1/2 d Oia & Fira (4hrs)

After disembarking from your ship, a short tender boat ride will bring you to the port where you'll need to independently take the cable car (ticket included) up the mountain to meet your private transportation and escort for a half day shore excursion in Santorini, visiting Oia and Fira. The traditional settlement of Oia is located on the northern tip of the island, high on the cliff-top. Oia boasts some of the most magnificent views on Santorini and a picturesque road, with cliffs on one side and sea on the other, leads to this attractive town. Directly below the village is the beach of Ammoudi and across the bay are the Burnt Islands. Ammoudi, accessible only by foot, is 214 steps below, and Armeni beach is 286 steps below.  The architecture of Oia is typical Santorini with houses sunk deep into the volcanic soil, their whitewashed walls and blue domes sparkling in the sunlight. Ia today hosts a cultural centre, a central art gallery and many other Greek art galleries. Many shops sell handicrafts, souvenir, jewellery and other items to help visitor remember the village. From here, continue on to Fira, the capital of the island and the most important village. After the earthquake of 1956 a part of the town was destroyed (only a small part of the 18th century buildings were saved). The town is perched on the edge of an impressive cliff 260m high and offers a great panorama over the submerged volcano. It is made of many white painted houses in stepped streets with blue domed churches and sun-bathed verandas. Enjoy some free time to explore this unique village and experience the outstanding shopping to be found before being returned to the cable car area for independent return to ship (return ticket included).