Santorini is a popular destination for newlyweds, and for good reason: the whitewashed villages and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean create the perfect backdrop to start a new chapter together. With iconic views and a romantic honeymoon flair, deciding on where to stay for your Santorini honeymoon isn’t so easy.
Here is my complete guide to the pros and cons of the various towns in Santorini, if staying on your honeymoon.
Which resort/area of Santorini should you choose to stay in for your honeymoon?
Oia is one of the most picturesque villages of Santorini, with its blue domed churches, atmospheric caves and houses carved into the volcanic rock. The cliffs rise dramatically up to 1,100 feet above the caldera. Many of the the cliff-top suites and hotels boast stunning locations and this view comes at a hefty price tag. Oia is one of the most expensive places to stay on the island however so be prepared to spend your Euros. What you do get, if you book a caldera facing room is the VIEW! Oia is also famous for its sunsets. The problem with iconic views is that they also attract the day visitors, especially the cruise ship visitors. Bear in mind that even out of season (April, May & October) the tiny narrow streets in Oia become choked with visitors all vying for the best spot to watch the sunset. TOP TIP: Check with the hotel or suite or Airbnb host how much privacy the accommodation has. Is the terrace/balcony overlooked for example? Is it on one of the main streets where visitors will pass by? Finally, the location of Oia at the very top/end of the island means once you are there, especially in high season, getting in and out of the village can take some time due to traffic. This has improved recently with the opening of a new road and introduction on one way systems, but the sheer volume of traffic means you may be in a few traffic jams. Despite all of this and the expensive price tag on accommodation, Oia really is stunning and you should visit it during your stay in Santorini. Is it the best place to stay for your honeymoon? Some say yes, many say not!
Fira, the capital of Santorini is the main hub of Santorini and therefore a great place for those who want to explore the island by bus. It attracts many visitors for the wide range of accommodation, bars, restaurants, nightlife and the caldera views. As the capital of the island, it has all the services and administrative facilities for the locals. Cruise ship passengers mainly visit Fira, either on tours or independently. Fira also boasts some excellent accommodation to suit all budgets. Of course the properties on the cliff edge command the highest prices. Once again, as in Oia, if you choose to stay on the cliff edge, then be prepared to splash out. As in Oia, check carefully the accommodation has privacy otherwise you may end up sharing the view with hundreds of Instagrammers. If you value being in the busy capital and having all the bars, shops and facilities on your doorstep then Fira may be a good choice for your honeymoon. Choose the hotel/suite/Airbnb carefully and don’t be afraid to ask the owner how private the property is and whether it suffers from noise from bars/restaurants/traffic.
Pyrgos, once the capital of the island is now arguably one of the prettiest villages on Santorini. Located just a few miles from the cliff edge, Pyrgos retains a level of peace and authenticity that is uncommon in most parts of the island. It does lack those cliff-plunging views but it benefits from a relax and recharge vibe that may well suit you for your honeymoon in Santorini. Accommodation wise, the concept is more focussed on individual villas and cave houses, although there are a number of small hotels offering private suites and plunge pools. Pyrgos is renowned for its excellent restaurants and bars. You’re just as likely to see a local dining here as a tourist. Pyrgos is right in the middle of wine growing country and there are some excellent wineries close by. If you visit Santorini for your honeymoon, put Pyrgos on your itinerary at some point of your stay. It’s a magical village that will capture your heart.
Firostefani, the next village to Fira is more laid-back, but with still its fair share of visitors. The feel however is more relaxed and the views just as impressive. If a caldera view accommodation is non negotiable, then Firostefani ticks many boxes. Imerovigli, the next village along the caldera is more quieter even still. Amazing views but not a great deal else and in my opinion it lacks soul.
More details will be added soon. In the meantime, if this article has helped you plan your Santorini honeymoon, I invite you to check out Demeter Cave House, a luxury bolthole for 2 in Pyrgos.