Aegean Plaza Hotel

The Aegean Plaza Hotel appeals largely to couples, and some families, for the appealing rooms and grounds, as well as the convenient location. The pleasant grounds have the typical whitewashed Cycladic look, plus added charm from stone accent walls and bright bougainvillea cascading down. Three-story buildings with no elevators and stairs to get to some areas may present difficulty for those with mobility issues. The design throughout is bright and breezy, using lots of light-wood furniture, beige or pale-blue fabrics, and gray marble. The overall vibe is definitely relaxing, though the hotel is popular with wedding parties, which sometimes leads to larger, noisier groups than guests might prefer.

This hotel is situated on the eastern coast of Santorini, a few minutes’ walk from the black beach of Kamari. It is in a quiet area with a supermarket, a quad or car rental, and a tavern across the street. A three-minute walk will bring guests to the promenade with many restaurants and shops, plus access to the pebbly beach. From the hotel, it is an 11-minute walk or a three-minute drive to a fun open-air movie theater. For those who can handle mountainous walking, the ruins at Ancient Thera are a worthwhile trip; it's a 14-minute drive to the parking area, followed by a 15-minute walk up hills and stairs. The capital city of Fira is a 15-minute drive from the hotel. It is a four-minute walk from the front of the hotel to the nearest public bus stop. Santorini Airport is a 9-minute drive from the hotel, and the port is 20 minutes away.

Spacious rooms have a simple but pleasant design with pale grays and blues against white walls and light-wood furniture. Striped pillows and island artwork add a bit of embellishment. Furnished balconies and terraces are standard and have views of the pool or city. Rooms are clean and comfortable with a double bed or two twins, sleeper sofa, wardrobe, and desk, as well as a mini-fridge (a minibar is available on request), a flat-screen satellite TV, and a free safe. Upgrades include options for a kitchenette or a separate living room, and space for up to five people. Attractive bathrooms have gray-blue walls and a light-wood vanity with a stone vessel sink. The shower stall is walled but doorless, so spray from the rainfall showerhead may wet the floor. A hairdryer and free soap, shampoo, and shower gel are provided.

There aren't a ton of facilities on-site -- no kids' club or spa -- but what's on offer is good quality. The main outdoor pool is a lovely spot, with a hot tub in one corner and a separate wading pool for kids to the side. Wooden sunbeds are provided under beige umbrellas are free. With seating for the restaurant and pool bar nearby, the area can get busy. Two smaller pools in other areas of the hotel offer a quieter atmosphere, and pool towels are provided with a deposit. 

A section of the lobby has a small indoor dining area, with a patio offering poolside seating. Guests find the free breakfast yummy, offering the usual continental fare plus some hot items. A half-board option can be purchased, and the pool bar offers light meals for lunch and dinner. There is a small gym with limited equipment and a sauna available to guests. Wi-Fi is free, but the signal is primarily reliable in the lobby and around the pool.