Perissa is a fantastic base for exploring Santorini’s many sights, thanks to its convenient location, lively atmosphere, and access to some of the island’s most iconic landscapes. Whether you’re interested in discovering traditional villages, cruising the caldera, or snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, Perissa offers a range of tours suited for different interests and travel styles. We particularly like the guided tour from Oia & Thera for its comprehensive look at both well-known and lesser-known parts of Santorini, and the private speedboat for a luxurious, personalized experience on the water.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through four top-rated tours in Perissa, including scenic island excursions, day trips, and boat adventures. Each one offers a different way to see Santorini, helping you decide based on your interests, budget, and how much time you want to spend exploring.
1. From Oia & Thera: Santorini Villages Guided Tour with Pickup
This 6-hour guided tour is a fantastic way to see both the famous and lesser-known parts of Santorini in one day. It’s perfect if you want a structured experience that hits all the highlights, including traditional villages like Pr. Elias & Pyrgos, the Black Beach, the iconic Oia Blue Dome, the Wine Museum, and Megalochori.
The tour starts with a pickup from either Oia or Thera, making logistics straightforward. The itinerary combines scenic drives, a walk through Oia, and visits to local wineries for a tasting session, which is a real treat. The Black Beach offers time to relax or explore, while Prophet Elias Monastery provides a photo stop with panoramic views. The visit to Megalochori allows for a leisurely walk through its charming streets.
While the rating of 3.6/5 reflects some minor critiques—like signage concerns—the overall experience is praised for its comprehensive scope and knowledgeable guide. The winery stop and regional food tasting are standout moments. Cost-wise, this tour offers good value considering the variety of sights covered in just one day.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a well-rounded overview of Santorini’s villages and landscapes with minimal planning on their part.
2. One-Day Escape to Enchanting Santorini
This 8-hour tour is perfect for those with limited time but a strong desire to see the highlights of Santorini. It’s rated a perfect 5/5 and offers a convenient way to experience the island’s most photogenic spots without the hassle of arranging transport.
Starting from Santorini Airport, this trip includes visits to Oia, Fira, and Profitis Elias Mountain, with plenty of stops for photos and exploring. The tour also covers Megalochori and the Red Beach, along with free time in Perissa to relax or grab a bite. The itinerary is designed for maximum sightseeing with manageable travel distances, ensuring you see key sights like the caldera and volcanic beaches, with airport pickups included for ease.
The reviews highlight the “photo-taking spots” as a major appeal, making this tour especially appealing for travelers looking to capture high-quality images or get a quick but thorough taste of the island. Price point is reasonable for a private group of up to two people, making it a good choice for couples or small families.
Bottom Line: For a fast, efficient way to tick off Santorini’s must-sees, this tour offers excellent value and flexibility.
3. Santorini: License free Luxury boat and snorkeling included
For those seeking a more independent experience, this 5-hour luxury boat rental puts you in control. You can captain your own motorboat along Santorini’s coastline, exploring at your own pace.
What makes this tour stand out is the freedom to create your own itinerary — from visiting hidden coves to stopping for a swim or snorkeling. The rental begins at 8CQM+36 Vlichada, with all safety equipment provided, so you can enjoy the water comfortably. The tour is perfect for confident boaters who want to steer their own course, literally.
While this option doesn’t include guided commentary, it offers a unique, personalized perspective of Santorini’s rugged shoreline and volcanic cliffs. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who enjoy the water and want to avoid crowds. The reviews are glowing, with many users appreciating the flexibility and the chance to feel like a captain for a day.
Bottom Line: Best suited for confident boaters who want a private, flexible day on the water, with the advantage of exploring off the beaten path.
4. Santorini: Luxury private speedboat with food and drinks
This 5-hour private speedboat tour is the ultimate splurge for a romantic or family adventure. It’s rated 4.9/5, thanks to its personalized service and luxurious touches. For around $734 per group, you get a private cruise along the caldera, with stops at iconic beaches like the White Beach and Red Beach, plus a visit to the hot springs.
The tour departs in the morning or at sunset, depending on your preference, and includes food and drinks, making it a seamless experience. You’ll cruise along the caldera in style, with a knowledgeable captain guiding the way. Snorkeling is included, so you can cool off in the blue waters. The comfort and privacy of this tour make it a hit among couples and small groups looking for a memorable experience.
Guests rave about the luxury and exclusivity, with many noting the beautiful scenery and personalized itinerary as highlights. The main consideration is the price, but for those craving privacy and top-tier service, it’s worth every euro.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a special occasion or anyone wanting a private, high-end way to see Santorini from the water.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding among these options, consider your budget, interests, and how much time you want to dedicate. For a comprehensive day with multiple villages, the first tour offers a solid value. If you want a quick but thorough visit, the One-Day Escape works well. For water lovers, the boat rentals and private speedboat tours provide a flexible or luxurious experience.
If you prefer guided insights and structured stops, the guided village tour keeps you on schedule, while the private speedboat offers privacy and comfort. For adventurous boaters comfortable with navigation, the license-free boat rental is a flexible choice.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred time slot and ensure availability.
Final Thoughts
Perissa offers a variety of tours that cater to different tastes—from full-day guided trips to personalized boat adventures. The guided village tour is perfect for first-timers wanting a broad overview, while the private speedboat suits those looking for luxury and exclusivity. For independent spirits, renting your own boat provides unmatched freedom.
No matter which option you choose, you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery, delicious local food, and warm Greek hospitality that make Santorini such a special place. Book early, plan according to your interests, and prepare for a memorable adventure in this beautiful island setting.
