Day Tour to Santorini Island from Heraklion Crete
Gallery image 2
Gallery image 3
Gallery image 4
Gallery image 5

Day Tour to Santorini Island from Heraklion Crete

Active
(118 reviews)
11h - 12h
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, the gem of Cyclades. Well known worldwide island for the view of Caldera, its picturesque white houses built on its cliffs and the famous volcanic sand beaches. The fact that it’s just 2 hours away from the island of Crete, makes this activity a Must-Do when you visit Heraklion.

Available options

English: Hersonisos, Malia

Pick-up from specific points: : Malia, Stalis, and Hersonissos, Piskopiano, Koutouloufari areas<br/>Pickup included

Polish: Agia Pelagia or Sisi

Pick-up from specific points:: Sisi, Agia Pelagia, Lygaria area<br/>Pickup included

Russian: Anissaras, Gouves

Pick-up from specific points: : Anissaras, Gouves, Kokkini Hani, Karteros, Analipsi and Ammoudara area<br/>Pickup included

German: Anissaras, Gouves

Pick-up from specific points: : Anissaras, Gouves, Kokkini Hani, Karteros, Analipsi and Ammoudara area<br/>Pickup included

French: Hersonisos, Malia

Pick-up from specific points: : Malia, Stalis, and Hersonissos, Piskopiano, Koutouloufari areas<br/>Pickup included

Polish: Hersonisos, Malia

Pick-up from specific points: : Malia, Stalis, and Hersonissos, Piskopiano, Koutouloufari areas<br/>Pickup included

French: No transfer included

Meeting point:: SeaJets Kiosk of Heraklion Port

English: No transfer included

Meeting point:: SeaJets Kiosk of Heraklion Port

Russian: Hersonisos, Malia

Pick-up from specific points: : Malia, Stalis, and Hersonissos, Piskopiano, Koutouloufari areas<br/>Pickup included

Polish: Anissaras, Gouves

Pick-up from specific points: : Anissaras, Gouves, Kokkini Hani, Karteros, Analipsi and Ammoudara area<br/>Pickup included

Italian: No transfer included

Meeting point:: SeaJets Kiosk of Heraklion Port

Italian: Hersonisos, Malia

Pick-up from specific points: : Malia, Stalis, and Hersonissos, Piskopiano, Koutouloufari areas<br/>Pickup included

English: Anissaras, Gouves

Pick-up from specific points: : Anissaras, Gouves, Kokkini Hani, Karteros, Analipsi and Ammoudara area<br/>Pickup included

French: Agia Pelagia or Sisi

Pick-up from specific points:: Sisi, Agia Pelagia, Lygaria area<br/>Pickup included

English: Agia Pelagia or Sisi

Pick-up from specific points:: Sisi, Agia Pelagia, Lygaria area<br/>Pickup included

German: Hersonisos, Malia

Pick-up from specific points: : Malia, Stalis, and Hersonissos, Piskopiano, Koutouloufari areas<br/>Pickup included

Italian: Agia Pelagia or Sisi

Pick-up from specific points:: Sisi, Agia Pelagia, Lygaria area<br/>Pickup included

German: Agia Pelagia or Sisi

Pick-up from specific points:: Sisi, Agia Pelagia, Lygaria area<br/>Pickup included

German: No transfer included

Meeting point:: SeaJets Kiosk of Heraklion Port

French: Anissaras, Gouves

Pick-up from specific points: : Anissaras, Gouves, Kokkini Hani, Karteros, Analipsi and Ammoudara area<br/>Pickup included

From Elounda, Agios Nikolaos

Pick up from resorts: Elounda, Agios Nikolaos, Istron & Ierapetra<br/>Pickup included

Russian: No transfer included

Meeting point:: SeaJets Kiosk of Heraklion Port

Russian: Agia Pelagia or Sisi

Pick-up from specific points:: Sisi, Agia Pelagia, Lygaria area<br/>Pickup included

Polish: No transfer included

Meeting point:: SeaJets Kiosk of Heraklion Port

Italian: Anissaras, Gouves

Pick-up from specific points: : Anissaras, Gouves, Kokkini Hani, Karteros, Analipsi and Ammoudara area<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Liability Insurance Coverage by ALLIANZ for our tour participants
All Fees and Taxes
Air-conditioned vehicle
Professional Driver
Tour Guide
Ferry Tickets by high-speed boat

Detailed itinerary

1

We will start collecting participants from pick-up points in the morning.
Depending on the place of your hotel/apartment the bus drive to the port of Heraklion will differ.

2

Begin your adventure with a scenic 2-hour boat ride across the Aegean Sea. Board a modern catamaran from Heraklion Port and relax with sea views. Grab a coffee or snack from the onboard bar as you cruise toward magical Santorini.

3
Stop 3 Pass by

Arrival on Santorini after about 2 hours boat trip.
Embarkation on the buses for the guided tour.

4

Bus Drive to Oia: 40 minutes
Upon arrival at Athinios Port, hop on a comfortable coach and head to the picturesque village of Oia, famous for its postcard-worthy views and iconic blue-domed churches.

Free Time in Oia (10:30–12:10)
Stroll through narrow alleys, take breathtaking photos of the caldera, and browse charming boutiques.
Guests who wish to join the optional volcano and hot springs cruise will leave Oia slightly earlier to make their connection.

5

Bur Drive to Fira: 30 minutes
Fira is the capital town of Santorini. Enjoy 1 hour and 20 minutes of free time there.

Then, there are 2 options for the next 1.5 hours:
1) take a cruise to the volcano and hot springs (extra charge - ask your guide because this option is available only in high-season months and when the weather approves)
2) stay longer in Fira and enjoy lunch in one of the restaurants overlooking the breathtaking Caldera of Santorini.

6
Stop 6

Return to the port, embarkation on the boat and return to Heraklion port.

7

Embarkation in the buses and drive back to the hotels where we gathered participants in the morning.
Depending on traffic and on the pick-up places of each one, the time of journey back to the hotel will differ.

What's not included

Snacks
Cruise from Santorini to the Volcano

Available languages

Guide guide
DE RU EN IT PL FR RO ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.2
58 reviews
5★
31
4★
16
3★
4
2★
4
1★
3
Tripadvisor 3.8
60 reviews
5★
22
4★
17
3★
11
2★
6
1★
4

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Please go to the desk where participants for the tour to Santorini are waiting, in order to exchange Vouchers with ferry tickets.

Important notes

When you arrive at the port of Heraklion, your guide will help you find the desk where you can exchange your voucher with your ferry tickets.
Please ask the crew members or our staff for any assistance you might need.

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

Adults
Age 11-99
1
Childs
Age 3-10
0
Infants
Age 1-2
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

Similar Experiences

Similar on Klook