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It’s one of the first questions travellers ask when planning a trip to the iconic Greek island: where is the best place to stay in Santorini? With cliffside villages, volcanic beaches, and postcard views scattered across the island, choosing the right location can shape your entire experience.

While each area has its own charm, one destination consistently stands out for its accessibility, energy, and stunning surroundings—Fira, the beating heart of Santorini.

Where is the Best Place to Stay in Santorini? Fira. Here’s Why. 

Fira offers the perfect balance of convenience, culture, and connection. Perched above the caldera, it combines breathtaking views with vibrant street life, boutique shopping, local eateries, and easy access to Santorini’s top attractions. Whether you’re travelling as a couple, with family, or solo, Fira’s central location makes it an ideal base.

You’ll find the island’s main bus station here, making it simple to reach other parts of Santorini without a car. It’s also just a short drive from both the airport and port—ideal for seamless arrivals and departures. Museums, churches, art galleries, and cliffside cafés line the pedestrian lanes, ensuring there’s always something to discover just outside your door.

If you’re wondering where is the best place to stay in Santorini for first-timers, Fira’s walkability, panoramic views, and all-around liveliness make it the clear winner.

Comparing Santorini’s Main Areas

While Fira offers the most well-rounded experience, here’s how it stacks up against other popular areas:

• Fira – Best for first-time visitors, central, lively, great transport connections
• Oia – Most scenic sunsets, luxurious, romantic, but more tourist-heavy and isolated
• Imerovigli – Quiet, upscale, ideal for couples who want privacy and caldera views
• Kamari / Perissa – Laid-back beach towns, budget-friendly, further from main attractions

For most travellers—especially those wanting a mix of activity and beauty—Fira offers the best of both worlds.

Who Should Stay in Fira?

• First-time visitors looking to explore different parts of the island
• Couples who want culture, dining, and nightlife close by
• Families who value walkability, transport options, and convenience
• Solo travellers looking to meet others and feel safe
• Short-stay guests who want easy access to the airport and port

There are plenty of exciting things to do in Fira, Santorini. Whether you’re watching the sunset over the caldera or browsing artisan boutiques, staying in Fira means being surrounded by both island charm and modern comforts.

Where to Stay in Fira: Introducing Kalisti Hotel & Suites

For those seeking a refined yet welcoming retreat in Fira, Kalisti Hotel & Suites offers the perfect match. Just a few steps from the centre, the hotel feels tucked away—peaceful and quiet, yet within walking distance of all the action.

With the largest pool in Fira town, a beautiful garden setting, and Cycladic-inspired architecture, Kalisti is a relaxing sanctuary after a day of exploration that also offers a range of unique experiences.

It is an ideal place for both couples and families, with suitable rooms for both kinds of travellers. Couples can unwind in the Elegant Suite with Outdoor Private Jacuzzi, ideal for romantic getaways, while families will appreciate the space and comfort of the Royal Kalisti Two Bedroom Suite.

Guests also enjoy warm, attentive hospitality and access to tailored experiences, including various activities in Santorini, private tours, wine tastings and more. Whether you're staying for a weekend or a full week, Kalisti offers the kind of comfort and location that makes every moment more enjoyable.

So, where is the best place to stay in Santorini? For convenience, culture, views, and variety, Fira ticks all the boxes. And when it comes to choosing the right hotel, Kalisti Hotel & Suites combines everything travellers love about Santorini—without the noise, the hassle, or the compromise.Let Santorini dazzle you—starting with the perfect place to stay.