Full-Day Santorini Island Trip from Crete
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Full-Day Santorini Island Trip from Crete

Active
(93 reviews)
12h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Begin your journey at the departure port, where a kiosk and on-site staff are available to assist you. Present your voucher to receive your ferry ticket, which includes your assigned bus number for arrival in Santorini.
The ferry ride takes approx. 1 hour and 55 minutes to 2 hours and 15 minutes from Heraklion, or about 2 hours and 20 minutes from Rethymno, depending on weather. Upon arrival, staff with signs displaying bus numbers will greet you and guide you to your vehicle.

Your first stop is the famous village of Oia, known for its stunning views and traditional Cycladic architecture. You’ll have around 1.5 hours to explore. On busy days, the tour may begin in Fira instead.
Next, the excursion continues to Fira, the capital of Santorini. Stroll through its quaint streets, visit local shops, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Caldera. While in Fira, you can join an optional Volcano tour (extra cost), offered from mid-May. It includes a boat trip and a swim in the hot springs.

Available options

Heraklion Port: Rethymnon-Bali

Departure from Heraklion Port: Pick up from Bali/Panormos/Scaleta/Sfakaki/Adelianos Kampos/Rethymnon/Atsipopoulo/Georgioupolis<br/>Pickup included

Transfer:Elounda & Ag. Nikolao

Departure from Heraklion Port: Pick up from Elounda, Agios Nikolaos<br/>Pickup included

No Transfer: Rethymnon Port

Departure from Rethymnon Port: No transfer offered. Departure from Rethymnon port.<br/>Pickup included

Transfer: Georgioupolis

Departure from Rethymnon Port<br/>Pickup included

Transfer: Chania

Departure from Rethymnon Port: Pick up from Kolymbari/Rapaniana/Tavronitis/Maleme/Gerani/Platanias/Ag.Marina/k.Stalos/Galatas/Daratso/Chania/Kalives<br/>Pickup included

Transfer:A.Pelagia till Malia

Departure from Heraklion Port : Pick up from Amoudara/Karteros/Kokkini/Gouves/Gournes/Analipsi/Anisaras/Hersonissos/Stalis/Malia/Ag.Pelagia<br/>Pickup included

No Transfer: Heraklion Port

Departure from Herklion Port: No pick up transfer offered. Meeting place at Heraklion Port<br/>Pickup included

Transfer: Milatos-Sissi

Departure from Heraklion Port: Pick up provided from Milatos till Sissi<br/>Pickup included

Transfer: From Fodele

Departure from Heraklion Port: Pick up from Fodele<br/>Pickup included

Transfer: Bali till Rethymnon

Departure from Rethymnon Port: Pick up from Bali/Panormos/Scaleta/Sfakaki/Adelianos Kampos/Rethymnon/Atsipopoulo<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Return boat transfers to Santorini
Tour escort/host
Local taxes
Hotel pickup and drop-off (selected hotels only/ only if mentioned in the option)

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

Begin your journey at the departure port, where a kiosk and on-site staff are available to assist you. Present your voucher to receive your ferry ticket, which includes your assigned bus number for arrival in Santorini.
The ferry ride takes approx. 1 hour and 55 minutes to 2 hours and 15 minutes from Heraklion, or about 2 hours and 20 minutes from Rethymno, depending on weather. Upon arrival, staff with signs displaying bus numbers will greet you and guide you to your vehicle.

Your first stop is the famous village of Oia, known for its stunning views and traditional Cycladic architecture. You’ll have around 1.5 hours to explore. On busy days, the tour may begin in Fira instead.

Next, the excursion continues to Fira, the capital of Santorini. Stroll through its quaint streets, visit local shops, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Caldera. While in Fira, you can join an optional Volcano tour (extra cost), offered from mid-May. It includes a boat trip and a swim in the hot springs.

What's not included

Food and drinks
Optional tour to Volcano

Available languages

Guide guide
DE EN FR

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.6
31 reviews
5★
13
4★
5
3★
5
2★
5
1★
3
Tripadvisor 3.7
62 reviews
5★
21
4★
16
3★
14
2★
8
1★
3

Important information

Wheelchair accessible
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
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
ATTENTION: by law all full names, birthdates and nationality is mandatory in order to participate on any boat tour.
Kindly note that wheelchair accessibility is available only for the boat transportation, not for the bus.
Don't forget to bring your passport or ID for the excursion. A photo of the document on your phone is also acceptable.

Meeting point

ONly for guests who depart from Rethymnon port

Important notes

• The duration of transfers are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, you must contact the local service provider to verify your exact pickup time.

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 13-99
1
Childs
Age 3-12
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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