There are excellent places to stay all over the island of Santorini and because it is such a small place you will easily be able to visit all the island’s attractions no matter where you stay. Most hotels offer views over the caldera or the Aegean and no matter which part of the island you are on the scenery is guaranteed to impress.

Luxury hotels in Santorini

The Mystique Hotel and Resort is a collection of luxurious suites and villas, built in a typical island style on the cliffs of Oia. Sea facing terraces offer amazing views of the caldera and highlights include a gourmet restaurant, an infinity edge pool, and a secret wine cave.

The La Mer Deluxe Hotel is a relatively new luxury hotel located in Kamari Village on the opposite side of Santorini from Fira. The hotel is impeccably furnished and equipped and is designed to be in keeping with Cycladic architecture. You’ll love the spa and romantic roof garden.

The Majestic Hotel in Fira is an ideal choice if you’re looking for ultimate luxury in the island’s capital. The hotel is modern and fashionable, and you can enjoy wonderful views over the caldera as well as top class restaurants, bars, and beauty facilities.

The Vedema Resort is located in the south of the island in the village of Megalohori. As well as a private beach and spa, the resort benefits from a wonderful choice of bars and restaurants. It is ideally located for Akrotiri and the Red Beach.

Boutique hotels in Santorini

On The Rocks is a four star boutique hotel located in Imerovigli, half way between Oia and Fira. The ideal place for a romantic getaway, the hotel has been carved into the rocks and is decorated in the traditional white and blue of the island. It has an indulgent spa as well as amazing views over the Aegean.

The Ellinon Thea, literally translated as View of Greece, is a located in Firostefani with a fabulous view over the caldera or the Aegean. It is within walking distance of Fira centre, which makes it ideal for couples looking for romance and relaxation, combined with access to the exciting nightlife of the capital.

The Pantelia Suites were originally a large traditional family house, which has been renovated to form six luxury suites, each with uninterrupted views towards that famous Santorini sunset. They are located in Fira and are designed both inside and out to reflect the local style.

The Tsitouras Collection boutique hotel is an eighteenth century mansion located in Firostefani, perched on the edge of a cliff top overlooking the sea. Its stylish look can be attributed to the fact that it was renovated by famous art collector Dimitris Tsitouras.

Aside from the astonishing views and unusual architecture, the local cuisine is one of the top reasons to visit Santorini. Combining fresh, high quality seafood and traditional Greek cooking methods, you’re sure to find an excellent restaurant in Santorini. If you’d like to eat with a view of the sunset and perhaps pop that all important question at the same time, there are a variety of places to try in Oia or Fira.

Restaurants in Fira Area

Koukoumavlos is one of the most romantic as well as one of the most critically acclaimed restaurants in Santorini, and is tucked away in a quiet corner of Fira. The building is an eighteenth century sea captain’s house, so the interior is as beautiful as the view of the caldera from the terrace.

Taverna Nikolas is an excellent choice for couples looking for an authentic Greek experience. The locals queue to get in so make sure you book in advance to enjoy the traditional Greek cuisine. The restaurant is located close to the main square in Fira.

Vanilia is a stunning restaurant located in Firostefani just up the coast from Fira. A traditional white stone house, formerly a windmill, it offers authentic Greek cuisine and beautiful views over the caldera.

Selene is a unique restaurant located in Pyrgos, south of Fira and one of the highest points of the island. Their aim is to provide guests with a taste of the island’s culture by drawing produce from the surrounding farmlands and vineyards.

Restaurants in Oia Area

Papagalos is a popular restaurant featuring delicious New Greek cuisine. They believe in using fresh, local, sustainable, organic produce. As with many restaurants in Oia it is a fabulous place to watch the sunset.

Ambrosia restaurant is an ideal spot for a romantic proposal over dinner while watching the sunset. With excellent Mediterranean and Modern Greek cuisine, the two small terraces provide a secluded, candlelit location with an amazing view over the caldera.

Katrina’s Tavern and Dimitri’s Tavern are superb seafood restaurants located in Amoudi Bay close to Oia, where you can enjoy freshly prepared dishes right at the water’s edge followed by a walk along the sea wall for a swim. Prices in this area tend to be higher than in the rest of Santorini but the view and the atmosphere make it worthwhile.

Santorini Mou is the perfect choice for couples that want to experience something uniquely Greek. Located in Finikia, near Oia, this traditional Greek tavern is well known for its live music and is a good choice if you want to dance after dinner.

Just walking around Santorini taking in the sights is romance in itself, but if you want a few extra ideas for romantic activities to enjoy after your proposal, here are some suggestions:

• Drink a cocktail at Franco’s Bar in Fira, the most famous bar on Santorini
• Ride a mule up the Caldera from the Old Harbour in Fira
• Visit one of the islands wineries and taste vinsanto, the local speciality sweet wine
• Swim in the sea below the caldera at the port of Ammoudi
• Visit the hot springs at Palia Kameri
• Wander the alleys of Fira and enjoy the boutique shops and cafes
• Visit the famous Kamari Beach, an ideal place for water sports