Santorini, with its iconic caldera cliffs, azure-domed chapels, and volcanic beaches, is one of the most enchanting destinations in the world. While luxury resorts and grand hotels dot the island’s famous landscapes, there’s something distinctly magical about staying in a boutique hotel. These intimate, design-forward properties offer personalized experiences, local charm, and a true sense of place — perfect for travelers seeking authenticity and exclusivity.
Whether you’re visiting for romance, photography, gastronomy, or sheer relaxation, these top 5 boutique hotels in Santorini provide unforgettable stays that go beyond the ordinary.
1. Katikies Kirini Santorini – Oia
Where elegance meets the edge of the world
Perched on the edge of Oia’s dramatic caldera cliffs, Katikies Kirini Santorini redefines the boutique hotel experience with a blend of traditional Cycladic architecture and ultra-modern luxury. Unlike larger resorts, this sanctuary embraces serenity, minimalism, and the art of hospitality.
Highlights:
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Uninterrupted caldera views from every suite
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A.SPA: an award-winning wellness sanctuary built into a cave
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Anthós Restaurant, offering fine dining with a view
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Infinity pool with whitewashed terraces and floating sun loungers
Every suite at Kirini features white-on-white interiors, vaulted ceilings, and private terraces — some even with heated plunge pools. The cave-like design creates a cool, calming ambiance, while the service is warm and attentive without being intrusive.
Best for: Honeymooners, spa lovers, and those craving peace in iconic Oia
2. Istoria Hotel – Perivolos Beach
A stylish beachfront hideaway with a boho soul
Located on Santorini’s lesser-known southeast coast, Istoria Hotel blends the island’s ancient heritage with modern sophistication. Far from the bustling cliffside villages, Istoria offers a more laid-back experience — without sacrificing luxury.
Highlights:
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Direct access to Perivolos Beach, one of Santorini’s finest
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Sleek, earthy design inspired by ancient Greek storytelling
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Mr. E Restaurant by celebrated Greek chef Alexandros Tsiotinis
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Private terraces with outdoor hot tubs or plunge pools
The 12-suite property was built on the site of an old estate and horse stable — a past that’s been cleverly woven into the hotel’s design. Think volcanic stone walls, woven textiles, and hand-crafted details that feel timeless.
Best for: Design-savvy travelers, beach lovers, and slow-paced escapes
3. Vora Villas – Imerovigli
Carved into the cliffs, curated for privacy
For travelers who seek absolute seclusion paired with jaw-dropping views, Vora Villas delivers an extraordinary cliffside experience. Located in Imerovigli, Santorini’s “balcony to the Aegean,” Vora offers only three exclusive villas — each a private oasis suspended above the caldera.
Highlights:
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Architect-designed villas carved into volcanic rock
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Private infinity pools with sweeping Aegean Sea views
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Personalized concierge and in-villa dining
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Seamless indoor-outdoor living
Vora’s architectural ethos is all about harmony: minimalist lines, natural materials, and a seamless relationship between space and landscape. Mornings begin with sunrise over the caldera, while evenings are for soaking in your private pool as cruise ships glitter below.
Best for: Couples, privacy seekers, and architecture aficionados
4. Aenaon Villas – Between Imerovigli and Oia
A serene escape perched between sky and sea
Set along the ancient walking path that connects Imerovigli to Oia, Aenaon Villas offers one of the most panoramic viewpoints on the island — uninterrupted by neighboring buildings or crowds. This boutique property blends the charm of a traditional Santorini home with five-star hospitality.
Highlights:
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Only 7 villas, each with private veranda and sea views
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Infinity-edge pool facing the volcano
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Peaceful atmosphere, ideal for sunset lovers
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Authentic Cycladic design with modern comforts
The white-stone villas are spread across a hillside, with gardens, arches, and pathways connecting the spaces like a private village. Breakfast is served on your terrace each morning, and the staff is renowned for going above and beyond to make each stay memorable.
Best for: Romantic getaways, off-the-beaten-path luxury, and digital detoxes
5. Cavo Tagoo Santorini – Imerovigli
The Instagram-famous cliffside gem
Cavo Tagoo is already a household name in Mykonos, but its Santorini outpost is arguably even more exclusive. This boutique property sits dramatically along the Imerovigli cliffs and offers just 13 suites, each designed to maximize indulgence and photogenic style.
Highlights:
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Ultra-contemporary suites with cave pools or infinity tubs
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Sunset views over the caldera from every room
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Michelin-inspired dining and signature cocktails
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Modern minimalist interiors with a twist of glam
The “Cave Pool Suite” and the “Golden Villa” have gone viral for their cinematic design, where guests can swim directly out from their living rooms into illuminated pools facing the caldera. It’s a favorite among honeymooners, influencers, and luxury lifestyle seekers.
Best for: Trendsetters, social media lovers, and high-style stays
Why Choose a Boutique Hotel in Santorini?
While Santorini has its fair share of large resorts and international chains, boutique hotels offer a more personal, immersive, and memorable experience. Here’s why travelers love them:
1. Intimacy and Privacy
With fewer rooms and guests, boutique hotels are inherently more peaceful — perfect for couples and honeymooners.
2. Personalized Service
From curated welcome gifts to insider tips on hidden beaches, boutique hotel staff often go above and beyond.
3. Unique Architecture and Design
Many boutique properties in Santorini are converted cave homes or old estates that preserve traditional craftsmanship while incorporating modern design.
4. Location, Location, Location
Boutique hotels are often strategically tucked away in the best spots — whether it’s a quiet cliffside terrace or a beachfront nook.
Tips for Booking a Boutique Hotel in Santorini
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Book early: With limited rooms, these hotels often fill up months in advance, especially from May to September.
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Check the location: Oia and Imerovigli are ideal for caldera views, while Perivolos and Kamari are best for beaches.
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Know what you want: Some boutique hotels focus on wellness, others on food, views, or design. Choose what aligns with your travel vibe.
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Watch for stairs: Many cliffside hotels require climbing, which may not suit all travelers. Always check accessibility if needed.
Staying in a boutique hotel in Santorini is more than just accommodation — it’s an experience that can define your entire trip. Whether you’re gazing at the caldera from a private plunge pool or sipping wine by the sea in a bohemian beachfront suite, these properties offer the kind of memories that last a lifetime.
Each of the five boutique hotels we’ve highlighted brings something special to the table, offering a deeper, richer way to experience the magic of Santorini. So skip the crowds, embrace the charm, and let one of these stunning sanctuaries become your home away from home on the island of dreams.
