Merovigliosso Apartments

Santorini's breathtaking calderas attract travelers from across the globe, and prices are steep in hotels directly overlooking this Aegean Sea basin; that's what makes reasonable rates at the Merovigliosso Apartments attractive. Its location across the street from the cascading waterfront isn't the region's best, but the property still packs in good views. Sunsets are beautiful from a communal terrace around the small plunge pool, and tables allow visitors to take the free breakfasts outside. There are few amenities here, but the family owners receive praise and decor throughout is quaint and traditional. Exposed stone and flowering plants outside take on Cycladic accents inside, where pastels, whites, and woods are simple, but attractive. Relatively few steps here are a change from Santorini's often challenging layouts. Kids are welcome, but the property's romantic vibe is best-suited to adults.

While postcard-perfect views are reserved for pricier properties nearby, the hotel's location still has a lot going for it. Practical bonuses include crossing the street for jaw-dropping calderas, and five-minute walks lead to tavernas, supermarkets, and a bus stop with routes around the island, Fira, and Oia. Many guests opt for scenic walks to Fira's town and museums, where coastal footpaths take 30 minutes, or close to two hours for Oia's spectacular sunsets. Beaches are around a half-hour drive, although busses from Fira run to them. Santorini Airport is an 18-minute drive. The free parking lot fronting the property is convenient, though not the most scenic, and noise from it can reach rooms.

Pleasant studios and apartments are outfitted in traditional Greek style. Upgraded categories are typically Cycladic, with white stucco, sleek lighting, cuboid accents, and arches, plus split-level layouts in some. Alternatively, Studios have more cozy mixes of cream, wood, exposed stone, island paintwork, and/or canopied beds, but entry-level rooms lack views. All units benefit from dining areas and furnished outdoor spaces, alongside welcome wine, scented candles, satellite flat-screen TVs, AC, safes, and free Wi-Fi. 

Kitchenettes also come standard, with electric hot plates, kettles, coffeemakers, mini-fridges, and cookware. Apartments add microwaves and seating areas, and some offer loft bedrooms, in-room whirlpools, or a second bathroom. Bathrooms are attractive across the board, with marble or mosaic tiling, showers, and toiletries. Higher-category rooms add slippers, robes, and rainfall showers. Note, rooms are subject to vehicle noise, especially early in the morning.

You won't find extensive features at the Merovigliosso Apartments, but offerings are reasonable for the low rate. Served in-room or on the charming poolside terrace, free breakfasts offer toasted cheese/ham sandwiches, fresh-baked pastries, Greek yogurts, and fresh fruit, plus tea, coffee, and juice. No other meals or drinks are offered, although kind gestures of free evening nibbles or welcome snacks are fairly common. Although many guests spend their days out, the small outdoor pool is a refreshing, sun-filled spot, and a terrace here has marble-topped tables alongside wooden chairs. Sadly, there are no loungers. Views encompassing traditional exposed stone extend to the sea and caldera here, although they're not the stereotypical waterfront vistas most associate with the region. Port/airport transfers are free with a minimum three-night stay, although much like the freebie nibbles, guests often find family owners ready and waiting for them at the port or airport. Pets are not permitted. Parking right outside is free, and Wi-Fi is free throughout.