Thirassia Island Private Tour With Lunch From Santorini

Thirassia Island, a picturesque destination off the coast of Santorini, offers visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy the island’s serene ambiance and rich cultural heritage. This 5-hour private tour provides a seamless journey, transporting guests from the charming Ammoudi Bay to the island’s breathtaking landscapes. Whether one chooses to climb the 180 steep steps to the charming village of Manolas or opt for a more leisurely donkey ride, the tour promises an unforgettable experience, complete with a traditional Greek lunch and ample time to explore the island’s arid hillsides and stunning sea views.

This experience made our list of the 23 Best Lunch Experiences In Santorini.

Key Points

• 5-hour private small-group tour from Santorini to explore the picturesque Thirassia Island, including a 20-minute boat ride and local lunch.
• Tour includes visits to Manolas village, abandoned cave houses, and local gardens, providing an immersive experience in Thirassia’s traditional community life and natural landscapes.
• Moderate fitness level required due to 180 steep steps, with a donkey ride option available for those preferring not to climb.
• Lunch features homemade wine and a selection of authentic Greek dishes, served in a tranquil church courtyard setting.
• Tour highlights stunning sea views and the captivating Cycladic architecture of Thirassia, showcasing the island’s unique heritage and unspoiled charm.

Tour Overview

The private 5-hour small-group tour from Santorini to Thirassia Island offers visitors a chance to explore the island’s arid hillsides, quaint villages, abandoned cave houses, terraced vineyards, and lush local gardens.

Included in the tour are local taxes, bottled water, a homemade wine-accompanied traditional Greek lunch in a charming church courtyard, and gratuities.

After a 20-minute boat ride from Ammoudi Bay, guests will climb 180 steep steps to the village of Manolas, where they can witness the island’s colorful cubic houses and stunning sea views.

For those who prefer, a donkey ride up the steps is available for an additional charge.

Itinerary and Activities

Departing from Ammoudi Bay, visitors embark on a 20-minute boat ride to reach the island of Thirassia.

Upon arrival at Korfos port, they’ll have the option to climb 180 steep steps to the hilltop village of Manolas or take a donkey ride for an additional charge.

Once in Manolas, they’ll enjoy the traditional community life, admiring the colorful cubic houses and taking in the stunning sea views.

The tour allows guests to explore the arid hillsides, villages, abandoned cave houses, terraced vineyards, and local gardens, providing a glimpse into the island’s unique culture and natural landscapes.

Meeting and Pickup Information

Pickup for the tour is available from any accommodation in Santorini or guests can meet the group at the Ammoudi Bay port. The tour ends back at the original meeting point. This provides flexibility for participants to join the excursion in the most convenient way.

The tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness, as it involves climbing 180 steep steps to Manolas. However, a donkey ride is available for an additional charge for those who prefer not to climb the stairs. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Confirmation is received at the time of booking, unless the reservation is made within 1 day of the travel date.

Tour Requirements and Restrictions

A moderate physical fitness level is required for this tour, as it involves climbing 180 steep steps to reach the village of Manolas.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. Participants must be at least 18 years old, as the minimum drinking age is 18.

Confirmation of the booking is received at the time of booking, unless the tour is within one day of travel.

The tour provides bottled water, a traditional Greek lunch, and gratuities are included.

Customer Reviews

The Thirassia Island Private Tour boasts an impressive 5.0 rating from 6 reviews, with 5 reviewers awarding it a full 5 stars and only 1 reviewer giving it a single star.

The positive feedback highlights several key aspects of the tour:

1. The knowledgeable and engaging guide, Agatha, who provided insightful historical and cultural information.

2. The breathtaking scenery, including arid hillsides, picturesque villages, and stunning sea views.

3. The enjoyable lunch experience, featuring homemade wine and traditional Greek cuisine served in a charming church courtyard.

4. The overall recommendation of the tour for its ability to offer a glimpse into the island’s rich heritage and natural beauty.

Explore Arid Hillsides and Villages

Upon arriving at Korfos port, visitors embark on a journey filled with awe and discovery as they climb the 180 steep steps to the charming village of Manolas.

Here, they’re immersed in the traditional community life, surrounded by colorful cubic houses and stunning sea views.

Exploring the arid hillsides and villages, guests witness the rugged, untamed beauty of Thirassia Island.

They wander through abandoned cave houses, terraced vineyards, and local gardens, gaining insights into the island’s rich history and cultural heritage.

This intimate exploration offers a glimpse into the authentic, unspoiled way of life that has endured on this captivating Greek island.

Enjoy Traditional Greek Lunch

After exploring the arid hillsides and villages, the tour group gathers in the courtyard of a local church for a delightful traditional Greek lunch.

The meal features homemade wine from the region, as well as a selection of typical Greek dishes, such as:

1. Dolmades (stuffed grape leaves)
2. Tzatziki (yogurt-cucumber dip)
3. Moussaka (eggplant and ground meat casserole)
4. Baklava (flaky phyllo pastry with nuts and honey)

The tranquil setting and the chance to savor authentic local flavors make this dining experience a highlight of the Thirassia Island tour, providing a genuine taste of Greek culture and hospitality.

Stunning Sea Views From Manolas

From Korfos port, visitors ascend 180 steep steps to reach the picturesque village of Manolas.

Perched atop the island’s dramatic cliffs, Manolas offers breathtaking panoramic views of the sparkling Aegean Sea. The whitewashed cubic houses, characteristic of traditional Cycladic architecture, line the winding streets, creating a charming and authentic atmosphere.

Visitors can wander through the quaint village, admiring the stunning scenery and getting a glimpse into the traditional way of life on Thirassia.

The option to ride a donkey up the steps provides a more leisurely way to experience the climb, allowing guests to fully enjoy the island’s captivating landscapes and seascapes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Is the Boat Ride to Thirassia Island?

The boat ride to Thirassia Island from Ammoudi Bay takes approximately 20 minutes. Travelers can expect to board a boat and make the short journey across the sparkling waters to reach this scenic island destination.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

The tour does not allow participants to bring their own food and drinks. All meals and beverages are provided as part of the tour package, which includes a traditional Greek lunch with homemade wine at a local church courtyard.

Is There an Opportunity to Explore the Island on My Own?

Yes, the tour includes time for guests to explore Thirassia Island on their own. After arriving at Manolas, visitors can wander the village’s historic streets, discover local shops and gardens, and take in the stunning sea views at their own pace.

What Types of Traditional Greek Dishes Are Served for Lunch?

The traditional Greek lunch on the tour features homemade wine and typical local dishes like moussaka, tzatziki, dolmades, and horiatiki salad. These authentic Mediterranean flavors are served in the peaceful setting of a church courtyard.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Costs Not Included in the Tour Price?

The tour price includes local taxes, bottled water, lunch, and gratuities. There don’t appear to be any additional fees or costs mentioned in the overview, though a donkey ride up the steps to Manolas is available for an additional charge.

Recap

The Thirassia Island Private Tour with Lunch from Santorini offers an immersive five-hour experience, showcasing the island’s breathtaking scenery and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the charming village of Manolas, savor a traditional Greek lunch, and soak in stunning sea views. With a scenic boat ride and optional donkey transport, this tour provides an unforgettable glimpse into Thirassia’s authentic island lifestyle.