Exploring the enchanting villages of Santorini from Rethymnon promises an unforgettable day. Setting sail on a scenic 3-hour ferry ride, visitors can enjoy the iconic whitewashed architecture and vibrant atmospheres of Oia and Fira. With guided tours and ample free time for shopping and dining, this tour offers a well-rounded experience of Santorini’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. While the opportunity to visit volcanic hot springs adds an extra layer of adventure, the day’s itinerary ensures a balance of guided exploration and independent discovery. What else might this Santorini excursion have in store?
Good To Know
- Depart from Rethymno Port at 8:00 am and embark on a 12.5-hour tour to explore the picturesque villages of Oia and Fira on the island of Santorini.
- Enjoy a comfortable 3-hour high-speed ferry ride to Santorini, with airplane-style seating and an onboard snack bar for refreshments.
- Discover the charming narrow streets and iconic blue-domed churches of Oia, followed by free time to explore the lively shopping and dining scene in Fira.
- Optional excursion to the Volcanic Hot Springs on Nea Kameni island, offering an opportunity to soak in mineral-rich thermal waters.
- Benefit from a knowledgeable guide providing insights into Santorini’s history and culture, as well as transportation via air-conditioned bus for a seamless experience.
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Tour Overview and Details
The tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Santorini’s picturesque villages, priced at €195.00 per person.
It’s a 12.5-hour excursion with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance. Guests can reserve their spot without upfront payment.
The tour departs at 8:00 am from Rethymno Port, with a meeting point at 7:30 am. The high-speed ferry ride to Santorini takes 3 hours, and the return journey arrives between 19:00-19:30, depending on weather conditions.
Travelers can expect comfortable airplane-style seating on the ferry and an air-conditioned bus for island exploration.
Transportation and Comfort
Travelers will journey to Santorini via high-speed ferry, which boasts 1000 airplane-style seats, ensuring a comfortable ride.
Upon arrival, an air-conditioned bus will transport the group for the island exploration.
Parking is available at Rethymno Port for those arriving by rental car, with a nominal fee.
An onboard snack bar will provide refreshments and snacks during the 3-hour ferry ride.
With these transportation and comfort amenities, the tour offers a seamless and enjoyable experience, allowing participants to focus on seeing the beauty of Santorini’s picturesque villages of Oia and Fira.
Journey to Santorini
A high-speed ferry transports visitors on the 3-hour journey from Rethymno Port to the idyllic island of Santorini. Once there, guests have ample time to explore the charming villages of Oia and Fira. The journey offers a comfortable travel experience, with the ferry providing airplane-style seating and an onboard snack bar for refreshments.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 3 hours |
| Vessel | High-speed ferry with 1000 seats |
| Seating | Airplane-style |
| Amenities | Onboard snack bar |
| Arrival | 19:00-19:30, subject to weather |
The scenic voyage allows visitors to soak in the breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea as they make their way to the renowned island destination.
Guided Tour of Oia and Fira
Upon arrival in Santorini, the tour takes guests on a guided exploration of the picturesque villages of Oia and Fira.
In Oia, travelers have 1 hour and 45 minutes to wander the charming narrow streets, admire the iconic blue-domed churches, and soak in the stunning caldera views.
The tour then continues to Fira, the island’s capital, where guests enjoy a 30-minute bus ride and 1.5 hours of free time to either embark on a volcano cruise or explore the town and have lunch.
Throughout the day, the knowledgeable guide provides insights into Santorini’s history and culture, ensuring a rich and memorable experience.
Free Exploration Time
With the guided visits to Oia and Fira complete, guests have ample free time to explore these charming villages at their own pace.
In Oia, visitors can wander the picturesque streets, browse local boutiques, and savor traditional Greek cuisine at the many cafes and restaurants.
Fira, the capital of Santorini, offers a more lively atmosphere, where guests can visit the iconic blue-domed churches, stroll along the caldera cliffs, and indulge in the vibrant shopping and dining scene.
This free time allows travelers to enjoy the unique culture and beauty of Santorini, creating lasting memories of their island exploration.
Optional Excursion to Volcanic Hot Springs
Those seeking to further enhance their Santorini experience can opt for the excursion to the Volcanic Hot Springs.
Located on the neighboring island of Nea Kameni, this optional tour offers visitors the unique opportunity to soak in the rejuvenating thermal waters of the volcanic crater.
Priced at €20 per person, the excursion includes round-trip boat transportation from Fira.
Guests can enjoy the mineral-rich waters, believed to have therapeutic properties, and explore the unique volcanic landscape.
This add-on activity allows travelers to delve deeper into Santorini’s geological wonders and create an even more memorable island experience.
Additional Transportation Costs
For travelers not departing from the Rethymno region, additional transportation costs may apply.
The tour operator provides an optional shuttle service from other areas in Crete for a fee of €10 to €15 per person. This allows participants to join the tour at the Rethymno port before departing for Santorini.
Guests are responsible for arranging their own transportation to the pickup location. Parking is available at the Rethymno port for those driving rental cars, though fees may apply.
Considering the convenience of the shuttle service, it’s a worthwhile option for those needing to reach the departure point from elsewhere on the island.
Customer Feedback and Ratings
Travelers have largely praised the tour, awarding it an impressive 4.8-out-of-5 rating based on 6 reviews. Positive remarks highlighted the guide’s assistance and the bus driver’s performance. However, some guests complained about crowding in Oia and seasickness during the ferry ride.
| Positive Aspects | Negative Aspects |
|---|---|
| Knowledgeable guide | Crowding in Oia |
| Skilled bus driver | Seasickness on ferry |
For those not prone to seasickness, the tour’s charm and scenic views received high recommendations. The feedback suggests the tour provides a memorable Santorini experience, though travelers should be mindful of potential challenges.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The tour has a relaxed, casual dress code. Comfortable walking shoes, light clothing, and sun protection are recommended, as the tour involves exploration of the villages and scenic areas on the island of Santorini.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
You can bring your own food and drinks for the tour. However, there’s an onboard snack bar for refreshments and snacks if you prefer not to carry your own. The choice is up to you.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
There are no age restrictions for this tour. Children of all ages are welcome to participate, but parents/guardians are responsible for supervising their children throughout the day-long excursion.
Can I Purchase Tickets on the Day of the Tour?
Yes, you can purchase tickets on the day of the tour, but it’s recommended to book in advance as availability may be limited. Reserving your spot early ensures you get a spot on the tour.
Are There Any Photo Opportunities During the Tour?
The tour offers ample photo opportunities, with free time in picturesque Oia and Fira. Travelers can capture stunning views of the iconic whitewashed buildings, blue-domed churches, and the volcanic caldera throughout the day’s exploration.
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The Sum Up
This Santorini day tour from Rethymnon promises an unforgettable experience. Travelers can explore the iconic villages of Oia and Fira, enjoying guided tours and free time to shop and dine. With a scenic ferry ride and optional volcanic hot springs visit, the tour offers a well-rounded immersion in Santorini’s stunning landscapes and rich culture. Convenient transportation and ample free time make this an ideal way to discover the enchanting beauty of this Greek island.