Santorini Full Day Tour

Santorini Full Day Tour: A Balance of Views, Culture, and Adventure

A full-day tour of Santorini can give you a taste of its stunning landscapes, historic sites, and volcanic charm—all in about 12 hours. For $79.45 per person, you’ll visit the island’s highest point, explore charming villages like Pyrgos and Thirassia, and hop on a boat to experience the still-active volcano and hot springs. Guided by knowledgeable hosts, this tour promises a comprehensive look at what makes Santorini special.

What we really like about this offering is that it combines outdoor adventure with cultural sights, all woven into a well-organized itinerary. The view from Profitis Ilias Monastery and the sunset in Oia are hard to beat. Plus, the boat trip to the volcanic islands adds an extra layer of excitement.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour packs in quite a lot, so it’s a long day with some walking and boat time. If you prefer more relaxed days or private experiences, this might feel a bit rushed. It’s most suited for travelers who want a full overview in one day, especially those eager to see volcanoes, scenic villages, and enjoy Santorini’s famous sunset.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Experience: Combines island viewpoints, villages, volcano hikes, and boat excursions.
• Great Value: For around $80, you get a lot of highlights packed into 12 hours.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Many reviews praise guides like Vaso for their friendliness and insight.
• Stunning Views: From the monastery at Profitis Ilias to sunset in Oia, there are plenty of picture-perfect moments.
• Active Elements: Volcano hike and boat trip involve some physical activity—think hiking shoes and sunscreen.
• Crowd Considerations: The boat can be busy, and some find the long day tiring, so be prepared.

An In-Depth Look at the Santorini Full Day Tour

Starting the Day: From Hotel to Peak

Your day begins early with a hotel pickup, usually around 8:30 am. The bus whisks you to the highest point on the island, the monastery of Profitis Ilias at 1,804 feet (550 meters). Here, the expansive view of Santorini will immediately hit you—the caldera, the neighboring islands, and the volcanic landscape beyond. Many reviewers rave about the breathtaking panoramic views from this spot, with one describing it as “breathtaking” and another mentioning that “the view was beautiful.”

This is an ideal photo opportunity, and you get a sense of the island’s scale and volcanic origins. The visit to the monastery itself is free, but it’s the views that steal the show. It’s a short stop, typically about an hour, but enough to take in the scenery and snap some photos.

Exploring Pyrgos and Venetian Castle

Next, the tour takes you down to Pyrgos, a village showcasing Cycladic architecture with winding alleys and traditional houses. The Byzantine church and the Venetian Castle offer a glimpse into the island’s layered past. Pyrgos is one of the highest points on Santorini, and many guests admire its authentic charm away from the tourist crowds of Fira and Oia.

The review highlights that the village offers “amazing views overlooking the northwest part of the island,” making it a peaceful place to wander or enjoy a quick lunch. The castle ruins provide a historical touch, adding a sense of continuity to your day of exploration.

The Volcano: Walking on Fire and Lava

The boat ride to Nea Kameni is often the highlight for many. You’ll board the “King Thiras” and sail across the caldera, passing stunning volcanic scenery. Upon arrival, you’ll hike up a dirt path to the crater of an active volcano. Expect an ascent of about 25 minutes over uneven lava rocks—so sturdy shoes and sun protection are vital.

Based on reviews, this hike is a bit challenging, especially for older travelers or those less accustomed to walking. One reviewer called it a “challenging hike,” but noted the incredible views from the top. The opportunity to stand at the crater’s edge where lava still bubbles beneath your feet is a memorable experience.

Relaxing at the Hot Springs

After the volcano, the boat will stop at Palea Kameni, where you can dip your feet in the green sulphur hot springs. Many reviews mention that the “hot springs” are more about subtle thermal waters than a full swim—some said they just soaked their feet, while others wanted to swim, but the water’s temperature and accessibility vary.

The hot springs offer a unique geological experience, but prepare for a boat dock and a short swim or foot soak in sulphurous waters. Be aware that if you are not wearing a swimsuit, you might just relax on the boat while others dip in.

Thirassia: Village Life and Beach Time

Next, you’ll head to Thirassia, a small island that was once part of Santorini before a volcanic eruption split the landmass. Here, you get to choose what suits your mood—relax on the beach, stroll the winding streets of Manolas village, or enjoy a seaside lunch.

According to reviews, two hours here are enough to explore or unwind. Many guests appreciate the chance to escape the crowds and enjoy a more relaxed pace. Some recommend trying local restaurants, noting that the food is good and less touristy.

Sunset in Oia: The Grand Finale

The last stop is Oia, where you’ll disembark near the port of Amoudi and walk up to the famous sunset viewpoint. Oia’s sunset is recognized worldwide, and many reviewers have called it “magical” and “breathtaking.” It’s the perfect way to end a busy day, capturing those iconic photos of the village’s whitewashed buildings against a fiery sky.

The tour ends approximately 30 minutes after sunset, and a bus will pick you up for the return journey back to your hotel. Expect to arrive late, around 8:30 pm or later, after a full 12-hour experience.

What’s Included and What to Expect

This tour offers decent value for money considering the range of sites covered. It includes local taxes, a guided tour, and the boat trip to the volcanic islands. The pickup from hotel makes logistics easier, but note that some guests report that the pickup points can be remote, not necessarily at your hotel.

The optional entrance fees—€4 for the monastery and €4 for the volcano—are not included, so budget accordingly. Drinks and snacks are available on board but not included in the price, so bring water and a snack to keep energized.

The Guide and the Group Size

Reviews consistently praise the guides for their knowledge and friendliness—especially someone like Vaso. With a maximum of 50 travelers, the group size is manageable, allowing for some personal interaction. However, during peak times, the boat can feel crowded, which might affect comfort and social distancing.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour suits active travelers who want a rundown of Santorini without the hassle of planning multiple excursions. It’s ideal for visitors who appreciate stunning vistas, historic sites, and adventure—like hiking a volcano and swimming in hot springs. Guided commentary ensures you understand the significance of each stop, making it well-suited for those keen to learn and photograph.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or have mobility concerns, some parts—like the volcano hike—could be challenging. Also, those seeking private or luxury experiences might find the group setting a little busy or crowded, especially on the boat.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

For less than $80, you gain a full day of exploration in Santorini that covers everything from volcanoes and villages to sunsets. The mix of guided insight and free time offers a good balance, especially if you’re short on days and want to see the highlights. Many guests rave about Vaso’s guiding skills and the stunning vistas, which are the soul of Santorini.

That said, it’s a long, active day—so be prepared for a long haul, especially if you’re prone to fatigue or travel with young children. The boat ride can be crowded, and some find the hot springs more of a brief foot soak than a full swim. But if you’re looking for value and a well-rounded introduction to the island’s natural beauty and history, this tour checks many boxes.

In summary, it’s a solid choice for travelers wanting a full, guided day that hits the main sights and scenery that make Santorini unforgettable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can enjoy this tour, but keep in mind the long day and physical activity involved, especially the volcano hike. Children should be accompanied by an adult.

What should I bring for the volcano hike?
Wear sturdy shoes suitable for lava rocks, bring sunscreen, and carry enough water. The hike can be challenging, especially in the heat.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, meals are not included. There are some lunch options on Thirassia, but you may want to bring snacks or plan to eat at a local restaurant.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat trip to the islands lasts about 2 hours, with stops at Nea Kameni, Palea Kameni, and Thirassia. Expect some time on the water with opportunities for photos and relaxing.

What are the main sites I’ll visit?
The key stops are the monastery of Profitis Ilias, Pyrgos village and Venetian Castle, Nea Kameni volcano crater, Palea Kameni hot springs, Thirassia island, and Oia sunset.

Is the tour good value for money?
Yes, considering the number of sites visited, the boat trip, and guided commentary, most find this tour offers good value—especially for those wanting a full day experience that covers a lot of ground.

Final Note

Whether you’re an avid photographer, history enthusiast, or just eager to see Santorini’s most iconic sights in one day, this tour offers a practical and engaging way to do it. Just prepare for a long day, bring essentials, and you’ll return with plenty of memories—and hopefully, some stunning photos of the sunset in Oia.