Curator’s statement
Aressana Spa Hotel and Suites captures the essence of Greek warmth and hospitality in the heart of Fira. With caldera views right outside of the hotel’s doorway, the Aressana is in the center of Santorini’s energy, while exuding a calm, refined atmosphere. More than its location or design, it’s the sense of care and attention from the team that defines the experience and leaves a lasting impression.
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The property
The property is beautiful and impeccably maintained. The pool area is stunning, with comfortable lounge beds and excellent poolside service offering a great menu of food and drinks. The on-site restaurants are lovely as well—the breakfast buffet, in particular, offered a wide variety of delicious options to start the day.
Guest rooms are modern, spotless, and well designed. While some rooms are on the more compact side—typical for a centrally located Santorini hotel—they are comfortable and functional. Thoughtful touches, such as complimentary bottled water refreshed daily, add to the overall sense of ease.
Aressana entranceway
Pool view
The service & hospitality
Above all, the staff made this experience unforgettable—the most helpful, caring, and accommodating team we’ve ever encountered. While we weren’t seeking white-glove service, the team went above and beyond to ensure every detail of our stay, both at the hotel and throughout the island, was enjoyable and memorable.
From the first communication about our arrival to the thoughtful dining and activity recommendations, everything was handled seamlessly. They not only provided great options but also made our reservations, personally confirmed them, and even followed up afterward for feedback. We were greeted by name and treated like family—a level of hospitality that truly set this property apart.
Hotel views
Arrival & getting around
Aressana Hotel & Spa is set within Fira’s pedestrian-only zone, where cars are not permitted to drive directly to the hotel entrance.
To make arrivals as smooth as possible, the hotel offers an optional pickup service from the ferry port. Guests are met and transferred directly to the hotel, with luggage handled along the way. For those arriving in their own rental cars, call the hotel when you are 10 minutes away. A member of the team will meet you with a golf cart to help transport your luggage from the drop-off point to the hotel lobby.
The view right outside of the hotel
Things to do
Hike the caldera: Fira to Oia coastal hike
The six-mile trail is well-marked and considered moderately easy. It typically takes three to five hours depending on pace and stops. Key stops include Firostefani, Imerovigli (don't miss Skaros Rock), and Prophet Elias Church for refreshments. Return to Fira by bus or taxi from Oia. For a more immersive, informative experience, you can opt for a guided hike—especially if you enjoy storytelling, geology, or local lore.
Plan an afternoon at a Santorini winery
Domaine Sigalas: Located in Oia, choose 12, 2 pm, or 6 pm slots for 90-minute wine tasting sessions.
Vassaltis Vineyards: Clean design meets bold volcanic whites. Located in Imerovigli.
Venetsanos Winery: Head to Black Beach in the morning and then plan a trip to Venetsanos in time for sunset views.
Gavalas Winery: One of the oldest wineries in Santorini, located in Megalochori.
Gavalas Winery
Domaine Sigalas Winery
Perissa Beach
No trip to Santorini is complete without a trip to Perissa Beach, Santorini's famous long, black, volcanic-sand beach. The area is vibrant with lots of options for beachfront restaurants, bars, sun beds, and water sports.
Perissa Beach
Akrotiri Ruins and lunch near Red Beach
Tour the prehistoric ruins of Akrotiri, Santorini’s version of Pompeii, then grab lunch by the sea at a taverna near Red Beach.
Lunches or dinners
Armeni Restaurant: Waterfront seafood restaurant just below Oia, at Armeni Bay, only accessible by boat. Complimentary sea transfers included when you book a table.
Metaxi Mas: Hidden taverna in Exo Gonia, known for authentic Greek cuisine.
Ammoudi Fish Tavern: Great for a sunset dinner, beautiful views right on the water, and the most fresh seafood.
Melitinoia: Traditional Greek cuisine in a charming, relaxed taverna located in Oia.
Fine dining or sunset cocktail options
Great for a drink with atmosphere, if you are not game for the full fine-dining experience.
Pacman: A festive, vibrant restaurant located in Oia within Andronis Arcadia.
Botrini's: A culinary gem known for its 13-course degustation menu and captivating panoramic caldera views.
Sunset Lounge in Canaves Oia Resort: Poolside sunset views in one of Santorini's most upscale hotels, the Canaves Oia Epitome.
Sunset views
Need to know
Use taxis and Ubers, and plan ahead. Organize a taxi pickup from Fira beforehand when going to dinner. If you happen to get a good one, get their number and call them whenever you need a ride. Ubers are not as friendly or readily available as in other destinations. Prices are comparable but waits can be long. Planning ahead is key.
Sunsets are the peak moments in Santorini, and everywhere gets crowded. Plan your catamarans, drinks reservations, and winery tours to coincide with sunset so you have somewhere solid to be, and you don't miss it waiting for a table or in traffic somewhere.
For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Greece page.
Travel Advisor
Anjali Augustine
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