Where to stay in Imerovigli: The best areas and 15 accommodations

Imerovigli is located at the highest point of Santorini’s caldera, between Fira and Oia, and is considered by many to be the best base for those who want views without the heavy traffic of Fira. Its elevated position offers almost every accommodation unobstructed views of the sunset and the volcano.

The neighbouring Firostefani acts as an extension of Imerovigli towards Fira, with the same caldera character but with easier walking access to the centre. Both areas have accommodations built into the cliff, narrow footpaths, and minimal car access directly to the property's door.

In this article, you will find a detailed overview of the areas of Imerovigli and Firostefani, their advantages and disadvantages, as well as specific accommodation suggestions to help you confidently plan your stay.

What to see and do in Imerovigli

Imerovigli is approximately 2 km from Fira and about 8 km from Oia, a distance easily covered by car in 10 to 15 minutes, or on foot via the caldera path in about an hour and a half. Santorini Airport is around 10 km away, with the journey taking approximately 20 minutes, while Athinios Port is about 12 km away, a journey of about 20 minutes by taxi or bus.

The name Imerovigli literally means 'daytime watchpoint', as in the past, residents used its elevated position and panoramic views to scan the sea for pirate ships. Today, this same height is what makes the area popular, as it is located at the highest point of the caldera, around 300 metres above sea level, offering views unobstructed by buildings opposite.

Skaros Rock, to the north of the settlement, was the island’s Venetian castle until the 18th century and is now one of the most popular spots for sunset views, accessible via an easy 20-minute footpath from the centre of Imerovigli. The Church of Panagia Theoskepasti, built on a rock, is the most photographed spot in the area and is located at the beginning of the path towards Skaros.

Imerovigli does not have its own beach, as it is situated high above the caldera cliff. The nearest beaches are Panagia and Amoudi, at the foot of Oia, about 9 km away, as well as the organised black sand beaches in the south of the island, such as Kamari and Perissa, approximately 12 to 15 km away. The lack of a beach is something worth considering if you want to swim every day without having to travel.

In terms of dining, Imerovigli and Firostefani have several restaurants with caldera views, which usually have higher prices due to their location, but there are also simpler tavernas within the settlements with more affordable prices. Local cuisine includes Santorini fava beans, tomato fritters, Assyrtiko white wines from the island’s vineyards, and 'chlorotyri' cheese, products cultivated on the island itself thanks to its volcanic soil.

Seasonality in Imerovigli is very pronounced, as the area is popular mainly with couples seeking a romantic stay, so prices in July and August rise significantly compared to May or October. Many accommodations close completely during winter, from November to March, so if you are planning a trip outside of summer, you will need to check availability early.

Access within Imerovigli is largely on foot, as many accommodations are located on narrow, cliffside cobblestone paths, without car access directly to the door. This often means you will need to leave your luggage in a nearby car park and walk, sometimes involving stairs, to your room, which is worth considering if you are travelling with large suitcases.

Firostefani, immediately south of Imerovigli towards Fira, shares the same caldera character but is closer to the island's capital, approximately 1 km away, a distance easily covered on foot in 15 to 20 minutes via the coastal caldera path. This makes it a good option for those who want to combine a quiet stay with easy access to shops, banks, and more restaurants.

If you plan to rent a car, there are organised parking areas at the entrance to the settlements, as traffic on the main Fira-to-Oia road can be slow in summer due to the volume of vehicles. Alternatively, KTEL buses connect Fira with Oia several times a day and stop in Imerovigli upon request.

The best areas to stay in Imerovigli

Central Imerovigli

Central Imerovigli is built into the caldera cliff, with most accommodations featuring private pools or jacuzzis with a view. It is the quietest of the island’s caldera-side areas.

A good choice for couples seeking a romantic stay without the heavy traffic of Fira, although access is often only on foot.

Pros:

• Unobstructed caldera and sunset views
• Very peaceful environment, ideal for couples
• Close to the path leading to Skaros Rock

Cons:

• Access often only on foot, with stairs
• Few dining options within the immediate area

Recommended accommodations:

1. Aeifos Boutique Hotel
A small boutique hotel with a very high rating for its location and service, offering caldera views.

• Average cost: approximately 260€ per night

2. On The Rocks - Small Luxury Hotels of the World
A luxurious hotel, part of an international chain, featuring suites carved into the rock with private pools.

• Average cost: approximately 450€ per night

3. Gorgona Villas
Villas with private pools and caldera views, suitable for couples seeking more privacy.

• Average cost: approximately 320€ per night

4. Astra Suites
One of Santorini’s most photographed hotels, with carved suites and a pool on the cliff edge.

• Average cost: approximately 400€ per night

5. Honeymoon Petra Villas
Villas designed for honeymooning couples, with private pools and volcano views.

• Average cost: approximately 340€ per night

Skaros and northern Imerovigli

The area around Skaros is located at the northern tip of Imerovigli, where the island's Venetian castle once stood. It is the most secluded corner of the area, with fewer accommodations and greater tranquility.

Suitable for those who want to be close to the Skaros path and completely avoid crowds, with Fira approximately 2.5 km away.

Pros:

• More secluded and peaceful location
• Direct access to the Skaros path
• Spectacular sunsets without large crowds

Cons:

• Greater distance from centres with shops
• Requires a car or taxi for getting around

Recommended accommodations:

6. Kivotos Santorini
A hotel with an excellent rating for its location, near Malteza Square and the path to Skaros.

• Average cost: approximately 380€ per night

7. Altana Cliffside Villas
Villas on the caldera cliff, with private pools and very high guest ratings.

• Average cost: approximately 420€ per night

8. West East Suites
Suites on the main Fira-Oia road, with easy car access and caldera views.

• Average cost: approximately 270€ per night

9. Altana Heritage Suites
Traditional buildings converted into suites, with very high ratings for cleanliness and service.

• Average cost: approximately 300€ per night

Firostefani

Firostefani is located between Imerovigli and Fira, approximately 1 km from the capital’s centre. It shares the same cliffside building character, but with easier access to shops and services.

A good choice for those who want to combine caldera views with the option to walk to Fira for an evening out.

Pros:

• Close to Fira on foot, about 15 minutes
• Caldera views at lower prices than Imerovigli
• More nearby restaurant options

Cons:

• Busier than central Imerovigli
• Narrow streets can be difficult with luggage

Recommended accommodations:

10. Reverie Santorini Hotel
Traditional apartments on the main road of Firostefani, with a very high location rating.

• Average cost: approximately 240€ per night

11. Hotel Mylos
A guesthouse-style hotel offering good value for the area and convenient access to Fira’s centre.

• Average cost: approximately 180€ per night

12. Ira Hotel & Spa - Adults Only
An adults-only hotel with a spa, pool, and caldera views, popular with couples.

• Average cost: approximately 290€ per night

13. Castle View
An apartment with excellent reviews, suitable for couples who want privacy with volcano views.

• Average cost: approximately 210€ per night

14. Seven Suites
Suites with a simple layout, a good option for those seeking more affordable accommodation in the area.

• Average cost: approximately 195€ per night

15. Anemos Cave Suites
Traditional cave dwellings converted into suites, with good ratings for comfort and views.

• Average cost: approximately 250€ per night

Practical tips for your stay

• Book early, especially for July and August. Imerovigli has a limited number of rooms compared to demand, so the best spots with views sell out months before the high season.
• Pack lighter luggage. Many accommodations are only accessible on foot, via narrow cobblestone paths with stairs, so a small suitcase significantly eases your arrival.
• Consider if you need a car. If you plan to stay mainly in the area and dine at nearby restaurants, you might not need a rental car, as taxis can easily cover your transportation needs.
• Plan for swimming in another area. As Imerovigli has no beach, allow 20 to 30 minutes travel time to Kamari, Perissa, or Amoudi in Oia.
• Book dinner with a view in advance. Restaurants with caldera views fill up quickly in summer, especially around sunset.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Imerovigli from Fira?

Approximately 2 km, a distance that can be covered in 10 to 15 minutes by car or in about 30 to 40 minutes on foot via the caldera path.

Is there a beach in Imerovigli?

No, the area is located high above the caldera cliff. The nearest beaches are in Oia, approximately 9 km away, or in the southern part of the island, such as Kamari.

Do I need a car to stay in Imerovigli?

It is not essential if you plan to stay close to the area, but it greatly facilitates travel if you want to visit beaches, Oia, or other parts of the island.

What is the best time of year to stay in Imerovigli?

May, June, and September offer good weather with fewer crowds and lower prices compared to July and August.

Is Imerovigli suitable for families with children?

Less suitable compared to other areas, as the narrow paths with stairs and the lack of a beach make staying with young children more challenging.

How far is Santorini Airport from Imerovigli?

Approximately 10 km, with the journey taking around 20 minutes by taxi or rental vehicle.

Conclusion

Imerovigli and its neighbouring Firostefani are the ideal choice if you are seeking the quieter side of the caldera, without being too far from Fira. The views there are among the best on the entire island, thanks to the altitude and the absence of obstructing buildings.

However, if you want to swim daily without travelling, it might be worth combining your stay with a few days in a coastal area of the island. In any case, the accommodation options mentioned cover both couples seeking a romantic getaway and travellers on a more limited budget.

Also, check out our guides on where to stay in Kalamaki Zakynthos and where to stay in Lixouri.