5 Hour Small Group Santorini Tour for Cruise Passengers - Exploring Oia’s Famous Cobblestone Streets and Sunsets

5 Hour Small Group Santorini Tour for Cruise Passengers

Discover Santorini’s highlights in 5 hours with this small-group cruise shore excursion, visiting villages, a mountain summit, and relaxing on Perivolos Beach.

This 5 Hour Small Group Santorini Tour for Cruise Passengers offers an efficient and enjoyable way to explore some of the island’s most iconic sights. Priced at $87.40 per person, this tour is designed for cruise passengers who want a well-rounded taste of Santorini’s beauty and charm within a limited time frame. With a small group of up to 18 people, the experience feels personalized, and the air-conditioned minibus ensures a comfortable ride through the island’s scenic spots.

One of the main strengths of this tour is its well-balanced itinerary, covering five key stops: Firostefani, Oia, Profitis Ilias, Megalochori, and Perivolos Beach. Notably, the tour is led by a friendly, certified English-speaking guide and a professional driver, making navigation and explanations smooth and engaging. While food and beverages are not included, this tour offers fantastic photo opportunities and memorable views, making it a favorite for those seeking a quick yet comprehensive Santorini experience.

Key Points

5 Hour Small Group Santorini Tour for Cruise Passengers - Key Points

  • Duration of 5 hours suited for cruise shore excursions with limited time
  • Includes visits to Firostefani, Oia, Profitis Ilias, Megalochori, and Perivolos Beach
  • Small group size of up to 18 travelers enhances a personalized experience
  • Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned minibus with a professional driver
  • Guided by a friendly, knowledgeable guide providing clear explanations
  • Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance for flexibility

Starting Point at the Santorini Cable Car Upper Station

5 Hour Small Group Santorini Tour for Cruise Passengers - Starting Point at the Santorini Cable Car Upper Station

This tour departs from the Santorini Cable Car – Upper Station at Ipapantis 10, Thira. Meeting there ensures easy access for cruise passengers arriving at the port. The pickup service simplifies logistics, saving time and allowing for a relaxed start. Be sure to check your email the day before for your precise pickup time, as the initial estimate may vary.

Walking Through Firostefani’s Cliffside Views

Your first stop is the picturesque village of Firostefani, perched along the cliffs of the Caldera. Here, panoramic views of the Aegean Sea unfold, providing fantastic photo moments. The village’s serene atmosphere offers a gentle introduction to Santorini’s scenic beauty, with free admission. Expect about an hour at this stop, giving ample time for photos and a quick stroll.

Exploring Oia’s Famous Cobblestone Streets and Sunsets

5 Hour Small Group Santorini Tour for Cruise Passengers - Exploring Oia’s Famous Cobblestone Streets and Sunsets

Next, the tour takes you to Oia, world-renowned for its white-washed buildings, charming cobblestone streets, and legendary sunsets. This one-hour visit allows for wandering through the picturesque alleys, admiring the architecture, and taking in the vibrant atmosphere. Oia’s appeal is universal, and its views provide unforgettable moments for visitors eager to capture the essence of Santorini.

Reaching the Summit at Profitis Ilias for Panoramic Views

5 Hour Small Group Santorini Tour for Cruise Passengers - Reaching the Summit at Profitis Ilias for Panoramic Views

One of the tour’s highlights is a visit to Profitis Ilias, the highest point on the island. At this majestic mountain summit, travelers are greeted with spectacular, seemingly endless panoramic views. The one-hour stop offers a chance to appreciate the island’s landscape from above, making it a perfect spot for photos and a break from walking.

Stepping Back in Time in Megalochori Village

5 Hour Small Group Santorini Tour for Cruise Passengers - Stepping Back in Time in Megalochori Village

The charming village of Megalochori invites travelers to explore its tranquil, traditional streets. The one-hour visit is a chance to see enchanting cobblestone lanes, historic buildings, and to experience a quieter side of Santorini. This stop emphasizes the island’s local character and offers a peaceful atmosphere away from more touristy areas.

Relaxing at Perivolos Beach and Enjoying the Black Sands

5 Hour Small Group Santorini Tour for Cruise Passengers - Relaxing at Perivolos Beach and Enjoying the Black Sands

The final stop is Perivolos Beach, known for its black volcanic sand and crystal-clear waters. Here, visitors can unwind for around an hour, swimming or relaxing on the beach loungers, or simply soaking up the Mediterranean sun. This laid-back ending provides a perfect balance to the sightseeing stops, making it an ideal place to relax before returning to the cruise port.

Practical Details: Transport, Group Size, and Support

5 Hour Small Group Santorini Tour for Cruise Passengers - Practical Details: Transport, Group Size, and Support

This tour provides comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned minibus, with a professional and safe driver at the wheel. The small group size, with a maximum of 18 travelers, ensures a more intimate experience and personalized attention from the friendly, English-speaking guide. The mobile ticket system streamlines entry, and 24/7 customer support is available for any questions.

What’s Not Included and Additional Info

5 Hour Small Group Santorini Tour for Cruise Passengers - What’s Not Included and Additional Info

The tour does not include food or beverages, so travelers are encouraged to bring snacks or purchase items during stops. The meeting point is the Santorini Cable Car – Upper Station, with most travelers able to participate comfortably. Confirmation is provided immediately upon booking unless the activity is booked within a day, then confirmation follows as soon as possible.

Flexibility and Cancellation Policy

Guests can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, receiving a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not eligible for refunds. The tour relies on good weather; if canceled due to poor weather, a full refund or alternative date is offered. The minimum number of travelers is not specified, but the tour proceeds with a maximum of 18.

Why Choose This Santorini Shore Excursion?

This tour suits cruise passengers seeking a compact yet comprehensive overview of Santorini’s highlights. The small group and friendly guides create a relaxed, engaging atmosphere. The balanced itinerary ensures travelers see famous villages, scenic viewpoints, and relaxing beaches all within five hours, making it a convenient yet enriching option.

While not including food and drinks, the tour’s focus on spectacular sights and stunning vistas makes it ideal for those wishing to maximize their limited time on the island. It’s particularly suitable for travelers who appreciate guided insights and prefer comfortable transportation over strenuous activity.

Ready to Book?

5 Hour Small Group Santorini Tour for Cruise Passengers



5.0

100% 5-star

“The guides were friendly, knowledgeable and great to work with. The trip was amazing and were so glad we did it!! Would come back in a heartbeat an…”

— A Tripadvisor Reviewer, Jul 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, including all stops and transportation.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from the Santorini Cable Car – Upper Station at Ipapantis 10, Thira.

Is this tour suitable for all physical levels?
Yes, the tour involves walking through villages and scenic spots, but overall it requires no strenuous activity.

Are meals included?
No, food and beverages are not included, but there are stops where you can purchase snacks or drinks.

What is the group size?
The small group size is limited to a maximum of 18 travelers for a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full cancellation is possible up to 24 hours before the start for a full refund.

Is there a guide?
Yes, the tour is led by a friendly, certified English-speaking guide.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and any personal items like water or snacks.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of key scenic stops, small group size, and expert guiding makes this a popular choice for cruise visitors.

Will I see sunset views?
While the tour includes Oia, known for its sunsets, the visit is limited to one hour, so sunset viewing depends on timing and weather conditions.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, it requires good weather; cancellations due to weather will be fully refunded or rescheduled.