Istoria, a Member of Design Hotels, Santorini
With just twelve rooms, a beachfront setting on Santorini's quieter black-sand shore, and a bar where Stelios reads his guests well enough to craft their perfect drink unprompted, Istoria wraps attentive, warmly personal service, the kind that ends with hugs on departure day, around beautifully considered interiors, a pool that often feels entirely your own, and breakfasts of smoothies, bowls, and egg dishes that guests single out as among the finest they've eaten.
How the cosy score works →Why it scores 7.1, from guest reviews
- Only 12 rooms creating intimate, small-scale feel with staff treating guests like family
- Thoughtfully designed interior with harmonious aesthetic details, tasteful decor, and beachfront setting in peaceful location away from crowds
- Warm, personal service with named staff (Stelios, Radula, Marialena) providing attentive banter and genuine connection rather than corporate efficiency
Best for
A strong fit for boutique character, design lovers and peace and quiet. Guests point to only 12 rooms with owner-run character and personal service from named staff treating guests like family, creating an intimate.
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More cosy hotels in Perissa
See the Perissa guide →Frequently asked questions
- Where is Istoria, a Member of Design Hotels, located?
- Istoria is in Perissa, on the quieter eastern coast of Santorini, with direct access to the black sand beach. Guests praise it as a peaceful alternative to the crowded tourist areas of Oia and Fira, yet both are easily reachable by car or taxi.
- How cosy is Istoria, a Member of Design Hotels?
- Istoria scores 7.1/10 for cosiness, reflecting its design-forward, contemporary aesthetic rather than a traditional snug feel. The intimate 12-room property and beachfront setting create a calm, personal atmosphere that guests find deeply relaxing.
- What do guests say about the staff at Istoria, a Member of Design Hotels?
- Staff are consistently praised as exceptionally kind, generous, and attentive. Guests highlight bartender Stelios's ability to intuit preferences and create memorable moments, and note that the team goes above and beyond to accommodate every request.
- Does Istoria, a Member of Design Hotels, have good food and dining?
- Yes, the restaurant and breakfast are described as delicious and perfection by guests. The on-site dining is a genuine highlight, with visitors spending leisurely days enjoying meals by the pool and beach.
- Is Istoria, a Member of Design Hotels, good for relaxation and couples?
- Absolutely. Guests describe it as the best place to decompress and relax, with couples particularly praising the intimate pool area, beachfront location, and spa facilities. The peaceful setting and attentive service make it ideal for unwinding.
- What makes Istoria, a Member of Design Hotels, unique?
- The combination of exceptional design, beachfront location with free black sand beach access, intimate 12-room scale, and genuinely warm hospitality sets it apart. Guests consistently call it the most incredible hotel experience they've had, surpassing expectations set by Santorini's more famous destinations.
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