Best Boutique Hotels in Santorini

Andronis Luxury Suites is a luxury boutique overlooking the Aegean Sea. Though Santorini and over-the-top hotels go hand-in-hand, this property has the added benefit of a location overlooking the Caldera side of the Mediterranean and it is within walking distance of the shops and restaurants of Oia. Each of the 22 suites includes a private hot tub; some suites are done in the traditional cave style of the island. A dramatic infinity pool overlooks the cliffs and sea below. The on-site restaurant gets good reviews for Greek food and free breakfast with local ingredients. Like most hotels in this part of the world, expect steep steps and spotty Wi-Fi access.

The Canaves Oia Hotel is one of the most upscale and exclusive properties on Santorini Island -- with a price tag to match. The finish is immaculate and luxurious throughout, and the layout takes full advantage of the breathtaking sea-view panoramas. The suites are spacious with impeccable interiors and amenities, and the pool is also large by island standards. Private yachting will appeal to those who really want to push the boat out, though staying here you already will be.

This part of Santorini is renowned for its specular vistas, and the 14-room Andronis Boutique Hotel takes full advantage of its privileged position -- there are few places in the hotel without gorgeous sea views. Cave-like rooms are luxurious and really quite special, as are bathrooms and private balconies. The pool isn't huge, but is lined with sunbeds overlooking the all-important panorama.

Lilium Villas Santorini is a medium-sized luxury boutique property facing the caldera side of the Aegean Sea on the island of Santorini. Prices can be high but breakfast, Wi-Fi, parking, and a shuttle service to the town of Fira are included. There's a gorgeous swimming pool with a nearby kid's pool that doesn't get much use and an on-site spa, but no fitness center. The rooms are spacious and airy but not as stunning as the well-designed restaurant and lounge area. Sunset views of the caldera are a major selling point, though you'll need a car or shuttle service to explore the rest of the island as the hotel is off the beaten path. Overall, it's a great option for a luxe romantic getaway for couples who don't require a ton of amenities.

Luckily the presence of many hotel neighbors doesn't seem to disturb the relaxing vibe at Anastasis Apartments. The 11 large, apartment-style units have individualized contemporary decor and offer private balconies and kitchenettes. A welcome plus for many travelers: Anastasis Apartments is free of Santorini's typical (and tiring) cliff steps, making it great for anyone concerned with mobility issues. While there are bars and restaurants within easy walking distance of the Anastasis, keep in mind that most other mid- to upper-mid-range venues are set up for self-catering.

A lovely boutique property, Pezoules is set into Oia's lower caldera cliffs, giving guests sweeping views of the Aegean. With only six rooms -- many designed in a cave-like style -- it is a small, quiet, and personal property ideal for couples. Rooms mimic the hotel's chic blend of traditional architecture and minimalism and feature ergonomic Dimstel mattresses. Slim on the features but with more than the nearby Aris Caves, this property has a small infinity pool with an even smaller deck and a tiny pool bar serving snacks and drinks. The experience is best suited for travelers who want to explore the surrounding area but come back to a quiet room, and overall this is a gorgeous property with upscale rooms and an authentic Greek island vibe

The 23-room Petit Palace Suites Hotel really delivers when it comes to views -- there are stunning sea and caldera vistas from immaculately finished, traditionally styled terraces. There's no getting away from the incredible outlook: the swimming pool, restaurant, and lounge bar are all overlooking the Aegean. Rooms too feature private sea-view terraces, some with their own pool or hot tub. Some suites are a little simple in the decor department for an upscale property, but in-room amenities are ample.

For those looking to escape the bustle of certain Santorini locales, the 27-room Astra Suites’ quiet cliff-side location is a well-regarded option. The hotel has remarkable views with rocky caldera cliffs at its sides, the Aegean Sea below, and bright blue skies above. Rooms have large personal terraces and fluffy bedding while outdoor spaces are sleek and modern. The mix of traditional architecture and colorful contemporary decor gives the property an elegant and relaxing vibe. However, considering the high number of stairs, Astra’s not ideal for those with mobility issues.

This small hotel on the island of Santorini is comprised of seven luxury villas featuring fireplaces, private verandas, and high-end decor details. Elevated atop the less crowded northern curve of the area’s caldera and having replaced its bar and restaurant with butler and room service, Aenaon Villas is set up for upscale couples searching for a private retreat. There are no children under 12 permitted.

From Swarovski crystals above the in-suite hot tubs to multiple chartering services, this 11-suite boutique luxury hotel was designed to appeal to a high-level clientele. Ideal for honeymooners or guests looking for a romantic getaway, Astarte Suites makes a supreme effort to provide guests with discretion and privacy. The property offers upscale contemporary decor -- it's much more luxurious than the nearby Apanemo Hotel -- and all of the chic suites are designed after a different ancient Mediterranean culture. Those wishing to take advantage of Astarte's location in Santorini's quiet southern area may find it inconvenient when trying to reach many of the island's popular tourist attractions, however.

This 10-room boutique property rests cliffside and mid-caldera, just outside Imerovigli. Because public space is limited to the narrow, windowless lobby and the smallish infinity pool area, the vibe here is private and thus it's a romantic spot for couples. While the property is within a 15-minute walk to the center of town, there’s a hefty amount stairs to deal with. For those with mobility issues, the stair-free Anastasis Apartments (which also has a spa) may be a better bet for a slightly higher price. However, those seeking out a private holiday surrounded by beautiful views and a highly traditional aesthetic will find Artemis Villas hard to beat.