Full-Day Santorini Island Trip from Crete
3.5
Full-Day Santorini Island Trip from Crete
By Cretan Holidays
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About
Swap an independent ferry trip to Santorini from Crete for a full-day tour that includes a cruise and sightseeing once you’re there. Avoid the hassle of arranging your own cabs or buses on the Cycladic island; and simply sit back and admire its whitewashed clifftop towns as you sail the caldera. Then, enjoy a coach tour with time to stroll in the capital, Thira; Oia, and along the island’s clifftops.
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation
Ages 3-99, max of 50 per group
Duration: 12h
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Live guide: German, English, French
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Highlights
- Visit and tour the Cycladic island of Santorini on a day trip from Crete
- Hassle-free way to see the caldera, black cliffs, and main towns
- Cruise the caldera, visit Thira and Oia; and admire the clifftop views
- Upgrade to include pickup and drop-off from selected Crete hotels
- Tour escort/host
- Return boat transfers to Santorini
- Local taxes
- Hotel pickup and drop-off (selected hotels only/ only if mentioned in the option)
What's not included- Food and drinks
- Optional tour to Perissa Black beach
- Start:Multiple pickup locations offered.Pickup details
- Pickup from selected hotels in: Heraklion, Gouves, Gournes, Kokkini Chani, Chersonissos, Malia, Analypsis, Anissaras, Stalida, Rethymnon, Bali, Georgioupolis, and the Chania and Kalyves areas.
Hotel pickup offeredDuring checkout you will be able to select from the list of included hotels.End:This activity ends back at the meeting point. - Wheelchair accessible
- Pushchair accessible
- Near public transportation
- Infants must sit on laps
If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 6761P16- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Most travellers can participate
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- ATTENTION: by law all full names, birthdates and nationality is mandatory in order to participate on any boat tour.
- Kindly note that wheelchair accessibility is available only for the boat transportation, not for the bus.
- Don't forget to bring your passport or ID for the excursion. A photo of the document on your phone is also acceptable.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s cancelled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 50 travellers
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
- If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 6761P16
From
AU$306.66
per adult
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Itinerary
- 1Cruise to world-famous Santorini Island, one of the most picturesque islands in the Mediterranean. Visit Oia and Fira and walk along the breathtaking cliffs of the Santorini caldera. Enjoy a guided tour of the island as well as free time to explore at your leisure. Take the opportunity of a short cruise during your stay on Crete and make a day trip to the neighbouring island of Santorini. The boat trip takes about 2-3 hours. On arrival in the former volcanic crater of Santorini look high up on the crater rim, where the houses of Thyra lie like a white pearl necklace. After arriving in the harbor of the island the busses are waiting for you to explore the most famous places in Santorini. The journey will bring you to picturesque village of Oia and Thyra and optionally visit the black beach of Perissos. In the early evening you will travel back to Crete.
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About the operator
Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
- Gaynor L0 contributionsOkBusy....rushed....not great. The island itself is wonderful but I would make your own way instead. Going as part of a tour was not greatWritten 27 December 2024
- jessck20160 contributionsFun for allThe kids absolutely loved the swim from the boat and the pirate caves. It was a unique and adventurous excursion. Great staff. Highly recommended.Written 15 November 2024
- kalliopik2820 contributionsUnique experienceWe took the sailing to Dia island. Unique experience, excellent service from the Cretan Holidays office and the sailing staff.Written 14 November 2024
- sarapa20180 contributionsWow!Super cruise, perfect for families and couples! An memorable evening that you will never forget! Value for money! Don't miss it!Written 13 November 2024
- sarapa20180 contributionsUnforgettable Tour ExperienceI had an amazing experience on this tour! The itinerary was well-organized, and the crew was perfect. Highly recommended for anyone looking to explore and learn in a fun, memorable way!Written 13 November 2024
- Sightseer290409222400 contributionsAirport Pick Up - AlexAlex picked us up fron the airport to the hotel and we were more than amazed by his professional service and driving skills. He was very kind and was able to give us many tipps on where to travel. Thanks, would recommend him anytime again!!Written 11 November 2024
- O7287GImelaniew0 contributionsHorse riding tour for 2 ours with lunchA wonderful trip with horses, with very nice guides. They cooked for my daughter a fantastic glutenfree meal. Thank you for that.Written 2 November 2024
- 879randr0 contributionsDisorganized Business Practices! Sad!I’ll just leave a review of how I felt we were treated by our interactions and the first impression of Finikia Horse Riding being identified as ‘calling numerous times. They do not transport you from cruise port in Chania!! You are required to pay a taxi or take a bus, which comes every hourThis company seemed very disorganized in how they treat their paying guests with reservations. Sad to see a business that depends on tourism act like this.Written 31 October 2024
- 557philippa0 contributionsEverything Perfect!Very good Transfers! The driver was kind and also told us a lot about the history of Crete. Totaly recommend If we come back we will use this Company againWritten 31 October 2024
- Charlotte O0 contributionsDisgracefulAbsolutely awful, we booked to do a cruise around the blue Lagoon. We arranged accommodation around the cruise as we were on a road trip. Only to be told that the cruise was cancelled. We were offered another cruise in a completely different area which we couldn't make due to our other arrangements. So we asked for a refund. Nearly one month later and we have only just received our refund with no other communication or apologies for the delay. We spoke to the rep who was dealing with a cruise on serval occasions and even different languages. She was extremely rude. I wouldn't suggest anyone to book and if you do expect a long wait for a refund and unpleasant customer service.Written 31 October 2024
- Rachel R0 contributionsAmazingWhat an amazing experience! The horses are amazing! The food! The wine! Relaxing and enjoyable! Would highly recommend!!! **********Written 29 October 2024
- roslynp6270 contributionsAlex was perfect !We had booked a coach transfer but was delighted when a private transfer arrived. Alex was very polite and professional with great conversation. 5 star service beyond our expectations. Thank you !!Written 28 October 2024
- 516fleurw0 contributionsSpinalonga trip❤️This was an amazing trip food was great there were different interpreters my husband and myself really enjoyed it. From coach pick up to drop off for the boat was smooth. Then you get some time to get into the sea but carry you beach shoes as the water is a bit stoney but warmish👍🏽Written 28 October 2024
- Darklinus W0 contributionsGreat outdoor experienceIt was a wonderful outdoor experience. We had a great time with the horses as complete beginners and rode along an olive plantation across a magnificent view. We were treated to a warm meal at the end and sent off with happy smiles. All the staff were extremely friendly and fun to be around.Written 27 October 2024
- I9970JYnikosm0 contributionsExcellent serviceExcellent service, very helpful stuff, we had an excellent bus transfer to our hotel. Our rep was there whenever we need him. Excellent customer service. Highly recommended!!Written 25 October 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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3.5
56 reviews
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14
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Mark M
Creteil, France3 contributions
Sept 2022
We took the opportunity to visit Santorini as we were spending 1+ weeks in Crete. After hearing and reading so much about the beauty of Santorini, we were excited to actually see at least a part of the island. Unfortunately, even in late September, the island was very very crowded. And, as we only planned this one-day trip that included visiting the 2 main cities in Santorini, we basically were swept through both cities by the crowds. The tour guide was very good (a local women) who shared interesting information at what I considered a good level - not too much, not too little. Like many of these tours, it was enough to get a small taste of the place but it was hard to enjoy our visit as we felt a bit like cattle being herded through the cities. I might suggest just paying to get to the island and then spend 2 days to better experience the place as it is certainly beautiful with great views and a range of environments.
On the positive side, the guide recommended the restaurant for our lunch (not included in the price) and it was delicious.
On the positive side, the guide recommended the restaurant for our lunch (not included in the price) and it was delicious.
Written 2 October 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Mark,
Thank you for taking the time to write us a review.
Indeed Santorini is a beautiful place with breathtaking views and we are glad that you liked it and that the guide was good.
Santorini is one of the most popular destinations, not only in Greece but in all over the world so it is common that some times there are a lot of people on the island.
As you said it would be nice to spent more days there but if someone is on Crete, it is a good chance to visit the island at least for one day with our excursion as he can get a good taste from it and moreover with an official tour guide.
Thank you for choosing our one day tour excursion to Santorini and we hope to see you again soon.
Written 4 October 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Cacoulax73000
52 contributions
Not enough time to visit. Very long day transportation to just take qq pictures. Very disappointed. We were looking forward to this day. The Guide talked to us only about cathedrals and wasted a lot of time talking ..
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Written 23 September 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear valued guest,
We’re sorry to hear that your experience didn’t meet your expectations.
In tours like this, some time is needed for transportation from the hotel to the port, and the duration can vary depending on the location of your hotel. Additionally, the ferry from Heraklion to Santorini typically takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes, which is an important part of the journey.
We understand how this might feel like a long day, but we hope the beautiful moments on the island made it worthwhile.
Thank you for your feedback, and we hope you’ll consider joining us again.
Written 24 September 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
RainbowThanet
Birchington, UK67 contributions
May 2018 • Couples
We were booked on the slow ferry by Thomas Cook and it took 2.5 hours each way. When we got there we were taken by coach to 2 places - the first was the blue domes as seen on post cards and pictures. No room to move, narrow walkways, lots of junk shops, what felt like thousands of people pushing and shoving. The second place was for lunch where we were charged E45 for a Greek salad, a small pizza and 2 small beers (place recommended by our guide who promised we would get free fruit or ice cream for dessert but we didn't.) We saw little of the island and it was a chaotic trip with a guide who talked so much and contradicted himself so much we didn't know which way was up. We personally wouldn't recommend it. A lot of money for little gain, though very nice to see the little we saw.
Written 2 June 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
clo r
Guerande, France3 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
if you want to lose a day of your vacation. Departure at 6 a.m. from the hotel, tour of the hotels by bus to pick up the participants, bad luck we were taken first), return at 10 p.m. for very little time on site (5 hours of transport on the way out between the bus and the boat). Obviously the island is magnificent but too many, too many people. Worse than Mont St Michel in the middle of August. Tourists and more tourists, queues everywhere under a blazing sun and the heat that goes with it (exceptional for October 23).
Frankly, Santorini would benefit from regulating flows.
Frankly, Santorini would benefit from regulating flows.
Written 25 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Clor,
Thank you for taking the time to share your recent experience with us.
The duration is indeed quite long, as you need to be picked up from your hotel early in the morning to ensure you arrive at the port on time for the ship. However, it's not a day that someone would regret losing from their holidays, as Santorini is an amazing place. This excursion provides a fantastic opportunity for those vacationing in Crete to visit the island for at least one day.
Of course, Santorini can be crowded at times, but please keep in mind that it is one of the most popular destinations in the world, so occasional crowding is to be expected.
Once again, thank you very much, and we hope to see you again soon.
Written 26 October 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Roving315898
Mansfield, UK24 contributions
A tiring day with an early start and late return but worth the effort. Ferry was excellent if a bit chaotic getting tickets in long queues so allow plenty of time to sort. Journey over was pleasant enough and passed quite quickly. All well organised with bus numbers and explanations by the crew so you know what to expect when you arrive. Our guide Yannis and driver were absolutely fantastic. Our safety and security were paramount which was excellent to see. Our guide was so friendly and knowledgeable getting us back to ferry just on time under difficult busy conditions. A beautiful busy day. Would recommend.
Written 18 September 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Roving,
Thank you for your detailed and thoughtful review!
We’re glad to hear that, despite the long and tiring day, you found the experience worth the effort. It’s great to know that you appreciated the organization.
We understand the ticketing process can be a bit hectic, and your suggestion to allow extra time is valuable.
We’re thrilled that you enjoyed the journey and the beautiful, albeit busy, day. Thank you for recommending us, and we hope to welcome you on another adventure soon!
Written 20 September 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Yodaflex
Lardy, France31 contributions
Very tiring day but we are delighted with our excursion to Santorini. The agenda was very tight but we were able to hang out with Oia and Fira, enjoying their cliffside architecture.
The boat trip was very nice, the seats so comfortable and on the way back we loved the concert given. All the travelers were flushed but we could see them dancing to the sound of a wild Sirtaki!
Point of improvement: when on the way, the bus drops us off at the port, let us be taken care of immediately because we all wondered what to do...
The boat trip was very nice, the seats so comfortable and on the way back we loved the concert given. All the travelers were flushed but we could see them dancing to the sound of a wild Sirtaki!
Point of improvement: when on the way, the bus drops us off at the port, let us be taken care of immediately because we all wondered what to do...
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Written 18 October 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear valued guest,
Thank you for your lovely review of the Santorini excursion! We're happy to hear that, even with the busy schedule, you enjoyed the charm of Oia and Fira and had a relaxing time on the boat. It sounds like the lively Sirtaki dancing on the return trip was a fantastic way to end the day!
Your photos truly highlight the beauty of the trip, and we’re thrilled they reflect your experience so well. We appreciate your feedback about the port pickup and will consider it for future improvements. We hope to see you on another adventure soon!
Written 18 October 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Thierry B
1 contribution
Aug 2024 • Couples
Very disappointed with Cretan Holidays. for €400.00 to visit Santorini. First of all, a transport organization, catastrophic, with an angry driver (on the 1st morning) and really very unpleasant. Arriving in Santorini, the driver not too pleasant either (it must be typical, the ba) The Guide, who only told the story of Santorini in the coach in we show the map. No visits with the Guide on site, except to take everyone to the local restaurant, which she knows well. Deliver to ourselves, to visit Santorini in 3:30!!! Back, no better, following a bad organization, we- found ourselves in the middle of nowhere, fortunately the driver took it upon himself to escort us (we were 6 people)
Result of this trip, left at 5am to return at 8pm in the evening, without having really enjoyed the excursion!!!
We calculated everything, took ferry and various transport, it would have cost us much less, for the service we received.
Of course we claimed, but, file without further action, as usual, and I am not the only one in the case!! To pay it goes by itself and you always get to reach someone, but for claims, there are more people!!!!
Result of this trip, left at 5am to return at 8pm in the evening, without having really enjoyed the excursion!!!
We calculated everything, took ferry and various transport, it would have cost us much less, for the service we received.
Of course we claimed, but, file without further action, as usual, and I am not the only one in the case!! To pay it goes by itself and you always get to reach someone, but for claims, there are more people!!!!
Automatically translated
Written 27 August 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Thierry,
Thank you for your feedback regarding your recent Santorini excursion. Your experience does not reflect our usual standards, and we are reviewing your concerns closely.
The excursion package includes ferry tickets, a professional guide, and transportation on the island, which we believe offers good value. Nonetheless, we understand that the service you received fell short of what we aim to provide.
We have shared your feedback with our partners, who are responsible for the bust transportation, to address the issues you raised and improve their service.
If you have any further concerns or would like to discuss this in more detail, please do not hesitate to contact us directly.
Thank you for bringing this to our attention and we hope to have the chance to assist you again soon.
Written 30 August 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Mistbiene2
Rednitzhembach, Germany2 contributions
May 2024 • Couples
We stayed at the Lyttos Beach Hotel and had the perfect tour guide from Schauinsland-Reisen. Julie P. took care of everything and gave us great advice. We asked so many questions and she always answered us patiently. Great advice regarding the excursions and everything went really well with the car rental through her. Julie, you are a wonderful tour guide. Hopefully we'll see each other again...
Written 21 June 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Guest,
Thank you for your kind review! We're delighted to hear that you had a wonderful experience at Hotel Lyttos Beach and that Julie P. from Schauinsland-Reisen took excellent care of you.
It's great to know that Julie's patience and advice made your stay enjoyable and that everything went smoothly with your excursions and car rental. We will be sure to pass on your compliments to her.
We hope to welcome you back again soon!
Written 25 June 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
LMP7366
Aix-les-Bains, France58 contributions
May 2018
You have the choice of ferries : fast ships or cheaper classic ferries slower but with accessible decks to enjoy the sights and very comfortable. With a day return fare you may get 20% of the return ticket. Car parks are available at the harbor for a few euros.
Written 29 June 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tom M
Abersoch, UK139 contributions
Aug 2018 • Family
Santorini would have been an amazing find 40-50 years ago - sadly now it is overly touristy and this spoils it
The towns themselves are really stunning - but they are overwhelmed with souvenir shops etc. etc.
It takes forever to get around - there must be 50+ buses moving in and out of the towns at the same time so we have about a total of 3 hours on the ground
Prices vary greatly too - we paid 107 Euros per person but were quoted up to 170!
Definitely recommend the fast CAT ferry - much more efficient than the slower ferry and only marginally more expensive
The towns themselves are really stunning - but they are overwhelmed with souvenir shops etc. etc.
It takes forever to get around - there must be 50+ buses moving in and out of the towns at the same time so we have about a total of 3 hours on the ground
Prices vary greatly too - we paid 107 Euros per person but were quoted up to 170!
Definitely recommend the fast CAT ferry - much more efficient than the slower ferry and only marginally more expensive
Written 31 August 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Tom M
Thank you for your comment. We appreciate it and it help us to improve our services to you.
Best regards
Written 13 June 2019
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Hello, I have booked this trip on the 25th this July and did not receive a confirmation email or anything. My email is maybel_quaicoe@yahoo.dk. Would I be able to cancel and rebook it or get sent a confirmation email?
Written 13 July 2022
Hallo,
wie lange dauert die Schiffsfahrt hin und zurück und wie lange die Bustour?
Wie viel Zeit haben wir um die Insel eigenständig zu erkunden ?
Vielen Dank vorab für die Antwort.
Written 27 June 2022
Bonjour, mon frère est en fauteuil roulant. Il peut se lever et monter dans le bus par exemple mais a besoin du fauteuil pour accéder au bateau et pour les visites. Ce circuit est-il faisable pour lui ? Merci. Catherine
Written 7 November 2021
1) is the ferry a fast one or slow ferry? 2) Is there a guide who will accompany us once we reach Santorini 3) Are meals included 4) is there pick up and drop facility available from lato boutique hotel?
Written 4 April 2019
It was a 3.5 hour trip and a 4 hour trip back. On the Golden Star boat.
The guide dropped us off and you were on your own with our tour
Meals are a complete joke but you can purchase snacks on the boat. Unsure where they stop but we made at least 5 stops after we were picked up. Hope this helps . We used Candia-mar they keep good track of everyone on the bus tour.
Written 19 September 2019
Hi, do you get to stop out on the boat on the way there and get to swim in the sea?
Written 13 August 2018
It's a ferry going on to another island. The ferry journey takes 2 to 2.5 hours (boring!) from Iraklion and is in a rush to unload at Santorini and head on out immediately. It's a working trip for the ferry not a fun time for tourists so no stops for swimming or having fun. The best you can hope for on the actual ferry trip is an expensive cuppa or soft drink (or of course alcohol) and a snack from the cafe area.
Written 14 August 2018
How much are the ferry’s or boats to santorini when you travel independently.
Written 14 July 2018
Bonjour le guide est il français quelle un ramassage est il possible à l hôtel thui Sensatori Atlantica merci
Written 13 July 2018
Bonjour, nous avons pris une excursion pour Santorin d'1 journée, le prix comprenait le ramassage a l' hotel ( pas le votre) et un guide francophone que nois avons eu sur place.
Written 2 July 2019
I’m staying at hotel knossos beach hotel,Heraklion . From where excatly is pick up ? Hotel or port ?
Written 12 July 2018
Should you have a rented car you may as well park in the port very easily unless you booked through an agency with a package tour ?
Written 13 July 2018
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