Fira, the lively hub of Santorini, offers more than just stunning sunsets and whitewashed buildings. It’s also a prime base for exploring the island through a variety of tours that cater to different interests and travel styles. Whether you want a peaceful horseback ride along volcanic beaches, an exhilarating boat cruise around the caldera, or a private guided tour of iconic villages, Fira puts you within reach of some fantastic options. We particularly enjoy the Horseback Riding Day Trip to a Beach for its scenic route and relaxed pace, and the Caldera Luxury Catamaran Cruise for its combination of snorkeling, swimming, and fine dining on board. These experiences give you authentic, memorable ways to see Santorini beyond the usual postcard shots.
Quick Overview
Fira is a magnet for tour operators offering everything from horseback riding excursions [], luxury boat cruises [], and private guided tours [], to small group island explorations [], wine tasting sessions [], and cycling adventures []. The list below covers the best options, focusing on unique features, reviews, and what makes each stand out.
1. Akrotiri: Guided Horseback Riding Day Trip to a Beach
Rating: 4.9/5 (313 reviews), Price: $85, Duration: 1 hour
We love this horseback riding experience because it offers a peaceful way to see Santorini’s volcanic landscapes and secluded beaches. The tour takes you to Vlychada Beach, where you can enjoy a gentle ride along the shoreline, with spectacular views of the caldera in the background. The guides are experienced and attentive, making it suitable for first-timers and seasoned riders alike. Guests comment on the friendly hosts and well-cared-for horses, with one noting, “The scenery was amazing, and the guide was fantastic.” It’s a perfect option if you seek a calming, scenic activity that allows you to connect with the island’s natural beauty.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a relaxed, authentic horseback adventure with picturesque beach views.
2. Santorini: Caldera Luxury Catamaran Cruise w/ Meal & Drinks
Rating: 4.9/5 (233 reviews), Price: $147, Duration: 5 hours
This luxury catamaran cruise is a standout for its combination of comfort, scenic beauty, and activity. The tour includes snorkeling at Nea Kameni, swimming off the Red and White Beaches, and savoring a delicious onboard BBQ meal with drinks. Guests love the relaxed atmosphere of the vessel, the calm music, and the stunning views of Santorini’s sunset. The itinerary is flexible, with stops that include the volcano and hot springs, offering both adventure and relaxation. Many reviews emphasize the quality of the food and the friendly crew, making it a fantastic choice for couples or groups seeking a classy day on the water.
Bottom Line: For those who want a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and fine dining, this cruise delivers in style.
3. Santorini: Private 3-Hour Highlights Guided Tour with Pickup
Rating: 5/5 (155 reviews), Price: $95
The private tour offers personalized insights into Santorini’s most famous sights, including Fira, Imerovigli, and Oia, with flexible timings and direct pickup. This 3-hour exploration is perfect for travelers who prefer a tailored experience, with the guide sharing local stories and tips along the way. Highlights include the Three Bells of Fira and panoramic caldera views. Guests praise the knowledgeable guides and smooth logistics, making it an excellent choice for small groups or those with limited time but big expectations. It’s especially suited for cruise ship visitors who want a quick, intimate look at the island’s highlights.
Bottom Line: An excellent, customizable option for a quick yet in-depth look at Santorini’s iconic spots.
4. Santorini Port: Cruise to Volcano, Hot Springs & Thirassia
Rating: 4.5/5 (466 reviews), Price: $39.52, Duration: 6 hours
This sailing cruise combines active volcano hiking, hot springs bathing, and island hopping. The hike up the volcanic crater at Nea Kameni is both fun and informative, with guides explaining the island’s volcanic activity. Guests often mention the thermal springs as a highlight, and the free time in Thirassia offers a glimpse of traditional Greek island life. The boat features an onboard bar, and the commentary is engaging. The trip is well-reviewed for its value and variety, making it perfect for active travelers looking for a full-day adventure.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who want a balanced mix of exploration, swimming, and island culture, all on a comfortable boat.
5. Santorini: Catamaran Cruise with Greek BBQ and Drinks
Rating: 4.8/5 (194 reviews), Price: $81, Duration: 5 hours
This luxury cruise combines the fun of swimming and snorkeling at Red and White Beaches with a mouthwatering Greek BBQ onboard. Guests love the friendly crew, the open bar, and the relaxing atmosphere. The stops at Palea Kameni and Nea Kameni—volcanic islands—are highlights, with time for photos and dips in thermal waters. Many reviewers mention the excellent value for the price and the quality of the food. It’s perfect for groups or couples who want a stylish day on the water with plenty of opportunities to swim, relax, and enjoy local flavors.
Bottom Line: A well-priced, enjoyable way to experience Santorini’s volcanic scenery and cuisine.
6. Santorini: Horseback Riding Tour on the Beach
Rating: 4.9/5 (116 reviews), Price: $107, Duration: 1.5 hours
This horseback riding experience is ideal for those wanting a peaceful, scenic outing. The 1.5-hour ride includes exploring vineyards and local paths, with an especially romantic beach ride. Guides are experienced and attentive, and the horses are well-trained. Guests appreciate the tranquil setting and how accessible it is, even for beginners. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a gentle, memorable introduction to Santorini’s countryside with a small-group feel.
Bottom Line: A calming, scenic ride suitable for beginners and lovers of nature and horses.
7. Santorini: Sunset Guided Tour with Hotel Pickup
Rating: 4.5/5 (324 reviews), Price: $60, Duration: 5 hours
This guided sunset tour offers a convenient way to see Santorini’s highlights without the hassle. Pickup from your hotel makes it simple, and stops include Red Beach, the Three Bells of Fira, and Profitis Ilias. Guests love the laid-back pace and the stunning sunset views from Oia, with plenty of time to explore the charming village. The guide is informative, and the trip is praised for its value and scenic stops. It’s a good choice if you want to combine sightseeing with the iconic sunset experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking a relaxed, scenic evening with easy logistics.
8. Santorini Island Tour for Cruise Travelers – Small Group
Rating: 4.8/5 (86 reviews), Price: $59, Duration: 4 hours
Designed specifically for cruise travelers, this small group tour hits the major sights like Fira, Oia, and Imerovigli, with a focus on flexibility and local insight. With a max 16 guests, it’s intimate and efficient, covering both well-known spots and hidden corners like Pyrgos. The guide shares tips for shopping and dining, making the most of your limited time. The reviews highlight its smooth organization and engaging narration. It’s best suited for those who want to maximize sightseeing without feeling rushed.
Bottom Line: A smart, compact way to take in Santorini’s highlights with local guidance.
9. Heraklion: Guided Santorini Day Trip with Ferry Cruise
Rating: 4.3/5 (241 reviews), Price: Please check
This full-day trip from Crete combines a scenic ferry ride with guided visits to Oia and Fira. The ferry is comfortable, and the itinerary balances exploration with free time. Guests mention the well-organized schedule, and the guide’s helpful tips enhance the experience. It’s suited for travelers who want to see Santorini on a tight schedule, with highlights like the white-washed buildings and picturesque streets. It’s a good value for those already in Crete.
Bottom Line: Ideal for Crete-based travelers craving a day in Santorini’s famous villages.
10. Santorini: 5-Hour Private Tour for Cruise Ship Guests
Rating: 5/5 (29 reviews), Price: $151
The 5-hour private tour is tailored for cruise ship visitors needing a quick, stress-free experience. It includes top sights like Fira, Oia, and the volcanic beaches, with flexible pickup and drop-off. Guests appreciate the private vehicle, bottled water, and the ability to customize the itinerary. The guide’s local knowledge ensures you hit the highlights without feeling rushed. It’s perfect if you want an intimate, efficient way to see the best of Santorini in limited time.
Bottom Line: Excellent for cruise travelers seeking a personalized, hassle-free day.
11. Santorini: Brewery Tour with Beer Tasting & Optional Meal
Rating: 4.7/5 (62 reviews), Price: $28.23, Duration: 45-75 minutes
Beer lovers will enjoy this visit to Ftelos Brewery, home of Blue Monkey beer. The tour includes six artisanal beers paired with tasty bites, and the guide explains the brewing process. Reviewers love the friendly atmosphere and the high-quality beers, calling it “great value for money.” It’s ideal if you want a low-key, fun way to learn about local brewing and enjoy a relaxed tasting session. The tour is short, but the experience and flavors are memorable.
Bottom Line: Best suited for craft beer fans looking for a casual tasting experience.
12. Santorini e-bike guided tours
Rating: 4.9/5 (26 reviews), Price: $136, Duration: 3.5 hours
This e-bike tour offers a fun, eco-friendly way to explore Santorini’s coastline and villages. The experienced guides help you navigate the island’s hills and narrow streets comfortably. Highlights include Perissa, Megalochori, and the caldera views. Riders rave about the bikes’ power and the scenic stops, including wine and cheese tastings. It’s perfect for active travelers who want to cover more ground than walking and enjoy the island’s landscapes at their own pace.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for sporty travelers who want to see diverse parts of Santorini on a guided e-bike tour.
13. Santorini: Small Group Tour of 3 Local Wineries
Rating: 4.9/5 (24 reviews), Price: Please check, Duration: 4 hours
Wine enthusiasts will enjoy this small group winery tour, visiting three local producers and sampling distinctive wines such as Mandilaria and Assyrtiko. The tour includes a cheese and charcuterie platter, and the guide shares insights into Santorini’s unique winemaking process. Reviewers mention it as “a lovely small group experience” and “very informative.” It’s a great way to taste the island’s volcanic terroir in a relaxed setting.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wine lovers who want a personalized, flavorful experience.
14. Santorini: Akrotiri Entry Ticket and Audio Guide
Rating: 3.8/5 (320 reviews), Price: $39.52
This entry ticket and self-guided audio tour lets you explore the Bronze Age ruins of Akrotiri at your own pace. The site includes well-marked paths and an app that brings the ancient city’s history to life. Many visitors appreciate the flexibility, with some noting, “We could stop and start as we liked.” It’s ideal if you prefer to explore independently and want to avoid guided tours’ crowd or schedule. The site itself is a fascinating glimpse into ancient life, preserved under volcanic ash.
Bottom Line: Best for independent explorers interested in archaeology and history.
$39.52 per person
15. Santorini: Private Sunrise Tour with Breakfast and Oia Visit
Rating: 4.9/5 (12 reviews), Price: $198, Duration: 4 hours
Watching the sunrise over Santorini is unforgettable, and this private tour makes it even more special. Starting early, you’ll enjoy coffee as the sky turns, then visit Imerovigli, Oia, and Pyrgos. The tour includes breakfast and plenty of time to admire the views without heavy crowds. Reviewers praise the personalized service and the serene start to the day. It’s ideal for romantics or anyone who wants to experience Santorini’s magic in peace.
Bottom Line: A luxurious, intimate way to start your day with breathtaking views and a relaxed pace.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Fira
Choosing the best tour depends on your interests, schedule, and budget. If you’re after a relaxing day on the water, the Caldera Luxury Catamaran Cruise or the Greek BBQ Cruise are winners. For active adventures, the e-bike guided tours or horseback riding are excellent options. Meanwhile, those on a tight schedule or arriving via cruise ship will appreciate the private or small group tours for their convenience and personalized touch. And if you’re a history or archaeology buff, don’t miss the Akrotiri entry ticket with audio guide.
Book early, especially for popular options like the sunset tours or private experiences, to ensure availability. Also, consider the time of year; summer months fill quickly, and some activities like boat cruises are weather-dependent.
Fira offers a diverse range of tours that cater to all tastes—from scenic rides and boat trips to cultural explorations and wine tasting. For a peaceful, picturesque experience, the horseback riding options stand out, while the luxury catamaran cruises offer a blend of adventure and indulgence. If you want a quick but rundown of the island’s highlights, the private and small group tours are unbeatable.
Whatever your interests, planning ahead will pay off. Many of these tours are highly rated and fill up fast—so don’t delay. Your perfect Santorini experience is waiting right here in Fira.