Santorini Island: Guided Tour From Heraklion Crete
Active
12h - 14h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Santorini is the southern island of the Cyclades, with an area of 76 km square and a coastline of 70 km long. Many legends take place on this island, as it is called the "Lost Atlantis" or the "Pompeii of the Aegean". Around 1450 BC, as a result of powerful volcanic explosion, most of the island sank into the sea, shaping the island as warped crescent, with a steep cliff (altitude 300 m) in the western part and gently sloping beaches in the east.
You will visit the towns of Oia and Fira, famous for its beautiful white houses and stunning views. Optionally, you can take a boat trip to the volcano (extra charge).
You will have the opportunity to learn the fascinating history of this amazing place, take unique photos, and buy souvenirs! You will spend 6 hours in total on Santorini island. The tour will be by air-conditioned bus with free time in each of the stops. You will spend 2hours 15 minutes on the ferry each way.
Available options
Heraklion Port - No pick-up
No pick-up offered: The travelers who stay within Heraklion city should arrive at the port on their own.
Pick-up -Agios Nikolaos region
Transfer - Agios Nikolaos area: Pick-up at the specific bus stops in the areas: Agios Nikolaos/Elounda/Istron<br/>Pickup included
Pick-up - Rethymno region
From Rethymno to Heraklion: Every Thursday transfer from Rethymno region to the port of Heraklion, extra payment on the bus is 15 euros.<br/>Transfer from Rethymno region: Pick-up at the specific bus stops in the areas: Rethymno/Kavros/Georgioupoli/Platanias/Scaleta/Panorama <br/>Pickup included
Pick-up - Heraklion region
Transfer from Heraklion region: Agia Pelagia/Ligaria/Amudara/Karteros/Amnissos/Kokkini Hani/Gournes/Gouves/Analipsi/Anissaras/Hersonissos/Stalida/Malia.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Return tickets for the fastest ferry Sea Jets (2h15min each way to Santorini)
Additional insurance for tour participants
Guided bus tour on the island of Santorini (air-conditioned bus, certified tour guide).
Pick-up from the specific bus stops, no more than 800m from your hotel (EXCEPT Heraklion city)
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Oia is a scenic village on the north west edge of the Santorini island within the Cyclades. It extends for almost 2 kms along the northern edge of the caldera that forms the island of Santorini, at a height of between 70 and 100 metres above sea level.
Oia typifies the white-painted houses of the Cyclades, in many cases built directly into niches which are cave houses used by crew of the ships, on the lip of the volcanic crater, between which are narrow alleys and blue-roofed churches with cupolas.
The landscape is stunning, Oia's white houses are contrasting with the black and red volcanic rocks of the island.
2
Fira is a capital of the island and a city of white-washed houses built on the edge of the 400 metres high caldera on the western edge of the island. You will enjoy 1,5 hour walk, during which you can see The Three Bells Church, White Orthodox Cathedral of Ypapanti, built on the site of an earlier church destroyed in the 1956 Amorgos earthquake. The infinite blue color of the sea merging at the horizon with the Mediterranean sky is reflected on the domes of the churches. The two main museums of interest that you may want to take a look is the Archaeological Museum and the Museum of Prehistoric Thira.
From Fira there is a panoramic view of the 18 kilometres long caldera of the volcano.
What's not included
Pick-up from remote areas or hotels (we will notify you at the moment of booking).
Pick-up from the hotels within the city of Heraklion (you should arrive to the port on your own).
Entrance to the museums, other personal expenses.
No meals or drinks are included, you can purchase them on the boat / in Santorini within your free time.
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
RU
EN
IT
PL
FR
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.0
20 reviews
5★
10
4★
4
3★
3
2★
2
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.5
36 reviews
5★
27
4★
6
3★
0
2★
1
1★
2
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
If an infant does not sit on lap in the bus, It is necessary to pay a child ticket.
Pick-up from the specific bus stops next to the hotels, no more than 800m. All the villages between Fodele, Agia Pelagia, Amoudara from the West Heraklion; and Karteros, Kokkini Hani, Gouves, Gournes, Hersonissos, Stalida, Malia, Sissi from the East of Heraklion city. Please, arrive 5-10 minutes before the departure time.
If you cannot find your pickup location, please, contact us. When booking, always indicate the hotel/airbnb of your stay in Crete, and your contact phone number. Please, note, if you do not provide your pick-up details up to 24 hours before the tour, we do not guarantee the pick-up.
If your hotel is located in the city of Heraklion, you have to arrive to the Heraklion port on your own (by taxi, walking or rental car).
Upon arrival at Heraklion port, the staff of the SeaJets Kiosk will assist you in exchanging your voucher for a ferry boarding ticket.
Meeting point
Participants staying in Heraklion city, have to arrive at the port on their own. The pick-up is offered only from the areas outside of the city of Heraklion.
At the SeaJets kiosk in the port, you shall exchange your voucher for a ferry boarding ticket.
Important notes
After clarifying the pick-up point (if any), we will send you an additional voucher.
This additional voucher (mobile or printed) will be checked at time of ship and bus entrance.
In case you stay in the areas where pick up by the tour bus can't be done, we can provide you a private transfer with an extra charge.
About Crete
Crete is the largest of the Greek islands and a treasure trove of ancient history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. Known as the birthplace of the Minoan civilization, it offers a unique blend of ancient ruins, beautiful beaches, and traditional villages.
Top Attractions
Palace of Knossos
The Palace of Knossos is the largest Bronze Age archaeological site on Crete and is associated with the mythological Minotaur and the Labyrinth.
Historical
2-3 hours
€15 (included in multi-site ticket)
Samaria Gorge
One of Europe's longest gorges, Samaria is a popular hiking destination known for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.
Nature
5-7 hours
€5 entry fee
Elafonisi Beach
Elafonisi Beach is famous for its pink sands and crystal-clear waters, making it one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Dakos
A traditional Cretan salad made with barley rusks, tomato, myzithra cheese, and olive oil.
Appetizer
Vegetarian
Moussaka
A layered dish with eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel sauce.
Main Course
Contains meat
Rakomelo
A warm drink made with rakia (a local brandy) and honey.
Drink
Alcoholic
Popular Activities
Hiking in Samaria Gorge
Scuba diving in Elafonisi Beach
Sunbathing at Balos Lagoon
Wine tasting at local wineries
Exploring the Palace of Knossos
Visiting the Heraklion Archaeological Museum
Snorkeling in Balos Lagoon
Boat tours around Crete
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the peak tourist season with warm, sunny weather and clear skies. It's ideal for beach activities and exploring the island's historical sites.
25°C to 35°C
77°F to 95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Greek
- Widely spoken: English, German, French
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
EET (UTC+2) / EEST (UTC+3 during daylight saving time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Crete is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use licensed taxis
- • Be cautious of strangers offering services
Getting there
By air
- Heraklion International Airport • 3 km from Heraklion city center
- Chania International Airport • 13 km from Chania city center
By bus
Heraklion Bus Station, Chania Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common form of public transport. They are affordable and cover most parts of the island.
Taxis
Available • Apps: TaxiBeat, Beat
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Heraklion Old Town
Chania Old Town
Day trips
Balos Lagoon
55 km from Chania • Full day
A stunning lagoon with turquoise waters and white sand, accessible by car or boat.
Rethymno Old Town
65 km from Heraklion • Half day to full day
A charming old town with Venetian and Ottoman architecture, offering a rich cultural experience.
Festivals
Cretan Festival • June to August
Easter Celebrations • March or April (varies by year)
Pro tips
- Visit smaller towns and villages for a more authentic experience
- Try local street food for a taste of traditional Cretan cuisine
- Explore the island's diverse landscapes, from beaches to mountains and gorges
- Learn a few basic Greek phrases to enhance your interaction with locals
- Consider renting a car for flexibility and to explore remote areas
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
