Santorini: Oia, Villages & Black Beach Shore Excursion

Summary

Oia blue domes, hidden villages and volcanic black sand beach in just a few hours

You’ll jump between postcard views in Oia and quiet village corners in Megalochori, taste volcanic grapes right off the vine, and end your day floating at Perivolos Black Beach—all with a local guide who knows every shortcut and story. This isn’t just ticking boxes; it’s feeling Santorini under your feet for real.

What’s the experience like?

We were still laughing about my attempt at pronouncing “Firostefani” when we stepped off the minibus. The air had that salty tang you only get on islands, and our guide—Maria, who grew up here—pointed out the famous blue dome before I even spotted it. She told us how locals repaint them every year before Easter. There was a faint smell of jasmine from someone’s garden, and I remember thinking how the white walls almost hurt my eyes in the sun. It’s funny, you see so many photos of Santorini but being there feels different—noisy with birds and scooters and people calling to each other in Greek.

Finikia was next—a quiet spot that didn’t feel like it was performing for anyone. We could see Oia from there, all stacked up like sugar cubes against the sky. Maria explained how families used to dig their homes into the rock to keep cool (and honestly, it did feel cooler there). Then Oia itself: yes, it’s busy, but somehow you find little pockets where it’s just you and those blue domes. I bought a lemonade from an old man who grinned when I tried to say “efcharistó.” The caldera view is as dramatic as everyone says—I still think about that silence when the wind dropped for a second and all you could hear were church bells far away.

The drive south took us past Koloubos volcano—Maria started telling us stories about eruptions but then got sidetracked by a joke about donkeys (she said they’re smarter than most tourists). Megalochori felt slower; we wandered cobbled lanes while a cat followed us half-heartedly. There was this old cave house with cool stone walls and a vineyard where they showed us how vines crawl close to the ground because of the wind. Someone handed me a grape straight from the vine—sweeter than I expected.

Last stop: Perivolos Black Beach. The sand really is black and kind of sparkly if you look close. We had just enough time for a swim—the water was colder than I thought but so clear—and then lunch at one of those beachside tavernas with plastic chairs sunk into the sand. Greek salad never tastes right anywhere else, does it? I left with salt on my skin and that sleepy feeling you get after swimming in the sea.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Santorini highlights and beach visit

• Visit blue-domed church in Firostefani
• Enjoy peaceful views in Finikia
• Explore Oia village and Venetian castle
• Drive past Koloubos volcano
• Stroll Megalochori village and vineyard
• Relax at Perivolos Black Beach

Top questions

How long is this Santorini shore excursion?

The tour lasts approximately 5 hours from pickup to drop-off.

Does this tour include Oia village?

Yes, you’ll have free time to explore Oia during the tour.

Is lunch included on this Santorini tour?

You’ll have free time for lunch at Perivolos Beach; food cost is not included.

Where does pickup happen for cruise passengers?

Pickup is at the top of the Cable Car connecting Santorini port to Fira town.

Are there stops for swimming during this day trip?

Yes, there’s time to swim at Perivolos Black Beach depending on schedule.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?

The tour involves walking and steps in Oia; it may not be ideal for limited mobility.

Will we visit any traditional villages besides Oia?

Yes, Finikia and Megalochori are both included on this itinerary.

Are infant seats or strollers allowed?

Specialized infant seats are available; strollers can be used as well.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup right at the top of Santorini’s Cable Car (easy if you’re coming off a cruise), bottled water to keep cool, plenty of commentary from your local guide or driver along each stop—from Firostefani’s blue domes through Megalochori’s vineyards—and comfortable transfers by air-conditioned minibus between villages and down to Perivolos Black Beach. You’ll also get complimentary extra time if needed due to cruise changes plus free moments for lunch or shopping before heading back.