Santorini Full Day Tour

If you’re dreaming of getting a broad taste of Santorini’s stunning scenery and unique sights without the hassle of planning every detail, a guided full-day tour like this one might be the way to go. We’ve looked into this experience offered by Cretan Holidays, and it seems to strike a balance between seeing key highlights and keeping things manageable within a 12-hour window.

Two things we really like about this tour are the variety of stops, from panoramic viewpoints to volcanic adventures, and the knowledgeable guides who help bring each location to life. But it’s not all smooth sailing, especially considering the long hours, the busy boat ride, and the walking involved — so it’s worth considering if you’re comfortable with those parts.

This tour isn’t for everyone, especially if you’re looking for a more relaxed, less crowded experience or if you prefer to explore at your own pace. However, for travelers eager to hit the major sights, get some outdoor activity, and enjoy a memorable sunset, this could be a solid choice.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering volcanoes, scenic viewpoints, historic sites, and beaches
• Includes boat trip to volcanic islands and hot springs, adding adventure to the day
• Guides are highly praised for their knowledge and friendly approach
• Long day, around 12 hours, so bringing snacks, water, and sun protection is a good idea
• Busy boat segment, which might be uncomfortable for some
• Good value for the price considering the variety and length of the experience

What’s the Experience Like?

This tour is designed to give you a good overview of Santorini and its surroundings, packed into roughly 12 hours. You start early, with hotel pickups around 8:30 AM, and after a scenic bus ride, you’ll reach the island’s highest point, the Monastery of Prophet Elias, at 1804 feet (550 meters). From here, you get the kind of jaw-dropping views that make Santorini so iconic, stretching across the caldera and beyond.

One of the highlights that many reviews mention is the visit to Pyrgos, a charming village where you’ll see traditional Cycladic architecture, Byzantine churches, and the Venetian Castle. It’s a glimpse into the island’s layered history and offers some great photo ops. The guide usually shares interesting info here, adding context to what you see.

Next, the tour takes you to Nea Kameni, an active volcanic island. You’ll climb a dirt path up to the volcano’s crater, which offers incredible panoramic views of the surrounding caldera. For many, this hike is a memorable part of the day, though some reviews note it can be quite challenging, especially under the sun. The volcanic landscape makes it clear why this island is considered one of the most unique places in Greece.

Afterward, you’ll hop on the boat to Palea Kameni, where you can dip your feet in the green sulphur hot springs. Many find this part relaxing, although the hot springs are more about enjoying the scenery rather than long swims. The waters are known for their therapeutic qualities, and the contrast of the sulfur smell with the stunning backdrop is quite a sight.

The journey continues to Thirassia, a smaller island that was once part of Santorini before a volcanic eruption split the land. Here, you have a couple of hours to relax on the beach, explore the village of Manolas, or grab some lunch. Some reviews praise this stop for its authentic feel and fewer crowds, although the food options tend to be tourist-friendly.

The tour wraps up at Oia, famous for its sunset views. You’ll arrive at the port of Amoudi, walk up the steps, and watch the sun dip into the horizon — a moment that many visitors find unforgettable. After the sunset, you’ll head back to your hotel, ending what many say is a long but rewarding day.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Monastery of Prophet Elias

Your first stop is on the highest point of the island at 1804 feet (550 meters). The Monastery of Prophet Elias, built in the 16th century, offers sweeping vistas of Santorini. The view alone makes this worth the early start, giving you a sense of the island’s scale and beauty. It’s a peaceful spot, often surrounded by clouds or mist, depending on the weather. From here, you can appreciate why Santorini’s landscape is so striking.

Pyrgos Village and Venetian Castle

From the monastery, the tour visits Pyrgos, a picturesque village with winding lanes and traditional houses. The Venetian Castle here overlooks the northwest part of the island, providing another vantage point. Tour guides frequently mention that Pyrgos is a good place to see authentic Cycladic architecture without the overwhelming crowds of more touristy spots. Expect to see Byzantine churches and the castle ruins, all with city views behind.

Nea Kameni — The Volcano

The volcano climb is often the highlight, especially for those who enjoy outdoor activities. The dirt path up to the crater can be steep and rocky, so sturdy shoes are recommended. The active volcano still emits some fumes, and the crater offers surreal views of the caldera. The walk takes about an hour, and the experience of standing on lava rocks and seeing the bubbling volcanic landscape is pretty unique.

Palea Kameni Hot Springs

After conquering the volcano, you’ll descend to Palea Kameni for some relaxation. The boat docks near the hot springs, and you have about an hour here to dip your feet in the warm, sulphur-rich waters. Some reviews mention that the hot springs don’t really allow for deep swimming, but rather foot-soaking and enjoying the scenery. The waters are said to have therapeutic benefits, which adds a layer of interest for health-conscious travelers.

Thirassia — A Quiet Escape

Next, the boat takes you to Thirassia, a less-touristed island with a traditional vibe. Here, you get around two hours — plenty of time for a relaxed lunch, a stroll through the village of Manolas, or just lounging on the beach. Many reviewers appreciate this stop for its authenticity and fewer crowds. It’s a chance to slow down after the busy volcano hike and boat ride.

Sunset at Oia

The final highlight is Oia, one of the most famous sunset spots in the world. The boat docks at Amoudi Bay, and after walking up the steps, you’ll find yourself in the charming town. Watching the sunset here is often described as magical, with the sky turning hues of orange and pink, and the caldera providing a dramatic backdrop. It’s a fitting end to a packed day.

Transportation, Group Size, and Value

The tour’s transportation is mainly by bus and boat, with the bus picking you up from designated meeting points (or nearby hotels, depending on availability). The group size caps at 50, which balances the social aspect with enough space to move comfortably.

The ticket price of around $79.45 per person may seem like a lot, but when you consider the extensive itinerary — covering multiple islands, historical sites, and a boat trip — it offers good value. Entrance fees for attractions like the volcano are separate (~4-5 euros), which is typical for guided tours.

Many reviews mention that guides are very knowledgeable and friendly, making the long day more engaging. The inclusion of the boat trip, the stops at volcanic islands, and the sunset viewing all add to the experience’s appeal. Still, some travelers raise concerns about the crowded boat ride and the long hours, especially if you’re not used to full-day excursions.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for active travelers who enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and don’t mind a long day. If you’re eager to see Santorini’s top sights, including the volcano, hot springs, and sunset, and prefer not to organize each part yourself, this tour covers those bases well.

It’s also a good fit if you’re traveling with a group or family that can handle walking and a busy schedule. However, if you’re prone to seasickness, sensitive to crowds, or prefer a more leisurely pace, you might want to look for alternatives.

Final Thoughts

This Santorini full-day tour offers a comprehensive snapshot of the island’s natural beauty, history, and culture. It balances outdoor adventure with scenic stops and fascinating sites. The guides are frequently praised for their expertise, which enhances the overall experience. The boat trip adds a fun, adventurous element—though it can be crowded and uncomfortable for some.

The schedule is packed, so it’s not for those seeking relaxation, but it’s perfect for curious travelers eager to make the most of a single day. The sunset at Oia remains a highlight for many, wrapping up the tour with a view that’s hard to beat.

If you’re prepared for a full day of activity, don’t mind the crowds, and want to tick off multiple must-see spots in one go, this tour could be a smart choice. Just remember to bring sunscreen, water, and comfortable shoes, and you’ll have a memorable, well-organized adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 12 hours, starting around 8:30 AM and ending after sunset in Oia, which can be around 8 or 9 PM.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers hotel pickup, guided tour, boat trip, and drop-off back at your hotel. Entrance fees for attractions like the volcano and monastery are separate.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included in the price. There is a bar on the boat where you can purchase snacks, drinks, and coffee.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While children are welcome, consider the long hours and physical activities like volcano hikes. It’s best suited for older kids comfortable with walking and outdoor activities.

What about the boat ride?
The boat is a key part of the experience, taking you between islands. Some reviews mention it being crowded and uncomfortable, so pack accordingly if this concerns you.

How physically demanding is the volcano hike?
It’s a dirt path up to the active crater, which can be challenging under the sun and with lava rocks. Good footwear and water are recommended.

Can I skip parts of the tour?
Yes, some reviews mention guests opting out of certain activities like the volcano hike or swimming in the hot springs if they prefer.

What if I want to end the tour early?
You can request to be dropped off earlier, but confirm this with your guide beforehand. The tour ends at Oia after sunset.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. The viewpoints from the monastery, Pyrgos, and Oia are incredible. The sunset at Oia is famous for stunning photographs.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, the tour is usually booked about 35 days in advance, especially in high season, and sells out quickly.

This full-day Santorini tour offers a fantastic way to see many of the island’s must-visit sites, especially if you’re after a guided experience with some outdoor activity. Just be ready for a long day, bring your essentials, and enjoy the journey.