Fira, the lively capital of Santorini, is more than just a cruise port or a hub of whitewashed buildings. It’s a place where you can find a surprising variety of tours and experiences that showcase the island’s natural beauty, history, and incredible cuisine. Whether you’re dreaming of sailing the caldera at sunset or exploring local wineries, Fira offers something for every type of traveler. We particularly like the luxury Caldera Catamaran Cruise, where you can snorkel near volcanic islands and watch the sunset from the water—truly the kind of experience that turns a vacation into a memory.
But what makes Fira stand out as a spot for tours is its accessibility and mix of options. The private guided tours are perfect if you want a more intimate, tailored experience, while the small-group wine tastings offer a taste of local life and flavors. With so many choices, it’s worth knowing what’s available before you book.
1. Santorini: Caldera Luxury Catamaran Cruise w/ Meal & Drinks
At number 1, the Santorini: Caldera Luxury Catamaran Cruise offers an elegant way to enjoy Santorini’s famed caldera. This 5-hour cruise is rated 4.9/5 from over 230 reviews, which speaks to its popularity. You’ll start with a convenient pickup from 11 locations around Fira, then set sail on a luxurious vessel. The highlights include snorkeling at the volcanic island of Nea Kameni, swimming at the Red Beach and White Beach, and relaxing onboard with a BBQ meal, local wine, and calming music.
The real draw here is the balance of adventure and relaxation. The snorkeling in sulfuric waters and swimming off scenic beaches make it more than just a boat ride. Plus, the sunset sailing into the horizon is a picture-perfect moment. Many reviewers mention how the onboard meal and service elevate the experience. It’s best suited for travelers seeking a mix of scenic beauty, comfort, and fun water activities. The only possible downside is the price—$147 per person—but considering everything included, it offers excellent value.
Bottom line: If you want a memorable, all-inclusive day on the water with superb views and a top-rated crew, this cruise will not disappoint.
2. Santorini : Private Guided Highlights Tour
Number 2 on our list is the Santorini: Private Guided Highlights Tour, rated 5/5 from 58 reviews. This 3-hour tour provides a personalized exploration of Santorini’s most iconic sights, including Fira, Firostefani, Imerovigli, and Oia. The advantage here is the customized approach—your guide can tailor the stops based on your interests and mobility, which is especially helpful for those with limited walking.
Your guide will share insights about the famous Three Bells of Fira, the volcanic vistas of Imerovigli, and the charming shops of Oia, giving you enough time to enjoy each without feeling rushed. Reviewers appreciate the flexibility and local knowledge that make this tour feel intimate and authentic. The private format means you’ll avoid crowded tours and get a more relaxed experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want an intimate, flexible tour with the comfort of a private guide, especially if you’re short on time but want to see the highlights.
3. Santorini: Private Guided Sightseeing Day Tour
Rated 5/5 from 85 reviews, the Santorini: Private Guided Sightseeing Day Tour is a great way to see the island in a relaxed manner over 5-6 hours. This fully private tour offers flexibility to visit beaches, villages, and viewpoints like the Monastery of Prophet Elias. It’s ideal if you want an in-depth, personal experience rather than a set itinerary.
Your guide will take you to local landmarks, volcanic beaches, and hidden spots, sharing stories about the island’s natural and cultural features. Reviewers mention how the guide’s knowledge and patience made the experience memorable, and the ability to customize stops makes it a hit for families or travel groups with specific interests. The private nature of this tour makes it more comfortable for seniors or those with limited mobility.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers seeking a personalized, all-encompassing day with flexible stops and expert guidance.
4. Santorini: Island Tour for Cruise Travelers
Number 4, the Island Tour for Cruise Travelers, is tailored for those with just 4 hours ashore. This efficient tour hits the highlights: Pyrgos, Imerovigli, Fira, and Oia, with a scenic cable car ride at the end. Rated 5/5 from 8 reviews, it’s perfect for cruise passengers wanting to maximize their limited time.
Your guide will take you through Fira’s charming streets, then to Oia’s iconic caldera views—many travelers love the free time in Oia for photos and shopping. The tour includes visits to Pyrgos, a medieval village, and a coastal walk from Firostefani to Imerovigli. The key advantage is the timed, curated itinerary that fits a cruise schedule.
Bottom line: This is ideal for cruise visitors who want a concise, well-organized glimpse of Santorini’s top sights without feeling rushed.
5. Heraklion: Guided Santorini Day Trip with Ferry Cruise
Number 5 is a full-day trip from Crete—the Heraklion: Guided Santorini Day Trip offers a ferry ride plus guided exploration. With a 11-12 hour duration, it’s more of an adventure for those wanting to see Santorini as part of a broader Greek island experience.
Starting with a ferry from Heraklion, you get a guided bus tour of Oia and Fira, with plenty of free time to explore. Reviewers mention how smooth the logistics are and how the tour balances sightseeing with flexibility. It’s great for travelers who already plan to visit Crete or want to combine islands.
Bottom line: Ideal if you’re based in Crete but want a full, organized day in Santorini with transport included.
6. Santorini: 5 Hour Private Tour for Cruise Ship Guests
Number 6, the Private 5-Hour Tour for Cruise Ship Guests, offers a shorter, flexible private experience rated 5/5 by 29 reviews. It features customizable stops at Fira, Oia, and Imerovigli, with the luxury of pickup and drop-off directly at your cruise ship.
This tour includes iconic sights and over an hour of free time in Oia. Your guide will show you around in air-conditioned comfort, making it perfect for limited time but wanting to see the best. The reviews highlight the professionalism and ease of this option.
Bottom line: Best for cruise travelers wanting a quick, personalized tour with the flexibility to choose what interests them most.
7. Small Group Tour of 3 Local Wineries
Rated 4.9/5 from 24 reviews, this Small Group Wine Tour offers 4 hours of exploring Santorini’s vineyards. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll visit estate Argyros, Artemis Karamolegos, and Art Space Winery, tasting wines from volcanic soils such as Assyrtiko and Mandilaria.
Reviewers love the personalized attention and the chance to learn about local wine production while enjoying a cheese and charcuterie platter. It’s a great pick if you’re interested in food and drink and want to experience local culture in a relaxed setting. The tour emphasizes the rich traditions behind Santorini’s wines, making it both educational and flavorful.
Bottom line: Perfect for wine lovers who want a small-group experience with in-depth tastings and insight into local wine-making.
8. From Thera: Thirasia Cruise w/ Volcano Hike and Hot Springs
Number 8 features the Thirasia Cruise with Volcano Hike, rated 4.5/5 from 52 reviews. Over 6 hours, you’ll cruise from Athinios Port to Thirasia, with an optional hike up the active volcano at Nea Kameni, a soak in the hot springs, and visits to Manolas village.
The highlight is the mix of active adventure and relaxation. Reviewers mention how well-organized the day is and the variety of experiences packed in. The hot springs and volcano hike make it ideal for those wanting a bit of physical activity alongside scenic views.
Bottom line: Suitable for travelers who enjoy a mix of exploration and leisure, with the opportunity to see volcanic activity up close.
9. Santorini: Akrotiri Entry Ticket and Audio Guide
Rated 3.8/5 from 320 reviews, the Akrotiri Entry Ticket and Audio Guide offers a self-guided exploration of the Minoan Bronze Age settlement. At just $39.52, it’s a budget-friendly way to see this “Pompeii of the Aegean,” with the convenience of an audio tour on your phone.
Visitors love the flexibility to explore at their own pace, and the ruins’ well-preserved layout remains fascinating. However, some note the audio guide can be somewhat fast and technical. It’s best suited for history buffs and travelers who enjoy independent exploration without a guided group.
Bottom line: Great for budget-conscious explorers comfortable with self-guided tours and interested in ancient ruins.
10. Santorini: Private 3-Hour Highlights Tour for Cruise Guests
Number 10, the Private 3-Hour Highlights Tour, rated 5/5 from 9 reviews, is perfect for short shore excursions. It includes Fira, Imerovigli, and Oia, with flexible pickup options and a private vehicle.
Travelers appreciate the personalized approach, with guided visits and free time in Oia for photos. The tour’s focus on the essentials makes it a good choice for those with limited time but wanting to see the best.
Bottom line: Ideal for cruise visitors who want a quick, private overview of Santorini’s highlights.
11. Private, Fully Customizable Cruise in Santorini’s Caldera
Rated 5/5 from 7 reviews, this Fully Customizable Caldera Cruise allows you to pick your stops, swim in hidden spots, and enjoy the caldera at your own pace. It’s a luxury private experience that offers personalized attention and flexibility.
Travelers rave about the unique perspectives of the island from the water, with options to snorkel, enjoy snacks, and avoid crowds. It suits those seeking exclusivity and tailored experiences, especially if you prefer private charters over group tours.
Bottom line: Best for travelers wanting full control over their day on the water in a private setting.
12. Santorini: Flying Dress Photoshoot Private Entry to Blue Dom
Finally, the Flying Dress Photoshoot, rated 5/5 and lasting about 30 minutes, combines professional photography with the stunning Blue Domes of Santorini. This experience is perfect for couples or families wanting a unique souvenir of their trip.
The photos capture the magic of Santorini with a high-fashion twist, and the private entry skips lines at the Blue Domes. Reviewers mention the friendly staff, beautiful dresses, and high-quality images that make this a memorable keepsake.
Bottom line: Ideal for those celebrating special occasions or wanting professional-quality photos in the most picturesque setting.
How to Choose the Best Tour in Fira for You
Choosing among these options depends on your interests, budget, and available time. If you want a full-day adventure, the luxury catamaran cruise or the full-day trip from Crete might fit best. For a more personal touch, opt for the private guided tours—they give you flexibility and local insight. Wine lovers should consider the small-group winery tour, while those seeking unique photos will love the flying dress experience.
Travelers with limited time or arriving on a cruise can select a shorter, private highlights tour. Budget travelers may prefer the Akrotiri audio guide, which offers an affordable way to explore the ancient ruins independently.
Booking early is advised, especially for popular experiences like the catamaran cruise or the flying dress photoshoot. Think about what excites you most—water adventures, culture, or stunning photos—and pick the tour that aligns with your interests.
Fira offers a fantastic array of tours to make your visit memorable—whether you’re sailing the caldera, exploring ancient sites, or tasting local wines. The key is to match your energy level, interests, and schedule with the right experience. With a little planning, you’ll find the perfect way to enjoy Santorini’s charms.