Santorini stands out as one of the top cruise ship ports in the Mediterranean, thanks to its breathtaking caldera views, charming villages, and volcanic beaches. For travelers stopping here, the island offers a variety of shore excursions that fit different interests and schedules. Whether you want to see iconic landmarks like Oia, explore hidden villages, or indulge in local wines, there’s an option for everyone. We particularly like tours that skip long lines, like the Skip Cable Car to avoid waiting in the heat, or private experiences like the 6-hour Private Tour perfect for customizing your day. Each offers a different way to enjoy the island, making your limited time memorable.
In this guide, we’ve gathered 15 top shore excursions that highlight Santorini’s beauty, history, and local life. From small-group adventures to full-day private tours, we’ll help you find the perfect experience for your cruise stop. Read on for detailed descriptions and honest insights.
1. The Best Santorini Small-Group Shore Excursion for Cruise Ships
At number 1, this half-day tour is tailored for cruise visitors who want a comprehensive yet relaxed overview. It covers Firostefani, Oia, Prophet Ilias, and Megalochori, with pickup near the Fira cable car for seamless access. The tour includes panoramic views of the Caldera, visits to iconic blue-domed churches, and a walk through traditional villages. The local guide shares stories that bring the island to life, making this a great introduction for first-timers. The $69.28 per person price makes it an excellent value for a 4-5 hour experience, especially considering the included highlights like a local market visit and a photo stop at the highest point on the island. With 4.5/5 ratings from 280 reviews, guests praise the seamless transport and engaging guides.
Bottom Line: Perfect for cruise passengers who want a well-rounded, guided experience without breaking the bank.
2. The Original Skip Cable Car: The Best Santorini Shore Excursion
Number 2 on our list is all about saving time and avoiding lines with the unique “Skip Cable Car” experience. This 4.5-hour tour begins with a direct boat transfer from port, bypassing the long cable car queue and heading straight to the heart of Santorini’s highlights. Once ashore, a coach whisks you to Finikia, known for its blue-domed church and quiet streets, and then onward to Prophet Ilias, the highest point with sweeping views. Guests love how smoothly everything runs, with many citing it as the best way to see Santorini efficiently. For $72.21 per person, the tour is praised for its time-saving design and the ability to explore without the crowds.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting to maximize sightseeing and skip the lengthy cable car lines.
3. 6hours Private Tour : Santorini Luxury Shore Excursion
This private 6-hour tour is perfect if you value personalized attention and a tailored experience. Your guide and driver, in a luxury vehicle with Wi-Fi, will take you to Oia, Pyrgos, and Perivolos Beach, with plenty of opportunities for photos and relaxed stops. Guests rave about guide Angelo, who provides insightful commentary and takes care to keep the day enjoyable. The tour covers lesser-known villages and stunning vistas, offering a more intimate perspective of the island. At $222.93 per person, it’s a premium choice for travelers who want flexibility and comfort. The personal itinerary means you can focus on your interests, whether that’s photography, food, or simply soaking up the scenery.
Bottom Line: Best suited for couples or small groups seeking a customizable, luxurious experience.
4. Private Shore Excursion: Best of Santorini Customized Tour
Number 4 is all about personalization. This private tour lets you craft your perfect Santorini day—whether that’s visiting the Sunset in Oia, the Blue Dome Church in Firostefani, or exploring hidden corners. Starting with port pickup, your guide will tailor the stops to your interests, all at your pace. The flexible itinerary includes iconic sights and can be extended up to 8 hours if needed. Reviewers like Nic and Theo who make personalized suggestions, ensuring a memorable, hassle-free experience. For $196.04 per person, it offers high value and a chance to see what truly interests you. This tour is best for travelers who want control over what they see and do.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those with specific interests or limited time but who want a private, tailored experience.
5. Santorini: 6hr Small Group Shore Excursion Villages & Wine
Number 5 combines village visits with wine tasting in a small-group setting. Over six hours, you’ll visit Megalochori, learn about local traditions, and then head to Pyrgos for spectacular views. The highlight is a visit to a local vineyard, where guests enjoy a wine tasting of Santorini’s famous volcanic varieties. This tour is friendly and intimate, with 36 reviews rating it 5/5, praising the guide’s knowledge and the balance of sightseeing and tasting. For $149.03 per person, it offers good value, especially if you enjoy wine or want an authentic taste of local culture.
Bottom Line: Ideal for wine lovers or travelers wanting a mix of villages and a relaxed pace.
6. Santorini 4-Hour Private Tour including Wine Tasting, Shore Excursion
Number 6 offers a luxury private experience with a focus on views and wine. Beginning with Oia, your private guide takes you to Firostefani and the Monastery of Profitis Ilias for panoramic vistas. The tour includes visits to Venetsanos Winery, where you sample four types of Santorini wine along with local snacks. The Mercedes minivan ensures comfort, and flexible departure times mean you can fit this into your schedule. With 33 reviews rating it 5/5, travelers appreciate the personalized approach and expert guidance. At $183.42 per person, this is a great choice for those wanting an indulgent, customizable day.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wine enthusiasts and travelers seeking a private, scenic experience.
7. Private Unseen Authentic Santorini Half Day Shore Excursion
This half-day private tour explores less-touristed areas of central and southern Santorini. It covers Mesaria, Megalochori, Emporio, and Vlychada Beach. The emphasis is on authentic local life and natural beauty, away from the crowds. Reviewers praise guide Panos for sharing stories that bring these quiet villages to life. The tour, costing $219.72 per person, is ideal for travelers who want a deeper, more authentic experience without the crowds.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers seeking a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path journey.
8. Full Day Shore Excursion Tour
Number 8 offers a full day’s immersion into Santorini’s highlights. Starting with the Lost Atlantis Experience, it then visits Akrotiri, Megalochori, and Red Beach. For $191.88 per person, guests get an extensive look at the island’s history and scenery. The tour includes private transfers, plenty of photo stops, and the chance to learn about the Minoan civilization and volcanic activity. Guests love the comprehensive itinerary packed into about 6 hours.
Bottom Line: Best for history buffs who want an in-depth, well-organized day.
9. Santorini: 5-Hour Private Shore Excursion
This private 5-hour tour is a compact, personalized experience. It includes Oia, Pyrgos, and Perissa, with visits to the highest mountain and monasteries. Guests find the driver Lanis friendly and knowledgeable, and the tour flexible enough to accommodate specific interests. At $383 per group, it’s better suited for groups who want an intimate, private day with a guide who can adapt on the fly.
Bottom Line: A good fit for intimate groups who want a tailored, private experience.
10. Discover Santorini Private Shore Excursion
Number 10 offers a 4-hour private experience starting from the port, visiting Oia, Imerovigli, and Profitis Ilias. Travelers praise Lanis for being attentive and flexible. The tour emphasizes panoramic views and photo opportunities, making it ideal for travelers who want to see the highlights without rushing. At $195.91 per person, it’s a well-priced private option for those who want a relaxed, customized day.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who want a private, scenic tour with flexibility.
11. Exclusive Shore Excursion : Scenic Santorini, Shopping & Winery
Number 11 combines scenic villages, shopping, and wine tasting in about four hours. It includes visits to Oia, Gavalas Winery, and Mega Gialos. Guests enjoy the blend of photo opportunities, local flavors, and boutique shopping. With 10 reviews rating 5/5, travelers appreciate its comprehensive yet relaxed approach. The $242 per person price reflects a premium experience, perfect for those wanting a bit of everything.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who enjoy scenic views, wine, and shopping.
12. Stress-Free Santorini Shore Excursion: Private Highlights Tour
This 7-8 hour private tour promises a stress-free day with everything arranged, including private transfers and expert guidance. It covers Imerovigli, Oia, and other highlights, with a focus on comfort and timing. Guest reviews highlight its smooth logistics and personalized care. At $404.89 per person, it’s a top-tier choice for travelers who want a worry-free, comprehensive day.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who prioritize comfort and flexibility.
13. Shore Excursion: Customizable Santorini Tour
Number 13 allows you to design your perfect day. You can choose stops like Oia, Profitis Ilias, or Red Beach, and travel in a luxury minibus. The 4-5 hour tour is fully narrated, offering flexibility for your interests. Tour guides like Pia and Lanis customize the experience, ensuring you see what matters most. The $263.25 per person cost is reasonable for a tailored private trip.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want control over their sightseeing and a private, flexible itinerary.
14. 5 Hour Santorini Shore Excursion for Cruise Passengers
This 5-hour tour is designed specifically for cruise visitors, with timed stops in Firostefani, Oia, and Profitis Ilias. Guests praise the reliable guides and efficient logistics, making it a reliable way to see the highlights without feeling rushed. The $81.89 per person price makes it accessible, with reviews noting its good balance of sightseeing and relaxation.
Bottom Line: An excellent budget-friendly option for cruise passengers wanting a quick but thorough overview.
15. Santorini Shore Excursion: 5-hours Private Sightseeing Tour
Our final pick is a private 5-hour tour focusing on Oia, Firostefani, and the scenic blue-domed churches. It’s ideal for those who want an intimate, customized experience with the flexibility to explore at their own pace. Priced at $250.17 per person, it offers a personal touch and a focus on photo stops and scenic views.
Bottom Line: Suitable for couples or small groups seeking a private, scenic tour.
How to Choose Your Perfect Santorini Shore Excursion
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. For a quick overview with minimal planning, the Small-Group Shore Excursion offers great value. If you want to skip lines and maximize sightseeing, the Skip Cable Car is perfect. For those craving a personalized experience, private options like the 6-hour Luxury Tour or the Private Highlights Tour fit the bill.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak summer months, to ensure availability and the best guides.
Final Thoughts
Santorini offers a rich variety of shore excursions to suit every taste. Whether you prefer a group tour, a luxury private experience, or a customized itinerary, you’ll find options that showcase the island’s famous views, charming villages, and volcanic beaches. For travelers with limited time, tours that combine efficient logistics and highlights, like the Skip Cable Car, are invaluable. Those seeking a more intimate, tailored experience will love the private options that focus on personal interests and comfort. Remember, Santorini’s beauty is best savored early or late in the day, so plan accordingly and book your favorite tour well in advance for a smooth, memorable visit.