Fira is the perfect starting point for exploring Santorini’s stunning landscapes, charming villages, and incredible views. Its compact size and central location make it an ideal hub for shore excursions, whether you’re after a quick taste of the island or a more in-depth adventure. We particularly like the Santorini: Must See Private Tour for its personalized experience and the chance to see Santorini at a 360-degree viewpoint. Plus, with visits to Oia, Pyrgos, and a local winery, it offers a well-rounded introduction to the island’s highlights.
For travelers with limited mobility, the Santorini: 4hr Small Group Shore Excursion with Minimum Walk provides a comfortable way to enjoy Santorini’s beauty without strenuous walking. If you’re after a flexible, full-day exploration, the Santorini: 6H Private Highlights Tour offers a personalized trip to both the popular and lesser-known locations. Each of these options provides a unique way to experience Santorini’s breathtaking scenery, delicious wine, and picturesque villages.
1. Santorini: Must See Private Tour (Shore Excursion)
At number 1 on our list, the Santorini: Must See Private Tour stands out for its blend of convenience, customization, and comprehensive sights. For around $136 per person, this 4-hour tour includes hotel pickup and drops you off at some of the island’s iconic spots. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see the highlights without the hassle of planning.
The tour takes you through Fira, Oia, and Pyrgos, with plenty of time for photos, shopping, and soaking in the views. The visit to a local winery is a real treat—tasting famous Santorini wines while learning about their unique volcanic soil. A highlight is the panoramic visit to Prophet Elias Monastery, where you get a 360-degree view of the island. The itinerary balances scenic viewpoints with cultural stops, making it suitable for first-timers and seasoned travelers alike. The reviews reflect this, with a 4.8/5 score from 10 reviews, praising the guide’s knowledge and the smooth logistics.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a personalized experience with flexible timing, stellar views, and a taste of local wine, all within a manageable four hours.
2. Santorini: 4hr Small Group Shore Excursion with Minimum Walk
At number 2, the Santorini: 4hr Small Group Shore Excursion with Minimum Walk is a perfect choice for travelers who want to explore without the strenuous effort. With a 5/5 rating based on 2 reviews, this tour is tailored for those with limited mobility or anyone preferring a relaxed pace.
For just $113 per person, it includes visits to Profitis Ilias, Kamari Beach, and the Three Bells of Fira, with plenty of time to take photos and enjoy the scenery. The highlight is reaching the peak of Profitis Ilias for astonishing views, which is accessible with minimal walking. You’ll also get to dip your toes into the black sands of Kamari Beach, a distinctive feature of Santorini. The guided Oia visit offers stunning photo opportunities of the famous cave houses and sunset views. The tour’s careful pacing makes it a favorite among travelers looking for a comfortable, scenic experience.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a relaxed, accessible way to see Santorini’s key sights, making it ideal for travelers with mobility concerns or those who prefer a slower pace.
3. Santorini: Private Shore Excursion for Cruise Passengers
Coming in at number 3, the Santorini: Private Shore Excursion for Cruise Passengers offers a flexible 4-hour experience tailored specifically for cruise travelers. Its private format means you control the pace and focus on what interests you most. For around the same price as the first tour, it provides an intimate, hassle-free way to see the island’s highlights.
This tour visits the iconic Blue Dome in Firostefani, Oia, and Pyrgos, along with Prophet Elias for panoramic views. The guide’s expertise ensures that you get personalized attention, making the most of your limited time. The itinerary is designed for efficiency, fitting in key photo stops and cultural sights without rushing. Reviews highlight how well this tour fits into tight cruise schedules, providing a seamless, memorable experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for cruise travelers wanting a private, efficient overview of Santorini’s most famous spots, with the flexibility to customize stops based on your interests.
4. Santorini: 6H Private Highlights Tour (Shore Excursion)
At number 4, the Santorini: 6H Private Highlights Tour offers a full day for those who want to soak in more of the island’s treasures. For $203 per person, it includes visits to Oia, Pyrgos, Megalochori, and Akrotiri, along with scenic drives, local walks, and wine tasting.
What makes this tour stand out is its customizable nature—the team will guide you to the most interesting spots tailored to your preferences. Highlights include walking through Megalochori’s charming streets, exploring Akrotiri’s archaeological site, and enjoying local wines at a vineyard. The guide’s local knowledge and flexible itinerary make this a favorite for travelers who want an in-depth experience. The 4.9/5 rating from reviews reflects satisfaction with the variety and depth of sights covered.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers with a full day and a desire for a personalized, comprehensive tour that combines scenery, history, and wine.
$203 per person
5. Santorini: 6hr Small Group Shore Excursion Villages & Wine
Finally, the Santorini: 6hr Small Group Shore Excursion Villages & Wine ranks fifth but is equally compelling. With a 5/5 rating, this tour emphasizes authentic village life and volcanic wines. It’s a great choice for travelers who want a relaxed, intimate experience with a focus on local culture.
Starting in Fira, the tour takes you to Oia for exploring the cave houses and enjoying the town’s famous sunset views. Then, you visit Megalochori, a traditional village with narrow streets and historic charm. The highlight is tasting Santorini’s volcanic wines at a local cellar, learning about the island’s unique viticulture. The small group format ensures personalized attention, and the 1.5-hour free time in Oia allows for independent exploration or a snack.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those interested in village atmosphere, wine tasting, and a relaxed pace, with enough time to savor each spot.
$147 per person
How to Choose the Right Shore Excursion in Fira
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. If you want a personalized experience that hits all the major highlights, the Must See Private Tour is a great fit. For a more relaxed, accessible adventure, the Minimum Walk tour provides comfort without sacrificing scenic beauty.
Travelers seeking a full-day immersion should look at the 6H Private Highlights Tour, which balances sightseeing and cultural experiences. Meanwhile, if you’re interested in villages and wine, the Villages & Wine offers a leisurely exploration of local life.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred time and avoid missing out. Think about what excites you most—whether it’s stunning vistas, local wines, or historical sites—and pick the tour that best matches your style.
In summary, Fira offers a wide variety of shore excursions that cater to different interests and mobility levels. Whether you prefer a private, tailored experience or a small group tour packed with highlights, there’s something for all. For a quick, efficient overview, the private and small-group options shine; for a deeper dive into villages, history, and wine, the full-day tours deliver. Whatever you choose, booking early will ensure you get the best experience to remember.