Costa Marina Villas

From its unassuming island architecture, to pretty gardens bursting with colorful flowers, and a lobby scattered with traditional antique furnishings, there's something about the Costa Marina Villas that feels both homey and authentic. The hosts Maria and Marina also provide genuinely warm welcome and attentive hospitality that often goes beyond the norm, while the family-run property is maintained spotlessly clean throughout. There are none of the iconic views out to sea Santorini is famous for, but despite the property's town location the atmosphere is peaceful and relaxing, with some of the higher-level rooms providing glimpses of the sunset and sunrise. 

Costa Marina Villas are situated one street away from the main road of Fira, Santorini's capital and main tourist hub bustling with restaurants, boutiques, and galleries. Despite its convenient location, the property's immediate surrounds are rather quiet and largely residential, looking out over the countryside towards the eastern side of island. The stunning cliff-top views overlooking the caldera can be found about 10 minutes' walk from the hotel, while Santorini Airport takes around the same time by car. Santorini's famed black and red beaches, such as Perissa, Kamari, and Perivolos, are within a 15- to 20-minute drive. 

The hotel's 20 rooms are spread over three floors and vary in size and style. However, all are spotlessly clean and largely decorated in simple, rustic decor with clay-colored tiled floors, antique-style wooden furnishings, wrought-iron beds, and patches of exposed stone in the walls. Rooms on the ground floor have a more modern feel with freshened-up white paint and beautiful bathrooms with carved stone walls and showers. Most of the rooms open to small balconies or terraces with views over the eastern part of the island -- some higher-level rooms see lovely sunrises -- while the rest overlook the inner garden.  All rooms are air-conditioned and provide safes, flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and kettles. Bathrooms are well maintained, though some are small with showers only; others have shower/tub combos. Upper-floor loft rooms, while having nicer views, are at the top of a steep staircase and so not suitable for the mobility impaired.

There's really not much in the way of facilities at the hotel, with no swimming pool, restaurant, or spa. However, a continental breakfast is served each morning in the bright dining room; though not included in the rate, it is cheap and well-reviewed by guests, with a spread of fresh fruit, Greek yogurt, boiled eggs, bread, and pastries. Guests who have hired a car -- which can be done on-site -- will find free parking on the property, while Wi-Fi is also available throughout the property free of charge. There is also a tour desk on-site that can arrange for Santorini excursions, such as boat and bus tours.