Shore excursions in Santorini break down into three practical options: small-group wine tours, standard group outings to key sites, and customizable private tours.
The intimate wine experiences win my vote for offering the best value – you’ll get personal attention while sampling excellent local vintages.
For efficiency-minded travelers, the group tours hit all the must-sees: Oia’s famous blue domes, Perissa’s striking black beaches, and postcard-perfect viewpoints.
Savvy travelers can bypass the notoriously long cable car queues by booking excursions with boat transfers included.
My favorite picks combine certified guides, air-conditioned transport, and strategic timing to avoid the crowds.
Let’s look at the very best tours worth your time and money.
Key Points
- Private and customizable tours offer personalized experiences with knowledgeable guides, showcasing Santorini’s iconic sights, wine tastings, and scenic landscapes.
- Group tours cater to cruise passengers, providing highlights of Santorini at affordable prices with small group sizes and certified English-speaking guides.
- Excursions cover a range of activities, including visiting Oia, Fira, Perissa beaches, traditional villages, and Pyrgos castle, catering to diverse interests.
- Transportation is comfortable, with air-conditioned vehicles and luxury minivans, although some tours may require moderate physical fitness.
- Positive customer feedback highlights the quality of service, guide expertise, and overall experience in showcasing Santorini’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Intimate Santorini – Small Group Shore Excursion and Wine Tasting
Travelers seeking an intimate and immersive Santorini experience won’t want to miss the “Intimate Santorini – Small Group Shore Excursion and Wine Tasting” tour.
With a maximum of 18 travelers, this highly-rated shore excursion offers personalized attention as you explore the island’s top attractions, including Megalochori village, Pyrgos castle, and the iconic Oia.
Along the way, you’ll learn about Santorini’s rich history and culture from knowledgeable guides. The highlight is a wine tasting at a local vineyard, where you’ll sample the island’s renowned vintages and enjoy a food pairing.
With convenient morning and afternoon options, as well as an air-conditioned vehicle, this tour provides a well-rounded Santorini experience for cruise passengers.
Read our full review: Intimate Santorini – Small Group Shore Excursion and Wine Tasting Review
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Santorini Highlights: Perfect Shore Excursion for Cruise Ships
For cruise passengers seeking to maximize their time in Santorini, the “Santorini Highlights: Perfect Shore Excursion for Cruise Ships” tour delivers a well-rounded experience.
At just $74.07 per person, this 20-person group tour showcases the island’s iconic sights, from the whitewashed villages of Fira and Oia to the dramatic black sand beaches of Perissa.
Travelers will enjoy the convenience of modern, air-conditioned transportation and an English-speaking guide who provides insightful commentary.
While the cable car ticket is an extra cost, the panoramic Aegean Sea views and photo opportunities make it a worthwhile addition.
With a 4.5-star rating from 267 reviews, this shore excursion promises an efficient and enjoyable way to explore Santorini’s highlights.
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Santorini Shore Excursion to Oia, Firostefani, and Finikia
Exploring Santorini’s iconic villages, the “Santorini Panoramic Blue Shade Tour” whisks visitors away on a captivating shore excursion.
Covering Firostefani, Imerovigli, Oia, and Finikia, this 3-to-5-hour tour showcases the island’s stunning blue-and-white architecture and breathtaking vistas.
With a maximum group size of 20, the semi-private experience provides comfortable transportation and knowledgeable commentary from the driver-guide.
While some note crowding and insufficient time at stops, the tour’s positive highlights include the guides’ expertise and the overall comfort.
Visitors are advised to dress warmly and be prepared for walking in Oia.
For a more personalized exploration, private tours may be considered as a preferred alternative.
Read our full review: Santorini Shore Excursion to Oia, Firostefani, and Finikia Review
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Santorini 4-Hour Private Tour Including Wine Tasting, Shore Excursion
This 4-hour private tour offers cruise passengers and those with limited time an efficient way to experience Santorini’s highlights.
The tour includes visits to the picturesque cliff-top villages of Oia and Firostefani, where travelers can admire the iconic blue-domed churches and panoramic views.
The experience is further enhanced by a wine tasting at the renowned Venetsanos Winery, where four local wines and snacks are served.
With two-way transfers by luxury minivan and accessibility features, the tour caters to diverse travelers.
Based on 30 excellent reviews, this shore excursion promises an expertly guided, comfortable, and comprehensive introduction to Santorini’s natural beauty and wine culture.
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Panoramic Views Santorini – Small Group Shore Excursion With Minimum Walking
Travelers seeking a comprehensive yet leisurely introduction to Santorini’s stunning panoramic views can embark on the Panoramic Views Santorini – Small Group Shore Excursion.
This 4-hour tour provides an opportunity to explore the island’s famous highlights and lesser-known spots in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle. With a maximum of 18 travelers, the excursion offers personalized attention and ample photo opportunities.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it accommodates strollers and infant seats. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable and friendly guides, such as Agatha and Katerina, who curate well-planned itineraries.
However, some feedback suggests more time in Oia and clearer navigation directions, particularly during peak tourist seasons.
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Shore Excursion & Sightseeing at Blue Dome Santorini
Santorini’s iconic Blue Dome, situated in the picturesque town of Oia, is a must-see destination for visitors to the island.
This private tour and sightseeing experience offers a comprehensive package, including pickup and drop-off service, a knowledgeable driver/guide, and all fees and taxes. At $128.82 per person (with variations based on group size), the tour provides excellent value, particularly given its 4.5-star rating from 3 reviews.
Accessibility is good, with the tour being stroller-friendly and near public transportation, though it’s not wheelchair accessible.
Booking is straightforward, with a reserve now, pay later option and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
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7 Hours Tour Santorini Shore Excursion
Visitors to Santorini can dive into a comprehensive 7-hour shore excursion that showcases the island’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
This private tour, priced from $1,394.47 for up to 2 people, offers a luxurious experience with pickup and drop-off at the port or cable car. Travelers will be chauffeured in a comfortable Mercedes-Benz vehicle, accompanied by an English-speaking guide knowledgeable about Santorini’s history and culture.
The tour includes bottled water and fuel surcharge, with the option to add an official licensed guide for archaeological sites. Guests should note the moderate physical fitness requirement and that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this excursion ensures a memorable Santorini experience.
Read our full review: 7 Hours Tour Santorini Shore Excursion Review
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Santorini Undeniable 4 Hours Shore Excursion In Fira And Oia
For those seeking a more concise yet comprehensive Santorini experience, the Santorini Undeniable 4 Hours Shore Excursion in Fira and Oia offers an enticing alternative.
At $826.59 per group (up to 2), this private tour provides an English-speaking escort with knowledge of the island. Travelers will enjoy professional transportation, flexible pick-up, and cable car tickets.
Though food, beverages, and gratuities aren’t included, infant seats are available for an extra fee.
With a 5-star rating from a single review, this tour promises a well-rounded introduction to Santorini’s highlights in Fira and Oia, catering to those with moderate fitness levels.
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Private Santorini Sunset, Highlights & Wine Shore Excursion
This private Santorini Sunset, Highlights & Wine Shore Excursion offers travelers an opportunity to discover the island’s most captivating sights and savor its renowned local wines.
The flexible duration tour, which departs from the Santorini Old Harbor, includes a professional English-speaking guide, wine tasting of 5 local vintages, and bottled water.
Guests will explore the picturesque town of Fira, access the experience via cable car, and enjoy the scenic drive to the island’s highlights.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a lowest price guarantee, this private tour provides an exceptional Santorini experience tailored to individual preferences.
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Santorini Private Deluxe Shore Excursion With Winery and Tasting
Explore Santorini’s captivating highlights and indulge in the island’s renowned local wines on this private deluxe shore excursion.
Starting at 9 AM, you’ll embark on a personalized tour with Insiders Tours Greece, discovering the island’s famed winery and enjoying an exclusive wine tasting.
Ride the cable car from the Old Port to Fira and back, included in the price.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and open to most travelers.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a Reserve Now, Pay Later option, this deluxe experience offers unparalleled flexibility and convenience for your Santorini shore visit.
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Santorini Shore Excursion Fira, Villages, Wine Tasting 5 Hours
Embarking on this 5-hour private shore excursion, travelers will discover Santorini’s captivating villages, historic sites, and renowned local wines.
Chauffeured in a luxury Mercedes-Benz, the tour includes a knowledgeable English-speaking escort to guide visitors through Fira and other picturesque towns.
Highlights include a cable car ride, wine tasting, and free time to explore the island’s traditional architecture and charming alleys.
With pickup and drop-off at the Santorini port or cable car, this excursion offers a seamless and personalized way to experience the best of Santorini.
Priced from $1,035.93 per group (up to 2 people), it’s an ideal choice for those seeking a comprehensive and hassle-free shore tour.
Read our full review: Santorini Shore Excursion Fira, Villages, Wine Tasting 5 Hours Review
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SUV Private Shore Excursion In Santorini
Visitors seeking a personalized and comfortable way to discover Santorini can opt for the SUV Private Shore Excursion. This 5-hour tour provides a professional driver/local guide and transport in an air-conditioned SUV.
The tour includes pickup and drop-off at your chosen location, with the option to start at the Santorini Old Harbor. Cable car fees to Fira aren’t included, but bottled water is provided.
While food, drinks, and gratuities aren’t part of the package, the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are welcome.
With a 5.0 rating from 2 reviews, this excursion offers a convenient and customized way to explore the island’s highlights.
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Santorini Shore Excursion & Private Customizable Tour
Santorini’s shore excursion connoisseurs can indulge in a private, customizable tour that showcases the island’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
This 5-star rated experience by Santorini i-Land Tours offers pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, and transportation in a luxury vehicle.
The tour’s inclusions, like cable car tickets and bottled water, ensure a seamless experience. Guests can explore Santorini at their own pace, with the flexibility to tailor the itinerary to their preferences.
The moderate fitness level required and near-public transportation make this tour accessible.
With a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation, this private excursion offers excellent value for money and a memorable Santorini adventure.
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Deluxe Santorini Shore Excursion
Travelers seeking a deluxe Santorini shore excursion will find an exceptional experience with European Tours & Travel.
The best Santorini Shore Excursion starts at $82.66 and accommodates up to 19 guests. It includes certified English-speaking guides, professional safe drivers, and comfortable transportation. Food and beverages are provided, and 24/7 customer support is available.
Pickup is at the Santorini Cable Car, and the tour guide will meet guests at the upper station. Guests should expect potential queues on busy cruise days, and the guide will wait for them.
This tour isn’t wheelchair or scooter accessible, and infants must sit on laps. A moderate physical fitness level is required.
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Santorini: 5-Hour Private Shore Excursion
For those seeking a more personalized Santorini shore excursion, the 5-Hour Private Shore Excursion offers an exceptional opportunity. Priced from $357.33 per group, this private tour allows travelers to customize their experience.
Highlights include visiting the picturesque village of Oia, exploring charming Pyrgos or Megalochori, and discovering Santorini’s volcanic landscapes. Transportation is provided via a comfortable Mercedes minivan, and participants can opt for a wine tasting with stunning views.
With an impressive 5/5 rating based on 23 reviews, this excursion promises outstanding service from knowledgeable guides like Panos and Lanis. Flexible cancellation and payment options make this an attractive choice for cruise visitors looking to maximize their time in Santorini.
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Santorini: Private Shore Excursion to Oia & Black Beach
Embarking on a private shore excursion to Oia and Santorini’s captivating black beach, visitors can enjoy the island’s natural splendor and iconic architectural heritage.
Priced at Kč7,325 for up to 2 people, this 4.5-hour tour offers a customized experience with a knowledgeable guide and air-conditioned transportation.
Highlights include exploring the traditional villages of Fira, Oia, and Imerovigli, as well as witnessing the stunning caldera views.
Travelers can also discover Perivolos Beach, known for its distinctive black sand.
With complimentary bottled water and flexibility to tailor the itinerary, this excursion is suitable for all ages and abilities, earning high ratings for its guide, transportation, and overall service.
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Cruise Traveller’s Shore Excursion
Cruise travelers seeking a comprehensive Santorini experience can explore the island’s top attractions on the Cruise Traveller’s Shore Excursion. Priced at $231.89 per person, this private 5-hour tour offers a flexible itinerary and the convenience of transportation via air-conditioned minivans.
Highlights include panoramic views from Prophet Elias Mountain, the Minoan Bronze Age site of Akrotiri Excavations, and the picturesque village of Oia. An optional wine tasting at a local winery provides a chance to savor the region’s renowned vintages.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and high-rated customer feedback, this shore excursion delivers a hassle-free and immersive way to discover Santorini’s natural wonders and cultural treasures.
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Discover Santorini Private Shore Excursion
Travelers eager to uncover the captivating gems of Santorini can embark on the Discover Santorini Private Shore Excursion. This highly-rated tour, with a perfect 5.0 score from 10 reviews, offers a comprehensive exploration of the island’s stunning landscapes and historical sites.
Highlights include a guided tour by a knowledgeable driver, air-conditioned transportation, and convenient pickup and drop-off at the cable car.
While the tour doesn’t accommodate wheelchair users, it’s suitable for most travelers, including those with strollers or service animals.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this private excursion provides a flexible and enjoyable way to discover the beauty of Santorini.
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Skip Cable Car! Santorini Shore Excursion With Boat Transfers
Bypassing the congested cable car, the Skip Cable Car! Santorini Shore Excursion With Boat Transfers offers a seamless way to explore the island.
Operated by Vexperio, this highly-reviewed tour transports travelers by boat, avoiding the long lines. With a maximum of 18 guests, the air-conditioned minibus and knowledgeable English-speaking guide provide a personalized experience.
Complimentary water, port pickup and drop-off, and 24/7 customer support add to the convenience.
While some feedback notes limited time at stops, the tour’s highlights, such as beautiful views and free time for meals, receive praise.
Considering the tour’s accessibility limitations, it’s an excellent option for able-bodied visitors seeking an efficient Santorini shore excursion.
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Santorini Deluxe Shore Excursion for Cruise Passengers
This deluxe shore excursion provides cruise passengers a comprehensive exploration of Santorini’s highlights.
Operated by European Essentials, the tour features licensed English-speaking guides, comfortable transportation, and all food and beverages included.
With a maximum group size of 19, the tour offers a personalized experience. Travelers will meet at the Santorini Cable Car Upper Station and be guided to the key sights, navigating the queues on peak days.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for those with moderate fitness levels.
Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and flexible service, making this a highly recommended shore excursion for Santorini cruise passengers.
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The Sum Up
Santorini offers a wide range of shore excursions to suit different interests and preferences. From small group tours with wine tasting to private customized experiences, visitors can explore the island’s iconic landmarks, enjoy panoramic views, and discover its rich cultural heritage. With options to skip the cable car and explore by boat, travelers can tailor their Santorini shore excursion to make the most of their time on the island.