Santorini: Volcano Hike & Hot Springs Cruise from Fira Port

Summary

Hike Santorini’s volcano trails then swim in warm sulfur springs with local insight

You’ll hike Santorini’s active volcano with a local escort who shares stories as you walk its rocky trails, then dive off a traditional boat to swim through mineral-rich hot springs near Palea Kameni. Expect raw landscapes, salty air, laughter with fellow travelers—and memories that stick long after you rinse off the sulfur.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the volcano to smell like eggs before we’d even docked, but there it was—this weird, earthy tang that hit as our old wooden boat bumped against black rocks. Our guide, Maria, grinned at my wrinkled nose and said, “It means the volcano is alive.” She handed us our tickets (5€ for the entrance—bring cash) and warned us about the loose gravel on the path. I’d read about this Santorini volcano tour online but being here, boots crunching over ash and seeing little wisps of steam curling up from cracks… it felt more real than any photo.

The hike wasn’t too tough but I did have to stop a couple times—partly because of the sun (bring water!) and partly just to stare out at that caldera. The Aegean looked impossibly blue down below. Maria pointed out where the last big eruption happened; she even picked up a chunk of pumice and let us feel how light it was. There were people from all over—some chatting in Greek, others just quietly taking it all in. I liked that nobody rushed us at the top; we had time to wander around or just sit on a warm boulder for a bit. I still think about that view when things get noisy back home.

Afterwards we climbed back onto the boat (I nearly slipped—watch your step if you’re clumsy like me) and set off for Palea Kameni. The water changed color as we got closer—sort of rusty orange near the shore. Maria explained that’s from all the volcanic minerals. To get into the hot springs you have to jump off and swim maybe 30-50 meters. Not gonna lie, I hesitated (the water’s chilly at first), but once you reach those warm patches it’s like someone turned on an underwater heater. The sulfur smell sticks to your skin a bit—I didn’t mind though, felt kind of wild floating there with everyone laughing and splashing around.

We only had about half an hour in the springs before heading back toward Fira Old Port. My swimsuit still has faint yellow stains (Maria did warn us about that), but honestly, every time I see them I remember how raw and different this day felt compared to anything else on Santorini.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Santorini volcano hike and hot springs

• Board boat at Fira old port
• Arrive at Santorini volcano island
• Pay 5€ entrance fee
• Hike volcanic trails with guide
• Enjoy views from volcano summit
• Return to boat
• Sail to Palea Kameni island
• Swim 30-40 meters to hot springs
• Relax in thermal mineral waters
• Swim back to boat

Top questions

How hard is the Santorini volcano hike?

The hike is moderate with loose gravel; sturdy shoes are recommended and breaks are possible along the way.

Is swimming in Santorini's hot springs safe?

Swimming is safe for confident swimmers who can manage 30-50 meters from boat to shore; pool noodles are provided for support.

What should I bring for this day trip?

Bring sturdy shoes, water, sunscreen or a hat for hiking; wear a dark swimsuit due to sulfur stains in hot springs.

Are entry fees included in this tour?

The 5€ volcano entrance fee is not included; bring cash for payment upon arrival.

Can non-swimmers join the hot springs part?

The swim is best suited for strong swimmers; non-swimmers may stay on board during this portion.

How long do we spend at each stop?

You’ll spend about 1.5 hours hiking on the volcano and roughly 30 minutes at Palea Kameni hot springs.

Does this tour include lunch or drinks?

No lunch is included but there is a minibar onboard where you can buy water or snacks.

Where does this cruise start from?

The cruise departs from Fira Old Port; arrive early if taking the cable car or walking down.

What’s included

Your day includes guided hiking on Santorini’s volcano with expert insights from your escort, foam pool noodles for extra support while swimming at Palea Kameni’s hot springs, and all transport by traditional boat from Fira Old Port—plus plenty of time to soak up volcanic views before returning in the afternoon.