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Few destinations have the mass appeal, mythological beauty, or frame-worthy photo potential of Santorini. The ultimate tourism darling and a requisite stop on any well-planned Cyclades island-hopping itinerary, the idyllic Greek destination is beloved for its white cubiform architecture, blue-domed churches, and sunsets over the caldera. More than just a stunning xeric backdrop for vacation selfies, Santorini is prime for immersing yourself in Greek culture through its wineries, tavernas, and warm hospitality.

While its status as a summer hotspot means the villages of Oia and Fira are teeming with visitors in the peak months, for many travelers, it’s worth contending with crowds to laze on the black-sand beaches and soak up the sunshine. Those keen to avoid the busy period might want to consider a shoulder season trip in the spring or fall to take advantage of the pleasant, milder weather and steer clear of the tourist parade.

Whatever time of year you decide to visit, having a fabulous place to post up in this Aegean paradise is a must. From resorts with swim-up suites to boutique cave accommodations, these are the best hotels in Santorini.

Andronis Arcadia

Photo credit: Courtesy of Andronis Arcadia

Situated steps from the center of Oia—close enough for easy access but in a location that allows for space to breathe even during the busy period—Andronis Arcadia blends sun-bleached hues, contemporary Grecian style, and resort amenities. The spacious suites and villas are equipped with luxurious modern comforts such as king beds, sofas to relax with a good book, and plunge pools. There’s a divine spa for massages, facials, and hydrotherapy. It’s also home to Pacman Restaurant for sushi and sunset views, as well as the carnivorous chic Beefbar Santorini.

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Grace Hotel, Auberge Resorts Collection

Photo credit: Courtesy of Grace Hotel, Auberge Resorts Collection

Grace Hotel, Auberge Resorts Collection, is an exclusive haven of quiet luxury in the village of Imerovigli that gives privileged guests a front-row seat to the island’s most iconic scenery. On a steamy summer day, there’s no better place to be than sipping Assyrtiko by the infinity pool overlooking the crescent-shaped caldera. Despite its sophisticated contemporary design and buttoned-up service, the five-star property retains a relaxed atmosphere that attracts out-of-towners drawn to the laid-back Mediterranean lifestyle.

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Katikies Santorini

Photo credit: Courtesy of Katikies Santorini

Following in the long-standing and endlessly photogenic tradition of Cyclades architecture, Katikies Santorini ticks all the boxes of an unforgettable Oia stay, both in aesthetics and raw appeal. Cliffside address near the main promenade? Check. Whitewashed minimalism? You bet. Sparkling infinity pools? Yep, three to be exact. Eye-popping panoramas of the glistening Aegean Sea? Absolutely. Fresh fish plucked straight from the water? Indeed, plus cocktails and local wine to wash it down. It’s what vacationers envision and, these days, expect when booking Santorini—and this well-heeled boutique oasis delivers, giving travelers exactly what they want.

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Iconic Santorini

Photo credit: courtesy of Iconic Santorini

One of the incredible experiences you can have in Santorini is to snooze in a cave. Tucked away in Imerovigli, a quieter alternative to Fira and Oia, Iconic Santorini offers a tranquil adults-oriented escape punctuated by the timeless allure of the Cyclades. Carved into the volcanic cliffs, grotto-style rooms are designed to resemble traditional homes. Though it’s hard to say how much time will be spent inside when there’s a veranda with an outdoor jetted plunge pool and views to the Aegean Sea just feet away.

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Noūs Santorini

Photo credit: Courtesy of Noūs Santorini

In a sea of pretty places to stay, Noūs Santorini, a member of Design Hotels, stands out for its Pinterest-worthy good looks. The name means “mind” in ancient Greek. There’s a cerebral yet soulful quality to the design—crisp lines, sun-faded reds and grays that nod to local beaches, and rattan. Besides the arresting aesthetics, the relaxing amenities include an outdoor pool surrounded by sunbeds, plus three restaurants, flora-filled gardens, an area for yoga and meditation, a fire pit, and a spa complete with a steam bath, sauna, and cold tank.

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Perivolas

Photo credit: Enrique Menossi/Courtesy of Perivolas

In a high-demand tourist market like Santorini, whitewashed luxury hotels are a dime a dozen. Perivolas is an utterly unique proposition. The Psychas family converted a cluster of 300-year-old fishermen’s houses and stables into a relaxed retreat featuring individually styled rooms and cave suites carved into the rock. Positioned outside the crowded core of Oia and with a peaceful feel, it’s become a favorite of serenity-chasers and privacy-seeking A-listers. Guests can swim in the cliff-edge infinity pool, relish massages, and savor octopus straight from the sea. The vistas are picturesque, and the service is always personal.

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Canaves Epitome

Photo credit: Christos Drazos/Courtesy of Canaves Epitome

In stark contrast to the distinctive white-washed architecture that’s become synonymous with Santorini (particularly the tourist-favored towns of Oia and Fira), Canaves Epitome goes in a different direction, drawing inspiration—and raw, natural materials—from the landscape itself. Teetering above the idyllic fishing village of Ammoudi and constructed from volcanic rock, the hotel leads with a palette of grey, stone, and black. The off-the-well-trodden-path location means less see-and-be-seen-ness, more privacy and peacefulness. It also offers both sea and sunset views from every room.

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Andronis Luxury Suites

Photo credit: Courtesy of Andronis Luxury Suites

Fans of swish boutique hotels will flip for the intimacy, refinement, and relaxed charm of Andronis Luxury Suites. Tucked in the cliffs of Oia, the timeless Santorini sanctuary is a haven of bespoke luxury and personalized service. It has 39 suites and villas, each with a private infinity pool or hot tub, sun loungers, and breathtaking vistas of the Aegean Sea. There are plenty of posh perks for choosy types, such as a pillow menu and a choice of toiletries (Apivita, Hermes, or Molton Brown), plus rejuvenating spa treatments and sommelier-led wine tastings.

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Santorini Secret Suites & Spa

Photo credit: Courtesy of Small Luxury Hotels of the World

Santorini Secret Suites & Spa, a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, feels like a best-kept secret that you want to gatekeep, but it’s too good not to gab about. With mesmerizing views from nearly every vantage point (the private cliffside pool suites, the restaurant, and the main infinity piscine), the intimate boutique doesn’t need to do a whole lot more than bask in the beauty of its surroundings to impress. The deep sense of hospitality and spa named after the Greek goddess of peace takes a stay to the next level.

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Domes Novos Santorini, Autograph Collection

Photo credit: Courtesy of Marriott International

Situated a five-minute drive outside Oia, Domes Novos Santorini, Autograph Collection is a warm, tranquil sanctuary for crowd-weary travelers of all ages to unwind and soak up the Mediterranean sun. Designed by Olivia Siskou, all 50 suites embrace sleek minimalism and have marble bathrooms stocked with Naxos apothecary products and private pools. If you need even more space, the two private villas are well-suited for groups. There’s a spa for volcanic-infused treatments and holistic Hippocratic massage. The rooftop restaurant offers innovative neo-Greek cuisine, small-batch local wines, and sweeping sunset vistas.

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