From Rethymno: Santorini Guided Tour and Cruise from Crete

From Rethymno: Santorini Guided Tour and Cruise from Crete

Imagine a day spent crossing the Aegean Sea to one of Greece’s most iconic islands — Santorini — all in one seamless package. For $203 per person, you get a ferry cruise, guided visits to Oia and Fira, and optional extras like a volcano tour. The entire experience stretches over about 13 hours, making it a long day, but one packed with some of the most breathtaking scenery Greece has to offer.

What we really appreciate is how this tour combines convenient transportation with expert commentary, allowing you to soak in the sights without the hassle of planning. Two things stand out: the stunning views of the caldera and the chance to stroll through Oia’s charming alleys. The only point to consider is that it’s a pretty packed schedule — so if you’re after a leisurely day, this might feel rushed at times. Still, it’s perfect for travelers eager to see Santorini’s highlights without staying overnight.

If you love sweeping vistas, picturesque towns, and a taste of island life, this tour offers an authentic and value-packed way to experience Santorini’s charm. It’s especially suited for those who don’t mind a full itinerary and want to see the main sights with guided insights and flexibility in free time.

Key Points

• All-in-One Package: Combines ferry, guided tours, and free time at major sights.
• Authentic Experiences: Expert guides share insights about Santorini’s hotspots.
• Breathtaking Scenery: Witness the caldera, white churches, and traditional Cycladic architecture.
• Time Management: Structured schedule with some free time to explore independently.
• Comfort & Convenience: Air-conditioned buses, hotel pickup options, and round-trip ferry tickets.
• Potential Rushing: Limited time in each location, especially if you choose the volcano tour upgrade.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Day in Santorini, Starting from Rethymno

This tour opens with an early morning pickup from Rethymno, which is a great bonus if you prefer to avoid the hassle of self-organized transportation. The bus ride to the port lasts about 40 minutes, giving you a quick preview of Crete’s landscape before boarding the luxury, high-speed ferry. The ferry ride, which lasts just over two hours, is comfortable and offers opportunities to buy snacks and use Wi-Fi (for a fee). It’s a smooth way to glide across the sea without feeling cramped, and the boat is newly renovated, giving a fresh feel.

Once you arrive at Santorini’s Athinios port, the real adventure begins. The guided tour on the island lasts around six hours, during which you’ll see the most famous spots. Your guide will be with you through the streets of Oia, considered one of the most picturesque places in the world, famous for its whitewashed buildings, blue-domed churches, and galleries. The 1.5-hour stop here is ample for photos, wandering streets, and perhaps grabbing a quick coffee or souvenir.

Then, the tour continues to Fira, the island’s bustling capital and known as the “balcony” of Santorini. Here you’ll have about two hours to wander, enjoy views of the caldera, relax at a café, or explore the tiny shops. The guided part ends here, leaving you free to soak up the scenery or perhaps indulge in some local wine tasting if you opt for the volcano excursion (additional 20 euros).

The return ferry trip and bus ride back to Rethymno wrap up the day, making the journey quite a long but rewarding 13 hours total.

The Highlights of the Tour

Ferry Cruise from Rethymno

Starting your day with a fast boat cruise is a highlight. The wind in your hair and the sea breeze are invigorating, and it’s a scenic way to travel. The ferry is modern and comfortable, with options to buy snacks and use Wi-Fi, making the crossing pleasant and not overly tiring.

Oia: The Picturesque Jewel

The stop in Oia is arguably the most photographed part of the tour. With a 1.5-hour window, you can walk its narrow streets, peek into art galleries, and admire the iconic white buildings with blue roofs. Reviewers like Marion have raved about the well-organized visit, noting the clear instructions and attentive guide that made the experience extraordinary.

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Fira: The Heart of the Island

Two hours in Fira give you a taste of the local vibe — bustling markets, cafes with caldera views, and scenic walks along the edge of the volcano. The optional volcano tour (for an extra 20 euros) can be tempting if you want to see the volcanic crater and hot springs, but it does cut into your free time. Travelers like the reviewer who said they “might want more time on-site” will appreciate the flexibility but should be prepared for a busy schedule.

Guided Insights and Free Time

The inclusion of professional guides adds value by providing context about Santorini’s hotspots, history, and architecture. The free time allows you to explore at your own pace, grab a bite, or just sit and enjoy the views.

Transportation and Logistics

The transportation logistics are straightforward but well-planned. The air-conditioned buses in Crete and Santorini ensure comfort, especially during the warmer months. Pickup points are near main hotels or bus stops, with clear instructions provided in advance, which is reassuring for travelers unfamiliar with the area.

The ferry, described as having a snack bar and Wi-Fi, offers some small comforts during the crossing. It’s worth noting that the ferry departs from Heraklion between April 4th and May 20th, which might affect some travelers depending on their timing.

The Value of This Tour

At just over $200, this tour packs in ferry travel, guided sightseeing, and some free time. Considering how expensive it can be to organize your own trip to Santorini — especially with the cost of ferries and guided tours — this package offers a lot of convenience and value. You benefit from expert guides who can tell you about the sights, saving you from reading plaques or wandering aimlessly, and the logistics are handled for you.

While the schedule is quite full, most travelers find it’s a fair trade for the chance to see Santorini’s key attractions without staying overnight or renting a car. The reviews support this, with Marion calling the day “truly extraordinary” and appreciated the careful planning and attentive guides.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive day trip without the stress of logistics. It’s perfect if you’re based in Crete and eager to see Santorini’s iconic sights in one day. If you’re comfortable with a packed schedule and want guided insights into the island’s most photographed locations, this tour hits the mark.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or wish for more time at each stop, you might find this tour a little rushed, especially during the free periods. It’s also a good choice for those who value comfort and convenience over spontaneity.

The Sum Up

This full-day guided tour from Rethymno to Santorini offers an excellent way to experience one of Greece’s most cherished islands without the hassle of planning each detail. Combining a scenic ferry ride with guided visits to Oia and Fira, it lets you see the iconic white buildings, blue-domed churches, and caldera views that make Santorini so famous. The professional guides ensure you get meaningful insights, and the free time in each town allows for personal exploration.

While it’s a busy day, most travelers will find this tour offers a great balance of comfort, value, and authentic sights. It’s especially suitable if you want to pack a lot into one trip and aren’t afraid of a full schedule. For those seeking a snapshot of Santorini’s most photogenic spots, this tour delivers excellent value and memorable vistas.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available? Yes, the tour offers optional pickup from many areas of Rethymno and nearby locations, with details provided after booking.

How long does the ferry ride take? The ferry ride from Rethymno to Santorini lasts approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, with a similar duration for the return trip.

What’s included in the price? Round-trip ferry tickets, transportation in Crete and Santorini, guided tours, and insurance coverage are included. Meals and extra activities like the volcano cruise are optional and cost extra.

Can I buy the volcano tour on the day? Yes, it’s available for an additional 20 euros, payable on the bus, but it reduces your time in Fira.

How much free time do I get? You will have about 1.5 hours in Oia and around 2 hours in Fira to explore on your own.

Is this tour suitable for families or elderly travelers? The schedule is quite packed, and the long day might be tiring for very young children or those with limited mobility, as it involves a lot of walking and bus rides.

What languages are available for the guide? The tour is offered with guides speaking English, French, German, and Polish, depending on the season.

What should I bring? Be sure to carry your passport or ID, sun protection, comfortable shoes, and perhaps a hat. Note that pets are not allowed, except assistance dogs.

You can check availability for your dates here: