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.

The Best Places to Stay in Imerovigli

For Families

• Astra Suites offers a funky collection of rooms, suites and apartments, some of which have self-catering facilities. Splashes of bright colour add to the fun feel, and there's a lovely Greek restaurant for big family dinners after days in the pool or at the beach. Great fun.
• Hotel Ilioperato's apartments sleep up to four guests, and have kitchenettes for those keen to self-cater. A simple, affordable pick for a trip with family and friends, this classic white and blue hotel also has a swimming pool and bar.
• Remezzo Villas has spacious rooms and suites with whitewashed walls, vaulted ceilings & curved edges. A collection of restored 18th-century houses, the hotel welcomes families, who will appreciate the flexible options for little ones, babysitting service and swimming pool. Very relaxed.
• Kapari Natural Resort is a chic, understated hotel with a great wine bar and striking suites with hot tubs. This is also a great choice for family or group trips, as the Private Residence can sleep up to 15 guests. A complex of restored heritage houses built into the cliff-side, the resort has a real sense of soul. One for family celebrations!

For a Spa Break

• Avaton Resort & Spa, on the outskirts of town, has the feel of a hidden retreat. Focused on rest and rejuvenation, this minimalist 11 bedroom hotel boasts a wonderful cave spa, which specialises in restorative treatments inspired by ancient Greek philosophy. For a wellness escape.
• Pegasus Suites & Spa is a grown-up, all-suite property with stunning caldera views. Smart suites have private pools or hot tubs, and the pampering spa is the perfect place to relax with hammam, sauna, indoor hydrotherapy pool and a range of treatments. The restaurant has an excellent reputation for gourmet cuisine, and the cooking classes are excellent. Bliss!

For Romantic Indulgence

• Grace Santorini is a clifftop haven with crisp, white-on-white interiors framing sensational views of blue skies and sparkling waters. Home to the largest infinity pool on Santorini, this indulgent hotel also has a terrific restaurat and a chic spa. Expect panoramic vistas galore.
• Chromata, a honeymoon favourite, is a collection of cave houses built into the cliffs. Hide away in the suite with private pool, or dine under the stars on the clear bridge above the dazzling infinity pool. A very special stay.
• San Antonio is another luxurious hotel with contemporary Cycladic suites, butler service, ocean view hot tubs and a gourmet restaurant with a reputation for innovative fare. There are also daily yoga classes and an appealing sense of tranquility.
• The Vasilicos has just seven suites, set high above the water. Honeymooners will adore the private sea-view terraces — some of which have plunge pools — and the atmospheric candlelit dinners. Take part in a wine tasting, bask in the sunshine by the pool, or kick back in characterful suites with beamed ceilings and curved walls. Idyllic.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Athens International Airport, and hop aboard a ferry from Athens' Piraeus or Rafina ports (via Naxos or Paros), or catch a flight directly to Santoríni International Airport. You can then travel 10km into Imerovigli by bus or taxi.
• There's plenty to see on Santorini! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Expect hot summers, with temperatures reaching around 33°C between June and August, which is also peak season. For fewer crowds and cooler weather travel in April, May or late September, when you can also find great hotel deals.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Fira.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Santorini.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Imerovigli