Savvy cruise passengers have several excellent shore excursions to choose from in Santorini. The standout “Santorini Highlights Tour” earns its 4.5-star rating by efficiently covering the essentials – those postcard-perfect blue domes, dramatic black beaches, and authentic Greek food stops. I’m especially fond of the “Intimate Santorini Small Group Tour” for its local wine tastings and off-the-beaten-path village visits that larger groups miss. For travelers wanting maximum flexibility, private tours ranging from 5 hours to full-day experiences offer the best value, letting you set the pace and focus on your interests. These are my favorite shore excursions for experiencing the best of Santorini.
Let’s look at the top tour options.
Key Points
- Santorini offers a diverse range of shore excursions, including guided tours, wine tastings, and visits to iconic landmarks like blue-domed churches and the Red Beach.
- Most tours provide flexible cancellation policies, allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour start, and offer air-conditioned transportation for comfort.
- Private shore excursions provide personalized experiences for small groups, enhancing accessibility and comfort.
- Highly-rated tours include the Santorini Highlights Tour, Cruise Travelers Shore Excursion, and Intimate Santorini Small Group Tour, with prices ranging from $100 to $350 per person.
- Meeting points for shore excursions are accessible via cable car from the old port, with local guides providing assistance and ensuring a secure experience.
Santorini Highlights: The Best Shore Excursion for Cruise Ships
The “Santorini Highlights” shore excursion offers cruise ship passengers a rundown of the island’s iconic landmarks and stunning scenery.
With a maximum group size of 20 and a professional local guide, this luxury small-group tour provides an intimate and informative experience.
Highlights include visits to the island’s picturesque blue-domed churches, the black sand beach, and ample free time for dining and shopping.
The tour includes round-trip transportation in a modern, air-conditioned minibus and a one-way cable car ticket.
Travelers can expect a well-organized itinerary, guaranteed return to the ship, and exceptional customer support, with a 4.5-star rating from over 270 reviews.
Read our full review: Santorini Highlights: The Best Shore Excursion for Cruise Ships Review
Book now: Check availability
Cruise Travellers Shore Excursion
Cruise travelers seeking an immersive Santorini experience can embark on the Cruise Travellers Shore Excursion. Priced from $229.46 per person, this 5-hour private group tour provides a live English-speaking guide and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The itinerary highlights include the Prophet Elias Mountain, Akrotiri Excavations, Red Beach, an optional winery visit, the Blue Dome Church, and the picturesque Oia Village.
Transportation is via a luxurious air-conditioned minibus, with the meeting point at the top of the cable car or at the hotel. The tour includes cable car fees, and customers have praised the guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge, as well as the flexibility of the small group experience.
Read our full review: Cruise Travellers Shore Excursion Review
Book now: Check availability
Intimate Santorini – Small Group Shore Excursion and Wine Tasting
Intimate Santorini – Small Group Shore Excursion and Wine Tasting offers cruise travelers an immersive cultural experience in Santorini. This highly-rated tour takes visitors to the traditional village of Megalochori, the scenic castle of Pyrgos, and the iconic village of Oia.
Highlights include a wine tasting with food pairing at a local vineyard and transportation via air-conditioned vehicle. With a maximum group size of 18, travelers can expect personalized attention from knowledgeable guides.
While some feedback notes occasional overcrowding, especially in Oia, the tour earns praise for its scenic views and cultural insights.
Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior and a Reserve Now and Pay Later option make booking convenient.
Read our full review: Intimate Santorini – Small Group Shore Excursion and Wine Tasting Review
Book now: Check availability
Santorini: 5-Hour Private Shore Excursion
Santorini: 5-Hour Private Shore Excursion provides cruise travelers with a personalized exploration of the island’s highlights.
Priced at $353.58 for up to 1 person, this flexible tour offers free cancellation and customizable options.
Highlights include visiting the village of Oia, exploring whitewashed villages, and discovering volcanic beaches.
Knowledgeable local guides share insights on volcanic activity and vineyards, and an optional wine tasting with caldera views is available.
With pickup and drop-off from the port, air-conditioned transportation, and a bottle of water included, this shore excursion offers excellent value for money based on 24 reviews averaging 5/5 overall.
Read our full review: Santorini: 5-Hour Private Shore Excursion Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Shore Excursion: Best of Santorini Customized Tour
The Private Shore Excursion: Best of Santorini Customized Tour offers a personalized exploration of Santorini’s highlights for cruise travelers.
With a 5.0 rating from 31 reviews, this private tour allows for complete flexibility in creating an itinerary based on personal preferences.
Highlights include hassle-free pickup, a knowledgeable private guide, and photo opportunities throughout the island’s iconic landscapes.
Travelers can enjoy the convenience of customization, as well as optional entrance fees, bottled water, and hotel/port/airport transfers.
Common praise focuses on the guides’ expertise, accommodating nature, and local insights.
For those with limited time in Santorini, this tour provides a comprehensive and personalized experience.
Read our full review: Private Shore Excursion: Best of Santorini Customized Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Santorini: Private Shore Excursion to Oia & Black Beach
For cruise travelers seeking an immersive experience of Santorini’s iconic locales, the Private Shore Excursion to Oia & Black Beach offers a captivating exploration.
Priced from $302.47 per group (up to 2 participants), this 4.5-hour private tour showcases the charming villages of Oia and Imerovigli, as well as the volcanic black sand beaches of Perivolos.
With air-conditioned transportation and a knowledgeable guide, the itinerary is customizable to suit individual interests, from traditional architecture to caldera views and local treasures.
Positive reviews highlight the guides’ expertise and ability to provide access to lesser-known spots.
Inclusive of a bottle of water and taxes, this private excursion promises an unforgettable Santorini experience.
Read our full review: Santorini: Private Shore Excursion to Oia & Black Beach Review
Book now: Check availability
Shore Excursion: Customizable Santorini Tour
This customizable 5-hour private shore excursion in Santorini, Greece, offers cruise travelers a flexible and personalized way to explore the island’s iconic locales.
With a 4.3 rating from 21 reviews and a Badge of Excellence, the tour allows visitors to curate their own itinerary, visiting sites like the Akrotiri ruins, Mount Elias Monastery, Fira bars, wineries, or the Oia caldera views.
The private tour includes a driver, tour escort, water, food, drinks, cable car tickets, and wine tasting, all for a starting price of $235.95 per person.
While the tour receives praise for its knowledgeable guides and unique experiences, some travelers note logistical challenges and overcrowding issues that the operator should address.
Read our full review: Shore Excursion: Customizable Santorini Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Santorini Shore Excursion: 5-hour Small Group Semi-Private Tour
Cruise travelers exploring the captivating island of Santorini can embark on a 5-hour small group semi-private shore excursion that showcases its iconic locales.
This highly-rated tour, with a 97% traveler recommendation, provides a comprehensive experience for up to 15 guests.
Highlights include cruise port pickup, an English-speaking guide, air-conditioned transportation, and inclusions like cable car tickets, mineral water, and lunch.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly and allows service animals.
Feedback is generally positive, praising the knowledgeable guides, though some travelers note issues with time management and communication.
Read our full review: Santorini Shore Excursion: 5-hour Small Group Semi-Private Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Skip Cable Car! Santorini Shore Excursion Review
Travelers seeking to bypass the crowded Santorini cable car can opt for the “Skip Cable Car! Santorini Shore Excursion with Boat Transfers.”
This well-reviewed tour provides private boat transfers to avoid the lines, ensuring guests reach the top of the caldera efficiently.
With a maximum of 18 travelers, this small group experience offers an air-conditioned minibus, an English-speaking guide, and a guaranteed return to the ship on time.
While some reviewers noted issues with group dynamics and waiting times, the tour’s overall convenience, quality of guides, and inclusiveness make it a practical choice for Santorini shore excursions.
The free cancellation policy and lowest price guarantee further enhance the appeal of this tour.
Read our full review: Skip Cable Car! Santorini Shore Excursion Review Review
Book now: Check availability
Santorini Shore Excursion: Private Tour of Oia and Fira, Including Museum of Prehistoric Thira and W
Santorini’s “Private Tour of Oia and Fira, Including Museum of Prehistoric Thira and W” provides a comprehensive shore excursion that showcases the island’s iconic destinations.
Priced from €590.14 per person, the tour includes a professional guide, private transportation, and a wine tasting.
Cruise ship passengers must provide their docking and disembarkation details when booking. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for those with a moderate fitness level.
Visitors can explore the Museum of Prehistoric Thira and enjoy the Worry-Free Shore Excursion Guarantee.
However, entrance fees, gratuities, and boat transfers to Fira harbor are excluded.
Read our full review: Santorini Shore Excursion: Private Tour of Oia and Fira, Including Museum of Prehistoric Thira and W Review
Book now: Check availability
Santorini Undeniable 4 Hours Shore Excursion In Fira And Oia
This 4-hour shore excursion in Fira and Oia offers an undeniably captivating experience for visitors to Santorini.
Operated by Santorini Tours Greece, the private tour provides a flexible pickup time and air-conditioned transportation for up to 2 guests. An English-speaking escort guides you through the traditional alleys of Fira before taking the cable car to the charming village of Oia.
Cruise travelers can enjoy the complimentary cable car tickets, while infant seats are available at an extra cost. Although not wheelchair accessible, the tour requires a moderate fitness level.
With a perfect 5.0 rating based on a single review, this excursion promises an unforgettable exploration of Santorini’s iconic destinations.
Read our full review: Santorini Undeniable 4 Hours Shore Excursion In Fira And Oia Review
Book now: Check availability
Santorini Deluxe Shore Excursion for Cruise Passengers
For cruise passengers seeking a deluxe shore excursion in Santorini, the Santorini Deluxe Shore Excursion offers an unparalleled experience. Priced from €65.00 per person, this fully guided tour accommodates a maximum of 19 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.
The tour includes round-trip transportation from the Santorini Cable Car Upper Station, with a professional driver providing comfortable and safe services. Highlights include informative commentary from a licensed English-speaking guide, as well as food and beverages.
Travelers praise the tour’s memorable views and exceptional service, with a 5-star rating from 10 reviews. Offering free cancellation and rescheduling, this deluxe excursion is an ideal way for cruise passengers to explore the beauty of Santorini.
Read our full review: Santorini Deluxe Shore Excursion for Cruise Passengers Review
Book now: Check availability
Panoramic Views Santorini – Small Group Shore Excursion With Minimum Walking
The Panoramic Views Santorini – Small Group Shore Excursion with Minimum Walking offers cruise passengers a chance to soak in the island’s iconic vistas without the strain of extensive walking.
Priced from $106.28 per person, this tour accommodates up to 18 travelers in an air-conditioned vehicle, providing comfort and convenience.
Highlights include photo stops at Oia, Black Beach, and local wineries, led by a knowledgeable local guide.
While the maze-like streets of Oia may require clearer navigation assistance, the tour’s minimum walking feature is appreciated, especially by those with mobility concerns.
With a 92% recommended rating and 4.7/5 average, this tour delivers a well-rounded Santorini experience for cruise passengers.
Read our full review: Panoramic Views Santorini – Small Group Shore Excursion With Minimum Walking Review
Book now: Check availability
Shore Excursion & Sightseeing at Blue Dome Review
Santorini’s Shore Excursion & Sightseeing at Blue Dome offers cruise passengers an immersive experience to explore the iconic blue-domed churches and stunning vistas of the island.
Priced from $127.54 per person, the private tour includes hotel/cruise pick-up, an expert driver/guide, and all taxes and fees. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and suitable for most travelers.
Boasting a 4.3/5 rating from verified reviews, the excursion provides a convenient way to discover Santorini’s picturesque highlights. Guests can enjoy the flexibility of free cancellation and rescheduling up to 24 hours in advance, making it an attractive option for those seeking a personalized shore excursion.
Read our full review: Shore Excursion & Sightseeing at Blue Dome Review Review
Book now: Check availability
Shore Excursion in Santorini
One of the best ways for cruise passengers to explore the picturesque island of Santorini is through a comprehensive shore excursion.
This tour, with a certified local guide, takes visitors to the iconic Santorini Cable Car – Upper Station, the meeting point. Travelers will enjoy comfortable, air-conditioned transportation and safe driver services throughout the day.
The tour includes food and drinks, and a maximum of 19 travelers ensures a personalized experience. While not wheelchair accessible, the moderate physical fitness level required makes it suitable for most guests.
With a 4.0 rating based on 4 reviews, this shore excursion offers an engaging way to discover Santorini’s highlights.
Read our full review: Shore Excursion in Santorini Review
Book now: Check availability
Santorini Shore Excursion Tour for First-Time Cruise Visitors
For first-time cruise visitors to Santorini, this comprehensive shore excursion offers an engaging and efficient way to explore the island’s highlights.
Covering key sites, the tour provides insightful commentary from a fully licensed guide and safe transportation by a professional driver.
Logistically, the excursion is designed for convenience, with a centralized meeting point at the Santorini Cable Car and the flexibility to accommodate delays.
With positive reviews highlighting knowledgeable guides, comfortable vehicles, and ample exploration time, this shore excursion is an excellent option for those seeking a well-organized introduction to Santorini.
The free cancellation policy and full refund guarantee further add to the tour’s appeal for cruise passengers.
Read our full review: Santorini Shore Excursion Tour for First-Time Cruise Visitors Review
Book now: Check availability
Perfect Private Santorini Highlights & Wine Shore Excursion
This private tour showcases Santorini’s highlights and local wine culture in a comprehensive and personalized experience. Priced from $486.77 per person, it includes an air-conditioned vehicle, English-speaking guide, and a tasting of 5 local wines.
Guests disembark at the Santorini Old Harbor, then ride the cable car up to Fira town to meet their guide. The tour provides ample free time for meals and shopping, and offers a full refund if the ship can’t dock.
Catering to most travelers, this private excursion ensures a hassle-free and enjoyable exploration of Santorini’s top sights and flavors.
Read our full review: Perfect Private Santorini Highlights & Wine Shore Excursion Review
Book now: Check availability
Discover Santorini Private Shore Excursion
The Discover Santorini Private Shore Excursion offers a comprehensive exploration of Santorini’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems. This highly rated tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, WiFi, a knowledgeable driver-guide, and bottled water.
Participants can enjoy the stunning views from the cable car, with tickets included. Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and allows service animals.
Priced from $180.68 per person, the excursion provides a lowest price guarantee and flexible cancellation policy.
While some reviewers experienced a stressful start due to a guide no-show, the tour is generally praised for its guide’s expertise and the overall experience, though some felt the duration was too short.
Read our full review: Discover Santorini Private Shore Excursion Review
Book now: Check availability
7 Hours Tour Santorini Shore Excursion
Travelers can embark on a comprehensive 7-Hour Tour Santorini Shore Excursion, offering a well-rounded exploration of the island’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
This private tour accommodates up to 2 guests, providing comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned Mercedes-Benz vehicle with a professional driver.
Along the way, an English-speaking tour escort will share their knowledge of Santorini, ensuring a seamless and informative experience.
Bottled water and a fuel surcharge are included, and the tour can be customized to your preferences.
With pickup and drop-off at the Santorini Cable Car, this shore excursion provides a convenient and immersive way to discover the best of this picturesque Greek island.
Read our full review: 7 Hours Tour Santorini Shore Excursion Review
Book now: Check availability
Exclusive Shore Excursion : Scenic Santorini, Shopping & Winery
An exclusive shore excursion in Santorini offers travelers a chance to enjoy the island’s scenic beauty, vibrant shopping scene, and renowned winemaking tradition.
This tour includes private transportation, bottled water, and WiFi, as well as the opportunity to sample four distinct local wines.
With a rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 9 reviews, this excursion provides a comprehensive Santorini experience at a price starting from $100.44 per person.
The tour is suitable for most travelers, but not wheelchair accessible.
Cruise passengers can easily access the meeting point by taking the cable car from the old port.
This excursion allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for travelers.
Read our full review: Exclusive Shore Excursion : Scenic Santorini, Shopping & Winery Review
Book now: Check availability
Sum Up
Santorini offers a range of exciting shore excursions for cruise travelers. From exploring the island’s iconic highlights to indulging in local wine tastings, there’s something to suit every preference. Whether you choose a private or small-group tour, you’ll discover Santorini’s stunning landscapes, rich history, and renowned vineyards. With so many options, you’re sure to find the perfect shore excursion to make the most of your time on this beautiful Greek island.