How to Experience the Best of Santorini in Pure Luxury

September 19, 2025

How to Experience the Best of Santorini in Pure Luxury

Santorini is the dream destination for travellers seeking style, comfort, and unforgettable memories. Luxury Holidays to Santorini bring together striking scenery, elegant hotels, and personalised experiences that create a holiday unlike any other. From clifftop infinity pools to private yacht charters, every moment here feels designed for pure indulgence.


The island is small but full of character. Its villages, beaches, and dramatic views each offer something special. You can spend your days exploring, relaxing, or simply watching the sun set over the Aegean. The beauty of Santorini lies not only in what you see but in how you choose to experience it.

White buildings with blue accents overlook the Aegean Sea in Santorini, Greece; small pool and sailboat visible.

Why Luxury Holidays to Santorini Are So Special


Santorini is known worldwide for its whitewashed villages, blue-domed churches, and volcanic cliffs. Yet, beyond the postcards lies an island with depth and sophistication. Choosing a luxury holiday here means having access to the finest side of this iconic Greek island.


  • Private suites with plunge pools overlooking the caldera.
  • Michelin-starred dining with views of the Aegean.
  • Expert-guided tours that bring history and culture to life.
  • Tailor-made experiences that cater to your pace and interests.


The island may be small, but the choice is wide. You could sip champagne in a five-star spa in Imerovigli one day, and the next day sail between hidden coves. The variety of experiences is what makes a luxury holiday in Santorini so rewarding.


Would you prefer to wake up to the quiet charm of Oia or stay closer to the nightlife of Fira? Your answer shapes your entire trip.


The Best Villages for Luxury Holidays to Santorini


Each village on Santorini has its own character, and where you stay sets the tone of your holiday. Luxury accommodation is spread across the island, but the atmosphere differs between towns. Choosing the right base makes your trip feel personal and memorable.

Oia – The Icon of Santorini

Whitewashed buildings on a cliffside, lit at dusk; Santorini, Greece.

Oia is famous for its sunsets, and staying here means you can watch them from your private terrace. The village is dotted with boutique hotels that mix cave-style architecture with modern luxury. Narrow lanes wind past art galleries, wine bars, and chic shops.


Many travellers find Oia the most romantic part of Santorini. The quiet mornings are perfect for strolls before the day visitors arrive. By evening, you can dine on fresh seafood while the sky glows pink and gold.


Hotels in Oia often come with infinity pools, private dining, and sweeping caldera views. They make it easy to feel both part of the village and completely private at the same time.



Awake & Wander Luxury Travel has access to exclusive offers for many Oia hotels. Whether you want a honeymoon suite or a larger villa for a family, we can advise on the best options available for your dates.

Imerovigli – Peaceful and Elevated

Whitewashed buildings cascade down a cliffside in Santorini, Greece, overlooking a blue sea. Imerovigli – Peaceful and Elevated

Imerovigli sits just north of Fira and is often called the “balcony of Santorini.” The views here are some of the finest on the island, and the atmosphere is quieter than Oia. If you want luxury without the crowds, this is the village to choose.


The hotels in Imerovigli focus on wellness and relaxation. Many offer full-service spas, wellness suites, and fine dining restaurants. It’s also a short drive to other parts of the island, which makes it a practical yet indulgent base.


Staying in Imerovigli lets you slow down. Days can be spent by your private pool, while evenings are best enjoyed with local wine and a panoramic view.


Again, Awake & Wander has strong relationships with suppliers here. We can connect you with hotels that fit your style, whether you want ultra-modern luxury or traditional cave-style retreats.

Luxury Hotels for the Ultimate Santorini Stay

Choosing the right hotel is at the heart of any luxury holiday. Santorini offers a collection of outstanding properties, each with its own take on indulgence. Whether you want intimacy, family-friendly space, or a dramatic clifftop setting, the island has something for you.

Canaves Oia Suites

Whitewashed buildings with a pool and lounge chairs overlooking the sea at dusk in Santorini, Greece. Canaves Oia Suites

This hotel is one of the finest examples of luxury in Santorini. It combines traditional whitewashed cave architecture with clean, contemporary design. Suites feature private plunge pools, spacious terraces, and interiors that feel calm and refined.


The service here is warm yet discreet, with staff anticipating your needs before you voice them. Dining on the terrace while overlooking the caldera is an experience that stays with you long after you leave.


Awake & Wander Luxury Travel often has access to offers for Canaves Oia Suites. Speak with us about your preferred dates and we can share the best current rates and added extras available.

Grace Hotel Santorini, Auberge Resorts Collection

White buildings cascading down a cliffside in Santorini, Greece, overlooking the blue Aegean Sea. Grace Hotel Santorini, Auberge Resorts Collection

Perched on the cliffs of Imerovigli, this property is one of the most romantic choices on the island. Each room frames the endless blue of the Aegean, and the infinity pool is regarded as one of the most spectacular in Greece.


The hotel is also home to a fine dining restaurant that blends local ingredients with modern techniques. Many guests choose to enjoy a wine-tasting evening here, guided by expert sommeliers.



Through Awake & Wander, you can explore available offers for Grace Hotel Santorini, often including added touches such as private transfers or spa treatments.

Mystique, a Luxury Collection Hotel

Restaurant on a cliff overlooking the sea at dusk; tables set for dining, lit pool, white buildings. Mystique, a Luxury Collection Hotel

Set in Oia, Mystique feels exclusive and sophisticated. The design draws on the natural curves of the volcanic landscape, creating suites that flow organically from stone and light. The hotel places strong emphasis on privacy, making it a favourite for honeymoons and special occasions.


The dining experience is equally memorable, with refined Greek cuisine and a backdrop that makes every meal extraordinary. The spa offers treatments inspired by the island’s minerals and traditions.


We regularly connect our clients with special offers at Mystique. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply want the very best, our team can tailor your stay here to your exact wishes.



Fine Dining and Wine Experiences


Food and wine are part of Santorini’s soul. A luxury holiday here would not be complete without exploring the island’s culinary scene.


  • Caldera-view dining: Many top restaurants in Oia and Fira allow you to dine while watching the sun dip below the horizon. Fresh seafood, tender lamb, and homegrown produce make up seasonal menus.
  • Private chefs: Some villas and suites offer private dining, where chefs prepare multi-course meals in your own space. This is ideal for anniversaries or family celebrations.
  • Winery tours: Santorini’s volcanic soil gives its wines a unique character. Visiting a local estate for a tasting introduces you to crisp Assyrtiko whites and rich vinsanto dessert wines.


Imagine sipping wine among the vines as the breeze carries the scent of the sea. These experiences give you a deeper connection to the island.


Awake & Wander can arrange private reservations at Michelin-starred restaurants or design a tour that combines food, wine, and culture in one seamless day.



Experiences Beyond the Ordinary


Luxury Holidays to Santorini go beyond stunning hotels and dining. The island offers unique activities that turn your trip into something unforgettable.


  • Private yacht charters: Sail around the island, stopping at hidden coves, hot springs, and the volcanic islets. Sunset cruises are especially magical.
  • Helicopter tours: See the caldera, villages, and coastline from the sky. This is the most dramatic way to take in the island’s beauty.
  • Exclusive cultural tours: Walk ancient sites with a private guide or learn traditional Greek cooking in a local home.
  • Wellness retreats: Luxury spas and wellness centres across the island provide treatments that draw on natural elements of the Aegean.


Each of these experiences can be tailored to your pace and style. Whether you want adrenaline, culture, or relaxation, there’s always a way to make it luxurious.



Peace of Mind When Booking with Awake & Wander Luxury Travel


Choosing a holiday is about more than hotels and flights. It’s also about trust and security. When you book through Awake & Wander Luxury Travel, you know that your money and your plans are protected every step of the way.


As an independent travel agency, we are proud members of Protected Trust Services and hold a full ATOL licence. This means that your booking is safeguarded under UK law, giving you complete reassurance.


Every tailor-made holiday also includes:

  • Supplier Failure Insurance – protection if one of the suppliers we use were to go out of business.
  • Scheduled Airline Failure Insurance – cover in case your airline ceases trading.


These protections are built into every package we design, so you don’t need to worry about hidden gaps. It’s one of the reasons so many of our clients return to book their next journey with us.


When you combine this with our personal service and direct access to trusted suppliers, you get a holiday that is secure as well as luxurious.



Beaches for Luxury Holidays to Santorini


Santorini may be best known for its caldera views, but its beaches also stand out. The volcanic nature of the island means you’ll find shores in shades of black, red, and even white. Visiting them adds another layer to your experience.

Red Beach


Close to Akrotiri, Red Beach is dramatic and striking. The red cliffs contrast with turquoise waters, creating one of the most photographed scenes on the island. For a luxury touch, consider a private boat trip that drops you right at the shoreline, avoiding the walk from the road.


Perivolos and Perissa


These black sand beaches stretch along the southeast coast. Here you’ll find beach clubs with comfortable loungers, cocktail service, and fine dining. It’s a lively yet stylish setting, perfect for spending the day in comfort.


Vlychada


Often quieter than the others, Vlychada feels serene. The sculpted cliffs resemble abstract art, and the sea is calm. Pairing a visit here with a private dinner on the beach makes it an unforgettable evening.


Awake & Wander can arrange transfers, private cabanas, or boat trips to make your beach days effortless. You simply turn up and enjoy.



Day Trips and Nearby Adventures


A luxury holiday in Santorini also means looking beyond the island itself. With careful planning, you can enjoy private excursions that expand your trip.


  • Volcanic islands and hot springs: A private boat can take you to the smaller islands within the caldera. Swimming in natural hot springs is both fun and restorative.
  • Neighbouring islands: Sail or fly to nearby Cycladic gems like Ios, Naxos, or Mykonos for a change of pace. Each has its own style, from lively nightlife to quiet charm.
  • Cultural tours: Visit the archaeological site of Akrotiri with a private guide. It’s often compared to Pompeii and gives insight into the island’s ancient civilisation.


These experiences are flexible. Some guests prefer half-day tours, while others want full-day adventures. Our team at Awake & Wander helps design each element to suit your style and schedule.

White and blue domed church in Santorini, Greece, under a bright blue sky. Akrotiri

Our Take:

"Luxury holidays to Santorini are about more than the views. They are about moments that feel personal, effortless, and completely unforgettable. That’s the difference when you plan your trip with Awake & Wander."


Sunset, Shopping, and Cultural Highlights


No luxury holiday in Santorini is complete without soaking in the cultural side of the island. Beyond the hotels and beaches, there are moments that stay with you long after your flight home.


Iconic Sunsets


Santorini’s sunsets are legendary. Watching the sky transform over the caldera is one of the most sought-after experiences in Greece. The key is to enjoy it in a way that feels unique to you.


  • Private terraces in Oia or Imerovigli with champagne service.
  • Exclusive sunset cruises, where the horizon feels like it belongs only to you.
  • Rooftop dining in Fira, combining fine food with nature’s greatest show.


The moment is simple but powerful. It reminds you why Santorini holds such a strong pull on travellers from across the world.


Boutique Shopping


The villages are filled with boutique shops and galleries. In Oia, you’ll find local jewellery, art, and hand-crafted items that make meaningful keepsakes. In Fira, the shopping is more varied, blending international names with Greek designers.


For those who love fashion and design, a private shopping guide can be arranged. This ensures you uncover the best hidden stores and meet the makers behind the creations.


Cultural Highlights


Santorini also offers depth for those interested in history and culture. Akrotiri’s ancient ruins provide a glimpse into a world preserved under volcanic ash. The Museum of Prehistoric Thera in Fira houses artefacts that link the island’s story across centuries.


Even the churches and monasteries scattered across the island add to the sense of tradition. Visiting them with a knowledgeable guide makes the experience richer.


These cultural touches balance the glamour of Santorini with authenticity. They show you that luxury isn’t just about comfort — it’s about connection.




Time to Plan Your Luxury Holiday


Luxury Holidays to Santorini combine striking scenery, outstanding hotels, and personal touches that make every day unforgettable. By booking with Awake & Wander Luxury Travel, you gain both access and reassurance. We are here to design a holiday that feels effortless from start to finish.


Whether you want to stay in a clifftop suite, sail at sunset, or discover the island’s ancient history, we bring your ideas to life. You can contact us directly on 01495 400011 to make your holiday enquiry or use the enquiry form on our website.


You also have the option to create and book your own bespoke holiday online with Awake & Wander Travel. But remember, we are only ever a call or message away if you prefer to leave the planning to us. With us, luxury isn’t just about the destination — it’s about the way you get there.

Send an Enquiry

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is included in Luxury Holidays to Santorini?

    Luxury holidays often include premium hotels, private transfers, fine dining, and bespoke experiences designed to match your preferences.

  • When is the best time to visit Santorini for a luxury holiday?

    Late spring and early autumn offer warm weather, fewer crowds, and ideal conditions for enjoying outdoor experiences in comfort.

  • Are Luxury Holidays to Santorini suitable for families?

    Yes, many hotels offer villas and suites for families, and private tours or boat trips can be tailored for all ages.

  • What makes Awake & Wander Luxury Travel different?

    We combine personal service with full financial protection, giving you access to exclusive offers while keeping your booking secure.

  • Do luxury hotels in Santorini include private pools?

    Many five-star properties feature private plunge pools or infinity pools with caldera views, especially in Oia and Imerovigli.

  • How long should I plan for a Luxury Holiday to Santorini?

    A week allows you to balance relaxation and exploration, though many travellers extend to ten days for nearby islands.

  • Can you arrange wine tours as part of Luxury Holidays to Santorini?

    Yes, private wine tours and tastings at Santorini’s top estates can be included in a tailor-made itinerary.

  • Is Santorini suitable for a luxury honeymoon?

    Absolutely, the island is considered one of the most romantic destinations, with suites, spas, and experiences designed for couples.

  • What are the main benefits of booking with an ATOL-protected agency?

    Your money and travel plans are protected if suppliers or airlines fail, ensuring peace of mind from the start of your trip.

  • Are private yacht charters part of Luxury Holidays to Santorini?

    Yes, many guests choose to add a private sailing experience, which can include visits to hidden coves and sunset cruises.


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