The Best Cave Hotels in Santorini

We've handpicked our favorite cave hotels in Santorini

Santorini is one of the most romantic and exclusive destinations in Europe. It’s home to a great selection of luxury boutique hotels. You won’t find many sprawling resorts here. This volcanic island lends itself to a more intimate, authentically Greek experience.

Cave hotels are unique to Santorini and a handful of other destinations. You may be wondering what a cave hotel is. They are, quite literally, hotels built within caves. You won’t need to put a plastic helmet on and enter through a cave mouth while waving a flashlight. The hotels we’ve chosen are all very luxurious. They tend to be partially immersed into the caves, merging seamlessly with the natural environment. The best cave hotels in Santorini combine rustic charm with modern amenities and classic Aegean design. Oh, and swimming straight from your cave room to the infinity pool is one of the most luxurious experiences you can have.

Perivolas

Perivolas opened in 1983. It’s credited with helping to put Oia on the map. The hotel has been run by the same family since it opened. The infinity pool is one of the best on the island. Some of the rooms come with private pools. The suites are carved into the cliff overlooking the Aegean. Located at the edge of Oia, this hotel is very private. You can stay in a deluxe suite carved into a cave – this suite was once the home of a local winemaker. This is one of the most appealing things about cave hotels: they merge harmoniously with the natural environment.

Canaves Oia Suites

One of Santorini’s most iconic properties, Canaves Oia Suites is a luxury property with stunning suites, many complete with their own private pools. As with some of the rooms at Perivolas, Canaves Oia was a traditional winery in the 17th century. This luxury cave hotel has been carved into the cliff face. Santorini architecture is synonymous with this type of property. Expect minimalist design, large open spaces and private plunge pools with beautiful views directly into the Aegean Sea and the famous Caldera.

Iconic Santorini

Iconic Santorini is a stunning cave hotel located on the rim of a volcanic cliff. It’s right by the scenic village of Imerovigli and a short drive to the busy streets of Oia. Iconic Santorini has been named as Greece’s best boutique hotel several times in numerous awards. It’s located in the quiet village of Imerovigli. Iconic Santorini is comprised of 19 cave suites. White steps wind around the property, leading you to the suites, the large pool, and offering sweeping Aegean views wherever you look. Classic Greek breakfast served every morning on your terrace.

Kapari Natural Resort

Escape to Kapari Natural Resort, a secluded sanctuary perched along Santorini’s fabled caldera. At Kapari, traditional design and modern luxury intertwine, transporting guests through time and space. Whitewashed cave dwellings blend seamlessly with the volcanic cliffside, epitomizing the island’s iconic architecture. Step inside the restored interiors to find indoor Jacuzzis, semi-private outdoor hot tubs and direct pool access in selected rooms and suites. Savor the panoramic coastal views from your private veranda as the Aegean Sea sparkles below.

Charisma Suites

Charisma Suites, located in Oia, Santorini, is an all-suite hotel renowned for its direct sunset and caldera views. Built on the cliffs, the minimalist Cycladic architecture reflects the island’s iconic minimalist style with pristine white walls. Guests can enjoy the famous Santorini sunset from their private verandahs or while relaxing in the infinity pool. Ideal for romantic getaways and honeymoons, the hotel offers luxurious suites with features like king-sized beds, wine cellars, and daily maid service. Facilities include poolside dining and in-room massage treatments.

Vora

Vora is a boutique luxury hotel in Santorini that epitomizes the island’s cave-style architecture Perched in Imerovigli, Vora is ideally situated for caldera views, Santorini sunsets, and proximity to Fira and Oia. Its cliffside position offers a sense of seclusion while still being connected to Santorini’s key attractions. There are only three suites so Vora is about as boutique as it gets. Each villa includes a private infinity pool or hot tub, expansive terraces, and panoramic caldera views.

The Tsitouras Collection

Located in Firostefani, Santorini, The Tsitouras Collection is a boutique luxury hotel that seamlessly blends history, art, and personalized service. This unique property is housed in a historic 18th-century mansion and is celebrated for its elegant interiors, breathtaking views, and impeccable hospitality. Each suite is themed around a specific artistic or cultural concept, showcasing an eclectic collection of rare artifacts, antiques, and artwork curated by owner Dimitris Tsitouras. Suites include luxurious details such as marble bathrooms, handcrafted furnishings, and stunning views from private terraces.

How cave hotels became a luxury travel staple

Cave hotels are often found in regions with rich geological or historical significance, such as volcanic islands, mountainous areas, or ancient cave-dwelling regions. These hotels are celebrated for their ability to provide privacy, natural insulation, and a unique aesthetic rooted in local history.

They have existed for thousands of years, serving as shelters in places like Cappadocia (Turkey), Matera (Italy), and Santorini (Greece). Their transformation into boutique hotels began in the mid-20th century as tourism in these regions grew. In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, there was increasing demand for experiential and luxury travel as well-heeled travelers sought novel luxury experiences.

Santorini’s whitewashed cave hotels became particularly famous in the 1990s, followed by Cappadocia’s luxury cave suites in the 2000s. These accommodations continue to captivate visitors with their blend of history, design, and stunning natural settings. Today, cave hotels are synonymous with high-end, boutique travel and remain a top choice for romantic vacations.