Santorini has long been one of the most romantic destinations on earth. Its soaring volcanic cliffs set amidst the deep blue of the Aegean Sea create an otherwordly landscape. Add the traditional white Cycladic cave homes strung like pearls along the caldera, and you have one of the most picturesque islands in the world. Unsurprisingly, Santorini is home to incredible honeymoon resorts, luxury villas, and homestays. So whether you’re looking for a hotel in the heart of Oia, or a quiet escape in Imerovigli, here are the 20 Best Cave Hotels in Santorini.
Best Cave Hotels in Santorini
I’ve compiled the 20 best cave hotels in Santorini with private pools and hot tubs below. From the most iconic properties in Oia to postcard-perfect villas along the caldera, here are the 20 best cave hotels with pools in Santorini.
My personal favorites are Dana Villas & Infinity Suites for its river cave pools and Divine Cave Experience for its minimalist cave rooms with private pools.
QUICK PICKS: 3 BEST CAVE HOTELS IN SANTORINI
Don’t have time to read the whole article? No problem! Here are the three best cave hotels in Santorini.
ACCOMMODATION COMPARISON TABLE
Below, you’ll find the best cave hotels with pools in Santorini with a table showing current rates. I’ve sorted them by price. The rates listed are per night and are subject to change.
Best Cave Hotels in Santorini
Originally built to protect from the heat and sun of the Aegean Sea, the white stone buildings of Santorini have become a cultural calling card of Greece. And while they traditionally served the practical needs of local fishermen and winemakers, they’ve now been converted en-mass to luxury accommodations. The cave hotels below have struck the perfect balance between traditional charm and modern amenities, creating a truly unique experience for their guests. Whichever one you choose, you’ll enjoy a memorable stay at one of the best cave hotels in Santorini.
Canaves Oia Suites & Spa
Canaves Oia Suites & Spa are among the most opulent accommodations in Santorini. Located in Oia, the hotel offers 13 uniquely designed suites, each with a private pool and expansive views of the caldera. The rooms feature modern amenities with generously high ceilings and outdoor spaces. For those seeking a true Santorini cave pool experience, the River Pool Suite and the Executive Suite with Cave Pool are particularly great choices. The River Pool Suite is one of the most recognizable cave pools on the island.
Amenities on offer include a full-service spa and Greek restaurant. Canaves Oia Suites also boasts the only elevator in Oia, an infamously steep area with endless stairs. The hotel itself is a world-renowned property, having received the honor of Best Hotel in Greece and Europe multiple times in the past decade. And while its accommodations are elegantly designed amidst a stunning backdrop, the service and hospitality of the Canaves brand catapult this property to a world-class level.
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Art Maisons Oia Castle
Art Maisons Oia Castle has one of the best sunset vantage points in all of Santorini. It’s also home to several gorgeous cave pool suites, with each one offering a private jacuzzi or plunge pool. The rooms feature traditional Cycladic architecture with minimalist decor and a clean aesthetic. Curved ceilings and doorframes emphasize the unique cave-like design while maintaining spacious and light living spaces. I’ve personally stayed in the “basic” Suite with Private Pool and loved having a private cave pool view of the iconic windmills at sunset.
As a bespoke property, there are no communal resort amenities like a pool and restaurant, but a full Mediterranean breakfast is served daily. Guests can also visit Art Maison’s other property, Aspaki, to swim, dine, or enjoy the views of the Santorini bell towers. For guests interested in photo opportunities though, rest assured that Art Maisons Oia Castle enjoys one of the most spectacular views of Santorni’s world-famous sunset. And from your own private cave pool, too.
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Aspaki by Art Maisons
Aspaki by Art Maisons is one of the best cave hotels in Santorini with private pools. Set in the heart of Oia, the hotel enjoys panoramic views of the caldera, Oia, and the blue domes. The hotel itself has become a tourist attraction with its beautiful bell towers and dreamlike cave pools. Aspaki offers 7 deluxe suites and villas, each offering a private plunge pool or hot tub with exquisite views. There are two Cave Pool Suites available to book, but it’s actually the Deluxe Villa that’s home to Aspaki’s most well-known river pool.
The hotel boasts a restaurant with dazzling views of Oia, as well as a sundeck with a heated pool and steam bath. I visited Aspaki as a guest at its sister property and loved being able to enjoy two distinct vantage points of Oia. Regardless of which property or room type you choose, guests at Art Maisons are treated to exceptional service and unsurpassed caldera views. It’s an easy choice for those seeking the best Santorini hotels with cave pools.
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Cocoon Suites
The Cocoon Suites offer some of the most luxurious cave pools in Santorini. Set in Imerovigli, guests can enjoy sweeping views from the highest point on the island. Imerovigli also provides a much-welcomed reprieve from the bustle of Oia. Each of Cocoon’s 9 suites is individually designed with a hot tub or private plunge pool that offers panoramic views of the Aegean. The Grand Honeymoon Suite and Infinity Suite with Tunnel Jacuzzi specifically are amongst the most jaw-dropping Santorini cave pools.
Amenities include a full-service spa, restaurant, and sun terrace. Guests can enjoy a complimentary Greek breakfast on the terrace or in the privacy of their suite. Given its more secluded location, there’s an ample amount of privacy for guests on their balconies compared to hotels in the tourist hub of Oia. Above all, The Cocoon Suites promises to be a sanctuary for the senses and ranks as one of the best cave hotels in Santorini.
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Abyss
Abyss is a new boutique designer hotel tucked away in a quiet corner of Oia. The understated property features a modern minimalist twist on the classic Cycladic cave home. Rooms feature striking black marble flooring, gold leaf accents, and rainfall showers. Each suite is paired with a hot tub or private pool with a gorgeous sea view. For guests seeking the most dreamlike suite, the Grand Villa is home to a cave pool that leads out to an infinity pool with Caldera views.
For amenities, the hotel features an indoor pool, daily breakfast service, and room service. Guests rave about the breathtaking views, excellent service, and spectacular breakfast. The property is a short walk from the center of Oia and countless restaurants and shops, and the concierge can arrange activities ranging from catamaran cruises to island tours. As far as cave hotels in Santorini go, Abyss is a property with limitless potential.
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Canaves Oia Boutique Hotel
Canaves Oia Boutique Hotel is the sister property of Canaves Oia Suites and was one of the first luxury properties to grace the slopes of Santorini. The family-run hotel was converted from 17th-century wine cellars (canaves) to an upscale boutique hotel in the 1980’s. Countless others have followed suit, but the Canaves brand still stands as a highwater mark for cave hotels in Santorini.
Each room offers a private balcony with Caldera views, with many featuring private plunge pools or hot tubs. Again, there is a River Pool Suite for those seeking the ultimate Santorini cave pool experience. Guests at Canaves Oia Boutique Hotel can enjoy the Spa at Canaves Oia Suites, and dine at either property. There’s also a sunny outdoor pool and all of Oia at your fingertips. In short, it’s a classic Santorini cave hotel that continues to promise an unforgettable stay.
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Divine Cave Experience
Divine Cave Experience is a whimsical hotel in a secluded part of Imerovigli. Featuring cacoon-like rooms sculpted into the Caldera, each suite leads out to a private terrace with unobstructed sea views. Every room offers a private jacuzzi, with the Astral, Omni, and Elysium Suites providing the most unique cave pool silhouettes. Some rooms feature a floating day bed, while others enjoy a wraparound cave pool with views of Oia.
Hotel amenities include a vibrant restaurant, pool bar, wellness cave, and a private concierge. Being outside of Oia, there’s also free private parking and car rental, which is a great way to see the rest of the island. Guests rate the daily breakfast and the variety of options at the Ylia restaurant. All things considered, Divine Cave Experience is one of the best hotels to enjoy a Santorini cave pool.
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Andronis Luxury Suites
Andronis Luxury Suites is a classic choice for cave hotels in Santorini. Although many of its rooms are more airy than cave-like, the property is designed with traditional Cycladic architecture in mind. And of its many unique villas and suites, the Honeymoon Cave Pool and Deluxe Suite with Indoor Hot Tub have gorgeous indoor cave pools. All other rooms boast private plunge pools and hot tubs with infinite Caldera views.
Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities including a relaxing spa, and Mediterranean cuisine at Lycebettus. Lycebettus has arguably one of the best dining balconies on the entire island and promises a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience. Andronis also offers indulgent excursions like a private sail aboard the Feretti yacht, and a helicopter shopping spree to Mykonos. The concierge is always available to help plan tours, dining reservations, and sightseeing activities around the island as well. Considering all of the above, Andronis Luxury Suites is the perfect choice for those seeking the ultimate Santorini experience.
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Oia Spirit Boutique
Oia Spirit Boutique has one of the best locations of any cave hotel in Santorini. The hotel is comprised of 8 unique suites, all in the traditional white-washed Cycladic style. Each suite features stunning views of the famous Blue Domes of Oia, with most offering a private pool or soaking tub. Considering the Blue Domes are one of the busiest photo spots on the island, guests love enjoying an iconic view from the privacy of their balconies and plunge pools at any time of day.
The hotel offers an exceptional breakfast, as well as a gorgeous cave pool with direct views of the Blue Domes. The shops and restaurants of Oia are a short walk away, and the staff are extremely accommodating. For an immaculate stay with one of the best views on the island, Oia Spirit Boutique is your best bet.
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Perivolas Hotel
Perivolas Hotel is a well-appointed Santorini cave hotel with a history of excellence. Among the first family-owned properties in the area, the now enigmatic hotel was converted from 300-year-old caves along the clifftop of Oia. Each suite is individually designed and furnished, with private balconies making the most of the surrounding caldera views. Many of the suites offer plunge pools and jacuzzis, and I loved having a stunning view of the Aegean from my private pool during my stay. Meanwhile, the Perivolas Suite with Private Pool offers a classic cave pool experience.
Perivolas is one of the few resorts in Oia that offers all the amenities you’d see at a typical Five-Star hotel (space is an issue for most others). There’s a fitness center, Spa, Yoga facilities, an infinity pool with sun terrace and cabanas, and an on-site restaurant. The Perivolas Restaurant serves a delightful flight of Greek and Mediterranean cuisine, with an emphasis on local dishes. All that combined with exceptional service and its convenient location in Oia make Perivolas one of the best cave hotels in Santorini.
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Andronis Boutique Hotel
Andronis Boutique Hotel is the charming sister property of Adronis Luxury Suites. The hotel is located at the top of the main walkway in Oia, making it much more convenient to access than most other resorts in Oia. The boutique hotel features several suites and villas, all designed with individual character and charm. Each room boasts either an infinity pool or hot tub, with some brazenly offering both. There are even two cave pool suites with a whimsical grotto-like appeal.
Guests at Adronis can enjoy dining at the Lauda Restaurant, with a breakfast buffet to start each day. There’s also a spacious sundeck and pool with phenomenal views of the Caldera. Cooking classes, yoga sessions, and private candle-lit dinners can all be organized. The concierge is also always on hand to organize tours and transfers. With such exceptional amenities and decadently designed rooms, Adronis Boutique Hotel is one of the best choices for cave hotels in Santorini with a private pool.
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Fanari Villas
Fanari Villas is a beautiful complex with a picture-perfect view of the Oia windmills. Located across multiple levels of a west-facing part of Oia, the villas offer exceptional views of the sunset. Most suites come furnished with a private spa bath, with one suite boasting an indoor cave jacuzzi. Regardless of the room chosen, guests can admire unobstructed sunset views from the privacy of their balconies. It should be noted that some rooms are only accessible via a long flight of stairs.
The hotel provides amenities including a Greek restaurant with gorgeous views of the windmill. The hotel pool is also half indoors and half out, with the indoor part enveloped in an arched cavern. Overall, Fanari Villas is a top pick among cave hotels in Santorini.
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Dana Villas & Infinity Suites
Dana Villas & Infinity Suites showcase some of the most luxurious cave pools in Santorini. Many of the suites offer indoor cave-style jacuzzis, as well as outdoor infinity pools. And while most other hotels on the list have one or two photogenic cave pools, nearly all of Dana’s suites feature mesmerizing river-like pools and mysterious indoor spas.
Aside from its well-appointed rooms, the resort presents guests with a beautiful pool deck with plenty of sun loungers, Greek and International fare at the on-site restaurant, as well as a pool bar and spa. Dana Villas also enjoys a secluded location just south of Imerovigli, providing guests with an intimate escape from the summer crowds. Without a doubt, it’s an exceptional choice among cave hotels in Santorini with private pools.
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Pegasus Suites & Spa
Tucked away in Imerovigli, Pegasus Suites & Spa has long been one of Santorini’s most elegant upscale hotels. Each suite is perfectly crafted to the surrounding cliffside, in a traditional Cycladic style. Most rooms feature breathtaking views, as well as a plunge pool or jacuzzi. Several of the suites offer cave pools with caldera views, but the Grand Luxury Plunge Pool Suite is home to a completely enclosed cave pool accessible via the bedroom.
The Pegasus Suites & Spa include facilities such as a fitness center, with a spa, sauna, and hammam bath. There’s also a heated outdoor resort pool with a sundeck, restaurant and bar, and a daily breakfast spread. Guests often compliment the secluded location and friendly staff that add to the charm of this beautiful boutique resort. It easily ranks as one of the best cave hotels in Santorini.
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Kasimatis by La Perla
Kasimatis by La Perla is an idyllic retreat perched atop Imerovigli. Its rooms are built in the traditional Cycladic design but with modern amenities like kitchenettes and spa baths. Guests can enjoy lounging in their private outdoor jacuzzi, or indulge in cocktails at the resort’s outdoor pool. There are sunbeds on the terrace, a pool bar, the Amillos restaurant, and spa services available in-room. The concierge can also happily arrange tours ranging from private helicopter flights to yachting and horseback riding. Combining the natural beauty of Imerovigli with impeccable hospitality and sublime accommodations, Kasimatis by La Perla as an exquisite choice for a memorable stay in a Santorini cave hotel.
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Sophia Oia View
Sophia Oia View is one of the most postcard-perfect cave hotels in Santorini. Located just above the famous Blue Domes, guests are treated to enchanting views from the privacy of their rooms (and cave pools). The decor is understated and authentic, with gently curved ceilings and thick whitewashed walls. All 4 of the suites feature private plunge pools, with two offering the classic cave pool aesthetic. That said, not many cave pools on the island have views of the famed blue domes.
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Katikies Chromata Santorini
I stayed at Katikies Chromata Santorini on my last trip to the Cyclades and absolutely loved it. The property is set in Imerovigli, conveniently close to the center of town. Guests will easily recognize the white and grey steps leading down from reception to the pool deck, as it’s become an iconic Santorini photo-op of its own. The rooms are a beautiful blend of modern touches and traditional charm. Each suite opens up to a private balcony with sweeping views, with many offering private plunge pools or jetted tubs. There’s also a sublime resort infinity pool and three restaurants on the property. I was surprised to have such great Japanese food while watching the sunset over the Aegean, but that’s the magic of Chromata.
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Kapari Natural Resort
Kapari Natural Resort is a light and airy property in Imerovigli with unparalleled views of the Aegean Sea. The rooms enjoy a modern Cycladic design, with several suits offering lofted living spaces, private pools, and hot tubs. Even the multi-level suites showcase beautiful sloped walls that create the typical Santorini cave-style ambiance. The hotel offers guests an infinity pool with sun loungers, as well as a Mediterranean restaurant and pool bar. There’s a full American breakfast spread available to all guests, and a 24-hour reception and concierge service. With a prime location and impeccable service, Kapari Natural Resort is a perfect choice for a romantic escape in the Greek islands.
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Kaleidoscope Cave Houses
Kaleidoscope Cave Houses is a boutique property set in the heart of Oia. Each of its charismatic suites features a kitchenette, as well as a private balcony fitted with a plunge pool or hot tub. The White Dome Suite in particular has a cave-style pool with caldera views. Guests rave about the convenient location, spectacular views, and warm welcome from their host, and at a third of the cost of other hotels on the list, it’s easy to see why.
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Sophia Luxury Suites
Last but not least, Sophia Luxury Suites is a remarkable resort set in a secluded part of Imerovigli. The suites feature traditional Cycladic architecture with curved ceilings and minimalist decor. Several of the rooms offer cavernous indoor pools, as well as spectacularly placed hot tubs with caldera views. The cave rooms and suites in particular are an absolute dream. As for amenities, there’s a complimentary breakfast served daily. The property doesn’t have a resort pool, but every suite comes equipped with its own private plunge pool. Considering its dreamy cave pools and picturesque setting, Sophia Luxury Suites provides some of the best value out of all the cave hotels in Santorini.
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Best Time to Visit Santorini
The best time to visit Santorini, Greece, largely depends on your preferences for weather, crowds, and budget. Here’s a breakdown of the different seasons:
Santorini Travel in Spring
(March to May): This is one of the best times to visit Santorini. The weather starts warming up, and you’ll find pleasant temperatures, especially in May. The island is less crowded than during the peak travel season, and prices are more reasonable. The landscape is lush and green from winter rains.
Santorini Travel in Summer
(June to August): This is Santorini’s busiest time of year. The weather is hot and sunny, ideal for swimming in the brisk Aegean Sea. However, it can get extremely crowded, too hot, and its the most expensive time to visit. Make sure to book well in advance if you plan to travel during this time. I visited in August once and it was almost too crowded to enjoy sunset in Oia.
Santorini Travel in Fall
(September to November): September and October are also a great time to visit Santorini. The weather is still warm, and the crowds start to thin out after August. You can still enjoy the beaches, and prices become more reasonable. I visited in Septmeber and easily noticed the smaller crowds and more reasonable prices.
Santorini Travel in Winter
(December to February): This is an alternative time to visit Santorini. The weather is cooler, but it rarely gets extremely cold, with temperatures often staying above 50°F (10°C). Many restaurants and shops close for the season, but you can experience a more authentic and tranquil side of the island.
In summary, the best time to visit Santorini depends on your preferences. If you want warm weather, vibrant nightlife, and a lively atmosphere, then summer is the time to go. For a more peaceful experience with pleasant weather and affordable prices, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring or fall. Winter can be a unique option if you prefer a quieter atmosphere and don’t mind cooler temperatures and reduced options.
Things to do in Santorini
Santorini offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here are some popular things to do on the island:
Watch the Sunset in Oia: Oia is renowned for its breathtaking sunsets. Find a spot along the caldera cliffs or visit the Oia Castle to witness the stunning sunset views over the Aegean Sea.
Explore Fira: The capital of Santorini, Fira, is known for its charming streets, shops, and restaurants. Stroll through the town, enjoy the picturesque views, and visit the Museum of Prehistoric Thira.
Swim at Red Beach: Red Beach is famous for its striking red and black volcanic cliffs and unique scenery. It’s a great spot for swimming and snorkeling.
Visit Akrotiri Archaeological Site: Often referred to as the “Pompeii of the Aegean,” this ancient Minoan city was buried by a volcanic eruption. Explore the well-preserved ruins to learn about Santorini’s history.
Wine Tasting: Santorini is known for its distinctive volcanic wines. Take a wine tour and visit local wineries to taste wines like Assyrtiko, Nykteri, and Vinsanto.
Santorini Beaches: Relax on the island’s beautiful beaches, including Kamari Beach, Perissa Beach, and Perivolos Beach. These beaches offer various water sports and beachfront tavernas.
Hike from Fira to Oia: Enjoy a scenic hike along the caldera cliffs from Fira to Oia. The hike offers stunning vistas of the sea and the island’s architecture.
Boat Tours: Take a boat tour to explore the volcanic islands in the caldera. You can visit Nea Kameni (the volcano), swim in hot springs at Palea Kameni, and enjoy a cruise around the caldera.
Museum of Prehistoric Thira: Located in Fira, this museum houses artifacts from the ancient civilizations that once inhabited Santorini. It’s a great place to delve into the island’s history.
Enjoy Greek Cuisine: Savor the local cuisine at traditional tavernas. Try dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, and fresh seafood. Don’t forget to sample some local desserts like baklava and loukoumades.
Relax at Hot Springs: Take a dip in the hot springs near Palea Kameni island. The naturally heated waters are believed to have therapeutic properties.
Visit Ancient Thira: Explore the ruins of this ancient city perched on a high plateau. It offers historical insights and panoramic views of the island.
Quad Biking and ATV Tours: Rent a quad bike or ATV to explore Santorini’s scenic landscapes and hidden corners at your own pace.
Photograph Blue Dome Churches: Santorini is famous for its iconic blue-domed churches. They are scattered throughout the island and make for beautiful photographs.
Experience the Local Festivals: If your visit coincides with one of the island’s festivals, like the Santorini Jazz Festival or the Feast of Epiphany, join in the celebrations to experience the local culture.
These activities offer a taste of what Santorini has to offer, whether you’re interested in history, nature, or simply relaxing on the beautiful beaches.
Conclusion
That’s it for my complete guide to the Best Cave Hotels in Santorini with private pools! Hopefully, you found exactly what you were looking for. And if you’re interested in other destinations, try my Best Luxury Resorts in the Philippines guide, or my Best 5-Star Resorts In The Maldives guide! Either way, safe travels, and enjoy your time in one of the most romantic islands in the world!