Santorini Full Day Tour

This Santorini Full Day Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the island and its nearby volcanic islands, all in approximately 12 hours. Priced at $79.45 per person, this tour includes guided visits, a boat trip, and stunning views from Santorini’s highest point. The tour departs from Fira, Kamari, or Perissa, with a morning pickup and a full itinerary that covers natural wonders, historic sites, and memorable sunsets. It is a well-organized experience favored for its value and variety, making it particularly suitable for those wanting to see as much as possible in a single day, though it involves some moderate physical activity.

While it encompasses many highlights, travelers should be prepared for a long day that includes a volcano hike, boat rides, and time on the water. The tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides and spectacular scenery, but the crowd levels on the boat and some timing considerations are worth noting. This experience is perfect for visitors eager to experience Santorini’s natural beauty and history without the need for their own transport.

Key Points

• Complete full-day exploration of Santorini and nearby volcanic islands
• Includes a boat trip to Nea Kameni, Palea Kameni, and Thirassia
• Visits the 16th-century monastery of Saint Elias and Pyrgos village
• Opportunities for swimming in hot springs and relaxing on Thirassia’s beach
• Ends with a sunset view in Oia, the island’s most iconic sunset spot
• Moderate physical activity required, especially for volcano hike

Starting with Santorini’s Highest Point and the 16th-Century Monastery

The tour begins with a morning pickup from Fira, Kamari, or Perissa, followed by a bus ride to Santorini’s highest point. Here, at the 1804-foot (550-meter) peak, visitors enjoy panoramic views of the entire island and the caldera. The monastery of Saint Elias, dating back to the 16th century, is situated at this vantage point. Visitors can appreciate the religious architecture and breathtaking vistas from this historic site.

This spot offers a chance to see Santorini’s rugged landscape and get a sense of the island’s geological activity, which has shaped its dramatic scenery. The admission is free, and the location is part of the core highlights that make this tour stand out.

Exploring Pyrgos Village and Its Venetian Castle

Next, the tour continues to Pyrgos, a village known for its Cycladic architecture and historic charm. The village’s winding streets, Byzantine churches, and traditional houses give visitors a taste of local life. Pyrgos is one of the highest points on the island, offering spectacular views over the northwest coast.

A visit to the Venetian Castle in Pyrgos enriches the experience, providing a glimpse into the island’s medieval past. Visitors have ample opportunity to explore the winding streets and capture photos of the panoramic landscape. This stop offers a balanced mix of history and scenery in a less crowded, more authentic setting.

Boat Ride to the Volcanic Islands of Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni

The boat, named King Thiras, takes travelers from Pyrgos to the volcanic islands in the caldera. The first stop is Nea Kameni, where a dirt path leads up to the crater of an active volcano. The walk up offers stunning volcanic landscapes and a chance to stand on lava rocks while viewing smoking fumaroles.

After exploring Nea Kameni, the boat moves to Palea Kameni. Here, visitors can soak their feet in the green sulphur hot springs by docking approximately 164 feet (50 meters) from the springs. Swimmers can enjoy the warm, mineral-rich waters or simply relax and admire the smoky scenery. The hot springs are a highlight for many, offering a unique natural bath amid volcanic surroundings.

Relaxing on Thirassia Island and Its Village of Manolas

The journey continues to Thirassia, a small island that was once connected to Santorini before a volcanic eruption split the landmass. Visitors have two hours to explore the island at their own pace. Options include swimming on the beach, lunch next to the sea, or exploring the village of Manolas.

Thirassia offers traditional countryside scenery and a quaint village atmosphere. Many choose to walk through the winding streets, take photos of traditional houses, or enjoy a local meal. The island’s relaxed pace provides a welcome break amid the more active parts of the tour.

Visiting the Village of Manolas and Lunch Options

In Manolas, visitors can explore winding steps and local shops, gaining a sense of traditional Cycladic life. The village’s simple charm contrasts with the more touristy spots like Oia, making it a peaceful stop. Many enjoy lunch here, choosing from local tavernas or cafes, with options for sea views and authentic Greek cuisine.

While some tourist traps exist on Thirassia, alternatives are available for those seeking better quality food and less crowded spots. The two-hour stay in Thirassia balances exploration and relaxation, giving ample time to recharge before heading to Oia.

Sunset Viewing in Oia and the Return Journey

The final destination is Oia, where the boat docks at the port of Amoudi. Visitors walk up the steps to Oia’s charming streets, ending the day with one of the most famous sunsets in the world. The sunset in Oia is often described as breathtaking, with the sky painted in vivid colors over the caldera.

The tour concludes 30 minutes after sunset. The bus then picks travelers up at Oia to return to their hotel, completing the full-day experience. The entire journey emphasizes scenic beauty and cultural highlights, wrapped up in a well-organized schedule.

Logistics and Group Size of the Santorini Tour

This guided tour is operated by Cretan Holidays and features a maximum of 50 travelers, ensuring a comfortable group size for interaction and sightseeing. The pickup locations include Fira, Kamari, or Perissa, with a start time at 8:30 am.

Included in the price are local taxes, a guided tour, and the boat trip. However, food and drinks are not included, and visitors should be prepared to purchase volcano entrance tickets (€4) and hot spring admission (€4). The tour is operated by a multilingual guide, and the bar onboard offers drinks, sandwiches, and coffee for purchase.

Physical Requirements and Pacing

Participants should have moderate physical fitness due to hiking up the volcano and walking around various sites. Hiking shoes are recommended for the volcano ascent, which involves walking on lava rocks. Some stops, like hot springs and Thirassia, offer relaxing options for those less inclined to hike.

The longer duration and busy schedule mean travelers should bring water, sunscreen, and snacks to stay comfortable. The guide’s commentary enhances the experience, making the pacing manageable for most visitors.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Other Santorini Excursions

This full-day tour distinguishes itself through its combination of land and sea activities, offering volcano exploration, hot springs, and village visits in one package. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude, especially those who share interesting stories about the sites.

Compared to shorter or more niche options, this tour provides a broad overview, making it ideal for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive snapshot of Santorini. The sunset in Oia adds a memorable ending, celebrated by many reviews. Some limitations, like crowding on the boat and the long day, are acknowledged but often outweighed by the diversity of experiences.

Santorini Full Day Tour: An Honest Summary

This full-day experience offers an excellent way to see Santorini’s highlights in a single day, especially for visitors with limited time. The combination of scenic land visits, volcano hikes, and relaxing water stops makes this a well-rounded tour. The guided commentary enriches the experience, providing context and stories that elevate the sightseeing.

While the long hours and crowded boat might be drawbacks for some, many find the price of $79.45 to be a reasonable value given the variety of activities and sights included. The sunset in Oia remains a key highlight that leaves a lasting impression.

This tour suits those who enjoy moderate physical activity, appreciate scenic views, and want a structured yet diverse day in Santorini. It’s less ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed pace or solitude, but perfect for those eager to maximize their time and see the essentials of this iconic Greek island.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, pickup from designated meeting points and transport back to your hotel are included. The tour uses a bus operated by Cretan Holidays.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Yes, there are volcano entrance fees of €4 and hot springs admission of €4. Food and drinks on the boat are not included but available for purchase.

How fit do I need to be?
Participants should have moderate physical fitness to manage hiking the volcano and walking around sites. Hiking shoes are recommended for the volcano climb.

What is the best time to take this tour?
The tour starts at 8:30 am, making it ideal for daylight hours. The sunset in Oia typically occurs later in the day, providing a spectacular viewing experience.

Can I customize the itinerary?
No, the itinerary is fixed, but guides offer interesting commentary and recommendations during the stops to enhance your experience.

This Santorini Full Day Tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of one of Greece’s most stunning islands, combining natural wonders, cultural sights, and unforgettable sunsets. It provides good value for those wanting a full immersion in Santorini’s highlights within a manageable schedule.