Is the caldera the top attraction on Santorini? Then Imerovigli is the top of the top! Situated at the highest point of the ridge of the volcano that collapsed and gave rise to the island, Imerovigli is a true enchantment. For many, but not for everyone.
Like Oia, it is a chic resort of exclusive villas and suites that combine the snowy white of typical Cycladic houses with an exquisitely contemporary design: their charm is unparalleled, their prices often prohibitive (nevertheless they are almost always sold out).
Unlike Oia and especially the capital Fira, however, Imerovigli is a quiet destination. Although its sunset is among the most beautiful on Santorini – a distinction that all the west coast resorts vie for, but which many believe rightfully belongs to Imerovigli – it is not taken over by tourists.
The sunset at Oia is more popular, perhaps because of the Instagram effect or because it is easier for cruise passengers visiting Santorini during the day to arrive here than at Imerovigli. There are no nightclubs, people dine in classy restaurants and have aperitifs in the cocktail bars of glamorous hotels, obviously with a view of the Aegean.
Enjoy in peace this little village 300 metres above the sea where luxury is synonymous with elegance and discretion. Its location was once strategic for the defence of the island (from here you could spot incoming pirate ships); today it is strategic for you who want to experience a dream holiday in Greece.
No museums or famous monuments: the top attraction in Imerovigli, as in the whole of Santorini, is the sunset over the caldera.
This town offers one of the best views: while in Oia the sun hides behind the island of Folegandros, admiring the sunset in Imerovigli in front of you only the sea and a few distant islands. The only black silhouette you may recognise in this idyllic picture is Skaros, a rocky outcrop near Imerovigli where a fortress once stood, of which a few remnants still remain.
One of Santorini’s five fortifications, the Skaros fortress was built by the Byzantines as a refuge from pirates and later remodelled by the Venetians. In the 18th century it became the capital of Santorini; today it is completely uninhabited, except for the small chapel of Agios Ioannis Apokefalisheis on the north side.
Another attraction not to be missed in Imerovigli is the path along the caldera to Oia. The complete path starts in Fira and is about 9 km long; although it has some ups and downs, it is an accessible path that offers beautiful views. Don’t forget sun cream and water and wear suitable shoes!
Around Imerovigli you will also find some wine cellars where you can taste assyrtiko, the typical white wine of Santorini made from grapes grown in volcanic soil. Don’t miss Vassaltis Vineyards, a young winery that has already established itself for the quality of the wines it produces.
Imerovigli lies on the ridge of the caldera, on a high and steep point, so there is no direct access to the sea. Reaching beautiful beaches around Imerovigli is not difficult, however: some can be reached by bus, but for most it is necessary to hire a car.
The closest ones to Imerovigli are those of Pori and Vourvoulos, which can be reached in just 5 minutes by car. The island’s more distant beaches, including Red Beach, Vlychada (Moon Beach), Agios Georgios and Perissa, are a 25-minute drive away.
The former is considered Santorini’s most beautiful beach and is always included in the island’s list of must-see attractions. It is a very special mixed beach of sand and red pebbles dominated by imposing cliffs of the same colour. Very picturesque, it is, however, a small beach with no facilities (only deckchair and parasol hire available). Bear in mind that from the car park you will have to walk about 10 minutes up a steep path: wear suitable shoes.
If you prefer more convenient beaches to reach, the family-friendly beach of Monolitos is only 13 minutes away. More or less the same amount of time is enough to get to Cape Colombo, a black sand and pebble beach on the north coast of Santorini: secluded and devoid of amenities, it’s a perfect beach for those who don’t like confusion.
The town of Imerovigli is not very big and the centre is a short walk away, so there is no better place to sleep in Imerovigli: whichever hotel in the centre you choose, you’ll be within walking distance of everything else!
The hotels in Imerovigli are famous for being some of the most exclusive (and expensive) in Santorini: fabulous designer hotels and villas in beautiful panoramic locations overlooking the caldera, equipped with all the comforts and luxuries such as an infinity pool, private pool or in-room Jacuzzi. They are the modern expression of unbridled hedonism, perfect for honeymooners, lovers of travelling in style and anyone who wants to treat themselves to something absolutely magnificent.
Don’t despair if your holiday budget doesn’t allow for such luxurious hotels: if you book well in advance, you can also find affordable accommodation, especially small studios or interior rooms without a view.
Along the road to Firostefani there are a few budget hotels that are ideal for those who cannot afford the 4- or 5-star hotels in Imerovigli; due to their location, they are also perfect for those who want to explore the island by car.
We offer a selection of hotels at Imerovigli to suit all categories of travellers. The most booked by tourists are the sea-facing hotels, often right on the beach. If you want to play it safe, choose one of the following: they are among the most booked hotels in Imerovigli, sorted by number of reviews.
If you prefer space, privacy and the ability to prepare your own meals to a hotel holiday, book a holiday home at Imerovigli. We recommend a few below, but in this case we advise you to book early because houses and apartments for rent at Imerovigli are in high demand.
Imerovigli can be reached by bus from Fira and Oia: in the summer months there are very frequent runs, about one every 15 minutes. However, it is advisable to rent a car to be able to move freely around the island and reach the most beautiful beaches, which are not served by public transport.
Imerovigli is located along the west coast of Santorini, about 3 km from Fira, 8 km from the airport and 12 km from the ferry port.
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