Aigialos Luxury Traditional Settlement

The Aigialos Luxury Traditional Settlement consists of fifteen renovated neoclassical houses that were originally the fine homes of the island's noble captain families. The architecture and design of the houses bring to life the traditional way of life of the island's nobility. Situated on the rim of the caldera, sheer cliffs that rise from the sea, the hotel overlooks the island's famed volcano. It is located on the quiet side of the town of Fira but only a 3-minute walk to the bustling center where all the shops, restaurants, and museums are.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS - FAQ

Q: What is the best way to make a reservation?

A: You can reserve directly and securely on our website or via trusted booking platforms. Booking direct often allows for special offers and better flexibility. You can always ask to us to match a better rate found on another website.

Q: What is your cancellation policy?

A: The cancellation terms depend on the rate you select. For fully refundable rates the cancellation deadline is specified at booking; please review the terms of your chosen rate.

Q: Can I request a particular residence or room type?

A: Yes — during booking you may select your preferred category (e.g., Volcano view suite, Superior residence) and even request us to assign a specific room within that category, if so desired. We will try to accommodate your preference subject to availability.

Q: What time is check-in?

A: Check-in begins at 15:00.

Q: What time is check-out?

A: Check-out is at 11:00.

Q: Is late check-out or early check-in possible?

A: We will do our best to accommodate requests for early arrival or late departure, subject to availability and may incur an additional charge. If you provide us with your arrival time in advance, we will do our best to prioritize housekeeping tasks to match these requests.

Q: Where is the hotel located?

A: Aigialos is situated in Fira, Santorini, perched on the Caldera rim. We are located very close to the town center and only 200 meters from the transfer drop off point.

Q: How far is the airport or ferry terminal?

A: From Santorini (Thira) Airport (JTR) it’s approximately a 13-minute drive (5,6 km). From the port, it is a 17-minute drive (7,5km). Please contact us in advance to help with your transfer arrangements.  

Q: Is parking available?

A: There is no on-site parking as the hotel is located on the caldera cliff. Free off-site parking is available nearby (150 meters and 300 meters). Please note that parking spaces are limited, especially during peak season.

Q: Is it advisable to rent a car while visiting Santorini?

A: It really depends on the season. During the early and late summer periods, having a rental car available can be great fun as it provides the freedom in moving around between beaches, cultural sites, villages, and wineries. Renting from a trustworthy agency and one that is close by the hotel are important.

Q: What is the character of the suites/residences?

A: The hotel is composed of 18th- and 19th-century neoclassical houses, restored into luxurious residences with traditional architecture, marble floors, antiques, and modern amenities.

Q: Do all rooms have Caldera or sea-view?

A: All the residences and suites offer balconies or terraces overlooking the Caldera and Aegean Sea. Most of the rooms offer a volcano and/or sunset view as well.

Q: Do all rooms have private balconies?

A: The majority of the residences and suites offer private balconies or terraces. Only the Superior Residences and the Authentic Santorinia Residences offer a shared terrace.

Q: Are connecting or family rooms available?

A: The hotel has one family room, the Mansion Sunset View, which offers two bedrooms and two bathrooms, a large living area and a spacious private terrace with stunning views. Certain other room categories, like the Authentic Santorinia Residence also offer accommodation for extra persons on traditional sofas that are turned into sofa beds for the night.

Q: Is there a swimming pool?

A: Yes, a small outdoor plunge pool is available by the restaurant area close to the reception. One can enjoy a refreshing drink from the bar as well.

Q: Do you have a restaurant and breakfast service?

A: Yes — we provide à la carte breakfast and have a restaurant offering Mediterranean cuisine. Guests often highlight the breakfast service from their balcony. Please check with the Reception for the Restaurant operating period and hours. It can be that early in the season the Restaurant service is not available.

Q: Is room service available?

A: Yes — room service is available during restaurant operating hours. Outside of those hours, the receptionist on duty would be able to offer drinks and beverages.

Q: Do you have spa / wellness facilities?

A: While Aigialos is primarily a luxury boutique residence rather than a full-scale spa resort, spa treatments can be arranged on request either with a in room therapy or to a close by spa.

Q: Is WiFi included?

A: Yes — complimentary WiFi is available throughout the property.

Q: Is the hotel suitable for children?

A: The hotel’s nature, steep paths and historic architecture mean it may be less suited for families with very young children or infants. For this reason, we accept children over the age of 6. Please contact us to discuss suitability for your family’s specific needs. Guest reviews mention steep steps and caution for younger children.

Q: Are extra beds or cots available?

A: Extra beds may be provided in selected room types on request. Please contact us ahead of your stay for arrangements. Baby cots are not available as we accept children over the age of six.

Q: Are pets permitted?

A: No – the hotel does not allow pets.

Q: Are there elevators? Are rooms suitable for guests with mobility issues?

A: Due to the historic nature and cliffside location of the property, there are numerous steps and no elevator access. Guests with mobility concerns should contact us ahead of time so we can discuss the most appropriate residence.

Q: Is the path to the hotel steep or challenging?

A: Compared to other cliffside properties, the Aigialos Hotel has very easy access, with a limited number of steps to reach it from the transfer drop off point. However, as there are inclines and steps in and around the property, we suggest you contact us with specific concerns. Reviews advise a degree of caution, especially for those less mobile.

Q: Can special dietary requirements be catered for?

A: Yes — the kitchen team is experienced in accommodating dietary needs (e.g., gluten-free, vegetarian). One guest specifically mentioned a coeliac-friendly dinner prepared by the chef.

Q: Is breakfast included in the rate?

A: It depends on the selected reservation rate. Most guests opt for including breakfast in their rate as the experience of the breakfast served to your balcony or terrace with the caldera view is rather unique and special.

Q: What kind of view can I expect?

A: Most of our rooms offer unobstructed views of the caldera and the volcano, with balconies or terraces ideal for sunset watching. Guest feedback consistently emphasizes phenomenal views.

Q: How far is the hotel from the town center, restaurants and museums?

A: The hotel is located on the edge of Fira town, but only a 3-minute walk from all the shops, restaurants and museums. Guests mention quiet yet central positioning.

Q: Is a city tax payable? What other taxes are payable?

A: Yes — a city tax (0.5%) is imposed by the municipality and included in the rate. VAT (13%) is also included in the rate. A recently imposed Environmental Tax is not included in the rate and is payable at the property. The tax amount depends on the hotel category. During the reservation process, you will be advised of the current amount.

Q: Are rates inclusive of VAT and service?

A: Room rates include VAT but not service fees or gratuity.

Q: Do you offer airport or ferry terminal transfers?

A: Yes — we can arrange transfers from the airport or ferry terminal upon request (usually at additional cost). Please advise your arrival details in advance (especially during peak season). There are options for the type of transfer (private, shared, limo, taxi)

Q: How can I explore Santorini from the hotel?

A: From Fira you have access to buses and taxis. The hotel can also assist in organizing excursions (volcano tours, sunset cruises, winery tours, photo tours, walking tours, and island tours), car/motorbike hire, and other activities.

Q: What is your opening period?

A: The hotel operates seasonally from April through October. But the exact opening dates usually depend on Easter holiday as this is a major factor in demand. Should you wish to visit outside that window, please contact us for exact availability.

Q: Are rooms available year-round?

A: The hotel closes for the winter period (Nov-Mar). If, however, one is interested in renting a room year-round, we recommend you contact us directly for further details.

Q: What happens if I cancel late or do not show?

A: The specific cancellation/no-show charges depend on the rate booked. Please consult your reservation terms. Standard policy applies in accordance with Greek hospitality regulations.

Q: What if my arrival is delayed or I miss the ferry/flight?

A: Please inform us as soon as you know of changes in your arrival schedule—we will assist in coordinating your check-in accordingly.

Q: Is smoking permitted in rooms?

A: No — the property is non-smoking.

Q: Are there events or weddings hosted on-site?

A: Yes — the hotel can host intimate weddings and special events; please contact us for details and available packages.

Q: Can I arrive by cruise ship?

A: Yes — the hotel is accessible from the main port or cruise terminal via taxi or organized transfer. We recommend arranging your arrival transport in advance to avoid congestion or delays. The port can get very busy at times – especially during peak season.

Q: Are there any access limitations for the pool?

A: Plunge Pool access is included for registered guests. As the hotel is boutique scale and built within traditional architecture, some spaces may have limited capacity—please check with us in advance for specific group requests. The plunge pool operating hours are 11:00-19:00 but please do check with us for specific requests.

Q: Is daily housekeeping provided?

A: Yes, we offer daily housekeeping services.

Q: Is there a luggage storage option before check-in or after check-out?

A: We offer limited luggage storage. Please let us know in advance if you'll need this service.

Q: Do the suites have a kitchen?

A: No, the residences and suites at Aigialos Hotel do not have a kitchen. They have a mini-fridge and a tea and coffee station.

Q: How can we order breakfast?

A: We offer breakfast at the restaurant and room service. Hand in your completed breakfast order at the reception by 21:00 the day before. Your breakfast will be delivered to your room, at your requested time slot.

Q: What amenities are included in the room?

A: All our guestrooms are equipped with controlled air-conditioning, an in-room safe, bathroom amenities, coffee & tea facilities, a mini fridge, satellite TV, hairdryer, and an iron and ironing board.

Q: Does the hotel offer medical services?

A: Please contact the reception should you require medical services or a doctor’s visit, which can be arranged with an additional cost.

Q: What are useful telephone numbers in case of an emergency

A: Please note that the European emergency number is 112 and addresses all types of emergencies.  This number is accessible from any mobile phone.

Q: My flight leaves early in the day; will it be possible to have breakfast?

A: Breakfast is served every morning from 08:00 to 11:00am. If you are checking out before 08:00, we can prepare a packaged breakfast for you, served on complimentary basis. Please inform us at the Reception the day before to allow arrangements to be made.

Q: How do I get to the hotel?

A: Directions can be found on the Location page but also on Google maps. The reception can also send you a whatsapp location link.

Q: How close is the hotel to the main tourist and cultural sites?

A: Aigialos Hotel is located very close to the center of Fira where the museums and shops are located. Top attractions on Santorini such as the villages, prehistoric Thera, the archaeological museum at Akrotiri, and the beaches, are all reachable by car within 30 minutes most.

Q: I made a reservation but did not receive any confirmation. What should I do?

A: Before completing your reservation, please ensure that your e-mail address has been entered correctly. An incorrect e-mail address is the most common reason guests do not receive their booking confirmation. Occasionally, our e-mails may also be delivered to your “Spam” or “Junk” folder, so please remember to check there as well. If you still haven’t received your confirmation, feel free to contact us by e-mail or phone — our team will be happy to assist you and resolve the issue promptly.

Q: What proof of identification do I need to provide at check-in?

A: It is required that you present your passport, identification card, or driving license upon check-in. Your booking confirmation number will also be helpful.

Q: Do you provide bathroom amenities/toiletries?

A: We offer hand and body wash, shampoo, conditioner, and hand soap. Should you require anything else please let us know in advance. The reception can also provide a toothbrush and toothpaste, and other essentials.

Q: Does the Hotel offer facilities and rooms for disabled people?

A: The Aigialos Hotel does not offer suites suitable for guests with disabilities due to the limitations of the location.

Q: How large are the Aigialos Hotel residences and suites?

A: All the rooms are different because they are restored 19th century residences. The sizes vary from 28sqm to 72sqm – the largest one being the Mansion Sunset View suite. And our smallest guestroom is the Premier Residence which happens to be one of our most popular rooms due to its romantic balcony.

Q: Do the Aigialos guestrooms have double or twin beds?

A: All of the guestrooms at the Aigialos Hotel offer double beds (both queen and king size) but certain beds can be made into twin beds if so requested. Please let us know in advance of any such preferences. In Residences and Suites that can accommodate more than 2 people there is a provision for sofa beds.

Q: Which rooms at Aigialos have the best view?

A: The rooms at Aigialos with the best view are those located higher up in the complex and have their own private balcony or terrace. The Panoramic Suites and Volcano Suites offer stunning views of the caldera, the volcano, and the sunset.

Q: Which rooms offer a sunset view?

A: The Premier Residence, the Panoramic Suites, the Ambassador’s Suite, and the Mansion, all offer a sunset view. One should keep in mind that the sun sets in a different position as the summer progresses. The best period for a sunset view is both early ad late in the summer as the sun sets directly in front of the hotel.

Q: Which are the quietest rooms at the hotel?

A: The quietest rooms are those closer to the church. More specifically, the Ambassador’s Suite, the Mansion, and some of the Panoramic Suites. Do let us know in advance for any concerns that you may have.

Q: Why should I choose Aigialos Hotel for my stay in Santorini?

A: Aigialos Hotel is an exceptional choice for travelers seeking an authentic, peaceful, and elegant Santorini experience. Here are the main reasons why guests consistently choose — and recommend — Aigialos:

1. Unmatched Caldera Location (Quiet yet Central)

• Perched directly on the Caldera rim with unobstructed sea and sunset views.
• Located in the quietest part of Fira, away from crowds and noise.
• Only a few minutes’ walk to restaurants, shops, museums, and the town center.

2. Unique Historic Architecture

• A collection of restored 18th–19th century neoclassical houses, each one a piece of Santorini history.
• Rooms preserve original architectural elements, offering an atmosphere you won’t find in modern hotels.
• Recognized as a “Traditional Luxury Settlement,” offering a boutique, heritage-style experience.

3. Spacious Residences Instead of Standard Rooms

• Each accommodation is a private residence — larger, more characterful, and more exclusive.
• Many offer balconies or terraces directly facing the Caldera.
• Ideal for couples, honeymooners, and guests seeking privacy and tranquility.

4. Exceptional Views from Every Angle

• Guests consistently praise the panoramic volcano and sea views, both from rooms and shared spaces.
• Many suites have balconies positioned perfectly for sunset.

5. Authentic Greek Hospitality

• A warm, attentive team known for personalized service, insider recommendations, and genuine care.
• Reviews frequently highlight the staff’s friendliness, professionalism, and ability to anticipate guest needs.

6. Privacy, Peace & Romantic Atmosphere

• Boutique scale, with just a handful of residences.
• Quiet surroundings, ideal for honeymooners and couples.
• No crowded pool areas or busy corridors — calm, intimate, and serene.

7. High-Quality Mediterranean Dining

• À la carte breakfast served on your private balcony overlooking the sea.
• Traditional Greek and Mediterranean cuisine focusing on seasonal local ingredients.

8. A True Sense of Place

• Staying at Aigialos feels like living in a historic Santorini neighborhood, not just a hotel.
• The architecture, design, and atmosphere reflect authentic island life, not a generic resort.

9. Perfect Base for Exploring the Island

• Walkable access to Fira’s attractions, buses, hiking paths (including Fira–Oia trail), and shops.
• Easy to arrange transfers, car rentals, or island excursions.
• 100 meters form transfer drop-off and pick-up point.

10. Award-Winning Boutique Experience

• Recognized by international travel publications for its charm, history, and service.
• Highly rated by past guests for comfort, cleanliness, location, and staff attentiveness.

11. Ideal for Travelers Who Appreciate Character & Elegance

Choose Aigialos if you value:

• Authentic local architecture
• Caldera-facing private balconies
• Calm surroundings with central access
• Historic charm blended with modern comfort
• Personalized, heartfelt hospitality