Thirassia Island: 6hr Private Tour with Lunch from Santorini

Experience the Charm of Thirassia on a Full-Day Private Tour from Santorini

If you’re seeking a more authentic, less touristy side of Greece’s iconic Santorini, then a 6-hour private tour of Thirassia might be just what you need. For around $240 per person, you’ll spend the day exploring a quaint, volcanic island that feels like stepping back in time. The tour includes boat rides, guided hikes, a traditional Greek lunch, and visits to local wineries—all designed for intimate groups with personalized service.

What we love most about this experience is how close you get to the island’s authentic charm—walking along narrow, flower-lined lanes and peering into abandoned cave houses, all while enjoying the hospitality of local priests and farmers. Plus, the scenic boat ride offers a fantastic perspective of Santorini’s volcanic caldera from the water, giving you multiple angles of the stunning landscape.

A potential consideration is the physical activity involved—the highlight hike involves some steep steps and a fair bit of walking. While the tour offers an optional donkey ride up to Manolas, be prepared for a moderate level of fitness. This trip is perfect for travelers who enjoy a combination of gentle hiking, culture, and relaxed dining. It’s especially well-suited for those who appreciate an off-the-beaten-path experience with a small, friendly group.

In summary, this tour suits adventurous, curious travelers eager to explore beyond the typical Santorini sights, and who want to enjoy local food, wine, and scenery in an intimate setting.

Key Points

• Authentic experience with guided walking tours through traditional villages and deserted cave houses
• Includes a delicious Greek lunch with local wines, served in a picturesque churchyard
• Boat ride provides fantastic views of Santorini’s caldera and nearby islands
• Small-group format ensures personal attention and a more relaxed atmosphere
• Moderate physical activity with optional donkey ride and scenic hikes
• All-inclusive price covers local taxes, water, lunch, and guide services

A Deep Dive into the Thirassia Tour Experience

The Journey Begins at Santorini

We start the day with convenient hotel pickup, which removes the hassle of organizing transportation. The journey begins at the port of Ammoudi, a lively, picturesque spot beneath the iconic Oia. From there, you board a 20-minute boat trip across shimmering waters, offering a refreshing start and splendid views of Santorini’s cliffs and the caldera.

This boat ride alone is a highlight, as you see the island’s volcanic landscape from the water—something truly worth experiencing. The vessel is typically small and intimate, making the crossing feel relaxed and personal. Plus, the crystal-clear Aegean waters create a perfect backdrop for photos.

Exploring Korfos: The Seaside Village

After arriving at Korfos, the main port on Thirassia, you step onto a quaint seaside village where it’s easy to feel like you’ve traveled back in time. The narrow streets are lined with colorful doors and bougainvillea spilling over stone walls—a charming scene that’s perfect for wandering. From here, you can choose to take a donkey ride up 180 steep steps to Manolas, a small fee applies, but it’s a fun, traditional way to ascend and adds to the sense of adventure.

Walking Through Traditional Villages and Vineyards

Once in Manolas, the tour truly begins. The guide leads you through winding lanes, past terraced vineyards, vegetable gardens, and local farms. This part of the trip reveals how residents have sustained themselves for generations, with a focus on farming, wine production, and local crafts.

What makes this section special is the genuine insight provided by your guide—sharing stories about island life, local customs, and the importance of wine in Thirassia’s culture. You’ll love the way the landscape is dotted with abandoned cave houses—a haunting glimpse into the island’s past as its biggest settlement.

The Abandoned Village of Agrilia

One of the most compelling stops is the deserted village of Agrilia, where cave houses and old agricultural structures evoke a mysterious, almost eerie atmosphere. Walking through these ruins, we felt a strange blend of history and nostalgia—fascinating to imagine how life once thrived here.

Visiting a Local Church and Wine Tasting

Your journey culminates at the Virgin Mary Church in Akrilia, where you’ll pause for some traditional Greek hospitality. The highlight is a lunch in a church courtyard, with homemade wine and Greek dishes that are hearty and authentic. The wine, produced by local priests, adds a special touch, giving you a taste of Thirassia’s unique wine-making traditions.

After lunch, you’ll visit a tiny, priest-run winery where you can see how the local wine is made. The guide’s explanations about wine production add depth to the tasting experience, making it a perfect blend of culture, taste, and scenery.

Returning to Santorini

Refreshed and filled with local food and wine, you’ll hop back onto a boat at Riva port for the scenic return journey. The water views of Santorini from the boat are simply stunning, making this a fitting end to your day of discovery.

Breaking Down the Itinerary

Ammoudi Bay and Boat Ride

Starting at Ammoudi offers the chance to soak in a lively, authentic Greek fishing village with excellent seafood options and a vibrant harbor. The boat ride itself, though brief, sets the tone with beautiful water views and a sense of adventure.

Manolas Village

This small, vibrant village is a picture-perfect spot for strolling along narrow lanes and soaking up local charm. The optional donkey ride up the steep steps adds a bit of fun and tradition, although it’s worth noting it does cost extra.

Agrilia and Cave Houses

Walking through the abandoned cave dwellings is a hauntingly beautiful experience that offers insight into the island’s history. It’s a quiet, contemplative moment in the tour, and many travelers comment on how atmospheric and evocative it is.

Traditional Greek Lunch and Wine

The meal in the church courtyard is a highlight, with hearty, homemade dishes paired with local wines. It’s a chance to relax and enjoy genuine Greek hospitality, with plenty of wine and good company.

Return Boat Ride

The final boat trip offers sweeping views of Santorini’s caldera and a chance to reflect on the day’s adventures. It’s a peaceful, scenic conclusion to a day full of discovery.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

One reviewer raved about the knowledgeable guide, Agatha, and how she made the hike both enjoyable and insightful. “She imparted wisdom about Thirassia and its history as we climbed,” they said, emphasizing how a good guide can elevate the experience. Others appreciated the stunning scenery and the delicious, plentiful food—a sign that the tour balances activity with relaxation.

Many enjoyed the personalized service in small groups, making it easier to ask questions and connect with the local stories. The wine tasting, especially in a priest-run winery, is frequently highlighted as a special, unique touch that adds to the local flavor.

The Cons

The main consideration is the moderate physical activity involved—the steep steps and walking mean this isn’t ideal for travelers with mobility issues or those seeking an entirely relaxed, sit-down experience. The optional donkey ride, while fun, also requires some physical effort.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for curious travelers who want a mix of scenic beauty, culture, and local cuisine. It suits those who enjoy walking, don’t mind a bit of uphill climbing, and love hearing stories about local traditions. It’s especially rewarding for anyone eager to get away from the crowded tourist spots and explore a quieter, more authentic side of Santorini.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

Absolutely. For the price, you’re getting a well-rounded experience—boat rides, guided walks, traditional food, and wine—all in an intimate setting. The small-group format makes it feel personal and relaxed, and the expert guide, Agatha, adds real value with her stories and local knowledge.

If you’re looking for a day that combines scenic beauty, cultural insight, delicious food, and authentic local life, this tour hits all those marks. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate a good balance of activity and leisure, and who want to go beyond the usual photo stops to really connect with Thirassia’s quiet charm.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people who have mobility issues?
The tour involves some walking and steep steps, so it may not be suitable for travelers with mobility challenges. There is an optional donkey ride, but be prepared for some physical effort.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat ride from Ammoudi Bay to Thirassia and back lasts about 20 minutes each way, providing beautiful water views and a refreshing start and end to your day.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers local taxes, bottled water, a traditional Greek lunch, a local guide, and hotel pickup and drop-off.

Can I customize the tour or extend it?
Since this is a pre-arranged, small-group experience, customization isn’t typically available. However, the tour is all-inclusive, so you won’t need to worry about additional costs unless you choose optional extras like the donkey ride.

Is the tour family-friendly?
While suitable for most physically fit travelers, the moderate physical activity and walking may be less ideal for very young children or those with limited mobility.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended due to uneven and steep terrain. Bring water, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera to capture the views.

This tour offers a perfect way to see Thirassia’s most authentic and scenic spots in a relaxed, intimate setting. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking for a peaceful escape from the crowds, it’s a memorable way to spend a day in Greece.