The Best Santorini Small-Group Shore Excursion for Cruise Ships
Active
4h - 5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant_then_manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Step off your cruise ship and explore Santorini on a small-group shore excursion designed specifically for cruise passengers. Visit top sights like Oia and Firostefani’s famous blue-domed churches while enjoying panoramic island views and local insights from an expert guide. Travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle with a maximum of 19 guests for a personalized experience. The tour departs conveniently from the Fira cable car exit and is carefully timed to match cruise schedules, ensuring a smooth, stress-free adventure.
Available options
Ticket for Skip Cable Car Tour
SKIP CABLE CAR TOUR!: For select cruise ships only: on the busiest docking dates in Santorini we offer a special tour, skipping the cable car <br/>Shared Tour: This is a ticket for a shared tour. It allows to skip the cable car which on some dates can take many hours.<br/>Pick-up by Boat: Upon arrival by your ship’s tender to the Santorini harbor, we will pick you up by our boat, skipping the cable car. <br/>Return by Boat: At the end of the tour, we will return you to your tender pick-up point by boat, once again avoiding cable car lines.<br/>Included in tour price: This option already includes the private boat transfer in the price. There are no additional costs with this option.<br/>Book an early tender!: Please book an early tender directly with your cruise ship's staff to ensure timely arrival.<br/>Starting point:<br/>Santorini Old Harbor, Fira 847 00, Greece
Shared Shorex
Meeting Point for Tour: Upon debarkation from the tender, please take the cable car to the top. The tour commences at the exit in Fira Town.<br/>Starting point:<br/>Santorini Cable Car - Upper Station, Ipapantis 10, Thira 847 00, Greece
Shared Tour of Santorini
Meeting Point: Upon debarkation from the tender, please take the cable car to the top. The tour commences at the exit in Fira Town.<br/>Starting point:<br/>Santorini Cable Car - Upper Station, Ipapantis 10, Thira 847 00, Greece
Private Tour - Driver + Guide
Private Guide + Vehicle: This private tour provides a personal guide and vehicle, with a flexible itinerary tailored to your wishes.<br/>Duration: 5 hours: The tour is 4-5 hours long depending on the traffic at the port. Our goal is to make sure we get you back to the port on time<br/>Designed to your wishes: A private tour has a fully customizable itinerary - you can spend your time as and where you wish! <br/>Starting point:<br/>Santorini Cable Car - Upper Station, Ipapantis 10, Thira 847 00, Greece
Private Tour with a Driver
Private Car + Driver: Includes an English-speaking driver and a personal vehicle for a duration of 4-5 hours<br/>Duration: 5 hours: The tour is 4-5 hours long depending on the traffic at the port. Our goal is to make sure we get you back to the port on time<br/>No tour guide: The driver can provide general overview, but please note drivers are not certified tour guides.<br/>Starting point:<br/>Santorini Cable Car - Upper Station, Ipapantis 10, Thira 847 00, Greece
Private Skip Cable Car Tour
Skip the cable car!: Private guided tour and shared boat transfers from the Old Port to the Athinios Port and back - bypass the cable car!<br/>Private tour&shared boat rides: The boat transfers are shared with other guests. The private tour starts at Athinios Port where you meet your guide & driver.<br/>Starting point:<br/>Santorini Old Harbor, Fira 847 00, Greece
What's included
Professional Local English-speaking tour guide
Small Group Shore Excursion (limited at 19 guests)
One complimentary bottle per person
Guaranteed return to ship on time
Air-conditioned vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Pass by
If your cruise ship docks at Athinios Port, you'll first take a short transfer to Fira via local transportation or cable car before beginning your guided tour. The excursion is timed to fit your ship’s schedule, with pickup arranged near the Fira cable car exit for easy access.
2
Embark on a half-day tour showcasing Santorini’s most iconic sights, including the stunning village of Firostefani. Enjoy panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and Caldera, and don’t miss the chance to photograph the island’s famous blue-domed church nestled in this peaceful cliffside neighborhood.
3
Next, explore the charming village of Oia, known for its iconic whitewashed buildings and postcard-perfect sunsets. Wander through its narrow streets, browse local shops, and capture photos of the stunning views that make this spot world-famous.
4
Stop 4
If time permits, you'll visit Prophet Ilias, the highest point on the island, and explore the historic monastery located there. Please note that the monastery is closed from 15 October until spring due to seasonal availability.
5
Continue on to Megalochori, one of Santorini’s most charming villages, where you can admire its unique blend of traditional Cycladic architecture and quiet, narrow streets. This peaceful stop offers a glimpse into the island’s authentic past, away from the usual tourist crowds.
6
Stop 6
Head to Perivolos Beach, known for its striking black sand, where you'll have some free time to relax or take a swim. Afterward, enjoy a meal at a local restaurant (at your own expense) and pick up souvenirs to remember your unforgettable Santorini experience.
What's not included
Meals
Gratuities (Optional: Recommend 10% for guides, and 5% for bus drivers)
Cable car ticket (one way)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.5
268 reviews
5★
206
4★
29
3★
12
2★
13
1★
8
Tripadvisor
4.8
75 reviews
5★
66
4★
4
3★
3
2★
2
1★
0
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Full refund if ship is unable to dock
In the event of exceptionally rough sea conditions preventing boat transfers, we reserve the right to operate the regular tour route instead. In such cases, a refund of €10 per person will be provided for each cable car ride required in place of the boat transfer.
Meeting point
Once you disembark from your cruise ship, look for your guide holding a sign that reads 'VEXPERIO.' We will meet you right where you get off the ship.
Important notes
IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR YOUR TOUR OF SANTORINI - PLEASE READ
Welcome to Santorini!
At Vexperio, we have years of experience organizing shore excursions for cruise ship passengers visiting our beautiful island and we’re here to help you make the most of your time in Santorini.
Our company offers tours for cruise ship passengers in many ports along your route. Contact us to create a custom discounted tour package tailored to your cruise itinerary, including stops like Mykonos, Heraklion, Corfu, and Athens. Explore some of our popular options here:
Mykonos: https://www.viator.com/tours/x/y/d0-63772P125
Heraklion: https://www.viator.com/tours/x/y/d0-63772P208
Corfu: https://www.viator.com/tours/x/y/d0-63772P124
Athens: https://www.viator.com/tours/x/y/d0-63772P215
If you have any questions about cruise ship disembarking, tendering, or reaching our tours in Santorini, feel free to contact us. Our office is located in Fira Town, conveniently just around the corner from the cable car exit. We’re here all day to assist you and are happy to share our tips and expertise to make your arrival as smooth as possible.
We will send you final instructions a few days prior to your tour. Please remember to check your inbox to confirm the starting time, or contact us via WhatsApp at +49 176 636 40755 or email us at info@vexperio.com if you have any questions.
When you arrive, look for your guide holding a sign with "VEXPERIO" to easily spot us. Should you face any delays or issues, don’t hesitate to call our local emergency numbers at +30 6951973943 or +30 2286304858.
We look forward to welcoming you to Santorini and helping you create lasting memories. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore more of the Mediterranean with our exclusive tours at other ports along your route. Contact us today to start planning your perfect journey!
About Santorini
Santorini is a breathtaking island in the Cyclades known for its stunning sunsets, whitewashed buildings, and dramatic cliffs. This volcanic island offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and luxurious experiences, making it one of the most sought-after destinations in Greece.
Top Attractions
Oia
A picturesque village known for its whitewashed buildings, blue domes, and stunning sunsets. Oia is a must-visit for its charm and breathtaking views.
Historical/Scenic
2-3 hours
Free to explore
Fira
The capital of Santorini, Fira offers a mix of history, shopping, and stunning views of the caldera. It's a vibrant town with a rich cultural heritage.
Historical/Shopping
Half-day
Free to explore
Akrotiri
A well-preserved ancient settlement that offers a glimpse into the Minoan civilization. The site is often referred to as the 'Minoan Pompeii'.
Historical/Archaeological
1-2 hours
€12
Red Beach
A unique beach known for its striking red cliffs and volcanic sand. The beach is a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling.
Beach/Nature
Half-day
Free
Santorini Caldera Boat Tour
A boat tour around the caldera offers stunning views of the volcanic landscape and the opportunity to swim in hot springs.
Adventure/Tour
4-5 hours
€40-€80
Must-Try Local Dishes
Fava
A creamy dip made from yellow split peas, often served with olive oil and onions.
Appetizer
Vegetarian, Vegan
Tomato Keftedes
Fried tomato fritters made with Santorini's famous cherry tomatoes.
Appetizer
Vegetarian
Grilled Octopus
Tender octopus grilled to perfection, often served with a drizzle of olive oil and lemon.
Main Course
Contains seafood
White Eggplant
A local delicacy made from the island's unique white eggplants, often grilled or fried.
Main Course
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking
Scuba diving
Boat tours
ATV rentals
Sunbathing
Spa treatments
Wine tasting
Yoga
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the busiest time with the best weather for beach activities and sightseeing. The island is vibrant with festivals and events.
25°C to 35°C
77°F to 95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Greek
- Widely spoken: English, German, French, Italian
- English: Widely spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+2 (EET - Eastern European Time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Santorini is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, petty theft and scams can occur in crowded areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Use reputable tour operators
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious of strangers offering services or assistance
Getting there
By air
- Santorini National Airport • 6 km from Fira
By bus
Fira Bus Station, Athinios Port
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are affordable and reliable, but schedules can be infrequent in off-peak seasons.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Taxibeat
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Fira
Oia
Pyrgos
Kamari
Imerovigli
Day trips
Nea Kameni
12 km from Fira • Half-day
A volcanic island in the heart of the caldera, offering a unique hiking experience and the chance to see active volcanic craters.
Thirassia
15 km from Fira • Full-day
A small, traditional island offering a glimpse into authentic Greek island life. Known for its charming villages and scenic views.
Anafi
20 km from Fira • Full-day
A small, tranquil island known for its beautiful beaches and relaxed atmosphere. Ideal for a peaceful day trip.
Festivals
Santorini International Music Festival • July
Santorini Wine Festival • August
Easter Celebrations • March or April (dates vary)
Pro tips
- Visit Oia for the best sunset views, but arrive early to secure a good spot
- Explore the island's lesser-known villages for an authentic experience
- Try local wines, especially Assyrtiko, at one of the island's many wineries
- Rent a car or ATV to explore the island at your own pace
- Visit the Akrotiri Archaeological Site to learn about the island's ancient history
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
