The Greece Collection · Issue No. 01
Santorini
The island that introduced the world to Cycladic luxury — and one of the most popular honeymoon destinations in Greece
The Greece Collection · Issue No. 01
The island that introduced the world to Cycladic luxury — and one of the most popular honeymoon destinations in Greece
Santorini is one of those rare destinations that truly lives up to the hype. The secret isn't seeing more, it's slowing down. Wake up early, linger over long lunches, and enjoy the caldera from your own terrace instead of chasing every viewpoint. With the right hotel and itinerary, it's one of the most unforgettable luxury destinations in Europe.
Classic Santorini luxury and iconic sunsets.
The quietest luxury hotels and best honeymoon setting.
Restaurants, nightlife, and central convenience.
An icon of Oia
Some hotels become famous because of their views. Canaves Oia Suites has those, but it's the feeling of staying here that keeps people coming back. Renovated in 2024, the architecture is timeless, the service is polished without feeling formal, and every suite is designed to make the caldera the center of the experience. For a first luxury trip to Santorini, it's one of my easiest recommendations.
Keith’s notes
Don't assume every room has a pool. Unlike Andronis Boutique, private pools and jacuzzis aren't standard across every room category. If that's part of your Santorini vision, book accordingly.
Request a higher-category suite. The suites higher on the caldera offer more privacy than those below.
Don't underestimate the stairs. Even one of Oia's more accessible luxury hotels involves plenty of climbing. The views are worth it, but you'll definitely get your steps in.
The verdict
If someone tells me it's their first trip to Santorini and they want a hotel that's hard to get wrong, Canaves Oia Suites is always near the top of my list. It delivers the classic caldera experience with polished service, beautifully renovated suites, and an atmosphere that feels effortlessly luxurious.
A caldera classic
Few hotels capture the essence of Santorini quite like Andronis Boutique. Set high above Oia's famous footpath, it combines iconic caldera views with genuinely warm hospitality. The atmosphere feels lively without ever becoming crowded, making it one of the easiest hotels to recommend for travelers experiencing Santorini for the first time.
Keith’s notes
Expect a serious workout. Andronis Boutique is spread across the cliffside, with numerous staircases connecting the suites, restaurants, and common areas. If mobility is a concern, this is worth considering before you book.
Reserve dinner at Lycabettus Restaurant. The best tables disappear quickly during peak season.
Not every traveler is looking for the same Santorini. If you'd prefer larger accommodations or a more family-friendly atmosphere, I'd also look at Andronis Arcadia or Andronis Concept. Both maintain the service and design that make the Andronis collection one of my favorites.
The verdict
If I'm planning a Santorini honeymoon for younger couples, this is almost always my first recommendation. It delivers the iconic whitewashed architecture, dramatic caldera views, and lively atmosphere people imagine when they picture the island, while still feeling refined and romantic.
Santorini, reimagined
Located just outside the center of Oia, Canaves Epitome trades the island's busiest footpaths for spacious villas, peaceful surroundings, and some of the best sunsets you'll find anywhere on the island. With everything from one-bedroom villas to expansive two- to five-bedroom residences, it's one of Santorini's strongest options for families and groups traveling together.
Keith’s notes
Book a Pool Villa. The added privacy and indoor-outdoor living define the Epitome experience.
Wander the property's grounds. The gardens are the largest in the Cyclades, and feel a world away from busy Oia.
Make sure to have dinner on property. Omnia was the best meal I had in Greece.
The verdict
If Canaves Oia Suites is Santorini's classic icon, Canaves Epitome is its modern evolution. It's the property I recommend for travelers who want the beauty of Oia but appreciate a little more privacy, space, and a slower pace.
How I'd spend three unforgettable days on Greece's most iconic island.
Keith’s tip
Skip the crowded sunset viewpoints and enjoy golden hour from your hotel instead or via a Private Sunset Cruise.
Want the full hotel-by-hotel breakdown? See Keith's Santorini Hotel Rankings for all 10 properties, ranked.
“Santorini in June” is a complete answer. I’ll take it from there.