Private Day Trip From Crete Discover Santorini’s Charms

Discover Santorini's highlights on a private 4.5-hour day trip from Crete, including Oia, Fira, Pyrgos, and Perissa Beach, with flexible, guided exploration.

An Exclusive Day Trip from Crete to Santorini for Personalised Exploration

The Private Day Trip from Crete to Santorini offers a personalized way to enjoy the island’s most iconic sights in just around 4 hours and 30 minutes. For $202.95 per person, travelers benefit from a private guide, ensuring a tailored experience that suits individual interests. With pick-up and drop-off from Santorini Port, this tour provides a hassle-free way to see Oia, Fira, Pyrgos Kallistis, and Perissa Beach at your own pace.

This trip is ideal for those who want a flexible, intimate look at Santorini’s highlights without the constraints of a large group. While ferry tickets and meals are not included, the tour emphasizes sightseeing and culture, making it a rich yet manageable addition to any Greek island itinerary.

Key Points

  • Private guided tour ensures personalized attention and flexibility
  • Visits to five major locations: Oia, Fira, Pyrgos, Perissa Beach, and Perissa village
  • Duration of approximately 4 hours 30 minutes
  • Cost of $202.95 per person, with pickup and drop-off from Santorini Port included
  • Admission tickets are free at each stop, focusing costs on transportation and guide services
  • No meals or drinks included—perfect for those wishing to explore independently

Departure and Meeting Details at Thira Santorini Port

The tour begins sharply at 10:00 am at Thira Santorini Port, located at Órmos Athiniós 847 00, Greece. Travelers are picked up from this central location, making it easy to access without additional hassle. The return is also at the same meeting point, simplifying logistics.

The tour is designed as a private activity, meaning only your group participates, allowing for a relaxed and tailored experience. The pickup service ensures a smooth start, especially for those arriving from Crete by ferry.

Highlights of Oia: Sunset Views and Charming Streets

Oia is the first stop of this day trip, set on the northern cliffs of Santorini. Known for its white-washed buildings and blue-domed churches, the village oozes charm. Visitors can wander through labyrinthine streets, enjoying panoramic views of the caldera. The stop lasts about one hour, giving enough time to admire the stunning scenery and take photographs.

Oia’s atmosphere is peaceful, and the free admission makes it an inviting spot for a leisurely exploration. Expect to see iconic blue accents against white walls, perfect for capturing classic Santorini images.

Fira: The Vibrant Heart of Santorini

Next, the tour visits Fira, the lively capital of Santorini. Perched on cliff edges, Fira offers a mix of cliffside cafes, shops, and panoramic vistas of the volcanic caldera. In one hour, visitors can stroll through shopping streets, enjoy the bustling atmosphere, and appreciate the spectacular views.

Fira’s charm lies in its busy yet inviting streets, with numerous boutiques and cafes where you can simply soak in the scenery or pick up souvenirs. Admission is free, making it a perfect quick stop for sightseeing and photo opportunities.

Pyrgos Kallistis: A Walk Through Traditional Santorini

Inland from the coast, Pyrgos Kallistis offers a more authentic, less touristy experience. This whitewashed village is famous for its narrow alleys, vibrant bougainvillea, and castle ruins. The one-hour visit allows plenty of time to wander through village streets and admire local architecture.

Pyrgos presents a timeless vibe, with whitewashed houses and vibrant flowers, providing a peaceful contrast to the busier coastal spots. Admission remains free, emphasizing the focus on scenic and cultural exploration.

Perissa Black Sand Beach: Unique Coastal Scenery

The southeastern coast hosts Perissa Beach, known for its dark, volcanic black sand and crystal-clear waters. The 45-minute stop offers a chance to step onto the velvety sands and feel the warmth of the Aegean Sea.

This location is perfect for a quick photo and to enjoy the stunning contrast of black sand against blue waters. While no facilities are included, the free entry invites a simple, relaxing experience on a distinctive volcanic shoreline.

Leisure at Perissa Village: Swimming and Lunch

Following the beach, travelers have another 45 minutes in Perissa village. This allows time to swim in the Aegean waters, relax on the black sands, or explore local seaside tavernas. The optional lunch provides a chance to sample local Greek cuisine while enjoying seaside views.

Since meals are not included in the tour fee, visitors can choose to dine independently at one of the tavernas or bring their own snacks. This flexibility accommodates different preferences, whether for casual snacks or full meals.

Logistics and Transportation: Hassle-Free Access

The private nature of this tour means transportation is arranged for your group, with pick-up and drop-off directly at Santorini Port. The timed stops are well-paced to maximize sights without feeling rushed, making it suitable for travelers who prefer a relaxed exploration.

The tour’s duration ensures a rundown of Santorini’s top spots, without overwhelming the schedule, ideal for those looking for a taste of the island in a limited time.

The Personal Touch: Customizable Itinerary with a Private Guide

A key feature of this private tour is the ability to customize the experience with your guide. The guide, Miss Elise in recent reviews, is praised for tailoring the day to your interests, whether that involves spending more time at certain stops or skipping others.

This level of personalized attention makes the tour particularly appealing for those seeking a more intimate and flexible sightseeing experience. The private guide can deepen your understanding of each location and respond to your specific curiosities.

Cost and What’s Not Included

The cost of $202.95 per person covers the private guide, pick-up and drop-off, and free admission at all stops. However, it does not include ferry tickets, meals or drinks, personal expenses, gratuities, or visits to wineries.

Travelers should budget separately for ferry costs if arriving from Crete or other expenses during the day. The free cancellation policy offers flexibility, as cancellations up to 24 hours in advance enable a full refund.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This day trip is great for anyone seeking a personalized, comfortable way to see Santorini’s highlights in a short timeframe. It suits those who prefer private, flexible tours and enjoy scenic walks, photo opportunities, and relaxed exploration.

Because of the pace and stops, it’s suitable for most fitness levels, but travelers should be comfortable with walking on uneven streets and climbing stairs at some locations.

Final Thoughts on the Private Santorini Day Trip

This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into some of Santorini’s most picturesque spots, from Oia’s iconic views to Pyrgos’ village charm and Perissa’s volcanic sands. The private guide enhances the experience through customization and personal attention, making it an ideal choice for those who value flexibility.

While some may wish for additional inclusions like meals or winery visits, the tour’s focus on sightseeing and scenic stops makes it a cost-effective way to enjoy Santorini’s beauty in a short, manageable timeframe.

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Private Day Trip From Crete Discover Santorini’s Charms



5.0

100% 5-star

“What a wonderful day 7 of us spent with Miss Elise our tour guide. She tailored our day to where our interests lied. We were 3 generations and we a…”

— A Tripadvisor Reviewer, Apr 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes from start to finish.

What is included in the price?
The private guide, pick-up and drop-off from Santorini Port, and free admission to all stops are included.

Are meals or drinks included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, allowing flexibility for lunch at local tavernas or to bring snacks.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, as a private tour, it offers the possibility to tailor the stops and timing with your guide.

What locations will I visit?
You will visit Oia, Fira, Pyrgos Kallistis, Perissa Black Sand Beach, and Perissa village.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it involves walking on uneven streets and some climbing, so travelers should be comfortable with these activities.