Top Luxury Cave Hotels in Santorini for an Unforgettable Getaway

Top Cave Hotels in Santorini, Greece

We arrived early in the morning from Athens. The drive from the airport was uninspiring, but once our taxi let us off and we walked to the cliff’s edge towards our first cave hotel located in Imerovigli, we gasped in awe. Santorini is truly breathtaking. White and blue cement buildings line the edge of the cliffside town with long pathways leading down to luxurious boutique hotels housing gorgeous cave rooms.

What is a Cave Hotel?

Cave hotels in Santorini are old cave houses renovated into beautiful boutique rooms carved into the side of the rocky cliffs. The residents of Santorini built these caves to blend into the rocks to hide from pirates; however, today, they have been remodeled into rooms of pure bliss and luxury. The cliff houses looked small and unassuming from the sea, keeping its residents safe from pirates and pillaging. Following earthquakes in 1953 that destroyed many houses, the caves have been restored and remodeled into luxurious cave suites featuring cave pools, infinity pools, and private plunge pools, consequently drawing visitors from around the world.

Iconic Santorini Cave Hotel – Imerovigli

We had the lucky opportunity to stay in the Iconic Santorini Cave Hotel for our very first cave room experience. The staff of this boutique cave hotel met us at the top of the cliff to take our luggage down the long narrow stairs. There are no escalators or elevators in Santorini, so a lot of walking up and down narrow passages is on the agenda. It’s worth the extra effort to stay in one of these Cliffside villas, as you are immediately transformed into a world of luxury. The hotel offers a beautiful swimming pool, spa amenities perfect for a massage, soaker tubs, and fine dining during our stay.

The Rooms in Cave Hotels in Santorini

The domed room built into the side of a cliff definitely looked like a cave; however, this wasn’t a bare-bones rocky cavern. Instead, it was a luxurious room mixed with chic bedding and traditional design. The beds are heavenly with Coco-mat mattresses made from high-grade sheets and thick duvets. I don’t think I have ever slept so well. Many of the cave hotels in Santorini feature Coco-mat mattresses.

We had our own indoor private plunge pool (cave pool inside the cave suite) overlooking the caldera where we enjoyed breakfast in our room each morning. The luxury cave hotels bring breakfast to your private balcony, a lovely touch. We savored Greek yogurt and honey, fresh bread, cheeses, rich cappuccinos, and freshly squeezed juice. This was complemented by eggs to order and pastries to indulge in, making breakfast a highlight of our stay.

Sophia Luxury Suites – Imerovigli

This all-suites sanctuary in Imerovigli has amazing views of the caldera and the Aegean Sea. The modern boutique hotel offers honeymoon suite caves with indoor and outdoor plunge pools and terraces, complemented by the famous cave pools in your suite. Moreover, all rooms include a terrace and either an indoor pool or outdoor pool. With fully contained amenities, you can enjoy spa services in your room and a made-to-order breakfast; this is a romantic getaway you’ll never forget.

Andronis Luxury Suites – Oia Santorini

We thought Iconic Santorini was amazing, but at Andronis Luxury Suites, our cave hotel experience was taken up a notch. We haven’t seen all the cave hotels in Santorini, but I don’t think any could boast as beautiful a view of the caldera as Andronis. Located in Oia, it was perfectly situated within walking distance of iconic landmarks like the Blue Domes and historic windmills.

Guests have access to their own private pool or hot tubs, allowing for a tranquil experience while enjoying the famous Santorini sunset from your private balcony. Each suite, designed in the Cycladic style, offers lush bathrooms and spacious living areas. We didn’t have a cave pool in this suite, but the infinity pool made our experience unforgettable.

Every morning, we enjoyed our complimentary breakfast on our balcony, taking in the picturesque views away from the crowds. The Lycabettus restaurant is one of the best spots in Oia for traditional Mediterranean cuisine.

Aris Caves – Oia Santorini

Aris Caves in Oia offers cave suites and studios complete with a kitchenette and free Wi-Fi. Spa treatments are offered, and four rooms include private jacuzzis. This property is perfect for a brief stay, conveniently located near the town center yet still a quiet oasis. While this resort doesn’t provide a swimming pool, make sure to book one of the cave suites with its own plunge pool. You’ll find that this private terrace will keep you entertained for hours.

Pegasus Suites & Spa – Imerovigli

Pegasus Suites & Spa is an excellent choice if you’re searching for a hotel in Santorini featuring a cave pool. Book the grand luxury plunge pool suite for pure bliss. The in-suite plunge pool feels like a natural extension of your lavish amenities, complemented by access to an outdoor hot tub. You’ll never want to leave this room, which includes a fully stocked minibar, cave pool, indoor hot tub, private terrace with stunning caldera views, and room service.

In addition, the hotel offers all the amenities you could want, with the Heaven Spa featuring treatments like couples massages, a fitness center, Pegasus Wine Bar, and an inviting pool. If you prefer an infinity pool, request the Angels Infinity pool suite; there’s something for everyone.

Lava Caves – Oia Santorini

Lava Caves features that dreamy cave pool carved into volcanic rock that we all admire about Santorini. Breakfast is served in your cave suite each morning, providing a perfect reason to relax and soak in the panoramic views of the Aegean Sea. With only one cave suite available, be sure to secure your booking early if you want this exclusive experience. Ideally situated close to the vibrant town center of Oia, it boasts free Wi-Fi for sharing all your stunning photos online.

Perivolas Hotel – Oia Santorini

Perivolas Hotel, perched high above the Aegean Sea, offers a premier cave hotel experience slightly removed from the bustling Oia. Its terraced gardens lead down to an infinity pool, providing tranquil escape within beautiful surroundings. The private cave suites range from spacious cave rooms with balconies to suites featuring private cave pools and jacuzzis overlooking the caldera and the neighboring island of Thirassia.

This hotel also features a fitness center and gym equipped with a 25-meter lap pool and steam bath, providing scenic workout opportunities. After your morning routines, indulge in spa treatments at Perivolas Wellness Studio to unwind in bliss.

White Cave House – Oia Santorini

As the most photogenic cave house in Santorini, White Cave House boasts a suite complete with a cave pool in its whitewashed design. This villa in Oia offers unparalleled privacy in a spacious two-level suite equipped with an indoor and outdoor hot tub, a hammam, and free Wi-Fi.

Marizan Caves Villas

Marizan Caves Villas provides a range of one-bedroom cave suites to superior rooms, catering to different budgets. While it does not have its own pool, guests can access the Lioyerma Lounge Pool Bar and a pool located next door. Simply order a drink from the bar, and relish the sunset views.

Tsitouras Collection

For those seeking cave hotels in Fira, the Tsitouras Collection offers unique and distinct cave houses, including an infinity pool that many travelers desire. Nestled in the heart of Firostini, this transformed mansion serves as a peaceful retreat from the bustling crowds. The collection offers villas suitable for 2 to 6 guests. The TC Private Villa includes its own private pool, kitchen, and three bedrooms, creating an excellent shared vacation experience.

A Cave Hotel in Santorini is Worth the Splurge

Spending time in cave hotels in Santorini is an unforgettable experience. Rather than focusing solely on the island’s sights, our initial impressions were tied to our time enjoying these exquisite accommodations themselves. The comfort and luxury of these cave hotel experiences make them worth every penny.

Tips for Choosing Cave Hotels in Santorini

As you search for cave hotels in Santorini, ensure you closely examine individual rooms. Many hotels boast cave suites, but amenities vary greatly, such as the presence of cave or private plunge pools as well as private terraces. Consequently, be diligent in checking for the specific amenities that matter most to you.

Hotel prices in Santorini can vary tremendously, with luxurious options that come at a premium. However, there are certainly affordable cave hotels available, and searching for apartment rentals can also be a wise choice that helps you save.

Fira: As the main hub in Santorini where cruise ships dock, Fira offers extensive shopping and dining options, making it one of the most bustling towns on the island.

Oia: Oia is recognized as the most picturesque location in Santorini, where visitors can enjoy charming blue domes, windmills, and stunning sunsets. Here, you can even find cave hotels that provide escape from the crowds while affording incredible views.

Imerovigli: This area offers a cave hotel experience away from the hustle and bustle, located conveniently between Oia and Fira. While the shopping and dining scene may be quieter here, it’s an ideal location for relaxation and enjoying hotel amenities.

Starting our stay in Imerovigli was a superb introduction to Santorini. Its quieter yet simultaneously luxurious setting allowed for easy access to both Oia and Fira, particularly with our rental car during our stay on the island.