Santorini is famous for its stunning sunsets, volcanic landscapes, and charming villages, but what sets it apart for travelers are the memorable tours that allow you to experience its unique beauty firsthand. Whether you want to sail past volcanic islands, learn about local wines, or ride along the black sand beaches, Santorini offers a variety of tours that suit different interests and budgets. For instance, the Catamaran Tour with BBQ Dinner combines scenic sailing with a delicious outdoor feast, making it a favorite among those seeking relaxation and fun on the water. Meanwhile, the Volcanic Islands Cruise with Hot Springs Visit takes you into the island’s volcanic heart, perfect for adventure seekers and geology buffs.
If you’re after a more luxurious vibe, the Luxury Catamaran Day Trip offers an elegant day on the water with unlimited drinks and a Greek meal, while the Small-Group Sunset Wine Tour lets you enjoy fine wines and breathtaking views in a more intimate setting. No matter your style, Santorini’s diverse tours promise both scenic beauty and authentic experiences, with each one offering something special.
1. Santorini: Catamaran Tour with BBQ Dinner, Drinks, and Music
Sailing into Santorini’s sunset on a 5-hour catamaran cruise is a top pick for many travelers. This tour includes a barbecue dinner with unlimited wine and soft drinks, making it perfect for a relaxing evening. You’ll cruise along the coast of Santorini, passing Red Beach and White Beach where you can swim and snorkel. The boat also glides near a volcano, adding a dash of adventure to the trip. The cheerful music onboard creates a lively atmosphere, and reviews consistently praise the friendly guides and the delicious food. With a 4.6/5 rating from over 4,600 reviews, this tour balances scenic views with a fun, social vibe. It’s especially suitable for those wanting a memorable sunset experience with good food.
Bottom Line: A lively, all-in-one cruise that combines the best of sailing, snorkeling, and Greek cuisine. Perfect for travelers wanting an active evening with a festive atmosphere.
2. Santorini: Volcanic Islands Cruise with Hot Springs Visit
At number 2, this volcanic islands cruise offers a more adventurous day out. Starting from around $28, it covers the sail around the caldera, a hike up to Nea Kameni’s crater, and swimming in hot springs. You’ll also get to relax near Thirassia with a second swim, all while soaking in spectacular volcanic scenery. The trip includes a sunset view in Oia, making it a well-rounded way to experience the island’s geology and beauty. The reviews highlight the professionalism of the crew and the breathtaking scenery, with one reviewer noting how effective and fun the trip was, especially exploring the volcano and hot springs.
Bottom Line: An affordable, full-day adventure that’s ideal for those interested in volcanic activity and natural thermal springs, with plenty of swimming and sightseeing.
3. Santorini: Luxury Catamaran Day Trip with Meal and Open Bar
For around $124, the Luxury Catamaran Day Trip delivers a high-end experience with a meal and open bar. This tour sails around the caldera, stops at hot springs, and includes snorkeling in White and Red Beaches. The boat is luxurious, with a relaxed vibe perfect for couples or those celebrating special occasions. Guests rave about the beautiful scenery, the delicious Greek food, and the unlimited drinks. The reviews mention the professional crew and the memorable photos taken during the trip, making it a favorite among travelers seeking comfort and exclusivity.
Bottom Line: A premium option for those wanting a sophisticated day on the water, with gourmet food, unlimited drinks, and stunning views.
4. Santorini: Horse Riding Trip to Black Sandy Beach
Number 4 on our list is the Horse Riding Trip to Black Sandy Beach, which is perfect for animal lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Lasting 1.5 hours, this tour guides you across volcanic fields and along the black sand beach of Vlichada. Riders of all experience levels praise the friendly guides and well-cared-for horses. Guests often mention how the scenery of the volcanic landscape from atop a horse creates a different perspective of Santorini. The reviews highlight the magic of riding along the shoreline, with many calling it their favorite activity in Santorini.
Bottom Line: An excellent way to combine nature, adventure, and a peaceful ride, suitable for all riding abilities.
5. Santorini: Catamaran Tour with BBQ Meal and Unlimited Drinks
This 5-hour cruise offers a luxurious experience with unlimited wine, beer, and soft drinks and a barbecue meal. It features two swimming stops and a scenic sail along the caldera. Guests love the seamless organization and the delicious BBQ, noting that the crew is friendly and attentive. The trip’s highlight is a sunset view from Oia, which many reviewers say is unforgettable. With a 4.8/5 rating from over 1,370 reviews, it’s a great choice for those wanting to relax while enjoying superb hospitality and scenic beauty.
Bottom Line: An excellent value for a semi-private, all-inclusive sailing experience with flexible stops and stunning sunset views.
6. Santorini: Catamaran Cruise with Meals and Drinks
Rated 4.7/5 from nearly 1,400 reviews, this small-group cruise combines a BBQ buffet with snorkeling and visits to the volcanic hot springs. The relaxed pace and attentive crew make it appealing for those who want a personalized experience. Guests mention the panoramic views of the caldera and the relaxing atmosphere on deck as major highlights. It’s ideal for travelers looking for a more intimate, less crowded cruise that still offers the essentials—good food, scenic views, and swimming.
Bottom Line: A cozy, friendly cruise for those who prefer a smaller group and authentic, high-quality experiences.
7. Santorini: Top Sights Day Trip, Wine Tasting, & Oia Sunset
Number 7 offers a full-day guided tour that hits all the highlights. Starting early, it includes visits to Pyrgos, Emporio, Perissa Beach, and Oia. The tour adds wine tasting at local wineries and a sunset in Oia, rated as one of the most beautiful sights on the island. Guest reviews praise the balance of sightseeing and free time, with guide Yannis standing out for his knowledge and humor. It’s perfect for travelers who want a rundown with cultural insights and scenic stops.
Bottom Line: Best for those who want a well-organized, full-day experience with a mix of sightseeing, wine, and sunset views.
8. Santorini: Catamaran Caldera Cruise with Meal and Drinks
This 5-hour cruise is renowned for its spectacular views of the Red and White Beaches and the volcanic hot springs. The luxury catamaran includes a meal with local wine and opportunities for snorkeling. Recently, travelers have appreciated the friendly crew and the chance to see Santorini from a different perspective. Many mention the scenic sailing and the opportunity to relax in comfort. The highlight is swimming in the hot springs and photographing the colorful beaches.
Bottom Line: A luxurious, scenic cruise suitable for those wanting an elegant, all-inclusive day on the water.
9. Santorini: Traditional Sightseeing Bus Tour with Oia Sunset
Number 9 is a 10-hour bus tour that covers Akrotiri, Perissa, Emporio, and Oia. The tour includes a wine tasting session and a visit to the prehistoric Akrotiri excavation site. Travelers love the ** leisurely pace** and the insights from the knowledgeable guide. The sunset in Oia is a highlight, with many commenting on the breathtaking views. This tour is ideal for travelers who want to cover a lot of ground without much walking or planning.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive, budget-friendly option for exploring the main sights and enjoying local wines, with a relaxing day.
10. Santorini: Wine Tasting Tour with Snacks
Rated 4.9/5, this wine tour visits three wineries including Santo Winery, with tastings of 12 award-winning wines. The tour includes cellar visits and paired snacks, making it ideal for wine lovers. Guests appreciate the small-group setting and the personalized attention from guides. Many mention the breathtaking vineyard views and the opportunity to learn about local viticulture. This tour is perfect for those who want to deepen their appreciation of Santorini’s wines in a relaxed setting.
Bottom Line: A must for oenophiles interested in tasting top-quality wines while soaking in scenic vineyard vistas.
11. Santorini: Small-Group Sunset Wine Tour with Santo Winery
This 4-hour evening tour explores three wineries, culminating with a sunset view at Santo Winery. Rated 4.9/5, travelers love the intimate atmosphere and the educational wine tastings. The guide shares insights into Santorini’s unique viticulture and the best spots for sunset photos. It’s ideal for couples or small groups looking for a relaxed, exclusive experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wine enthusiasts seeking a cozy, scenic experience with a spectacular sunset close to the island’s most famous views.
12. Santorini: Guided Tour to 3 Wineries with Wine Tastings
Number 12 offers a guided, half-day wine tour to three prominent wineries. The focus is learning about local wine-making and sampling organic, regional wines like Nykteri and Vinsanto. With a personal guide and a small group, travelers rate it highly for its informative experience and delicious wines. It’s ideal for those who want a deeper dive into Santorini’s wine culture without the full-day commitment.
Bottom Line: A great choice for wine lovers wanting a behind-the-scenes look at Santorini’s renowned wine estates.
13. Santorini: Scuba Diving Experience in Caldera for Beginners
This 3-hour beginner-friendly scuba diving experience is perfect for aquatic explorers. Led by experienced instructors, you’ll explore volcanic reefs and see marine life in the largest underwater caldera in the world. Many reviews mention how safe and fun the experience was, with Irina and the team making everyone comfortable. It’s a unique activity that combines adventure with learning, ideal for anyone curious about the underwater world.
Bottom Line: A fantastic introduction to scuba diving for first-timers, combining safety, education, and stunning underwater scenery.
14. Santorini: 6-Hour Best of Santorini Private Experience
Number 14 offers a customizable private tour that covers famous spots like Oia, Imerovigli, and Profitis Ilias. Using a Mercedes minibus, this tour is perfect for travelers wanting flexibility and a personalized experience. Reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and the ability to adjust the itinerary to interests. It’s ideal for small groups or couples seeking a tailored day without the rigidity of a set schedule.
Bottom Line: A flexible, private option that lets you choose your own adventure across Santorini’s most iconic sights.
15. Santorini: Platinum Catamaran Cruise with BBQ Meal & Open Bar
This luxury cruise is designed for those seeking the best of the best. With a BBQ meal, open bar, and stops at Thirasia, it offers a five-hour taste of Santorini’s coastline and volcanic hot springs. Reviews rave about the delicious food, friendly staff, and spectacular sunset at Santo Winery. It also features multiple scenic stops, including Mésa Pigádia and Hot Springs.
Bottom Line: An indulgent, all-inclusive trip perfect for celebrating special occasions or those who want a premium experience.
16. Santorini: Private Sightseeing Tour
Finally, the Private Sightseeing Tour offers a tailored, 4-6 hour exploration of Santorini’s highlights. With options to visit Oia, Firostefani, and Red Beach, this tour is perfect for travelers who value exclusive attention and flexibility. The reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides like Arthur and Manos, who customize the day to your interests, making it ideal for romantic getaways or families.
Bottom Line: A personalized, flexible experience that ensures you see the island your way, with time for memorable photos and relaxed sightseeing.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Santorini
When selecting a tour, think about your budget, time available, and personal interests. If you’re after a luxurious and relaxing day, the Luxury Catamaran Day Trip offers a premium experience, while budget travelers might prefer the Volcanic Islands Cruise. For those wanting an adventure, horseback riding or scuba diving provide a more active day. If you’re short on time but want a rundown, the Top Sights Day Trip is a great option.
Booking early is advisable, especially in the high season, and consider your fitness level—some tours involve walking or swimming, while others are more relaxed. Check availability and start times to match your schedule and favorite experiences.
To sum it up, Santorini offers a remarkable range of tours for every type of traveler. Whether you’re drawn to sailing with a BBQ, exploring volcanic islands, sampling world-class wines, or discovering the island’s hidden corners, there’s a tour tailored for you. The key is choosing one that matches your interests, budget, and how much of the island you want to see. With so many excellent options, booking in advance will ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable experiences.