santorini trip from rethymno

Greek Ferry Travel

Island Hopping In Greece Made Easy

Rethymno To Santorini Ferry

The Rethymno to Santorini ferry sails on Tuesdays and Thursdays between late May and the end of October.

Rethymno Santorini Ferries

The historic town of Rethymno located in Crete can be a good place from which to make a visit to Santorini by ferry.

During the summer months, ferries leave from Rethymno Ferry Port in Crete twice per week, and sail directly to Santorini island.

Typically, the ferry from Rethymno to Santorini is operated by the Seajets ferry company.

The journey times for the Rethymno to Santorini ferry crossing is about 2 hours and 20 minutes as it is on a fast ferry.

Check the latest timetables and book ferry tickets with: Ferryscanner

Rethymnon to Santorini Day Trip

While some people may be traveling on to Santorini as part of a Greek island hopping trip in order to stay there, others may be interested in taking a day trip only.

Fortunately, (at least currently!), the Rethymno Santorini ferry timetable is designed to allow a return trip on the same day.

The current ferry schedule allows for about 7 hours of sightseeing time in Santorini between the Rethymno to Santorini ferry arrival and the return trip.

Keep in mind though, that ferry ticket prices for passengers wanting to travel between Rethymno and Santorini in Greece are not cheap. In 2023, the best price was just over a hundred Euros one way!

Still, if it’s your only opportunity to see the pretty Cyclades island of Santorini it could be worth doing.

Also read: What currency do they use in Crete?

If traveling during the high season you should book the tickets for Rethymno to Santorini ferry trips as far in advance as possible.

For the latest fares and schedules for the Rethymno Santorini ferry route, use: Ferryscanner

10 Useful Tips for Taking the Rethymno Santorini Ferry in Greece

• Book in Advance: Especially during peak travel season, rethymno to Santorini ferries can get booked quickly. To ensure a spot, reserve your tickets ahead of time.
• Arrive Early: Arrive at least a half hour before departure at Rethymno ferry port to account for any unexpected delays and to ensure a smooth boarding process.
• Pack Light: If possible, try to travel with a small suitcase or backpack. You’ll find it easier to leave the suitcase below decks, and just go up to your seat with a smaller carry-on.
• Bring Snacks and Water: Ferries have limited food options on board, and they are always expensive. Pack some snacks and plenty of water to stay hydrated during the journey.
• Dress in Layers: The coldness of the air conditioning on Greek ferries is not to be underestimated!
• Check the Weather Forecast: Weather conditions can affect ferry schedules. Always check the weather forecast before sailing and get in touch with the ferry operator if you need to.
• Be Aware of Sea Sickness: If you’re prone to sea sickness, consider taking preventative medication. Ginger tables are excellent.
• Keep Valuables Safe: Keep your valuable belongings in your hand luggage with you rather than leave them below decks.
• Respect the Seating Arrangement: If your ferry ticket has a seat number, please respect it. If it doesn’t, it’s a free-seating arrangement.
• Relax and Enjoy: Greek ferry travel is an experience to be enjoyed on your holidays!

Some of the questions that people have when they want to make sure of whether this ferry is for them before booking include:

How long does the ferry from Rethymno to Santorini take?

The journey time for the Rethymno to Santorini ferry crossing is approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes on a fast ferry.

What days does the Rethymno to Santorini ferry operate?

The Rethymno to Santorini ferry operates twice a week, on Tuesdays and Thursdays, between late May and the end of October.

Can I do a day trip from Rethymno to Santorini?

Yes, it is possible to do a day trip from Rethymno to Santorini. The current ferry schedule allows for about 7 hours of sightseeing time in Santorini between the Rethymno to Santorini ferry arrival and the return trip.

Are cars allowed on the Rethymno Santorini ferry?

The current ferry sailing between Rethymno and Santorini can take vehicles onboard. Keep in mind that car rental companies generally don’t allow for rental cars to be take on board.

Related: Heraklion Ferry Port

Rethymnon to Santorini Ferry

View Timetables, Maps, Offers, Directions, Port Addresses & More. Book Ferries from 89.70 €

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You can travel as a foot passenger or with your vehicle on this route.

Click Book Now and use the booking form to get the latest prices and see the real sailing dates for all ferries on the Rethymnon - Santorini route.

Rethymnon to Santorini ferry timetable

• 2 Sailings Weekly 2 hrs 20 mins

Why visit Rethymnon?

• Visit the Venetian castle of Fortezza which dominates the city
• Be amazed by the Rethymnon caves. There are about 800
• Go to the beach. Despite being a city, Rethymon has great beaches
• Explore the old city and learn about Turkish and Venetian cultures
• Visit the beautiful Rimondi fountain in the old town

Why visit Santorini?

• Enjoy the sunset with a cockail in Fira or the quiter area of Oia
• Visit the Bronze Age settlement of Akrotiri
• Be amazed by the Minoan frescoes in the Museum of Prehistoric Thera
• Visit the stunning and unusual Red Beach
• Go on a day trip to the volcanic caldera island of Thirassia

Rethymnon address & GPS

Santorini address & gps, rethymnon to santorini video presentation.

Frequently asked questions for Rethymnon to Santorini ferries

Can i get an e-ticket for ferries on this route, where can i collect my tickets, what do i need to print my tickets, how much do rethymnon-santorini tickets cost, how long does the crossing take and how far is it, what ferry companies operate on this route, when should i arrive at the port.

• On foot: Please arrive at least one hour before you travel.
• By car: Please arrive at least two hours before you travel and in July and August allow for traffic jams on your journey.

Can I take my dog or cat with me?

Yes, you can take your dog or other pet on the ferry but it isn't possible to book a space in the kennel in advance. All Greek ships by law must have some kennel space.

If you are traveling on the conventional ferry (not a fast ferry or catamaran) there is normally space available in the kennels and you should also be able to have your dog on all deck areas (but not inside) with you. Strictly speaking, this is at the discretion of the ferry company but in general, you should have no issues - though please take a muzzle with you just in case and keep your dog on a leash at all times. Small sized dogs and cats can travel in the ship as long as they stay inside a special travel box.

The other option, for absolute peace of mind, is to book a pet cabin. These are like normal cabins but have linoleum flooring. They are also available for day crossings at reasonable prices. This way you don't have to worry about finding space in the kennels and you and your dog or cat can relax. In July and August ferries can get very busy with people and other dogs.

Fast ferries and catamarans will also have kennels but these will be limited in number. In addition, the majority of fast ferries (though there are exceptions) don't have open deck space accessible throughout the journey, so you will not be able to stay out with your pet during your crossing. However, if your pet is small and inside a travel box you will be able to keep him or her inside.

Can I pay by PayPal or debit card?

Can i take my bicycle with me and what do i have to do, latest prices for rethymnon to santorini, latest booked prices.

• Booked: 15/03/2022
• Travel: 19/08/2022 - 25/08/2022
• People: Two foot passengers

Average price chart

Rethymnon to santorini route map, useful numbers for rethymnon and santorini.

• Police Station: +30 28310 22841
• Health Centre: +30 28313 42100
• Port Authority: +30 28310 22408
• Bus Service | Villages: +30 28310 22212
• Bus Service | City: +30 28310 22659
• Santorini Police Station: +30 22860 22649
• Health Centre: +30 22863 60300
• Port Authority: +30 22860 22239
• Bus Service: +30 22860 25404
• Santorini Airport: +30 2286 028400

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From Rethymno: Full-Day Trip to Santorini by Boat

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• Price from € 209

Experience description

Experience the iconic clifftop villages overlooking the Aegean on a guided day trip to Santorini. Transfer from Rethymno to a luxury catamaran. Soak up the caldera views, see the pastel-painted houses of Oia, and stroll through the streets of Fira.

Start your day trip from Crete at the port of Rethymno or opt to include pickup from your hotel in an air-conditioned vehicle and marvel at the blue and white buildings typical of the island on your way to the harbor.

Climb aboard a luxury, high-speed catamaran and journey to Santorini. Upon arrival at the port of Athinios, take a tour of the island by air-conditioned bus. Learn about the history of one of the most romantic islands in Greece from your guide.

Travel through the beautiful countryside en route to the village of Oia at the northernmost tip of the island. Built on the lip of a volcanic caldera, the village offers magnificent views of the blue and white houses studded along the hillside.  

Continue to Fira and get plenty of free time to explore the island’s capital. Stroll down the picturesque alleys and take in the views of the architecture typical to the Aegean. Browse the shops or enjoy a drink at a bar with stunning views of the volcano and its caldera cliffs.

Alternatively, travel by boat to the caldera (subject to availability) for views of the volcano up close. Depart for Crete in the evening for the return trip to the Port of Rethymno, where the tour ends. If you opt to include transfers, you’ll be dropped off at your hotel.

Experience details

• Bus & Minivan
• Island Exploration
• Romance & Special Occasions
• Sightseeing
• Wheelchair accessible

Get directions to From Rethymno: Full-Day Trip to Santorini by Boat 

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Santorini One Day Trip (by SEAJETS Highspeed boat, Ex Rethymnon port)

from: € 155.00

Explore Santorini from Rethymnon with our exciting Day Trips! Operating every Tuesday & Saturday, our tours offer pick-ups from various Rethymnon areas (starting Bali, Panormo, and Adele through Rethymnon city). Experience convenience with our inclusive package featuring hotel pick-up & return, High-Speed boat tickets, and Santorini tour. Join us on Tuesdays  &  Saturdays , and choose from English, French, or German as your tour language. Book now for an unforgettable journey to Santorini from Rethymnon direct!

Accompanied service

Boarding at the port (dep.08:00) : At the port of departure, participants will present their voucher (given by VisitCrete.com) at the SEAJETS kiosk in order to receive their ferry tickets, a card referring to the right bus number in Santorini and a small brochure in their own language with information about the island and the day tour.

Arrival in Santorini (approx.10:20) : The trip to Santorini lasts almost 2.5 hours from Rethymnon. At the port of Santorini, staff (dressed in a SEAJETS uniform and holding signs with the bus numbers) will welcome the participants and escort them in the right buses.

First Stop: Oia : Then, the buses will leave for Oia. In the days of high traffic, the buses will follow a route by the sea on the east side of the island. Depending on the existing traffic in Oia and the timetable of the tour, the participants will stay for approximately 1½ hour. Later on, the bus will depart for the next stop, Fira.

Second Stop: Fira : On the way to the town of Fira, the participants will receive interesting information by their escort about the history and the geography of the island, while travelling through a large part of the island by road. At their arrival in Fira, they will spend 1 hour to enjoy the Cycladic view from the Caldera, the paved little alleys and the old traditional houses accompanied by their escort.

Optional : Visit the Volcano of Santorini (extra charge). The participants will enjoy the unique beauty of the volcano and have the opportunity to swim in its hot springs (bookable & payable at the boat's reception).

Departure from Santorini (approx.17:00) : The trip to Rethymnon lasts almost 2.5 hours from Santorini.

Arrival in Rethymnon (approx.19:20) : Finally, the participants will return to the vessel where they will be able to enjoy a beautiful view of the Aegean and Cretan Sea in the open decks of the vessel.

Important notice! The excursion’s schedule timings are subject to traffic and weather conditions. There are likely to be slight changes that are unpredictable from VisitCrete.com, which is NOT responsible for them. Please note that the timings provided above are estimates and may vary depending on various factors such as traffic, weather conditions, and any unforeseen circumstances. It is always recommended to check with the local tour operator or escort for any updates or changes to the itinerary.

Special offer

Description, additional information, santorini day trip from rethymnon (by seajets highspeed boat, rethymnon areas, ex rethymnon port).

Disclaimer : Not all the parts shown in this video are scheduled to be visited on this excursion)

Visit the unique island of Santorini with the Volcano, the breathtaking views, and swim in its crystal clear waters.

Pick-up's from : Bali, Panormo, Skaleta, Stavromenos, Sfakaki, Pigianos Kampos, Adelianos Kampos, Platanias (Rethymnon), Missiria, Perivolia (Rethymnon), Rethymnon centre, Rethymnon port, Gerani, Georgioupolis. [ Check the pick-up table list below to find out which is the most convenient pick-up point & time, near your hotel ]

Departing Port: Rethymnon

Operating Days : Every Tuesday & Saturday

Languages : English, French, German: All days ( We need a minimum participation of 10 people in order to operate the tour in each language. In case, there are any changes or cancellations we will let you know by 5 pm the day before)

Tour includes : ✔ Air-conditioned transportation with pick-up and drop-off services from your hotel or a nearby location ✔ Professional Driver ✔ The assistance of a tour escort throughout the tour ✔ Boat tickets (High-Speed boat) ✔ Local taxes are included in the tour package to avoid any additional charges ✔ Liability insurance coverage to ensure your safety and security during the tour

Extra Fees (not included in the price) Extras payable on the spot: Optional volcano excursion (bookable & payable at the boat's reception), Meals & Drinks ( optional ) Extras payable on our website: Upgrade to Platinum* Seat class on the boat  [Spacious, comfortable, on less crowded deck] (optional)

* Platinum seats The participants have the option of travelling in the luxurious Platinum Lounge with a limited number of seats. Additional charge: 50€ / person  (the additional price applies the same for both adults and children. The infants are free)

Tour highlights: Boat trip, Sightseeing in Oia, Fira

Direction: North of Crete

Duration: 11,5 hours approximately (from/to Rethymnon port)

Overview: Santorini is a volcanic island in the Cyclades group of the Greek islands. It is located between Ios and Anafi islands. It is famous for dramatic views, stunning sunsets from Oia town, the strange white aubergine (eggplant), and of course Fava, the town of Fira, Oia and naturally its very own active volcano. Wine lovers will find the island also fascinating, having 13 official wineries. There are naturally fantastic beaches such as the beach of Perissa, maybe the best beach in Santorini, the black pebble beach of Kamari, the white beach, and red beach.

Age Definition: Adults: Over 10 years old  (Full fare) Children: 3-10 years old  (50% discount) Infants: 0-2 years old  (Free of charge)

Booking Guiding Lines:

► Your Tour Language : Please check in the description which tour languages are available per day, and make sure your desired language is available on your chosen date ► Your Pick-up Point : Please check the list with all available pick-up points (and hours) from your area, on the table below

For the ones without transfer, meeting us at the boat, kindly note that you have to be at the port at least 1 hour prior to the departure .

PRICING This excursion includes in its price: Your transfer r/t from your hotel to the port of Heraklion, the cost of the cruise with all land arrangements on the island of Santorini. The Adult Fare is applied to passengers of any age above 10 years old. The Child Fare applies to children between 3 and 10 years old (50% discount + extra's if chosen) and the Infant Fare to any child under 3 years old (Free of Charge // No seat reserved).

PICK-UP TABLE Just to help you see which pick-up suits you best, here's a table of hotel accommodations and their nearest pick-ups:

LET US HELP! Please don't hesitate to  contact us , in order to help you out choose the best pick-up that suits you best!

ABOUT THE VESSEL

DISCLAIMER-NOTE : Depending on the time of the season, the sealine decides which boat will be making the trip.

CANCELLATION 1. Customers who for any reason fail to participate in our excursions are obliged to inform us at least 24 hours in advance. Otherwise, no refund will be given. Cancelling at least 24 hours prior to departure, 100% full refund! 2. VisitCrete.com reserves the right to alter or cancel any tour, due to adverse weather conditions or, insufficient passenger number or, force majeure.

IMPORTANT INFO ► We do return money in case of bad weather (when the excursion is canceled by the organizer tour operator). ► IMPORTANT: You need to be at least 10 minutes prior to your pick-up time at your pick-up point or 1 hour if meeting at the boat.

For further information or bookings please call at telephone No.  (+30) 2810341560

Need HELP?   Check if we are online & chat with us!

We LOVE to answer questions...

Santorini Day Trips from Crete | Book online now!

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Rethymno (Crete) - Santorini (Thira)

Including Children & Infants

Including Caravan & Trailers

SeaJets Schedules

From 04/05/2024.

Seajets H/S/C Elite Jet departures from Rethymno (Crete) to Santorini (Thira) and from Santorini (Thira) to Rethymno (Crete).

Timetable 2022

Timetable 2024.

The itineraries and fares are subject to change. For more up-to-date information, please refer to our Ferry Booking Engine

Pricelist 2022 Pricelist 2024 (in Euro €) Per person, per vehicle, per way

Book now with our company's assistance, ferries on the route.

Passenger / Car Ferry Catamaran High Speed Elite Jet

Santorini Island Day Trip from Rethymno

• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Transport by air-conditioned coach
• English – speaking Guide
• Round trip economy ferry ticket Crete-Santorini-Crete
• Gratuities (Optional)
• Personal expenses
• Entrance fees
• Hotel Lobby or nearby appointed location
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travelers can participate
• We offer the tour to Santorini from Rethymno Tuesdays and Saturdays, and from Heraklion Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays.
• Please notice that extra charges may apply per person or in total of the group for pick-ups from hotels- villas- airbnb outside the proximity of our tour selected pick route. In that case we can provide round trip transfer for customer(s) convenience ad-hoc quoted as per location of customer(s)' property.
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 100 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• You'll get picked up See departure details
• 1 Santorini Stop: 10 hours Cruise 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 neighboring 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 Thira lie like a white pearl necklace. After arriving in the harbor of the island the buses are waiting for you to explore the most famous places in Santorini. The journey will bring you to picturesque village of Oia and Thira and optionally visit the black beach of Perissa. In the early evening you will travel back to Crete. ** Highlights Picturesque white houses perched on the rocky hills of Oia Breathtaking views from the highest point on the island Leisurely downhill stroll from beautiful Imerovigli to Fira Traditional Greek settlements on a scenic island Free time to explore Fira at your own pace. Read more
• You'll return to the starting point

• mikujamussu 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Good dance show, mediocre food and nice Athens by night tour The dance show was good with many different kinds of local greek dances with traditional costumes. We were very happy with the performances. The food on the other hand was just ok and nothing special. But it didn't bother us, as the dance show was the most important thing for us. There was also a nice tour around the city before the dinner show. We were able to see the most famous monuments of Athens lit at night, which was beautiful and a nice activity for our first night in the city. Read more Written March 29, 2024
• Susee10 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great time Pirates cruise really enjoy it when to a little island where we had a BBQ nice food penalty of it. The pirates kept us entertained there was a bar on the boat which was reasonably priced. Great atmosphere would definitely recommend. Read more Written February 28, 2024
• 652alisonm 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Easy to get around Snorkelling was really good . Lovely clear water. Limited space for those that don’t want to hire sun-bed. Very easy to navigate island by the regular buses. Read more Written February 15, 2024
• patcS2046YC 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles LOVELY DAY OUT This walk was amazing and our guide was very informative. I would definitely recommend it for anyone who loves the outdoors. Read more Written December 22, 2023
• kateMariaS234 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Serene Pilgrimage Haven Tinos Island, part of the Cyclades in Greece, is a captivating destination known for its unique blend of spirituality, natural beauty, and cultural richness. Pilgrims and visitors alike are drawn to the renowned Panagia Evangelistria (Our Lady of Tinos) Church, a major pilgrimage site with a miraculous icon. The journey up to the church is marked by the ascent of the Holy Staircase, where many express their devotion through prayer and dedication. Beyond its religious significance, Tinos offers picturesque villages adorned with traditional white-washed buildings and cobblestone streets. The island's landscapes are diverse, featuring rugged mountains, lush valleys, and golden beaches, providing a varied and stunning backdrop for exploration. Tinos is also celebrated for its vibrant arts scene. The town of Pyrgos is known for its marble sculptures, and the island hosts an annual art festival, showcasing a rich cultural tapestry. Whether one seeks spiritual solace, natural serenity, or a taste of authentic Greek culture, Tinos stands as a multifaceted gem in the Aegean Sea, inviting travelers to discover its unique charm and character. Read more Written November 21, 2023
• irene v 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Guide with broad knowledge Very informative tour on Greek history and modern culture, Thessaloniki and of course accompanied by delicious street food. Read more Written November 15, 2023
• W4300EQkevink 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A great guide makes a great tour Another "Tours by Locals" tour that was excellent. Our guide, Nota, was very enthusiastic and knew so much about the sights and the history that it was like being taught by your favorite teacher. The tour itself included the area around the Acopolis as well as the Acropolis Museum itself. Very ,very impressive. Quite a bit of walking and steps, but not so bad. The pace of the tour was very relaxed, and Nota made sure we were comfortable. Read more Written November 13, 2023
• Companion25393306791 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Lovely day out! The trip was overall a very lovely day out, all travel was well organised!! We got picked up from near our hotel at the right time and were welcomed onto the trip by our guide who was amazing! We then got the boat over to Nisyros which was a lovely boat trip, we arrived in the village of Mandraki where we got free time, however they wasen’t much to do however so didn’t need much free time we then got on bus to the volcano, had to pay €3 to get in, very smelly but amazing to see we walked down to the crater which was very cool. Had about 40mins and volcano which was a perfect amount of time before we got back on bus and then boat back to kos and another transfer back to our hotel! Read more Written November 5, 2023
• 474kaydencej 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Stunning The views were amazing and I loved the horses! It was the perfect amount of time and beautiful time of day. Be prepared to be sore the next day! Read more Written October 28, 2023
• OnAir821721 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Worth it The tour guide was very informative and friendly. It was worth it . The bad part is they don't pick you up at your hotel and this tour made us walk back to the pickup point. Read more Written October 22, 2023
• narfnotlob 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Such a terrific day! We had a wonderful day on this day cruise. Staff were great and made everyone feel welcome and safe on their boat. Pl;enty of time to enjoy each stop. Barbecue lunch was so delicious. All in all, we really enjoyed our day cruise. Read more Written October 22, 2023
• Raul R 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Worst tour ever by far It says it start at 8 pm. It started at 9:15 pm The tour guide, while speaking thru the mic, it was impossible to hear her. People asked to speak louder and it was still bad We were packed in a locale like sardines. There was absolutely no room even to eat White wine was warm. I am absolutely positive that a fire department of any county in the US would shut down the place due to lack of security/safety. A few positives: good show but not great and good food but not great either. If you want to waste your money, this would be a fabulous way to do it Read more Written October 21, 2023
• B4748STjohnb 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Could not go due to storm that lasted for 3 days We were looking forward to this trip but due to extreme weather the trip was cancelled at the last minute. The whole area was shut down and we were not allowed to leave our hotel. Could not rearrange as we were due to go home before the tour could be resheduled. Read more Written October 20, 2023
• Z492FProsemarys 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Athens by foot. Our tour guide Dulce was wonderful. She was punctual and professional… very experienced and knowledgeable… it was lovely to walk at a reasonable pace, never feeling rushed. She was very personable without being intrusive…. It felt like being with family. Lovely day. Read more Written October 18, 2023
• sophieannenicol 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A must do in Paros! SO. MUCH. FUN. the best way to see the highlights of Paros and enjoy the gorgeous Greek waters. The staff were lovely, lunch was delicious and the day felt like a dream. 10/10 recommend. Read more Written October 17, 2023

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Santorini Island Day Trip from Rethymno provided by MTM DMC Ltd - Greece

Daytrip to Santorini from Heraklion and Rethymno with Seajets!

One Day Tour from Crete to Santorini

The most magical Cycladic island is waiting for you to discover it!

An astonishing daytrip in numbers

Tour schedule.

Your experience starts from Crete with our luxurious high-speed vessels. At the ports of Heraklion or Rethymno, you can easily find our kiosk and our officer will exchange your voucher with Ferry tickets.

Discover Santorini

Santorini’s name is referred to the old cathedral of Santa Irene in the village of  Perissa. While most people still use the name Santorini, in the nineteenth century “Thera” was selected as the official name of the island.

A Lifetime Experience

Forget Santorini—This Underrated Greek Island Has It All

But if you look solely at the land itself, you might think you’re in an arid, coastal corner of the Middle East or Northern Africa —albeit one as fertile as the Nile Delta . (Crete, with its Mediterranean locale, supplies much of Europe with olives, grapes, cucumbers, tomatoes, zucchini, peppers, and more.) Perhaps it is Crete’s sheer size that allows it to take on these many faces and differentiate itself from white-painted islands like Santorini and Mykonos. A visit to those islands is perfect for the photobooks, but a visit to Crete is good for the story books. Not that there is any shortage of photos to be taken here. Trust us: Crete looks fantastic from every angle.

No two travelers have the same motivation for visiting Crete. For some, it’s the Minoan lore—one of Europe’s oldest major civilizations established nearly five millennia ago—and the ruins that come with such a visit. For others, it’s a chance to visit Greece but avoid the crowds of Athens, Santorini, etc. (while still getting a fair share of feta). Across Crete, travelers can hike, sail, swim, sun, wine, and dine, and even luxuriate at private resorts for a fraction of the cost of other Greek destinations. The island’s tallest peak is just 45 minutes by car from its most beautiful beach, and its core airports are an hour or three from most of Europe’s other capitals.

So if you want an island escape with historical layers, Crete has that. If you want recreation—from hiking to sailing to snorkeling—Crete has that. If you want wine, Crete has more than 70 family-owned vineyards. And if you want incomparable food… well, you know where we’re going with this. And you know where you’re going next: Here are some highlights to experience in Crete.

Best places for first timers to visit in Crete

The other must is a boat trip to Spinalonga island in the Elounda Bay, most easily reached from Agios Nikolaos , but also manageable from Heraklion . This ancient fortress served as a leper colony from 1903 to 1957 and is now uninhabited. The island also has pebbled beaches, so a visit can include both a fortress tour and some time relaxing by its shores.

Where to eat and drink like a local in Crete

As for the must-eat Cretan foods, you gotta start a few meals with dakos, which in execution look like a greek salad on soaked, open-faced rusk barley bread (though dakos is often served as a salad with crouton-style rusk cubes). It’s the oregano and capers that elevate it beyond your usual Greek salad. The next essential is kalitsounia, which are traditional fried appetizer pies. They can be open-faced or enclosed, similar to an empanada, and are typically topped or stuffed with cheese or spinach. Try them with honey for a sweet zing.

We dare you to try chochlioí boumpouristoí, a.k.a. fried snails, which are most popular in summer and well paired with tomatoes and thyme. But the kingpin is antikristo—yes, you read that right. This is a Cretan-style lamb spit-roast over a wire-caged flame. Chase any of it with zoumero, a moist chocolate cake drizzled in syrup and typically served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and as you pay the bill, take a tipple of raki. This pomace brandy is made from grapes and is upwards of 40% alcohol. Add an enthusiastic cheers (“Ya Mas!”) before you throw it back.

It’s reductive to suggest that any one Cretan restaurant is better than the next, and there is no shortage of options. But in terms of hospitality, ambiance, and a range of offerings, here are the best Cretan picks (rather than straight Greek) for the core cities.

In Heraklion, put Pasiphae atop your list for its traditional Minoan fare. You’ll find it on the outskirts of town near Knossos. Second to that is Peskesi for locally sourced, picture-perfect platters. In Chania, fancify things with Mon.Es ’s minimalist and purist take, or pick Kritamon for its unparalleled Cretan wine selection. As for Rethymno, Taverna Zisis is a generations-old family-style taverna, while To Parastratima serves up exquisite Cretan tapas. Lastly, in Agios Nikolaos, you’ve got the best slate of picks at the best prices, starting with Gioma Meze with its high-quality sea fare, as well as Ofou To Lo , where you can taste the catch of the day while gazing out over the sea where it was caught.

Nature and outdoor adventures in Crete

Hike to zeus’s birthplace or island hop around the island.

Gorges aside, more seasoned hikers might look to the White Mountains (Lefka Ori) themselves for a snow-capped victory. And if you like spelunking (and Greek lore to boot), then visit the Cave of Zeus (a.k.a. Psychro Cave/Dikteon Cave) in Lasithi, which is rumored to be Zeus’s birthplace. Many of the best beaches are secluded and pair a decent hike with a blue-expanse reward (see the next section for those).

Wine tasting is an ever-popular option in Crete, given the number of home-spun vineyards that span the island, primarily in Heraklion. For your own day trips and tasting tours, consider Scalarea Estate (with its own guest house ) or Lyrarakis just south of there.

In Crete, island hopping and sailing are also commonly sought-ought excursions—with stunning beaches (and activities like snorkeling) awaiting. Dia Island is the most common trip from Heraklion, typically visited by catamaran. Quiet Chrissi Island is popular from the southern shore (starting in Ierapetra), or you cansail to secluded beaches, like the popular Balos Lagoon via Kissamos in Chania.

Lounge on pink and white beaches

In Rethymnon, one of the best beaches is Preveli in the south, where palm groves line the Kourtaliotis River as it enters the sea. (Be ready to hike!) In Heraklion, head south to Agios Nikitas, a secluded oasis that requires a 16-kilometer drive off road (some might want to hire an expert to get there). And in Lasithi, Xerokambos (way out east) and Argilos (slightly west of Xerokampos) are top grade for their remoteness.

Crete hotels and other great places to stay

Now, hear us out: This visit is a terrific chance to stay at an all-inclusive retreat , too. We’re not suggesting you fly all the way to Crete to not explore the island, but it’s a great way to either settle in for a couple nights after a long-haul flight, or to wind down the trip with few logistics (not to mention, exquisite Cretan cuisine and private beaches). The easiest pick is Cretan Malia Park in Malia. You’d pay quadruple the asking price in rivaling islands or getaways, and few restaurants can compete with CMP’s onsite Mouries , serving up fare picked from the property’s own garden, as well as from nearby providers. And did we mention the private beach? (On top of that, it’s a family-friendly resort, if you’re traveling with kids.)

What to know before you go to Crete

Best times of the year to visit, crete’s time zone, the weather and climate, how to get around.

You can either base yourself out of one or two cities and make day trip excursions from there or rent a car and do a cross-island road trip. The island’s core cities are largely in the north, each an hour or two from one another, though its southern draws are of equal distance. Despite spanning all four regions, the south feels like its own region—almost by design, since the north is where most of the hotel-ized tourism takes place. Cretans seem to treasure the south (and its city of Ierapetra) for its general seclusion from the masses.

The currency

International adapters you’ll need.

Adam Hurly  is a contributor for Thrillist.