Just two kilometres up the coast from Fira, the lovely village of Imerovigli will delight those seeking spellbinding Aegean Sea views and a real sense of tranquility. As is the case across Santorini, there’s a great selection of accommodation options to choose from, including some wonderful hotels for families and groups. Intimate and characterful, the best places to stay in Imerovigli tend to have just a few suites — some of which are part of restored houses or cliffside caves.
Wander around Imerovigli on foot to soak up the magic of its cobbled streets, many of which are studded with upscale bars, gourmet eateries and chic boutiques. You’ll find marvellous views of the caldera islands at every turn, with breath-taking panoramas over Fira and Imerovigli itself as you clamber higher and higher. Don’t miss popping in to the Church of Ai-Stratis or the Monastery of Saint Nikolaos, both impressive heritage landmarks. There’s a wonderful hiking path leading past the ruins of the 13th-century Skaros Venetian Fortress to the blue-domed Theoskepasti Church, too.
Head down towards the coast for swimming, sunbathing and sandcastle-building at the beach. Santorini is fabulous when seen from the sea, and sailing trips come highly recommended, as do water sports excursions. Savour sundowners at the village’s atmospheric bars, or return to the best places to stay in Imerovigli for delicious Greek dinners overlooking the caldera.