Thirassia Island offers a serene escape from the bustling Santorini. This private tour takes visitors on a 5-hour journey to explore the island’s charming village, abandoned cave houses, and historic sites. Travelers can enjoy a scenic boat ride, a guided hike, and a traditional Greek lunch while taking in the island’s stunning panoramic views. With a knowledgeable guide providing insights, this tour promises an immersive experience that allows visitors to discover Thirassia’s unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Whether seeking tranquility or a deeper understanding of the Cycladic islands, this tour presents an enticing opportunity.
This experience made our list of the 20 Best Lunch Experiences In Santorini.
Good To Know
- A 5-hour private tour of Thirassia Island, focusing on serene landscapes, hikes, and traditional Greek lunch.
- Highlights include a boat ride, hike to Manolas village, exploration of abandoned cave houses, and insights from a local guide.
- Tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, bottled water, traditional Greek lunch, and knowledgeable local guide services.
- Suitable for travelers with a moderate fitness level, with an option for donkey rides during the hike.
- Positive reviews praise the breathtaking views, delicious lunch, and the guide’s ability to tailor the experience to the group’s interests.
Tour Overview
This private tour of Thirassia Island offers a unique opportunity to explore the serene and untouched landscapes of this picturesque Greek island.
Over the course of 5 hours, a small group will embark on a journey to discover the island’s arid hillsides, abandoned cave houses, terraced vineyards, and local gardens.
The tour includes a boat ride, a hike to the charming village of Manolas, and a traditional Greek lunch featuring homemade wine.
Travelers will also learn about Thirassia’s history, farming, and wine production from a knowledgeable local guide.
With a maximum of 8 participants, this small-group tour provides a personalized and immersive experience.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Santorini.
Tour Highlights
Explore Thirassia on foot, following steep paths and back roads that lead to arid hillsides, abandoned cave houses, terraced vineyards, and local gardens. Enjoy a delightful lunch in a picturesque churchyard, savoring homemade wine and traditional Greek cuisine. Explore the island’s winemaking heritage at a local, priest-run winery. Gaze upon breathtaking vistas as you climb 180 steep steps to the village of Manolas, with the option of a donkey ride. Throughout the tour, a knowledgeable local guide will share insights into Thirassia’s captivating history, farming, and cultural traditions.
Tour Highlights | ||
---|---|---|
Hike to Manolas | Explore Cave Houses | Lunch at Churchyard |
Panoramic views | Visit Virgin Mary Church | Homemade wine & Greek food |
Donkey ride option | Learn about local history | Priest-run winery tour |
Itinerary
The tour begins with a boat ride from Ammoudi Bay in Santorini to Korfos on the island of Thirassia.
From there, guests climb 180 steep steps to the village of Manolas, offering panoramic views.
The tour then visits a local tavern, where the guide shares insights into Thirassia’s history, farming, and wine production.
Next, the group explores deserted cave houses and the Virgin Mary Church.
Lunch is served in a picturesque churchyard, featuring homemade wine and traditional Greek cuisine.
After the meal, the tour boards the boat back to Santorini, ending at the original meeting point.
Inclusions
The Thirassia Island Private Tour includes several key elements to enhance the experience. The tour package covers local taxes, bottled water, and a traditional Greek lunch with local wines.
Travelers will also benefit from the expertise of a knowledgeable local guide who’ll provide insights throughout the tour. Plus, the tour offers:
- Hotel pickup and drop-off for added convenience
- Gratuities to ensure the staff is properly compensated
These inclusions make the Thirassia Island Private Tour a well-rounded and value-added experience for visitors to Santorini.
Additional Information
Ensuring a comfortable and accessible experience, the tour isn’t suitable for travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions.
Guests must have a moderate fitness level to complete the steep hike to Manolas. While donkey rides are available for an additional charge, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
All participants must be at least 18 years old to enjoy the included local wines. Confirmation for the tour is received at the time of booking unless within 1 day of travel, which is subject to availability.
- Santorini Sea Kayak – South Discovery, Small Group Incl. Sea Caves and Picnic
- Santorini Sunset Luxury Sailing Catamaran Cruise With BBQ, Drinks, Transfer
- Santorini Horse Riding to Black Sandy Beach
- Private Classic Santorini Panorama: Visit the Most Popular Destinations!
- 6-Hour Private Best of Santorini Experience
- Santorini Wine Stories: Sunset Tour With Tasting & Dinner
Brooke’s Review
Brooke C. praised the tour guide Agatha for making the hike enjoyable, highlighting the beautiful views and delicious lunch with plenty of wine.
Brooke noted several standout aspects of the tour:
- The guide Agatha’s ability to make the challenging hike more pleasant
- The breathtaking panoramic views from the village of Manolas
- The traditional Greek lunch served in the picturesque churchyard, complete with local wines
John’s Review
Commending the scenery and Agatha’s knowledgeable insights about Thirassia’s history during the climb, John F. praised the tour.
He highlighted the beautiful vistas and the guide’s expertise in bringing the island’s past to life. The steep hike up to Manolas offered panoramic views that left a lasting impression.
John also appreciated Agatha’s ability to tailor the experience, ensuring it catered to the group’s interests and abilities.
Pricing and Booking
The Thirassia Island Private Tour from Santorini offers flexible pricing to suit various group sizes. Prices start from $230.77, but the total cost varies depending on group size.
Travelers can take advantage of the following:
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience
- Hotel pickup and drop-off included in the tour
- Bottled water, lunch, and local guide provided
- Local taxes covered in the overall price
Booking the tour is straightforward, with confirmation received at the time of booking unless within one day of travel, in which case availability is subject to check.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Suitable Is This Tour for Children?
This tour may not be the most suitable for children. It requires a moderate fitness level and involves steep hikes, which could be challenging for younger participants. The tour’s focus is on adult-oriented activities like wine tasting.
Can I Request a Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Lunch?
The tour operator can likely accommodate dietary restrictions like vegetarian or gluten-free diets for the included lunch, but you’ll need to request this when booking the tour. They’ll work to ensure your dietary needs are met.
Is There a Bathroom Break During the Tour?
The tour includes a stop for lunch, which would provide an opportunity for a bathroom break. However, the specific timing and availability of restrooms during the tour is not explicitly mentioned in the provided information.
Can I Bring My Own Water and Snacks?
Guests are welcome to bring their own snacks and water on the tour. Bottled water is provided, but bringing extra hydration can be helpful, especially on the hike. The tour includes a full lunch, so additional snacks may not be necessary.
The tour involves a steep hike up 180 steps to Manolas village. A donkey ride is available for an extra charge. The terrain is described as moderately difficult, so travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions may have trouble.
The Sum Up
Thirassia Island offers a serene escape from the crowds of Santorini. The private tour provides a chance to explore the island’s charming village, abandoned cave houses, and historic church, all while enjoying a traditional Greek lunch and local wines. With stunning panoramic views and a knowledgeable guide, this 5-hour adventure is a must-do for those seeking an authentic island experience.
More Private Tours in Santorini
- Santorini: Private Highspeed Cruise to Antiparos & Paros
- Santorini:Private Top Highlights & Hidden Gems Tour
- Santorini: Private Yacht Experience of Timeless Elegance
- Santorini: Private Sightseeing Tour
- Santorini: Amazing Santorini – 8-Hour Private Tour
- Santorini Private Tour: Must-See Highlights & Hidden-Gems
More Tours in Santorini
More Tour Reviews in Santorini
- Santorini: Private Highspeed Cruise to Antiparos & Paros
- Santorini: License-Free Boat Rental with Ice, Water, & Fruit
- Santorini:Private Top Highlights & Hidden Gems Tour
- Santorini: Adventurous Catamaran Experience with Snorkeling
- Santorini: Helicopter Sightseeing Flight Over Caldera
- Santorini: Private Yacht Experience of Timeless Elegance
Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Santorini we have reviewed
- Santorini: Private Highspeed Cruise to Antiparos & Paros
- Santorini: License-Free Boat Rental with Ice, Water, & Fruit
- Santorini:Private Top Highlights & Hidden Gems Tour
- Santorini: Adventurous Catamaran Experience with Snorkeling
- Santorini: Helicopter Sightseeing Flight Over Caldera
- Santorini: Private Yacht Experience of Timeless Elegance
- Santorini: Private Sightseeing Tour
- Santorini: license free boat in Santorini
- Santorini:All-inclusive Catamaran Cruise with Thirassia Stop
- From Santorini: Volcano Cruise With Oia Sunset
- Island Hopping: Santorini to Anafi
- Santorini: Catamaran Cruise with Fresh Meal & Open Bar