Greece’s 15 Best Full-Day Tours

Greece is a country that offers more than just stunning landscapes and delicious food. It’s a place where history, culture, and natural beauty collide in ways that make full-day tours particularly rewarding. Whether you’re wandering through ancient ruins in Athens, cruising around the crystal waters of the Ionian Sea, or exploring remote villages in Crete, a well-planned full-day adventure helps you get the most out of your trip. We especially like the Athens Greece Full Day Private Tour for its flexible, personalized approach and the Spetses Island: Full Day Trip from Athens with Swimming for those seeking a relaxed island escape — both offer authentic experiences that go beyond the typical sightseeing.

Greece’s full-day tours cover everything from iconic monuments and UNESCO World Heritage sites to scenic island excursions and rugged off-road safaris. They’re ideal if you want a comprehensive experience without rushing, and many include expert guides, private transportation, and special activities like swimming in hidden coves or visiting monasteries perched high on cliffs. Today we’ll explore 15 of the best options, helping you choose the perfect match for your interests and travel style.

1. Athens Greece Full Day Private Tour

Enjoy the highlights of Athens with a private guide and vehicle that caters to your interests. This 8-hour tour features a knowledgeable driver who shares insights into Greek history and mythology, making the city’s ancient sites come alive. The tour is flexible, allowing you to customize the itinerary based on what you want to see, whether it’s the Acropolis, the Parthenon, or lesser-known neighborhoods. The use of latest-model Mercedes Benz vehicles ensures comfort, especially on hot days.

What makes this tour stand out is its personalized approach. Past travelers appreciate guides like Dimitris and George for their professionalism and deep knowledge. The private format means you can linger at sites or skip ahead, making it ideal for families or small groups who want an intimate experience. At around $649 for up to 7 people, it offers good value, especially considering the private transport and flexibility.

Bottom Line: Perfect for history lovers who want a tailored Athens experience with expert insights and comfortable travel. Advanced booking recommended.

2. Spetses Island: Full Day Trip from Athens with Swimming

This full day combines the scenic journey from Athens with a visit to the charming island of Spetses. Starting with a scenic bus ride through Peloponnese mountains, you then hop on a private sea taxi to reach Spetses — a car-free island famous for its elegant old harbor and narrow alleys. Once there, an archaeologist-led tour explores the town’s rich heritage, then you’re free to wander or rent an electric bike. The day includes ample time for swimming in crystal-clear waters and enjoying local cuisine.

Travelers love the combination of land and sea, with reviews praising the attentive communication and the chance to experience a true Greek island without the crowds. The inclusion of a sea taxi ride and guided heritage walk make this more than just a ferry trip; it’s a full immersion in island life.

Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a relaxed, scenic day that mixes culture, beach time, and some of Greece’s best island vistas — all at a reasonable price.

3. Full-Day 4×4 Self-Drive Safari in East Crete with Lunch

For those who crave adventure, this full-day 4×4 safari in Crete puts you behind the wheel of an all-terrain vehicle, navigating rugged terrain with guidance from expert guides. The journey takes you through olive groves, traditional villages, and scenic Dikti Mountains, with stops for coffee and a traditional Cretan lunch. The off-road ride to Gournes Beach offers an exhilarating experience, especially suited for active travelers.

Guests praise the guide Manuel for his clear explanations and the well-organized trip. The tour’s mix of off-road driving and cultural stops makes it stand out. The lunch in Kastelli is a highlight, giving a taste of authentic Cretan cuisine.

Bottom Line: Best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy driving, stunning mountain views, and authentic local food. The off-road aspect can be bumpy but memorable.

4. Tsilivi: Full Day Boat Rental to Shipwreck & Blue Caves

This is a self-guided boat rental experience with no license needed, giving you the freedom to explore Zakynthos’ famous Shipwreck Cove and Blue Caves at your own pace. With the boat company providing everything, you can pick your own routes, swim in secluded coves, and enjoy the stunning scenery.

The highlight is swimming into the Shipwreck cove, one of Greece’s most iconic sights, and stopping at Blue Caves for photos and snorkeling. Reviewers love the independence this offers, along with the chance to discover hidden spots that larger tours can’t access.

Bottom Line: Perfect for confident swimmers and boat lovers who want total control of their sightseeing day around Zakynthos.

5. From Ioannina all day tour to Meteora rocks & Monasteries

This 7-hour day tour takes you from Ioannina directly to the UNESCO-listed Meteora to see its towering monasteries. Your guide shares fascinating stories as you visit the Great Meteor Monastery and others, with plenty of photo stops along scenic viewpoints. The tour includes a self-guided walk through the monasteries and the opportunity to learn about their history and architecture.

Rated highly for its in-depth approach, the tour offers a good balance of sightseeing and free time. The driver’s local knowledge and the stunning mountain scenery make this a memorable experience.

Bottom Line: Ideal for history and architecture enthusiasts who want a comprehensive day trip to one of Greece’s most awe-inspiring sites.

6. FULL DAY GROUP TOUR KOUTSOMITI KOUNOUPA & RED ROCK WITH MEAL

This 7-hour group adventure explores remote beaches and rugged landscapes with access to hidden spots like Koutsomiti, Kounoupa, and Red Rock. The tour includes snorkeling, wildlife watching, and a picnic on remote beaches, giving you a true taste of untouched Greek islands.

Reviewed as a very relaxing day, it’s perfect if you want a laid-back experience with opportunities for swimming and photography. The local beach bar offers authentic cuisine, making it a full sensory experience.

Bottom Line: Great for travelers who want a mix of nature, beach relaxation, and light hiking, all with local flavor.

7. Crete: Private Full-Day Tour

This private tour in Crete ensures a customized experience, with a knowledgeable guide tailoring the day to your interests. You’ll visit top spots, enjoy scenic views, and stop for local lunch in a traditional taverna. The flexibility allows you to focus on what excites you most, whether it’s ancient ruins, scenic villages, or natural beauty.

The guide Vangelis stands out for his fluency and personal touches, as seen in reviews praising his ability to adapt the itinerary. This tour is ideal for those who prefer a personal, unhurried exploration of Crete.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a bespoke experience with a local guide, and don’t mind paying a premium for personalized service.

8. Kefalonia Highlights: Full day cruise from Zakynthos

This 10-hour cruise takes you to Kefalonia’s most famous sights, including the monastery of St. Gerassimos, Drogarati Cave, and Melissani Lake. Traveling by boat, you’ll explore stunning caves and lakes, with options to swim and photograph.

Reviewers appreciate the long day and the chance to see Kefalonia’s natural wonders in one trip. It’s a great way to combine sightseeing and relaxation, especially if you love being on the water.

Bottom Line: Best suited for those wanting a comprehensive day of boat-based sightseeing with some time for swimming.

9. Kolympia: Full-Day Yacht Cruise with Transfer, Food & Drinks

This adults-only yacht experience promises a luxurious day out. With transfer, lunch, and drinks included, you’ll sail along Rhodes’ coastline, stopping for swimming and snorkeling at top beaches. The 25 quests on board create an exclusive atmosphere.

Guests love the combination of comfort and adventure, with the yacht providing a breezy, intimate setting. The tour is perfect for couples or small groups seeking a high-end day on the water.

Bottom Line: Best for travelers looking for a premium, relaxed cruise experience with all amenities included.

10. Meteora Full-Day Private Tour – Plan the Trip of a Lifetime

This private Meteora tour offers a highly personalized itinerary, covering the monasteries, scenic viewpoints, and local villages. The 11-hour day includes visits to multiple monasteries, with the flexibility to spend more time at your favorite spots.

Rated 4.8/5, travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and seamless logistics. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to avoid crowds and focus on photography or in-depth exploration.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a tailored, in-depth visit to one of Greece’s most iconic UNESCO sites.

11. Adonis Luxury Schooner Santorini Full Day Cruise

This luxurious full-day cruise on a 65-foot schooner offers stops at hot springs, visits to Thirassia, and sailings past Santorini’s famous towns perched over the caldera. It’s a premium experience with swimming, snorkeling, and gourmet food onboard.

Reviewers are captivated by the volcano and hot springs, as well as the intimate atmosphere. It’s ideal for honeymooners or anyone wanting a romantic, upscale day on the water.

Bottom Line: Best suited for those seeking a high-end, comfortable cruise with unique scenic stops.

12. From Santorini: Full-Day Escape Cruise to Ios

This semi-private catamaran cruise offers a full day of exploring the caldera, with stops at Red Beach, White Beach, and Maganari Beach. The day includes a delicious all-inclusive lunch and an opportunity to relax with breathtaking views of Santorini’s iconic landscape.

Travelers love the sunset view over the caldera, making this a memorable way to see some of the Cyclades. The combination of sightseeing, swimming, and good food makes it a balanced choice.

Bottom Line: Ideal for couples or small groups wanting an intimate, scenic cruise with excellent food.

13. Heraklion: Full Day to Rihti Waterfalls, Mochlos, Azoria

This 9-hour day showcases Crete’s less-visited side, including Rihtis Gorge, Waterfalls, and the fishing village of Mochlos. The tour also visits Azoria ancient olive tree site, providing a blend of nature, archaeology, and local culture.

Rated 4.9/5, travelers appreciate the relaxed pace and the chance to discover authentic Crete away from crowds. It’s perfect for families or those interested in both outdoor and archaeological sites.

Bottom Line: Recommended for curious travelers who want a mix of nature, history, and local flavors.

14. Full-day VIP Cruise & Tour to Kefalonia – 2 in One

This 12-hour VIP tour combines a luxury cruise with sightseeing on Kefalonia. With a range of transfer and sightseeing options, it’s an all-encompassing day for those who want to see the island’s highlights in style.

Rated 3/5, the experience appeals to travelers who prioritize comfort and exclusive access. It’s a longer tour, so better suited for those with plenty of time.

Bottom Line: Designed for travelers seeking a premium, seamless experience of Kefalonia’s natural and cultural treasures.

15. Kefalonia: Full-Day Ithaka Island Cruise with Swim Stops

This 7-hour cruise offers a relaxing day exploring Ithaka’s hidden beaches and swimming in clear waters. The traditional boat provides space and comfort to unwind while soaking up the Ionian Sea’s tranquil atmosphere.

Rated 4.7/5, travelers enjoy the chance to visit less-visited beaches and enjoy a peaceful day on the water. It’s ideal if you want a laid-back, scenic experience.

Bottom Line: Perfect for relaxation and exploration of Ithaka’s quiet coves, especially for those who prefer a slower pace.

How to Choose the Right Full-Day Tour in Greece

When selecting your ideal full-day tour, consider your budget, interests, and activity level. For a personalized city experience, the Athens Private Tour offers customization. If island hopping excites you, the Spetses day trip or the Santorini cruise provide scenic, relaxing options. For adventurous travelers, the Crete 4×4 safari offers off-road fun, while those craving luxury will love the Kefalonia yacht cruise.

Timing matters too. Summer is perfect for island cruises and boat trips, while spring and fall offer more comfortable weather for inland adventures like Meteora or Crete’s archaeological sites. Booking early is advisable, especially for private tours or popular cruises.

Greece’s diversity means there’s a full-day tour for every traveler. Whether you want to walk through ancient ruins, sail past volcanic islands, or explore hidden beaches, these options deliver memorable experiences. For a variety of interests and budgets, the key is to match your energy level and curiosity to the right adventure. So don’t delay—book early, pack comfortable shoes, and get ready for some of Greece’s most authentic moments.

Happy travels!