Final Thoughts: Making Your Santorini Stay Decision

Choosing where to stay in Santorini Greece boils down to aligning your priorities with reality:

1. Be Brutally Honest About Budget: Caldera views cost serious money. Beaches and inland villages cost less.
2. Understand Your Travel Style: Romantic escape? Family fun? Photography mission? Budget backpacking? Each has a clear best-fit village.
3. Research Transport Realistically: If you hate buses/don't want to hire a car, your location options shrink fast (Fira or Kamari/Perissa become top contenders).
4. Accept the Steps: The caldera rim villages are built on cliffs. Steps are unavoidable. Factor this into mobility and luggage plans.
5. Book Early, Especially for Peak/Shoulder: The best-value and best-located spots sell out months ahead.
6. Verify the View: If a caldera view is key, scrutinize photos and descriptions. "Sea view" ≠ "Caldera view". Partial view might be fine for you.
7. Consider Splitting Your Stay: 2-3 nights on the caldera for the iconic experience, then move to the beach or an inland village for relaxation and value.

Santorini is incredible. It’s also complex, crowded in spots, and expensive. There's no single "best" place to stay – only the best place for *you*. Forget the Instagram fantasy for a minute and think about how you actually like to travel. Pick the village that supports that, book early, prepare for steps and crowds (unless you head to Pyrgos or Akrotiri!), and get ready for stunning scenery whichever base you choose.