Best Tours in Santorini 2026

The full-day catamaran tour around the caldera is the defining Santorini experience. Swimming in the volcanic hot springs, snorkelling at Nea Kameni, lunch on board with local wine, and watching the sunset from the water with the caldera cliffs above you. Nothing else on the island comes close. Book a small-group tour (under 20 people) rather than large party boats for a dramatically better experience.

💡 Tip: Book the moment your travel dates are fixed — July and August sailings sell out 3–4 weeks ahead

Santorini's volcanic Assyrtiko white wine is world-famous — the unique basket-shaped vines (kouloura) protect grapes from the meltemi wind and produce a mineral-driven white unlike anything else in Greece. Winery tours typically visit 3–4 estates in Megalochori, Pyrgos and Oia with tastings and food pairings, often finishing at sunset. Santo Wines, Estate Argyros and Domaine Sigalas are the top producers.

💡 Tip: Book sunset timeslot specifically — the light on the vineyards and caldera at golden hour is extraordinary

The Bronze Age city buried under volcanic ash in 1627 BC — often called the Minoan Pompeii. A guided tour explains the extraordinary preservation: two-storey buildings, frescoes, drainage systems and everyday objects visible 3,600 years later. Without a guide, Akrotiri is impressive but hard to read. With one, it becomes one of the most remarkable archaeological experiences in the Mediterranean.

💡 Tip: Combine with Red Beach (15-minute walk from the site) for a perfect half-day

A guided evening walk through Oia — the blue-domed churches, the best viewpoints, the castle ruins and the famous sunset. A local guide shows you the spots that aren't obvious, explains the island's volcanic history and gets you into position well before the crowds arrive. Evening food and wine stops included in many tours.

💡 Tip: The caldera path between Oia and Imerovigli (free, 45 min walk) gives equally spectacular sunset views with 90% fewer people

Many visitors combine Athens and Santorini. The high-speed ferry from Piraeus takes 5 hours — the caldera arrival by sea is one of Greece's great travel experiences. See our full Athens to Santorini guide for all options including the overnight ferry and flying.