From Rethymnon Explore Santorini Villages, Oia & Fira

Traveling from Crete to Santorini in just a day might sound ambitious, but it’s definitely doable—and quite rewarding. This particular tour, organized by Island Spy, promises a full day of sightseeing, exploring two of Santorini’s most iconic villages, and enjoying some of the best views Greece has to offer. If you’re a traveler who loves a mix of guided insight and free time to soak in a new place, this trip has a lot going for it.

What we really like about this experience is the smooth logistics—from the high-speed ferry ride to the air-conditioned bus tours—and the opportunity to see both Oia and Fira. Plus, there’s a chance to add an optional visit to the volcanic hot springs, which can be a fun bonus if you’re up for it. On the flip side, the short amount of free time at each stop might feel a bit rushed if you’re someone who loves to linger.

This tour tends to suit those who want a comprehensive snapshot of Santorini without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. It’s perfect for travelers with just a day or two in Crete looking to tick a major Greek island off their list, or those who prefer guided experiences to maximize their limited time.

Key Points

• Quick but comprehensive: This is a well-organized day trip that balances guided tours with free exploration.
• Comfortable travel: Expect a 3-hour high-speed ferry ride, with onboard snacks available.
• Insightful guides: The tour includes knowledgeable guides who provide interesting details about Santorini.
• Flexible options: You can choose to extend your time in Fira or visit the hot springs for an extra charge.
• Time management: With around 4.5 to 5 hours on the island, you’ll get a decent taste of Santorini’s highlights, but not a full day.
• Mixed reviews: Some travelers find the crowds overwhelming or the boat ride rocky, especially if seasickness is a concern.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Journey from Crete to Santorini: What to Expect

The day begins early, with a meeting at the Rethymnon port around 7:30 am. The ferry is scheduled to depart at 8:00 am, giving you a full day packed with sightseeing. The high-speed ferry ride itself lasts about 3 hours, which is pretty comfortable considering the distance. The boat features airplane-style seating, and there’s a snack bar onboard where you can grab a quick refreshment.

Traveling by high-speed boat allows for a faster crossing than a standard ferry, meaning you spend less time en route and more time exploring. However, we should note that some reviews mention the boat can be rocky, even when the sea appears calm. If you’re prone to seasickness, it might be worth bringing medication or planning accordingly—one traveler even mentioned sleeping through the ride to manage this.

Arrival and the Guided Tour of Santorini

Once you arrive at the port of Athinios, you’ll join a guided tour on an air-conditioned bus. The first stop is Oia, a place famed for its stunning blue-domed churches and cliffside views. You’ll have about 1 hour and 45 minutes free time to wander, snap photos, or simply take in the dramatic scenery. Many travelers, like Emilia, pointed out that Oia gets crowded, which can make following guides’ instructions tricky. Still, the views are worth it, and capturing photos of the houses perched on the cliffs is a highlight.

After Oia, the bus makes a roughly 30-minute drive to Fira, the island’s lively capital. Fira is a hub of activity, with narrow streets, shops, cafes, and more breathtaking views of the caldera. Here, you’ll have around 1.5 hours for independent exploration, shopping, or grabbing a bite at a restaurant with a view.

Optional Excursions and Extra Time

One notable aspect of this tour is the option to add a volcanic hot springs cruise for an extra €20. This excursion usually involves a boat ride out to the volcanic islands, with a chance to soak in natural thermal waters—a pretty unique experience if you’re into hot springs and volcanic landscapes. You’ll need to inquire with your guide about availability during your trip, as this option is typically offered in high-season months.

Alternatively, you can opt to stay longer in Fira and enjoy a leisurely lunch overlooking the caldera. This flexibility makes the tour adaptable to different preferences. However, bear in mind that the overall free time remains limited—so if you’re someone who prefers to take your time, this might feel a bit rushed.

The Return Journey and Final Impressions

After exploring Fira and Oia, you’ll gather back at the port for the bus transfer to the boat for the return trip. The ride back to Crete lasts approximately 2.5 hours, giving you time to relax and reflect on your day. The ferry is scheduled to arrive back in Rethymnon around 7-7:30 pm, weather permitting.

A recurring theme in reviews is the quality of the guides and drivers. Many travelers appreciated the knowledgeable guides, with one praising the “great instructions” for walking around the villages and another highlighting the excellent bus driver who navigated the sometimes-scary roads smoothly. Emilia even mentioned, “the guide had instructions for where to walk,” although she also noted that crowds in Oia made following these difficult.

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How Good Is the Value?

At first glance, the cost might seem steep for a day trip, but when breaking down what’s included—the ferry, guided tours, transport, and free time—the value becomes clearer. The guided insights enrich the experience, especially if you’re unfamiliar with Santorini, and the convenience of the organized logistics means less stress for travelers. For those short on time, this tour offers a comprehensive snapshot of the island’s most famous sights.

That said, the limited free time and potential for crowds might be downsides if you prefer a more relaxed, unstructured visit. Some travelers, like Jason, wished for more time in Santorini, while others appreciated the efficient use of their day.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is well-suited for travelers who want to maximize their day without the hassle of planning transportation or navigating the island on their own. It’s ideal if you’re interested in seeing both Oia and Fira with guided commentary and are comfortable with short periods to explore independently.

People who are seasick-prone should consider the boat ride carefully, and those who prefer a more leisurely pace might find the schedule a bit rushed. Families can enjoy this trip, especially if children are used to boat rides and walking tours, but keep in mind the crowds might be overwhelming in popular spots.

FAQ

How long is the ferry ride from Rethymnon to Santorini?
The ferry ride lasts approximately 3 hours, and it’s a high-speed boat with airplane-style seating, making it a relatively quick crossing.

What is the meeting point for the tour?
You will find a desk at Rethymnon port where you exchange vouchers for ferry tickets. The coordinates are 35.369239807128906, 24.482616424560547.

Can I stay longer in Fira?
Yes, after the guided part of the tour, you have around 1.5 hours free in Fira, during which you can explore, shop, or enjoy lunch.

Is there an optional activity during the tour?
Yes, you can opt for a boat trip to the volcano and hot springs for an extra €20. It’s typically available during the high-season months.

How much free time is there in Oia?
About 1 hour and 45 minutes, which is enough to walk around, take photos, and enjoy the scenery, though it can be crowded.

What should I prepare for the boat ride?
If you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking medication; some travelers even sleep through the rocky parts, though many find the ride smooth.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While it can work for families, be aware of the crowds and the boat ride. Younger children who tolerate boat trips and walking might enjoy it, but it’s not specifically designed as a family-oriented tour.

What’s the pace of this tour?
It’s fairly packed, with about 4.5-5 hours on the island and a total of 12.5 hours including travel. Expect some time constraints at each stop.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a well-organized, informative day trip that covers the highlights of Santorini with minimal fuss, this tour from Rethymnon really delivers. The combination of a fast ferry, a knowledgeable guide, and the chance to explore both Oia and Fira is hard to beat for a day-long adventure. Just keep in mind that the schedule is tight, and crowds can be intense at popular sights.

For travelers who value convenience, scenic views, and guided commentary, this experience offers a rewarding way to see Santorini’s best spots without the stress of planning every detail. It’s particularly suited for those with limited time in Greece but a desire to get a good sense of one of the most iconic islands in the world.

Remember, it’s always worth considering your own pace and preferences before booking—whether you’re after a relaxed day or a whirlwind tour, this one’s a solid choice if you want to tick the island off your list with ease.

You can check availability for your dates here: