Celestia Grand Villas in Mesaria, Santorini

Essentials
• Location: The property is situated 3 km south of Fira with expansive views of the caldera and sunsets.
• Map
• Hotel website: celestiagrand.com
• Hotel phone: +30 22860 25900
• Check costs for Celestia Grand

Hotel Review

Celestia Grand – A luxurious collection of villas with private pools and direct sunset views in a quiet neighborhood south of Fira.

Celestia Grand offers seven luxuriously furnished villas, all with kitchenettes, spacious terraces, caldera views, and private, heated pools. All have indoor hot tubs; some add outdoor hot tubs. Villas vary from studio up to two-bedroom devices, with some villas divided over two floors. Each villa is completely unique, built in a classic, Cycladic style that incorporates the island’s natural landscape with hand-sculpted ceilings, lava rock walls, and whitewashed stucco. Five-star perks include airport and port transfer, an all-day shuttle to Fira, and daily breakfast delivery. VIP services include helicopter charters, private caldera cruises, and personal chef service).

See Also

• The Top Accommodations in Santorini
• Where to Lodge in Santorini
• Top activities and experiences in Santorini

Celestia Grand – Location

• Location: Celestia Grand is situated about 2.5 km from Fira in Mesaria (occasionally called South Fira), with broad views over the caldera and stunning sunsets. The Mesaria area is a central location for exploring all that Santorini offers, with nightlife, dining, wine country, traditional villages, and ancient ruins all within a 5 to 15-minute drive.

• How to Get There:
Celestia Grand offers complimentary airport or port transfer for all guests, making it the best and easiest way to get to the villas. The villas sit above the caldera in South Fira on the main road connecting Fira with the rest of the island, allowing easy access via bus, taxi, or personal vehicle. It is roughly 5 kilometers from the Athinios ferry port and 5 kilometers from the Santorini Airport to the hotel There are always public transportation options waiting at the ferry port for every ferry arrival, as well as buses departing periodically from Santorini Airport. The bus from the ferry port passes near the hotel; inquire to be dropped off at Volcano View (the hotel next door). The bus from the airport will stop in Fira, where riders must disembark to catch a second bus heading south to reach the Volcano View stop. A bus from the port to Celestia Grand may take somewhere between 20 to 30 minutes, while the complete bus trip from the airport to Celestia Grand could potentially require over an hour. (Of course, you could also take public transportation to the Fira station, then take a taxi to the hotel.) “

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For those preferring to drive themselves, we recommend renting a vehicle either at the airport upon arrival, or in Fira. The road from the ferry port is steep and narrow, with many tricky turns, large trucks, and buses. Leave that route for the locals to navigate. We strongly advise reserving a car ahead of time, especially if you require automatic transmission. Upon arrival at Celestia Grand, each villa has its own dedicated parking space (a major advantage).

— Handy to: Fira nightlife, dining, and shopping, vine country, and Pyrgos traditional village.

Map of Celestia Grand

Celestia Grand – The Basics

• Ages: This property welcomes guests of all ages and also allows pets. Visitors typically include couples and families, with most families traveling during the summer months.
• Coastline: The closest coastline is Exo Gialos, a secluded, black sand coastline with intriguing wind-fashioned cliffs at its southern conclusion. The best beach club and bistro there is East Breeze, just a few meters from the cliffs. The north conclusion has a little harbor and an additional excellent beach club and bistro called Yalos. From the lodging, it’s a brief 6 km drive to the north conclusion or 5 km to the south conclusion, where the cliffs are. For a special coastline experience, visit Caldera Beach, which is the only coastline in Santorini’s caldera. This coastline is more serene and remote than Exo Gialos, though that means few services – just 1 bistro and a dive shop. Caldera Beach is 7 km away. Kamari Beach, 7 km southeast, is the best structured coastline nearby. Kamari is very popular with families, with several beach clubs, bistros, and affordable umbrella and lounge chair rentals.
• Perspective: Truly amazing views over the caldera, centered on the volcanoes with sights from Akrotiri all the way to Oia. Each villa has an unblocked, direct sunset perspective.
• Everything can be managed through a single app.
• Private Pools/Jacuzzis: All villas feature private, heated swimming pools. The Junior Villa has the smallest: a plunge pool equipped with hot tub jets. Artemis and Sapphire villas add outdoor hot tubs. All other suites have indoor jetted bathtubs.
• Parking: Each villa comes with its own dedicated parking space.
• Added Amenities: Airport/port transfer, complimentary shuttle to Fira from 9:15 a.m. until 10:00 p.m., 24-hour reception, 24-hour concierge, in-room massage, breakfast delivery, weddings and events, VIP services.
• When to Book: The hotel normally operates from early April through late October. Reserve at least four months in advance (six is preferable) for stays during the busy season of June through September, and around two months ahead for the off and shoulder periods.
• Booking Method: Booking.com will provide the most favorable rates.
• Phone: +30 22860 25900
• Email: [email protected]
• Website:celestiagrand.com

Celestia Grand – Amenities

• Pool Facilities: Private pools are featured at each villa rather than a shared pool.
• Spa: In-room spa services are available upon request, though no day spa facilities are present.
• Health Club: No gymnasium. In-room private trainers available upon request.
• For Guests With Mobility Needs: Most of the suites in this caldera property are spread across multiple levels accessible by stairs. There is no elevator on site. This hotel is suitable for guests with mild mobility limitations; the Junior and Honeymoon Villas involve the fewest staircases.
• For Family Units: This location is accommodating for all age groups, and guests regardless of age are welcome. All living arrangements can house at minimum 3 visitors, though the more expansive 2-bedroom villas – Ianthi, Aphrodite, Artemis, and Sapphire – are better adapted for larger social gatherings. Amenities and services aimed toward families include high chairs, infant cots, and childcare upon request. Medical care is also available on call.
• Activities: The contact person is on call round-the-clock to organize any experience, from wine tastings to caldera cruises and beyond. Premium Services comprise helicopter tours, island bouncing, private boating, and more.

Celestia Grand – Food and Drink

• Restaurant: No restaurant onsite, but private, candlelit dinners can be arranged, or a personal chef can prepare any meals.
• Lounge/Bar: No bar area, but any drink request (especially wine) can be supplied by room service.
• Breakfast: Complimentary, a la carte breakfast is delivered to each villa daily at the time of your choosing.
• Room Service: Available 16 hours daily.

Celestia Grand – Rooms

• Room Types: Junior Villa – Erotas Villa – Superior Honeymoon Villa – Ianthi Villa – Artemis Villa – Aphrodite Villa – Sapphire Villa
• Smoking Rooms: The hotel does not allow smoking in any of their room categories. It is permitted on the private outdoor terraces and in the outdoor common areas.
• Premium Accommodation: Each villa provides an incredible experience, however the Sapphire Villa is considered the top option. This two bedroom, two bathroom property boasts the largest exterior area with the finest views onsite. Like the other villas, it features an enclosed, heated aquatic area but adds an expansive cave-like hot tub that allows awe-inspiring panoramas with enhanced solitude. The second lavatory contains a hydrotherapy tub.
• For Families: This property is family-friendly and welcomes all ages as well as pets. All villas can host at minimum 3 guests, but the best options for families are the 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom villas that accommodate up to 5 guests such as Sapphire described earlier. Similar to Sapphire, Artemis offers a private swimming pool and outdoor hot tub with a hydrotherapy tub in one bathroom. Aphrodite is comparable, but rather than an outdoor hot tub it has hydrotherapy tubs in both bathrooms. Ianthi is similar to Aphrodite with its two indoor hot tubs, but Ianthi also has the option to attach to the Junior Villa to sleep 3 additional guests for a total of 8. Connecting to the Junior Villa adds an extra outdoor heated jetted plunge pool.

Celestia Grand – Local Transport

• Walking: The hotel is situated approximately 4 kilometers south of Fira at the edge of the caldera, and there is not much within walking distance of the hotel. Celestia Grand offers a complimentary shuttle into Fira from 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m., permitting guests ample time to dine, shop, and immerse themselves in the attractions. For late nights out, for exploring further afield across the island, or for longer visits, renting a vehicle or booking taxis is most suitable for getting around.
• Public transportation: The hotel provides complimentary shuttle service to Fira from 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. Outside of these hours, you may catch the bus at the unofficial stop located directly in front of the hotel. If traveling northward, take the bus in front of the nearby minimarket and ride to the Central Bus Terminal in Fira. All routes to the airport, additional villages, and most beach destinations require a transfer in Fira. When returning, inform the driver to stop at Volcano View, which is the adjacent hotel. If heading south towards the port, you can flag down the bus from Volcano View. Fares are purchased aboard and range from €1.80 to €2.50 per person usually, relying on the route. Night buses (12:30 a.m. to 5:00 a.m.) operate less regularly and cost a bit more, from €2.30 to €3.10. Buses can get very busy, especially in high season, so much that they often fill to full capacity, and are unable to pick up more passengers. There are simply 23 public buses providing transportation across the island.
• Transportation options: The closest taxi stand is at Stathmos Taxi in Fira, about 33 minutes’ walk away, so not very practical. There is often a wait here as there are only 25 vehicles serving the entire island (with guests from about 1,000 accommodations). Book ahead to avoid waiting, and have the driver meet you directly at the hotel location. There will be a small additional charge for advance reservations and for carrying luggage, usually just a couple of Euros. The average rate from the hotel to the port is around €10, and from the hotel to the airport is around €25.
• Motorbikes: Locals commonly use motor scooters as transport, but unfamiliar roads present hazards. Thoroughfares zigzag steeply upwards and downwards on narrow paths sometimes without guardrails or nighttime illumination. Unpaved trails and potholes are common.
• ATVs/Quads: ATVs are an enjoyable and popular method of transportation with visitors, but for the locals required to drive behind them, they maneuver too gradually and hold up traffic in an area where moving around is already challenging. For individuals who don’t routinely ride quads (i.e. most people), they can be risky at high speeds and on turns. Crashed your ATV is a guaranteed way to ruin your vacation.

Celestia Grand – What’s Nearby?

Best Nearby Restaurants

• Caldera Restaurant: Upmarket, local fare with an excellent wine list and breathtaking sunset views at their sister property Volcano View.
• Elia Restaurant: Fine dining restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine with spectacular caldera views at their sister property Petit Palace.
• Metaxi Mas Taverna: The finest restaurant in Santorini. Metaxi Mas cooks wealthy, delicious, Santorinian and Cretan recipes paired with local wine and raki in a homestyle, authentic tavern.
• Lucky’s Souvlakis: Without question the finest gyro sandwiches available in Santorini. Eating at Lucky’s is absolutely essential for any visitor to Santorini. Authentic, filling meals at affordable prices.

The venue serving small plates offers innovative regional dishes and Mediterranean options

• Falafeland: Top-tier plant-based street cuisine establishment with truly excellent falafel and veggie burgers, and a cozy outdoor area for dining. A handful of dishes containing meat are also available here but are made separately from the vegetarian/vegan options.
• Pelican Kipos: Stellar restaurant specializing in wine with over 600 varieties of local and imported wines served in a charming garden atmosphere. Wine tastings and cellar tours are offered daily.
• Mikrolimano Marina – Another, smaller, scenic marina filled with small fishing boats and luxury yachts. The boardwalk is lined with pricey fish restaurants that cater to visitors (such as the Michelin star restaurant Varoulko by the Sea).
• Aktaion: The oldest restaurant on the island, Aktaion has been serving authentic Santorinian dishes since 1922.

Best Nearby Bars and Breweries

• Franco’s Bar: Franco’s possesses two spots, one particular in Fira and yet another in Pyrgos. Both bars are nicely-liked for their breathtaking sundown views and delightful beverages. Franco’s Fira overlooks the caldera centered on the volcano, and Franco’s Pyrgos is on the highest point of the island, with expansive views over all of Santorini. The Pyrgos bar is a 7-minute drive away, while the Fira bar is a 15-minute drive.
• Pike Brewing Tour & Tasting – Outstanding brewery tour of this famous Pike Place Market establishment. (Regrettably, temporarily suspended as of October, 2023.)
• Tango Champagne and Cocktail Bar: Refined lounge with an elegant atmosphere and scenic views of sunsets.
• Kira Thira Jazz Bar: A Santorinian standby since 1976, Kira Thira is a cozy, casual bar with fantastic sangria, strong drinks, and an eclectic selection of music.
• Tropical Bar: Great drinks and a magnificent perspective make this a well known spot in for getting the sunset. The drinks menu diminishes to essential contributions after dusk, however at merry hours (9:00 to 11:00p.m.), all mixed drinks are half value. Aussies note: they offer VB here.
• MoMix: Half lounge, half scientific laboratory, MoMix (short for Molecular Mixology) develops wild drinks served in test tubes, as edible bits, or in spherical form.
• Casablanca Soul Bar: Offering house and deep house DJs or a live band nightly, tasty cocktails, and truly friendly staff, Casablanca is consistently popular among locals and travelers.

Best Nearby Cafes

• Zeas Bakery: While a 24-hour bakery lies across the street, it fails to impress. Head slightly south to discover Zeas Bakery and its fantastic pastries, desserts, and breads, as well as quality coffee and ready-made sandwiches.
• Coffee Island: Away from the main tourist attractions, this small shop offers outstanding coffee drinks (potentially the only spot you can get a flat white in Santorini), a great selection of coffee available in kilograms, and absolutely the most affordable prices.

Hotel Website and Check prices for Hotel Zed

Nearby Shopping & Cool Shops

• Nick the Greek: One of the oldest jewelry retailers in Santorini, Nick the Greek sells fine gold jewelry and luxury watches from Greek and international brands.
• Koukla: Creative jewelry in a variety of designs and cost ranges.
• Little Dot: Retail outlet providing men’s and women’s casual, beach, and swimwear.
• Noi: Upscale women`s boutique offering summer clothing, shoes, and accessories on Santorini’s famous Gold Street.
• Caldera Jewelry/Golden Santorini: Since 1976, this fine jewelry store situated directly opposite Noi has specialized in gold and precious stone pieces.
• White House Santorini: Specialty boutique for all-white summer clothing for men, women, and children. Situated across the walking path from Idol Restaurant in Fira.
• Ammos: This retailer possesses 2 locations in Fira, 1 in Kamari, and 1 in Oia. All outlets provide a wide assortment of international and Greek brands. Their locations in Fira are within a 15-minute drive.
• Spicy Boutique and The Lace: These sister shops located next to each other in the center of Fira offer Greek-made women`s clothing and accessories. Spicy presents trendier styles, while The Lace caters to a more feminine audience.
• The White: Next door to Rastoni restaurant, The White offers luxurious garments and shoes handcrafted by Santorinian designer Sophia H.
• Isia: High-end, women’s clothing and accessories store with unique pieces inspired by traditional Greek designs. You can find it on the footpath between Diesel and Cava Mejjo.
• Drakkar Santorini: International and Greek style-brand clothing for women.

Nearby Attractions

• Agios Dimitrios Church: Directly beside Argyros Mansion, this church was renovated in 1868, and has remained largely unchanged since then.
• The southern part of Santorini contains numerous vineyards, many offering tours or tastings of famous native varieties like Assyrtiko, Mavrotragano, and Vinsanto wines. Some of the best wineries located nearby are Venetsanos Winery,Hatzidakis Winery, and Art Space Winery.
• Pyrgos: Pyrgos is a charming traditional town located at the highest point on the island, with expansive views of Santorini spanning from Akrotiri to Oia, from the caldera to the Aegean Sea, and everything in between. Among the winding pathways lie the remains of an old castle, traditional architecture, neoclassical mansions, shops, restaurants, and cafes.

Note that Cocos Island is highlighted independently, as it lies approximately 310 miles outside the shore of Costa Rica .

• Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral: This imposing cathedral controls the main square in Fira. Fully restored after the ’56 earthquake, this landmark church is surrounded by a series of grand archways, and is embellished with frescoed walls and ceilings within in gold and vivid colors.
• Old Harbor of Fira: Also known as Fira Skala, the Old Harbor has a few restaurants, shops, and picturesque ocean views. The only ways to get from the port to the village are the cable cars, donkeys, or climbing the 587 steps. Nowadays, the Old Harbor is primarily used by cruise ship passengers, who arrive daily by the thousands during high season in large numbers. To avoid the biggest crowds, plan outings based on the cruise ship schedule. The starting point of the stairway downward is about a 15-minute drive away.
• Akrotiri: Excavations of a Bronze Age Minoan settlement. Identical to Pompeii, the entire town was covered in volcanic ash thousands of years ago, which preserved the ruins.
• Shipwreck: The remains of the MS Sea Diamond cruise liner rest between the caldera’s edge at Mesaria and the new volcanic formation. Though the Greek government has ordered the Sea Diamond’s removal, as of now the sunken vessel stays in the same location where the boat went down in 2007. A few dive centers offer guided scuba excursions inside the shipwreck.

Nearby Markets or Grocery Stores

• Mini Store: There is a small mini store directly across the street from Volcano View, selling drinks, snacks, beach gear, souvenirs, and cigarettes.
• Lidl: Discount grocery store offering basic staples. Inventory varies but sufficient for a brief trip.”
• Provisioner: Small yet adequately stocked retailer of groceries with fresh fruits and veggies, wine, ready foods, and more. This is where most locals obtain supplies. Prices are reasonable.
• Galini Café: Super friendly, all-day café with superb coffee and amazing perspectives. Best beloved for their breakfasts and brunch, particularly the crepes, bennies, and French toast.

Celestia Grand – The Hotel