Updated: January 21, 2026
Greece › Santorini › Imerovigli Hotels
By Santorini Dave • dave@santorinidave.com
The view from our suite at Iconic Santorini.
Imerovigli Hotels – My Tips
- Imerovigli is the “Honeymoon Capital” of Santorini. It offers the best sunset and caldera views on the island because of its high elevation. It is quieter and more exclusive than Fira or Oia.
- Best Luxury Hotels in Imerovigli: Grace Hotel (iconic architecture, arguably the best hotel on the island) and Astra Suites (classic Cycladic luxury, ideal for couples and honeymooners).
- Best Value with View: Absolute Bliss. While not “cheap,” it offers 5-star views and quality at a price often lower than nearby big-name options.
- The “Meltemi” Note: Because Imerovigli is the highest point on the caldera rim, it can be windier than other villages. This is a blessing in the hot summer months (July/August) as it provides a cooling breeze, but bring a light jacket for the evenings in shoulder season.
- Accessibility: Like Oia, Imerovigli is vertical. Most hotels require navigating many steep steps. If mobility is a concern, look for hotels near the main road or check with the hotel specifically about room location.
- Location: You are a 25-minute scenic downhill walk (or 5-minute bus/taxi ride) from the nightlife and shopping of Fira. This makes Imerovigli perfect for those who want to be near the action but sleep in total silence.
See Also
Why Stay in Imerovigli: The Balcony of Santorini
My wife and I in Imerovigli with Skaros Rock and the volcano behind us.
Known as the “Balcony of the Aegean,” Imerovigli is my favorite village in Santorini and the one I recommend most for couples and honeymooners. Perched at the highest point of the caldera rim, it offers what I consider the most breathtaking panoramic views on the entire island. The atmosphere is one of serene, sophisticated luxury. It’s significantly quieter and more peaceful than Oia or Fira, with its focus almost entirely on the stunning hotels and restaurants perched above the cliffs. If your goal is to find tranquility, romance, and the absolute best, most expansive caldera and sunset views, Imerovigli is the place.
Best Things to Do in Imerovigli
- Hike Skaros Rock: This is the number one activity in Imerovigli. Follow the path from the village down and out onto this massive rock promontory that was once the site of a Venetian fortress. The 360-degree views from here are incredible. For the adventurous, find the hidden Theoskepasti Chapel on the far side of the rock.
- Walk the Caldera Path: Imerovigli is a prime spot on the famous walking trail. Head south for an easy, beautiful 15-minute walk to Firostefani, and continue for another 10 minutes to reach the capital, Fira. The more rugged but spectacular 2-hour hike north to Oia lies in the opposite direction.
- Watch the Sunset: This is the main event each evening. Find a spot at a quiet bar or on your hotel terrace and watch as the sun sinks into the Aegean, lighting the entire caldera, the volcano, and the village of Oia in a spectacular golden glow. The sunset here is often superior to Oia’s because you get the view of Oia in the distance.
Best Restaurants in Imerovigli
- The Athenian House: Refined Greek dishes with a modern twist. The multi-level terraces provide a fantastic, romantic atmosphere with incredible views. It is one of the top fine-dining experiences on the island.
- Avocado: A fantastic restaurant on the main road above the Imerovigli cliff, serving delicious and creative Greek and Mediterranean cuisine. It’s a great, slightly more casual option with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. It is also open for lunch, which not all Imerovigli restaurants are.
- Anogi: Located in the upper, non-view part of the village, this is my favorite traditional restaurant in Imerovigli. It serves fantastic, authentic Santorinian and Greek dishes in a lively, beautiful courtyard. The prices are reasonable and the flavors are huge.
Getting Around Imerovigli
- Walking: The caldera-area of the village is a pedestrian-only path along the cliff. It’s an easy and beautiful 15-minute walk south to Firostefani and another 10 minutes from there to Fira.
- Bus: The main Fira-Oia bus route stops on the main road just a little inland from the caldera. In high-season all buses will be going south to Fira (from there you can switch buses to get to all other villages), in low and shoulder season some buses go directly to Oia as well.
- Parking: Very limited. A few small public lots are located along the main road, but they fill up fast. If you rent a car, you will need to park and walk a short distance to your hotel.
- To Port & Airport: Imerovigli is about a 20-minute drive from the Santorini Airport (JTR) and a 25-minute drive from the Athinios ferry port. Your hotel can easily arrange a taxi or transfer (or use the Uber app).
Map of Imerovigli
Hotels on Map: Divine Cave Experience • Ethos Vegan Retreat • Andronis Concept Wellness • White Pearl Cavalieri • Galaxy • Remezzo • Abelonas Retreat • Kasimatis • Absolute Bliss • Heliotopos • Above Blue • Merovigliosso • White • Kapari • Astra • Tholos • Sophia • Grace • Honeymoon Petra • Iconic • Chromata • Aeifos • Cocoon
The 5 Best Hotels in Imerovigli
See Also
• Our Favorite Hotels in Santorini
• Best Towns & Villages in Santorini1. Grace Santorini
Home to the caldera’s most impressive swimming pool and deck, offering expansive views from every angle. Dining is exceptional at the restaurant, champagne lounge, and poolside bar. Suites are charming and unique, most featuring private heated plunge pools. While the hotel is primarily adults-only, the private villa with its own pool is a fantastic option for families.2. Astra Suites
Features a stunning clifftop infinity pool heated during spring and fall, providing unparalleled caldera views. Every suite includes a kitchenette, private balcony, and complimentary local wine. Luxury suites offer more seclusion and space, with many adding outdoor jacuzzis or private pools. The on-site restaurant serves excellent modern Greek cuisine using local ingredients. A top choice for pampering service.3. Aenaon Villas
A collection of six elegant villas showcasing minimalist Cycladic design and high-end furnishings. The property features a shared infinity pool on the caldera edge, with specific villas offering a private pool or outdoor jacuzzi. Located in a tranquil setting north of the main village, the views are astounding, covering both the caldera sunset and Aegean sunrise. A rental car is recommended for this secluded spot.4. Kivotos
A stylish luxury hotel in the village center distinguished by its striking glass-front infinity pool. Suites feature private terraces with heated plunge pools or jacuzzis, while the large villas offer full kitchens, cave pools, and hammams. Breakfast options range from poolside dining to champagne served in bed. The location is superb, surrounded by top restaurants, boutiques, and Skaros Rock.5. Iconic Santorini
A romantic boutique hotel famous for authentic cave-style suites carved into the caldera face. Private verandas offer sweeping views, with many rooms featuring indoor or outdoor heated plunge pools. The dining is outstanding, focusing on local specialties and wines. Amenities include a caldera-view infinity pool, a holistic spa, and exceptionally warm service.Imerovigli Village Information
- Location: Northwest Santorini, between Fira and Oia at the highest point of the caldera.
- Parking: Free public parking is available as you enter Imerovigli, just off the main road from Fira to Oia, behind the public bus stop.
- Bus: The bus stop is on the main road from Fira to Imerovigli, just before the entrance to the village. There is no direct bus to Imerovigli from the port or the airport. From either, take a bus going to Fira (where the main bus terminal is) and transfer to a Fira-Oia bus, and ask the driver to let you off at Imerovigli. General bus information and public bus schedule.
- Dining: Athenian House and Avocado are my two favorite restaurants in this area.
- Shopping: Limited. There are a couple of mini markets for food items, but Imerovigli is not known for fashion boutiques or souvenir shops.
Looking south towards Fira, Firostefani, and the volcano from Honeymoon Petra Villas in Imerovigli.
Lay of the Land
The tranquil and picturesque village of Imerovigli is Santorini’s quietest town along the caldera. It is located midway between Fira and Oia on the caldera’s highest point, 300 m above sea level, with unobstructed sunset views that rival even those of Oia, Santorini’s most famous sunset spot. From the cliffs of Imerovigli, there are spectacular views of the caldera, Skaros Rock, the Nea Kameni volcano, Thirassia island, and the deep blue Aegean Sea. Imerovigli is known as a romantic destination because of its beauty and serenity. Some parts of the village are set back a bit from the caldera, a maze of narrow cobblestone and paved alleyways that are lined with bright colored flowers, white-washed buildings, blue-domed churches, high-end dining, and casual restaurants. Imerovigli doesn’t have a lot of restaurants, but the ones that are here all very good to great, and almost all have caldera views. There is no night life.
There are many luxury hotels with infinity pools as well as less expensive studios and apartments available throughout the village. If you’re looking for peace and quiet but still want to be near sightseeing, restaurants, and nightlife, then Imerovigli is a great option due to its proximity to Fira. It’s about a 20 to 30 minute walk (about 2.5km) between Fira and Imerovigli, or a very short bus or taxi ride. The walk into Fira from Imerovigli is easy and mostly downhill; if you find the uphill walk back to Imerovigli too taxing after a large dinner or a night out, take the bus or a taxi back to your hotel.
Skaros Rock
One of the main attractions in Imerovigli is Skaros Rock, large rock formation created by volcanic activity and shaped over generations by earthquakes and erosion. Skaros Rock juts out into the ocean from the caldera cliffs, and is visible from just about anywhere in the village. It is one of the island’s five fortified settlements that date from the island’s Byzantine and later on, Frankish rule (the others being Akrotiri, Emporio, Pyrgos and Oia). Strategic and inaccessible areas were chosen for these settlements because the Aegean coast suffered incessant pirate raids during this time.Skaros remained the capital of Santorini until the 18th century. While the island’s volcanic history is ancient, the decline of this once-mighty Venetian fortress was caused by a series of devastating earthquakes between 1650 and 1711. These tremors caused large sections of the settlement to tumble into the sea, eventually forcing most residents to relocate to the safer, flatter ground of Fira or Imerovigli. The crumbling ruins and the Theoskepasti Chapel seen today are all that remain of what was once the most important stronghold on the island.
Many people visit Skaros Rock as a short side trip while hiking the Fira to Oia trail, but it’s also worthwhile as an excursion of its own. The trail to access Skaros is reached by descending a steep winding staircase just below Grace Hotel, in the middle of Imerovigli. The path begins with concrete steps and a thin wire guard rail, and transitions to a gravel path with no barrier. There’s a small historic church, Panagia Theoskepasti, tucked into the bluffs on the far side, and a 13th-century Venetian castle at the top. Visiting Skaros Rock takes at least an hour round-trip, longer if you climb to the top, or stay to picnic and enjoy the views.
Fira to Oia Hike
Imerovigli sits directly in the middle of the Fira to Oia hiking trail. This incredibly scenic 10.5 km trail winds along the caldera cliff and through the villages of Fira, Firostefani, Imerovigli and Oia. The entire hike takes between 2 and 5 hours depending on how fast you walk and how often you stop. Part of the path is similar to a sidewalk, parts are cobblestone, and parts are a dirt path. There is a good climb in both directions. From Imerovigli, both Fira and Oia are mostly downhill hikes. If hiking to Imerovigli, the climb from Oia to Imerovigli is long and gradual, so the elevation change is a bit easier to handle; the hike from Fira to Imerovigli is shorter but steep. The Oia-Fira Trail is not baby-stroller or bike friendly. Most 7 year-olds would have no trouble completing the walk in terms of difficulty because the quality of the path is good, but it is a very long walk for anyone under 10. From Imerovigli to Fira, it’s about 2.5 km (about a 20-30 minute walk); from Imerovigli to Oia is about 7.5 km (a couple of hours’ walk at least).More Great Imerovigli Hotels
Andronis Concept Wellness Resort
A top choice for wellness enthusiasts and families, featuring three distinct pools: a massive spa pool for laps, a shaded cave pool, and a heated infinity pool with caldera views. The resort excels at keeping all ages happy, offering kids’ yoga, cooking classes, and tennis, alongside incredible healthy dining options. Suites are spacious and loaded with amenities.Cavo Tagoo
Awesome glamorous property that is home to one of the island’s most famous fusion restaurants, blending Japanese and Mediterranean flavors with a high-end social vibe. The 13 posh suites all feature private jacuzzis or heated pools. The main heated infinity pool offers magnificent views stretching from Skaros Rock to Oia.White Pearl Cavalieri
Nestled on the quiet northern edge of Imerovigli, this exclusive hotel is repurposed from authentic wine caves. It features just six luxury suites, each named after a varietal and boasting a private heated pool. Guests enjoy a working vineyard, a private tasting room, and breathtaking caldera views from the renowned restaurant.Absolute Bliss
A romantic hotel offering cave-style suites and villas with stunning sunset views facing Oia. Almost every room category includes a private jacuzzi or heated pool. Breakfast is a highlight, served directly to the room, while other meals can be enjoyed poolside. The staff is consistently praised for being friendly and attentive.Honeymoon Petra Villas
A 5-star boutique hotel featuring one of the most iconic infinity pools on the caldera. Guests can choose between the Traditional Wing for privacy or the Petra Wing for proximity to the facilities. Located right in the heart of Imerovigli, it is just steps from the path to Skaros Rock.Divine Cave Experience
Elegant all-suite hotel where every suite has its own designated caldera viewpoint near the pool with a sunbed and dining table. Suites feature private terraces and outdoor jacuzzis. A floating breakfast in your private jacuzzi is a unique touch here. Located in the quiet north end, right behind the Fira-Oia hiking trail.Galaxy Suites
Luxe hotel known for its trendy Greek restaurant and two cliffside infinity pools. The 3-bedroom villas are ideal for families or groups of up to six, featuring indoor jacuzzis and outdoor plunge pools. The location is excellent, placing you in the center of Imerovigli village.Remezzo Villas
A family-run gem with an authentic, homey vibe that distinguishes it from corporate hotels. The property offers traditional cave-style suites, most with gorgeous sunset views. A four-course Greek breakfast is included, and many suites feature indoor/outdoor jacuzzis or private heated plunge pools.Abelonas Retreat
(Sometimes spelled Ampelonas Retreat.) A rare affordable option facing the caldera (but not right on the cliff’s edge). The hotel features cozy, colorful accommodations in Cycladic style, a great outdoor pool, and a poolside bar. Several suites offer caldera views.Kasimatis
An elegant midrange, adults-only hotel with cave-style rooms and suites. Most units feature outdoor hot tubs and caldera views. Amenities include an outdoor pool, a small library, free parking, and genuinely friendly service.Heliotopos Hotel
Family-run hotel with a popular wine bar and sunset terrace. It is one of the few all-ages hotels on the caldera, with traditional houses that can accommodate three to five guests. No two suites are alike, but most have kitchenettes and private balconies. With only 11 rooms, the service is exceptionally personal.Above Blue Suites
A tiny, intimate hotel high up in Imerovigli village. Dining is a standout experience, with champagne breakfast served daily to your suite and an intimate dinner terrace with only three tables. Most suites boast private jacuzzis, and the villa includes a private plunge pool.Merovigliosso
Located just across the small road from the caldera edge, offering excellent value for the location. Options range from budget studios to luxurious apartments with hot tubs and private balconies. All units have well-equipped kitchenettes. Includes an outdoor pool, sun deck, and free parking.White Santorini Suites and Spa
Fabulous boutique hotel with an infinity pool on the caldera edge and a full spa. The “White Suite” sleeps five people with two bedrooms and two bathrooms, making it a great find for groups. Most other suites feature a private jacuzzi or plunge pool. Excellent central location overlooking Skaros Rock.Kapari Natural Resort
A beautifully restored complex blending historic architecture with modern cave-style design. Most accommodations feature caldera views and jacuzzis. Facilities include an outdoor rooftop pool, a quality restaurant and wine bar, and 24-hour room service.Sophia Luxury Suites
Newer hotel with a magical vibe and a prime location directly in front of Skaros Rock. Most rooms feature private outdoor plunge pools and patios with sunset views. A rich breakfast with local products is served to each suite daily.Katikies Chromata
Contemporary hotel with a trendy, cosmopolitan vibe and exceptional dining. Options include a Mediterranean restaurant, a sushi bar, and a pool bar. The shared infinity pool is striking, overlooking the caldera with a portion covered in a cave. Most suites and villas include private jacuzzis or pools.Cocoon Suites
Cozy luxury hotel featuring nine posh suites, highlighting natural materials and cave-style design. Eight suites have open-air or cave-style jacuzzis, and one has a private plunge pool. Located in a quiet corner of Imerovigli, yet only a five-minute walk to the village center.Altana Heritage Suites & Villas
A renovated historic mansion that boasts the highest swimming pool on the caldera. Suites and villas feature cave-style design, private terraces, and direct sunset views. Most have private jacuzzis or pools. Well-situated near the heart of the village.Dreams Luxury Suites
Drop-dead gorgeous suites in a romantic, quiet location at the tail end of Imerovigli toward Firostefani. All rooms have private balconies and jacuzzis with incredible caldera views. Breakfast is delivered to your room every morning.Canaves Elefas Villas
Luxury collection of 2 and 3-bedroom villas perfect for groups. Each villa has a full kitchen, living room, dining room, and a private terrace with a heated plunge pool or swimming pool. Breakfast is delivered daily. Located at the south end of Imerovigli, a short walk from the nightlife of Fira.Rocabella Santorini
A resort-style atmosphere with three pools, a spa, and a Greek-Mediterranean restaurant. Rooms and suites all offer private terraces, most with jacuzzis or heated plunge pools. Located in a quiet stretch north of Imerovigli; a free shuttle to Fira runs several times a day in high season.San Antonio
Designed for couples, this hotel is located in a secluded area on the northern edge of the caldera above a private bay. The Zen-like ambiance is complemented by a large infinity pool, an upscale restaurant, and a decadent spa. Most suites feature indoor or outdoor jacuzzis.Santorini Princess Spa Hotel
Intimate hotel with a strong focus on wellness and spa services. The full-service spa includes a jacuzzi, sauna, and cave-style treatment room, with massage services available on an outdoor terrace overlooking the caldera. Service is warm and welcoming.Ethos Vegan Retreat
An eco-friendly, all-vegan sanctuary featuring four spacious villas with private heated plunge pools. Perks include vegan minibars, Cocomat bedding, and a complimentary vegan breakfast served daily. The property is plastic-free and uses biodegradable amenities. Located in a peaceful spot north of the village.Aeifos
Cosmopolitan boutique hotel offering rare accessibility features for Imerovigli, including wheelchair-accessible rooms, an elevator, and on-site covered parking. Guests enjoy a large infinity pool, a gym, and a central location steps from restaurants. A rich buffet breakfast is included.Tholos Resort
Luxury sunset-view hotel featuring spacious suites and villas that accommodate 4 to 5 guests. Units boast kitchenettes and private outdoor jacuzzis. An a la carte breakfast is delivered daily. Located in the heart of Imerovigli near Skaros Rock.Vora Villas
An exclusive collection of just three private villas blending contemporary and Cycladic style. All villas feature heated infinity jacuzzis and expansive caldera views; two have full kitchens. Breakfast is delivered to your private terrace daily.West East Suites
All-suite hotel with a fantastic Mediterranean restaurant and a heated pool overlooking the caldera. All suites boast private terraces with jacuzzis, plunge pools, or infinity pools. Situated about a 15-minute walk north of Imerovigli in a quiet area.The Vasilicos
Tranquil hotel with seven cave-style suites and a strong focus on gastronomy and wine. The owners’ nearby winery provides exceptional local wines for tastings. High-end local Greek fare is served for breakfast (complimentary) and private dinners.Eteoro Suites
Luxury collection of four spacious suites designed specifically for couples. Every suite features a private, spacious balcony with an outdoor jacuzzi or private pool and caldera views. Excellent a la carte breakfast is included and delivered daily.Staying in Imerovigli – Things to Know
Skaros Rock in the center of Imerovigli lies just below Grace Hotel.
The infinity pool at Grace Hotel is one of the largest on the island.
Gorgeous caldera view from a patio at Iconic Santorini.
Aenaon Villas at the very north end of Imerovigli has an exquisite view and very private location.
Athenian House restaurant has fabulous food and a breathtaking caldera view.
The dining area of Astra Suites with Oia visible in the distance.
The divine infinity pool at Cavo Tagoo.
Avocado Restaurant is one of our local favorites for lunch or dinner.
Hiking out to Skaros Rock is a great way to spend a few hours and get a totally different perspective on the caldera.
Romantic table for two with a sunset view over the caldera.
Looking south toward Fira from Imerovigli.
Pathway heading toward the caldera, perpendicular to the walking path that runs through the middle of the village.
Signs along the Fira to Oia walking trail as it passes through Imerovigli. Here the path is cobblestone, sometimes it’s paved, sometimes dirt.
Beautiful Imerovigli.
Parking in Imerovigli is limited but can be found by moving away from the caldera and toward the main Fira-Oia road.
A narrow lane into Imerovigli from the main road.
Imerovigli bus stop along the main road between Fira and Oia.
Summary: My Favorite Hotels in Santorini
My Favorite Santorini Hotels
• Fira: Athina
• Oia: Katikies • Canaves Suites
• Imerovigli: Grace • Astra
• Firostefani: Tsitouras
• Beach: Istoria
• For Families: Aria
• For Couples: Aenaon
• Best Pool: Nous
• Midrange: Enigma • Kavalari
About Santorini Dave