Crete is a fantastic holiday spot with a rich culture, beautiful beaches and great food. However, if you are planning your next Crete vacation, you should definitely include a day trip to Santorini. Greece’s popular destination is just a few hours away from Crete and can make your holidays even more special.
Still thinking about it? Check out why a Santorini day trip should be on your list this year!
Why plan a Santorini day trip from Crete?
A day trip to Santorini from Rethymno, Crete, is a great way to make your holidays a little extra.
Although Crete has incredible beauty and places to visit, Santorini will add an extra touch to your schedule. Once you enter the port, you will understand why it was worth it, as it’s the unexpected excursions that help you change the atmosphere.
Let’s take a look at some of the reasons that make a day trip to Santorini worthwhile.
Reason #1: You’ll add another destination to your holidays
Crete is large and offers a historical and cultural experience, while Santorini is famous for its dramatic volcanic landscapes and iconic whitewashed villages. A day trip lets you experience the contrasting beauty of the Greek islands and make your summer holidays even better!
High-speed ferries run regularly between the two islands and the trip takes about 2.5 hours. You will leave in the morning and return in the evening without having to stay overnight, which is enough time to soak up the beauty.
Reason #2: You’ll have the chance to see Oia and Fira
If you are wondering what to see in Santorini, there are many places you can visit to get to know the island better.
You can start your day from Fira, the capital of Santorini. There you can visit the local shops where you will find handmade jewelry, clothes, local handicrafts and souvenirs. In addition, you can wander through Santorini’s narrow streets and enjoy your coffee with a view of the caldera.
After that, head to Oia, known for its iconic whitewashed buildings and stunning views to get a real taste of Santorini.
Reason #3: You’ll witness the black beach of Perissa
One of the things you must do in Santorini is to visit the black beach of Perissa. This beach is located on the southeastern coast of the island and is one of the most unique and beautiful spots. Access to the beach is very easy and once you get there you will find an incredible sight with the contrast between the black sand and the crystal waters of the Aegean Sea.
Along with the natural beauty you will find everything you need, from beach bars and taverns to shops on the seafront promenade.
Reason #4: You’ll visit the volcano and swim in the hot springs
If you want to visit the volcano and swim in the hot springs, you can take a boat tour from the port of Fira. You will stop at the volcanic islands of Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni and enjoy the healing effects of the hot springs.
Visiting the volcano and swimming in the hot springs is an unforgettable experience and a perfect addition to your Santorini day trip.
Already convinced? Check out how to arrange the perfect trip from Crete to Santorini with Balos Travel and just focus on having a good time!
Reason #5: You’ll taste the famous wines of Santorini
Santorini is known for its wines so heading for some wine tasting in one if its wineries is a must do in Santorini. Enoy the view with a glass of wine from grape varieties grown in Santorini’s volcanic soil. It’s a perfect way to see Santorini from a different perspective.
Reason #6: You’ll enjoy the local cuisine
What you definitely don’t need to worry about is where to eat in Santorini. Greece has incredible food, and Santorini has some of the best local cuisine in the country. The island grows its own products which are used in the dishes, including tomatoes and eggplants. In addition, you can try traditional Greek dishes such as moussaka, stuffed peppers (known in Greece as “Gemista”), melitzanosalata (made from local eggplants) and more.
Reason #7: You’ll marvel the stunning views and architecture
Finally, something that doesn’t even need to be mentioned about Santorini is the incredible views and the stunning architecture of the island.
Enjoy the view of the Aegean Sea and the famous sunset that is visited every year by people from all over the world. Also, the iconic whitewashed buildings with their vibrant blue domes are the flagship of Santorini. These architectural structures on the sides of the cliffs create a breathtaking contrast with the turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea. From beaches hidden in cliffs, volcanic areas from another planet, unique architecture and the most famous sunset in the world, Santorini is a place everyone should visit if only for a day.
Upgrade your vacation: Plan your Crete to Santorini day trip
Once you have an overview of what to see in Santorini, planning your trip should be easy. But if you simply want to sit back and relax while a local travel agent takes care of all the details, then get in touch Balos Travel.
Balos Travel specializes in Crete tours and activities and can arrange the perfect day trip to Santorini for you!
Whether you are drawn to the natural beauty of the volcanos or the unique sunset, a trip from Crete to Santorini is what you need. And with the convenience of speedboats and the guidance of experts like Balos Travel, you can easily plan your excursions in no time.
If you are ready to include the beauties of Santorini in your Crete vacation, don’t hesitate to book ASAP.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is one day in Santorini enough?
Yes, a day trip to Santorini allows you to experience the main highlights of the island: You can visit Fira or Oia for those iconic postcard views, enjoy the whitewashed houses of the Cyclades, try some of the unique volcanic soil wines and fresh seafood dishes or take a dip or stroll along the dramatic black sand beaches formed by volcanic ash.
How long is the ferry ride from Crete to Santorini?
Around 2.5 hours. When you book your day trip to Santorini with Balos Travel, you leave Rethymno port at 8am and reach Santorini at 10:30am.
Is Crete nicer than Santorini?
There’s no definite answer – it depends on what you’re looking for in a vacation! Crete shines with variety, history, beaches, a more laid-back atmosphere and is generally more affordable. Santorini excels in dramatic scenery, romantic ambience, and a luxurious vibe. Consider your priorities!
Is Santorini worth a day trip from Crete?
Yes! This is an affordable trip that’s worth your while. One day is enough to enjoy the best aspects of Santorini and return to Crete full of beautiful memories!
