8 Best Hotels in Santorini (Thira), The Cyclades

Agali may only be a 10-minute walk north from the center of Fira but it feels like a world apart—a village-style setting with handsomely furnished, arch-roofed houses that tumble down the cliff side on a series of dramatic terraces is a quiet enclave. A large swimming pool is at the center, though all accommodations, some with cozy sleeping lofts, open on to private and generous outdoor spaces, many with shady alcoves and all with spectacular views.

Caldera views come at an especially good value in either small, white rooms with vaulted ceilings or large cave suites—all are nicely decorated, with warm touches of color and sleek marble fixtures, and share a terrace overlooking the caldera. All rooms have balconies and guests can use the pool at a sister property nearby. 

A short stroll from the central square, Elessa is a newcomer (2023) to Pyrgos with a cool, minimalist style set on a hillside. A handsome infinity pool and large terraces look across the island vineyards to the coast, while all rooms feature their own private pools. Elegant and modern, in gentle cream and brown shades, rooms are large and feel private with a chic contemporary vibe. 

A stay in these traditional cave rooms puts you right in the center of Fira, but well below the bustle—a climb down a staircase leads to a quiet, intimate cliff-side aerie where charming vaulted rooms open to a welcoming veranda clinging to the cliff face above the old port. Beds built into ledges and other traditional touches, along with stunning views, provide plenty of island flavor. The hotel also has a small hot tub complete with a view of the sea. This little enclave seems like a world removed, yet shops and restaurants are just a five-minute climb away.

On the lava slopes of Vourvoulos, Hyatt's first Greek island property is nestled amid vineyards and the complex is built from volcanic black stones and off-white cubes that mimic the traditional dwellings of Cycladic civilization. It is modern and striking with unobstructed views over the Aegean sea to Anafi. Rooms are big, decorated in a sophisticated, contemporary style and most have terraces with private pools. If you are looking for a different Santorini experience with privacy and peace away from the bustle of Fira and Oia, this intriguing new addition (opened 2022) may just be the ticket.

These very pleasant rooms, in the center of Fira, combine traditional design with contemporary touches, proving that it's possible to enjoy a caldera view without breaking the bank—and without dealing with steps. Perks include sea-facing terraces and a nice pool. An elevator whisks guest up and down the various levels, from a structure directly on the caldera walkway to cave-type houses below, though the trip to the pool, on the lowest level, involves a climb down a flight of steps. On the uppermost level is a breezy dining terrace where breakfast is served and meals, along with sunset cocktails, are available throughout the day.

Part of the Marriott Luxury Collection, this deluxe black-lava outpost is a world unto itself, where villas have been built around a beautiful 17th-century winery. Village-like with low stone walls and winding paths, traditional architecture has been married to elegant and sophisticated interiors and all units have lovely outdoor spaces, some with private pools, and restful vineyard and sea views. Suites are spacious, while the villas are vast. The vaulted dining room is one of the prettiest on Santorini, and the wine cellar opposite where tastings are held is worth exploration.

Huge terraces, shady porticoes, and a small but dramatic cliff-hanging pool all take advantage of spectacular caldera views, while the large, elegantly furnished rooms are pleasant retreats from the hubbub of the crowded center of Fira, just a few steps away. A few rooms have outdoor whirlpools, all have private balconies, but the real amenities are the sense of being in a private dwelling and the hospitality of the efficient hotel staff.