Fira: Walking Tour with Cable Car Ride

When it comes to visiting Santorini, the charming capital of Fira often gets top billing. Its whitewashed buildings, narrow cobblestone streets, and breathtaking views of the Aegean make it a must-see. We’ve looked into a popular tour that offers a guided walk through Fira, combined with a cable car ride and a chance to taste some local wines. It’s a package that promises a snapshot of the town’s beauty and flavors in just four hours.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it blends scenic highlights with local culture. The cable car ride offers incredible aerial views of the caldera, giving you a different perspective you simply can’t get on foot. Plus, the wine tasting at a place called Pelican Kipos sounds like a lovely way to unwind after exploring the town’s streets and shops.

That said, it’s worth mentioning that the tour has had some hiccups, notably cancellations, which can be disappointing. If you’re someone who values reliable scheduling, this is something to keep in mind. It’s best suited for travelers wanting an overview of Fira without a full-day commitment, especially those interested in scenic views and local drinks.

If you’re visiting Santorini and want a concise, scenic, and culturally immersive taste of Fira, this tour might fit the bill. Just be aware of the potential for cancellations and plan accordingly.

Key Points

• Breathtaking views: The cable car ride provides a unique perspective of the caldera and town.
• Cultural stroll: Walking through Fira’s charming streets showcases local jewelry shops and donkey roads.
• Wine tasting: Sitting in Pelican Kipos, sampling rare and renowned local wines adds a flavorful touch.
• Short and sweet: The four-hour length makes it a good option for a quick yet rich experience.
• Group size: Limited to 10 participants, so expect a more personalized vibe.
• Potential cancellations: Some reviews mention last-minute cancellations, so check availability before booking.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour is designed to give you a solid introduction to Santorini’s capital, focusing on its highlights and cultural quirks. You’ll start in front of the Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral, which sits atop a cliff and offers stunning views right from the beginning. From there, your guide will lead you through the old town, pointing out interesting jewelry shops and taking a leisurely walk along some of the island’s famous donkey roads—those narrow, winding paths that harken back to old times when donkeys carried goods up and down the hills.

The highlight of the tour is undoubtedly the cable car ride, which transports you from the top of the caldera down to a small port below. It’s about five minutes and offers panoramic views you’ll want to capture with your camera. The descent gives you a different appreciation of the volcanic landscape and the sheer cliffs surrounding the town.

Once at the port, your walk continues toward Firostefani, where the iconic blue-domed church is a perfect photo stop. After the sightseeing, the tour culminates at Pelican Kipos, a cozy spot that houses a wine cellar with both renowned and rare local wines. While wine tasting is optional, many find it a lovely way to relax and soak in local flavors after exploring.

The Practical Details

The cost of this experience is $55 per person, which might seem reasonable given what it includes—guided walking, a cable car ride, and the possibility of wine tasting. The tour lasts approximately four hours, making it a manageable addition to a day of sightseeing. Keep in mind that it doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, nor does it include lunch, so plan to grab a bite beforehand or afterward.

Starting point is conveniently located in front of the Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral, and it’s important to arrive about 10 minutes early. The group size is kept small—up to 10 people—which usually means a more intimate and engaging tour.

The cable car ride is a significant part of the experience, offering awe-inspiring views of the caldera. It’s also a practical way to descend from the town to the port, especially if you’re carrying shopping or just want a break from walking uphill.

The Experience in Reality: Pros and Cons

Many travelers have enjoyed the tour’s scenic aspects and the chance to sample local wines, describing it as good value for money. The views from the cable car and the overall charm of Fira make it worthwhile. The small group size is also appreciated for the more relaxed, personalized atmosphere.

However, some reviews highlight a significant downside: cancellations. One reviewer mentioned, “The tour was cancelled 45 minutes before the scheduled time,” which is frustrating if you’ve planned your day around it. Others noted that communication could be better, especially regarding cancellations, as one traveler pointed out they weren’t informed beforehand and had to find out via email.

This inconsistency could be a dealbreaker for some, so it’s wise to confirm availability and cancellation policies before booking, especially in shoulder seasons or during busy times when tours may have low enrollment.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a short, scenic overview of Fira without spending an entire day. It suits those interested in stunning views, light cultural exploration, and local wines—especially if you’re not looking for a very detailed or extensive tour. It’s also good for those who enjoy small group experiences and prefer avoiding large, bus-style tours.

On the flip side, if you’re a meticulous planner or someone who hates last-minute cancellations, you might want to keep a backup plan or confirm the tour’s status before heading out. It’s also not designed for those seeking in-depth historical insights or extensive shopping.

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Final Thoughts

This walking tour with a cable car ride offers a quick but memorable way to experience Fira’s beauty and charm. The combination of scenic vistas, charming streets, and a relaxed wine tasting makes it a good pick for a laid-back afternoon. The cost is reasonable, and the small group setting promises a more personalized experience.

However, potential travelers should be aware of the risk of cancellations, which has been a notable issue for some. If you’re flexible and prepared, this tour can add a nice layer to your Santorini trip, giving you a peek into the island’s vibrant culture and stunning landscapes.

In summary, this experience fits best for travelers who want a snapshot of Fira without a full-day commitment and who value views and flavor over in-depth historical detail. Just double-check availability and cancellation policies to ensure your plans stay smooth.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While the tour primarily appeals to adults interested in scenery and wine, there’s nothing explicitly family-oriented. Children comfortable with walking and short rides will enjoy the sights, but wine tasting may not be appealing or suitable for younger guests.

Does the tour include hotel pickup or drop-off?
No, the tour does not include hotel transportation. You’ll need to meet at the designated starting point in front of the Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since you’ll be walking on cobblestone streets. A camera is also a good idea to capture the beautiful views and photos of the iconic blue-domed church.

How long does the cable car ride last?
The aerial lift takes about five minutes and provides a fantastic aerial view of the caldera and the town below.

Can I arrange wine tasting during the tour?
Yes, wine tasting is available at Pelican Kipos, where a wide selection of local and international wines can be sampled. It’s optional and can be arranged on-site.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a small group of up to 10 participants, promoting a more personalized experience.

What happens if the tour gets canceled?
Some reviews report last-minute cancellations, so it’s wise to confirm your booking and check the tour’s cancellation policy beforehand. Full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

If you’re after a manageable, scenic taste of Fira with the bonus of a cable car ride and wine sampling, this tour could be a good fit—just stay flexible and double-check the details before you go.

You can check availability for your dates here: