Santorini is one of Greece’s most iconic islands — famous for its white-washed buildings, dramatic caldera, and stunning sunsets. But to truly appreciate its volcanic landscape and colorful villages, nothing beats seeing it from the air. Helicopter tours in Santorini offer a unique perspective, soaring above the caldera, volcano, and ocean for unforgettable views. We especially love the private 30-minute flight for its personalized experience and the chance to see well-known spots like Oia and Megalochori from above. Whether you’re after a quick adrenaline rush or a leisurely scenic flight, Santorini’s helicopter tours deliver an unmatched perspective of this breathtaking island.
This list features a variety of options, from short shared flights to exclusive private tours, each offering distinctive highlights. You’ll find tours that focus on iconic landmarks like Nea Kameni and Red Beach, with some emphasizing sunset flights and others prioritizing privacy or group size. All of them promise spectacular views — so read on to find the best fit for your travel style.
1. Santorini 30min Helicopter Tour
This private Santorini helicopter flight hits the sweet spot for those wanting an immersive experience without overcommitting. Lasting around 1 hour and 30 minutes in total, it includes a 30-minute flight that offers a comprehensive view of Santorini’s most celebrated sights. You’ll fly over the caldera, Nea Kameni volcano, and the red-tinged beaches, but that’s just the start. The tour also takes you over the charming villages of Megalochori and Fira, with a hover above Oia, arguably Greece’s most famous village, for picture-perfect moments.
What makes this tour stand out is its private setting, accommodating up to five people, which means plenty of opportunity for photos and personal interaction with the pilot. The itinerary includes stops at Imerovigli, Firostefani, and the castelli of Pyrgos, along with views of Perissa Beach and Kamari Beach. The reviews are glowing, with one traveler calling it a “wonderful way to see all of Santorini without the crowds,” and praising the “top-notch company from pick-up to flight.” It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone who wants a flexible, intimate experience.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a perfect combination of privacy, comprehensive sights, and high-quality service — a great pick for travelers seeking a personalized aerial tour.
2. Shared Helicopter Tour Santorini 20 minutes – 2 passengers
If your time is limited but you want to see a lot, the 20-minute shared helicopter tour is a fantastic option. Designed for just two passengers, or up to three at most, this flight provides a bird’s-eye view of key sights like Oia, the caldera, and Megalochori. It’s perfect for a quick, exhilarating experience, giving you a taste of Santorini’s volcanic beauty and colorful towns.
What sets this tour apart is its flexibility in departure times and the inclusion of bottled water — ensuring comfort during the flight. You’ll also enjoy views of Red Beach and Nea Kameni, with the pilot sharing insights about the island’s volcanic activity and history. Reviewers mention how friendly and informative the pilot was, with one noting, “the views were stunning, and the pilot made us feel at ease.” It’s especially suited for travelers on a tight schedule, or couples wanting a memorable experience without a long commitment.
Bottom Line: This swift, intimate tour offers a high-impact experience at a reasonable price, ideal for those wanting a quick but comprehensive aerial glimpse of Santorini.
3. Private Helicopter Tour Santorini 20 minutes – up to 4 passengers
For those seeking exclusivity and room to spread out, the private 20-minute helicopter tour for up to four passengers is a top contender. It’s a perfect choice if you want a personalized experience, flying over Oia, the caldera, and the volcano, with the option to catch a sunset for extra romance. This tour focuses on customization, with several departure times to fit your schedule.
The highlight is the chance to capture stunning photos through panoramic windows while your pilot points out iconic landmarks. The consistent five-star reviews say the pilot is friendly and knowledgeable, making nervous flyers feel at ease — especially important if you’re not a fan of heights. The tour’s shorter duration makes it a manageable but impactful way to see Santorini’s best features.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for couples or small groups wanting a private, flexible, and visually memorable experience with plenty of photo opportunities.
4. Santorini Helicopter Sightseeing 20 min – Single Tickets
If you’re traveling solo or just want to experience Santorini from above without the fuss of arranging a private tour, the single-ticket 20-minute sightseeing helicopter ride offers tremendous value. Flying over Red Beach, Thira, Akrotiri, and Nea Kameni, this tour covers many highlights in a compact window of time.
The sunset flights are particularly popular, as the golden light enhances the scenery and makes the caldera glow. Travelers praise the avoidance of crowds and heat, plus the aerial views of blue-domed churches and volcanic landscapes. The informative pilot makes the flight engaging, sharing insights about the island’s geology and culture. With a price point of around $341 per person, it’s a relatively affordable way to tick off Santorini’s key sights from above.
Bottom Line: Suitable for solo travelers or those on a budget, this tour delivers high-quality views of Santorini’s most photogenic spots in a short time.
5. Private Helicopter Tour Santorini 30 minutes – up to 4 passengers
At the top of our list, the 30-minute private helicopter tour for up to four people is the most comprehensive option. It’s perfect for travelers who want time to soak in every detail of Santorini’s landscape, from Oia and the caldera to Nea Kameni and Thirassia. The itinerary includes a full sweep of the island’s signature sights, with a pilot offering expert commentary along the way.
What makes this tour exceptional is its generous duration and privacy. Reviews highlight how the experience is both luxurious and personal, with one reviewer calling the pilot “knowledgeable and friendly,” making nervous flyers comfortable. The up to four passengers can enjoy the flight without feeling crowded, making it suitable for families or small groups. The price reflects its exclusivity, but the detailed views and flexibility make it well worth considering.
Bottom Line: The best choice for travelers wanting an in-depth, private aerial tour that covers all the major sights with plenty of time for photos and relaxation.
How to Choose Your Santorini Helicopter Experience
When picking the perfect helicopter tour, consider your budget, time constraints, and personal interests. For a short and affordable taste of Santorini, the single 20-minute sightseeing tour is ideal. If you want more privacy and customization, the private 20-minute or 30-minute options might be better suited. For those wanting a fuller experience, the 30-minute private tour combines excellent sights with comfort and exclusivity.
Timing also matters — sunset flights provide magical lighting, especially for photos, and tend to be popular. Booking early is recommended, as these tours fill quickly during peak season. Consider the group size and whether privacy or shared experiences matter most.
In Summary
Santorini’s helicopter tours offer some of the most spectacular views in Greece. Options range from quick, budget-friendly flights to luxurious private adventures lasting up to 30 minutes. If you’re after a romantic sunset or a personalized experience, the private tours are hard to beat. For a quick overview or solo trip, the shorter shared or single tickets will do the trick.
Whether you’re celebrating a honeymoon, traveling with family, or just craving a bird’s-eye view, these helicopter experiences won’t disappoint. Remember to book early, select a time that suits your plans, and get ready for a truly unforgettable perspective of Santorini’s volcanic beauty.
