The Ultimate Gay Travel Guide
The Gay Passport is your complete Gay Travel Guide. Looking to Drink, Play or Sleep we have reviews to help. Award-winning & Updated 2023.
There isn’t really such a thing as a gay Santorini hotel – the island is not known for its gay scene, and there are no gay venues you’d want to stay close to. That said, many gay visitors on the island choose to stay in the capital of Fira, where you’ll find the island’s best mixed nightlife. The hotels on this list are all in or close to Fira, so you can conveniently enjoy everything the island has to offer.
On Santorini, it’s all about the caldera views. The island was once home to one of the largest volcanic eruptions in history, which created its unique shape. Tall cliffs line the edge of the main island, encircling the caldera (lagoon) formed by the volcano. The sunset over the Santorini caldera is one of the most famous in the world, and people from all over flock to see it. Hotels have wised up to this, so most hotels offer private terraces with sunset views – that said, look out for those with extra perks, like outdoor jacuzzis and hot tubs facing the view, for something truly special.
Santorini isn’t as gay as Mykonos, but it’s still an island that depends almost exclusively on tourism, so gay lovebirds are just as welcome as straight ones. All hotels are gay-friendly and you are unlikely to attract any attention with public displays of affection.
Greece is one of the most progressive countries in Southeast Europe when it comes to gay rights. Same-sex sexual activity has been legal since 1951, gay marriage since 2015, and its hate speech and hate crime legislation is among the most comprehensive in all of Europe.
Most gay travelers to Santorini book hotels in Fira, the largest town on the island and home to the best bars, restaurants, and of course world-class views which Santorini is famous for.
Armenaki Santorini, a 4-star gem in Oia, offers private plunge pools and balconies for a dreamy stay. Ideal for couples, triplets, and friends, the infinity pool is Instagram-ready. Armenaki is popular among gay guys who’re seeking inclusive experience. For those celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a romantic escape, their in-room breakfast and in-suite dining service provide a delectable culinary experience without leaving the comfort of your suite.
If you’re looking for something a bit different from the classic Santorini cave-style rooms, the elegant decor at Amelot Art Suites may be for you. The influence of Cycladic style is still there, but the rooms have been carefully and tastefully decorated with natural materials and unique pieces for a warm yet upscale look. All the suites come with an outdoor private jacuzzi facing the sea – book the Elegant or Honeymoon suite for a caldera view. A delicious breakfast is served every morning in your room or in their lovely courtyard, shaded by olive trees. Amelot Art Suites is adults-only, which makes it particularly peaceful.
This four-star Fira hotel is set in a 19th-century building and features a blend of contemporary and traditional Cycladic design. The rooms feature the classic whitewashed walls and vaulted ceilings that Santorini is famous for, with modern designer touches and luxe furnishings. All have either an indoor or outdoor hot tub. Book the Honeymoon Suite or the Deluxe Suite if you want a caldera view from your room – alternatively, you can enjoy beautiful caldera and volcano views from the sun terrace or the outdoor pool. The Mediterranean food at Don Pascal restaurant is exceptional, and there’s a bar to keep you topped up with wine and cocktails. Mythical Blue Luxury Suites is located in Fira city center, with plenty of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions nearby.
Cosmopolitan Suites is a gem of a boutique hotel that sits on a cliff overlooking the caldera. Its infinity pool, which hangs off the side of the cliff, provides some truly spectacular sunset views (and delicious cocktails from the poolside bar). Best of all, the hotel’s small size (10 rooms overall) ensures an intimate atmosphere – in other words, you won’t have to elbow other tourists out of the way for a spot at the pool. All the rooms and suites are decorated in a contemporary Santorinian style, with the Cycladian trademark all-white color scheme. They are all spacious and bright, and all have a private or semi-private veranda with sea views. We recommend the suites for their hot tubs – the outdoor jacuzzi in the Honeymoon Suite is especially luxurious. The spacious Cosmo Villa sleeps up to six people and is a fantastic option for a group of friends.
Nefeles Luxury Suites is everything you want from a Santorini luxury stay, conveniently located in Fira city center. Perched on top of the cliffs that surround the caldera and directly facing the volcano, you are guaranteed spectacular sunset views from your suite. Indeed, every suite has a private jacuzzi pool overlooking the water, and they are all gorgeously designed with classic Santorini-style whitewashed walls. For something truly special, book the Cave Suite with its vaulted ceiling or the Honeymoon Villa for increased privacy The Grand Suite, meanwhile, is ideal for a group of four. Extra touches like Caudalie toiletries and breakfast served in your private terrace every morning elevate the experience. Best of all, the nightlife, culture, and nature of Santorini is right at your doorstep.
Aperto Suites is located on the cliffs of Fira, facing the caldera and the volcano. This adults-only boutique hotel has a lovely intimate vibe, with only 7 suites in the property. These range from classic cave-style suites to a spacious four-person Honeymoon Suite. Many have outdoor hot tubs on their terrace, most facing the caldera. Breakfast is brought to your room in the morning, and the service is exceptionally personal and attentive. The hotel is surrounded by bars, restaurants, and local sights.
Azzurro Suites is located between Fira and the island port of Ormos Athinios, on the cliffside that encircles the caldera. This makes it a little quieter than the hotels in town, while still being a short 5-minute drive to Fira. The suites here have a more contemporary edge than a lot of the cave-style rooms in Santorini, but there is still a gorgeous Cave Suite available for traditionalists. Many of the suites, including the Cave Suite, sleep up to four people, so there is plenty of choice if you’re in a group. Most suites have either a jetted tub or a plunge pool, and all have caldera views. There are two freshwater pools on-site, an infinity pool overlooking the caldera and a sundeck pool. Plus, the lounge bar and restaurant offer exceptional views from the top of the hotel.
The Gay Passport is your complete Gay Travel Guide. Looking to Drink, Play or Sleep we have reviews to help. Award-winning & Updated 2023.