Experiences
Santorini: the best experiences and hotels overlooking the caldera
White houses on the rim of a volcanic crater, boats to the hot springs and sunset in Oia. How to plan your trip to Santorini, and where to stay with a view.
The sun sinks towards the sea, and the whole rim of the crater is lined with people waiting. When it drops behind the island to the west, a few of them clap. Below you lies the caldera, a volcanic crater filled with seawater, with boats like tiny white dots.
Santorini is one of the best-known islands in Greece. It is small and popular, but you can still experience it calmly. Here is the best of it and where to stay.
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The best things to do on Santorini
Book the experience: See boat trips and activities on Santorini
The hike from Fira to Oia
The path along the caldera rim runs from Fira via Firostefani and Imerovigli to Oia. It is around ten kilometres, with views all the way. Go early in the morning, before the heat.
A boat to the volcano
Boat trips take you to the volcanic island of Nea Kameni, where you walk up to the crater. Many also stop at the hot springs, where you swim in warm, rust-coloured water.
Sunset in Oia
Oia is famous for its sunset, and it gets crowded. Arrive early, or watch from a boat or a terrace in Imerovigli.
Wine and beaches
Santorini has its own vineyards, and the assyrtiko grape grows in the volcanic soil. The beaches have black and red sand, and at Akrotiri you can see the remains of a Bronze Age town.
Where to stay on Santorini
Stay on the caldera rim if you want the view. Oia is the best known, Imerovigli is quieter and the highest point.
Grace Hotel, Auberge Collection
Grace is in Imerovigli on the caldera rim, with a pool looking straight out to sea. Calm and stylish, and a good starting point for the walk to Oia.
Book your stay: See rooms at Grace Hotel, Auberge Collection
Nano Oia Canaves
In Oia.
Nano Oia Canaves
Canaves is one of the well-known hotel names in Oia, with white suites on the slope and views over the caldera. The sunset is practically on your doorstep.
Book your stay: See rooms at Nano Oia Canaves
Katikies Chromata Santorini
In Imerovigli.
Katikies Chromata Santorini
Katikies Chromata is in Imerovigli, with terraces and a pool above the caldera. A good choice for couples who want the view without the crowds of Oia.
Book your stay: See rooms at Katikies Chromata Santorini
When is the best time to visit Santorini?
May, June and September: warm, good for swimming and a little less crowded.
July and August: the hottest and busiest, with many cruise ships.
October: mild and quieter. Some hotels close towards the end of the month.
Santorini FAQ
Where should I stay on Santorini?
Oia and Imerovigli have the best caldera views. Fira is the most practical.
What is the caldera?
A large volcanic crater filled with seawater, which Santorini wraps around.
Can I walk from Fira to Oia?
Yes, the path is around ten kilometres along the caldera rim.
Where can I watch the sunset?
Oia is the most famous spot, but Imerovigli and boat trips give great views with fewer people.
When is the season?
From April to October.