From Rethymno: Santorini Guided Tour and Cruise from Crete

Planning a day trip from Crete to Santorini promises stunning views, charming villages, and a taste of the legendary Aegean scenery. This guided tour, offered by Serapis Travel, provides a well-rounded experience—combining a high-speed ferry ride with guided exploration of Santorini’s most iconic spots. It’s designed for travelers craving a taste of Santorini’s unique architecture and vistas without the hassle of organizing transport and tours themselves.

We really appreciate how smooth the logistics are—everything from the ferry to guided walks is coordinated for you. Two standout features are the professional guides, who bring the island’s highlights to life, and the breathtaking panoramas you’ll witness at each stop. The main drawback? The day is packed, so your time on site is limited—particularly in Fira if you opt out of the volcano tour. Still, if you’re after a memorable, well-organized day trip, this experience offers excellent value.

This tour is ideal for those who want to combine convenience with authentic sightseeing. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a Greek island escape, travelers who enjoy guided insights and scenic photo opportunities will find plenty to love. Just be prepared for a long day, and bring your camera!

Key Points

• All-in-one package: Ferry, guided tours, and transportation included for a hassle-free experience.
• Stunning scenery: Witness the beauty of Santorini’s caldera, white churches, and colorful houses.
• Guided insights: Professional guides explain the island’s hotspots, enhancing your understanding.
• Limited time at key spots: Three main stops—Oia, Fira, and optional volcano tour—offer highlights but limited free time.
• Comfortable logistics: Optional hotel pickup and drop-off make the day easier.
• Great value: For around $203, you get a full day of sightseeing, transportation, and guided commentary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Transportation

Your adventure kicks off early in the morning, with optional hotel pickup in Rethymno or nearby areas. The logistics are well-organized—after a short bus ride to the port, you’ll board a newly renovated, high-speed ferry. This vessel is modern and equipped with a snack bar and Wi-Fi (though Wi-Fi might come with a small fee). The ferry ride to Santorini lasts about 2 hours and 15 minutes, giving you a chance to relax and enjoy the views of the Aegean Sea.

Traveling by ferry at this speed makes a significant difference, turning what could be a long haul into a manageable part of your day. The ferry’s comfortable and modern amenities help pass the time—though you might want to bring a book or your camera to capture the passing islands.

Arriving in Santorini and First Stop: Oia

Once on the island, you’ll transfer to a bus for a 6-hour guided tour of Santorini’s highlights. The first stop is Oia, often called the most picturesque town in Greece. With an hour and a half here, you’ll have plenty of time to stroll through narrow streets, snap photos of the iconic white churches with blue domes, and browse art galleries and boutiques. The atmosphere in Oia is magical, especially with the light bouncing off the multicolored buildings and the caldera views extending in every direction.

According to reviews, travelers loved the way guides kept the group organized and shared interesting facts. One noted, “The tour was very well prepared and the instructions very clear, the guide very attentive and the driver careful and very accommodating.” This kind of professionalism makes a big difference in making the day smooth and enjoyable.

Second Stop: Fira, the Caldera’s Edge

Next up is Fira, the island’s bustling capital and the “balcony” of Santorini. You’ll get about two hours here—ample time to walk along the caldera’s edge, enjoy a coffee, or explore the shops and restaurants. If you’ve purchased the optional volcano cruise, your time here will be shortened to about 30–40 minutes, but you’ll still get to soak in the views and maybe taste some local wines.

Fira’s scenic streets are filled with small shops selling local crafts and souvenirs. The views of the volcano and the caldera are the main event—impressive enough to make you forget about the long travel day. One traveler mentioned, “Might want more time on site,” which echoes how truly stunning the vistas are and how tempting it is to linger.

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Optional Volcano Tour

If you’re eager to add a bit more adventure, there’s an optional excursion to visit the volcano and hot springs. For an extra €20, you can climb the volcanic island, explore the crater, and even take a dip in the thermal springs. This is a popular add-on, offering a chance to connect more intimately with Santorini’s volcanic origins. Keep in mind, this tour reduces your time in Fira, so consider your priorities.

Return to Crete

After your island exploration, you’ll hop back on the ferry for the return cruise to Rethymno, which again takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes. Once back at the port, the coach will whisk you to your drop-off points throughout Rethymno and nearby areas. The schedule is well-coordinated, and the whole journey lasts approximately 13 to 13.5 hours.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Scenic Comfort and Efficiency

The ferry ride is the backbone of this experience, offering a quick, scenic passage across the Aegean. The modern vessel’s amenities make for a comfortable crossing, and the timing allows you to maximize your sightseeing without feeling rushed.

Expert Guided Tours

Having professional guides explain Santorini’s hotspots adds depth to your visit. They’re knowledgeable, attentive, and help you navigate the busy spots, making the most of your limited time. As one reviewer put it, “The guide very attentive and the driver careful,” which is reassuring on a busy island.

Well-Organized Logistics

The tour’s planning minimizes stress—hotel pickup, coordinated transfers, and clear instructions ensure you can relax and enjoy the day. The optional transfers in Crete make things even easier.

Picture-Perfect Stops

Oia and Fira are genuinely breathtaking. With time to wander and take photos, you’ll come away with memories and images that will stay with you long after the trip ends. The views of the caldera, the colorful houses, and the iconic churches are simply unmistakable.

The Value and Who Should Consider This Tour

At $203 per person, this tour offers a good balance of guided sightseeing, transportation, and flexibility. The price reflects the convenience of all-in-one planning—no need to rent a car or organize separate tickets—and the included guided commentary enriches your understanding.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want to see Santorini’s most famous sights without the hassle of planning their own day. It’s perfect if you prefer a structured day with knowledgeable guides, scenic stops, and a comfortable ferry ride. Keep in mind, the day is long, and the schedule tight, so it’s ideal for those who enjoy organized group tours and aren’t looking for extensive free time at each location.

The Sum Up

This guided tour from Rethymno to Santorini is a fantastic option for travelers seeking a stress-free, scenic day that captures the essence of the island’s charm. The combination of a comfortable ferry cruise, expert-guided sightseeing, and unforgettable vistas makes it a solid value—especially considering the convenience of hotel pickup and all transportation arranged for you.

While the limited time at each site means you won’t see every corner of Santorini, what you do experience will be memorable and picture-perfect. The guides’ knowledge and the breathtaking scenery add real value, making this trip suitable for first-time visitors or those short on time but eager for a taste of the Cyclades.

If you’re looking for an authentic, well-organized day that balances sightseeing and relaxation, this tour ticks many boxes. Just be prepared for a full day, packed with spectacular views and fascinating insights into one of Greece’s most iconic islands.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
Yes, the tour offers optional hotel pickup from many areas in Rethymno and nearby locations, making the day more convenient.

How long is the ferry ride?
The ferry from Rethymno to Santorini takes approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes each way, offering a quick and scenic crossing.

Can I buy the volcano tour?
Yes, the optional volcano tour costs €20 and is payable on the bus. It allows you to explore the volcano and hot springs but reduces your time in Fira.

What are the main stops on the island?
You’ll visit Oia, Fira, and optionally, the volcano. Each offers unique sights: Oia’s picturesque streets, Fira’s caldera views, and volcanic landscapes.

How much free time do I get?
You get about 1.5 hours in Oia and 2 hours in Fira, giving you enough time to explore, take photos, and enjoy the scenery.

Is there Wi-Fi on the ferry?
Yes, the ferry has Wi-Fi available for a small fee, along with a snack bar for refreshments during the crossing.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a camera. Pets aren’t allowed, but assistance dogs are permitted.

This tour offers an inviting balance of guided insight, scenic beauty, and practicality—perfect for those eager to see Santorini without the fuss of organizing everything themselves. It’s a chance to enjoy the island’s highlights in a single, memorable day.

You can check availability for your dates here: