Santorini is a place that invites exploring with all your senses—stunning sunsets, whitewashed villages, volcanic beaches—and the best way to do this is with a private driver service. Unlike crowded buses or group tours, hiring a private driver offers flexibility, personalized attention, and the chance to visit hidden corners of the island at your own pace. For example, you can ask your driver to stop for an impromptu photo at the iconic Akrotiri Lighthouse or linger longer at the black-sand beaches. Plus, with the island’s winding roads and scenic viewpoints, having a local behind the wheel makes all the difference.
In this guide, we review the 11 best private driver services in Santorini, covering everything from half-day land tours to full-day sailing adventures. Whether you want to focus on historical sites, enjoy wine tastings, or indulge in a luxury yacht cruise, there’s a perfect option here for you.
Quick Overview
Our list features a variety of private tours and transportation options. You’ll find flexible, private land tours like the Santorini Private Land Tour With Local Driver, which can be customized to your interests, alongside luxurious private sailing cruises that include meals and drinks. Some services specialize in airport and port transfers, ensuring seamless arrivals and departures, while others offer full-day excursions to explore the island’s most famous sights and secret spots. Whichever you choose, these services help you see Santorini without the stress of navigation.
Below, we’ll take a detailed look at each offering, highlighting what makes them stand out and who they’re best suited for.
1. Santorini Private Land Tour With Local Driver

Starting with a highly rated option, the Santorini Private Land Tour With Local Driver scores a perfect 5.0 based on 242 reviews. For around $93.61 per person, you get a flexible, customizable tour lasting between 3 to 6 hours. What makes this tour stand out is the ability to craft your own experience, asking your driver-guide questions along the way. This is especially helpful if you want to understand the island’s history or culture as you go.
The itinerary includes must-see spots like Oia, famous for its sunset and photo opportunities, Imerovigli at the caldera’s highest point, and Megalochori’s charming alleys. You might also visit Perissa’s black-sand beach or indulge in local wine tastings at the wine museum. The driver will stop at scenic points that you select, making this a personalized, intimate experience.
Guests love how accommodating and knowledgeable the guides are, with many requesting specific drivers like Aris or Kostas for their trips. One reviewer noted, “He truly has a passion for what he does,” which highlights the genuine local insight you’ll receive.
Bottom Line: If you want a flexible, private experience with local insights and the ability to customize your journey, this tour offers excellent value and highly positive reviews.
2. Santorini Small-Group Catamaran Sailing Trip (BBQ, drinks, transfer)

At number 2, the Santorini Small-Group Catamaran Sailing Trip combines a scenic cruise with a personal touch. For about $150.61 per person, this roughly 5-hour tour is perfect for travelers seeking a mix of relaxation and adventure. It’s rated 5.0 based on 196 reviews, with many praising the friendly crew and delicious food.
This tour offers stops at the Red Beach and White Beach for swimming and snorkeling, plus a visit to the volcanic hot springs. The highlight is the onboard BBQ lunch with drinks, providing a true taste of the island’s flavors. The small group size means you’ll get plenty of attention, and hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics easy.
What makes this cruise special is its focus on experiencing Santorini’s stunning coastline from the water—something many visitors miss when just exploring on land. Guests often mention how the tour offers a unique perspective of the island’s beaches and volcanic features.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a relaxed, intimate sailing experience with good food and swimming opportunities in a scenic setting.
3. Santorini: Wine Tasting Tour to 3 Wineries with Transfer

For around $128, the Wine Tasting Tour to 3 Wineries offers an immersive experience into Santorini’s famous wine culture. Rated 4.6 from 416 reviews, this 3-hour tour takes you to some of the island’s top wineries, including Canava Roussos, Koutsoyannopoulos Wine Museum, and Venetsanos Winery.
The tour focuses on tasting wines unique to the region, with guides sharing insights into local winemaking traditions. You’ll explore the underground caves at the museum and enjoy a garden-like outdoor tasting area. The views over the caldera add a spectacular backdrop to each visit.
Guests appreciate the knowledge shared by local experts and the chance to sample authentic products in beautiful settings. This tour is ideal for wine lovers who want to combine cultural insights with scenic beauty.
Bottom Line: If you’re interested in the island’s wine heritage and want a guided, intimate taste of Santorini’s wineries, this tour offers great value and memorable experiences.
4. Private Arrival Transfer From Santorini Port To All Destinations

Travelers arriving at Santorini’s port will find this private transfer service invaluable. For $115.24 per person, you get a quick, 20-minute ride to your hotel or destination in a private, air-conditioned vehicle. This service has a perfect 5.0 rating from 64 reviews, emphasizing its reliability and convenience.
Pre-booking guarantees a driver will be waiting for you, avoiding the hassle of searching for taxis after a long journey. The vehicles are comfortable, Wi-Fi is provided, and the driver is friendly and professional. It’s a straightforward way to start your trip stress-free.
Many reviewers mention how helpful it was, especially with luggage or after delayed flights. It’s ideal for anyone who values ease and efficiency upon arrival.
Bottom Line: If you want a smooth, hassle-free start or end to your visit, this private transfer provides reliable service at a fair price.
5. Best of Santorini Private Half-Day Catamaran Cruise with transfer and meal

This high-end option is perfect for a special day on the water. For about $1,382.87 per group (up to 12 people), the Private Half-Day Catamaran Cruise combines luxury, privacy, and stunning scenery over 5 hours. It includes hotel pickup, a gourmet meal, and drinks, making it a true indulgence.
The itinerary features stops at Red Beach, White Beach, and the volcanic hot springs. You’ll also sail past the old port of Fira and take photos of the iconic caldera. What sets this apart is the exclusivity—your own crew, personalized service, and the ability to tailor your experience.
Guests describe it as the best way to truly enjoy Santorini’s coastline in style. The captain’s narration adds depth, and the meal onboard makes it a complete package.
Bottom Line: Ideal for honeymooners, couples, or families celebrating a special occasion who want a private, luxurious experience on the water.
6. Private transfer Port/Airport or any destination in Santorini

This versatile private transfer service is a budget-friendly option at just $23.74 per person. Covering journeys from port or airport to anywhere on the island, it offers a quick and reliable ride in a clean, Wi-Fi-enabled vehicle.
Rated 5.0 from 18 reviews, travelers highlight punctuality and helpfulness. Whether arriving late or departing early, this service ensures you won’t have to worry about hailing a cab or waiting in line.
It’s best suited for those with tight schedules or those who want to avoid the unpredictability of public transport. The service emphasizes comfort and efficiency, making it a popular choice.
Bottom Line: A practical, cost-effective option to ensure seamless transfers for your arrival or departure.
7. Santorini Private Daytime Sailing Cruise with Meal, Drinks & Transfer included

For those seeking a luxurious day on the water, this private sailing cruise offers full customization. At around $625.62 per person, it includes hotel pickup and a personal yacht experience over about 5 hours.
The itinerary features stops at Red Beach, White Beach, and allows for swimming in volcanic hot springs. The captain narrates the journey, sharing insights about the volcano and caldera. You can also relax with a homemade meal prepared on board, often using local ingredients.
Guests love how peaceful and private this trip feels, with personalized service that highlights Santorini’s natural beauty. It’s especially suited for travelers celebrating a special occasion or wanting an exclusive experience.
Bottom Line: If you are looking for a private, all-inclusive yacht day with flexibility and luxury, this cruise delivers in style.
8. Private transfer Port/Airport or any destination in Santorini

Similar to the earlier transfer service, this option ensures quick, private transportation for about $23.74 per person, with ratings of 5.0 from 18 reviews. It offers the same benefits of comfort, Wi-Fi, and punctuality for arrivals or departures.
Ideal for budget-conscious travelers or those needing a reliable ride between the port or airport and their hotel, especially if you have luggage. The driver’s professionalism and helpfulness are often praised by reviewers.
Bottom Line: Reliable, affordable, and flexible—this service makes your arrival or departure hassle-free.
9. Santorini Airport Private Transfer – Fast, Safe & Comfortable

For quick journeys from the airport, this private transfer offers a safe and comfortable ride for about $28.48 per person. Most travelers spend around 5 to 30 minutes in transit, depending on your destination.
Rated 5.0 from 14 reviews, it’s praised for timely pickups and friendly drivers. Many mention how it reduced stress after flights, especially with delayed arrivals.
It’s an excellent choice for anyone prioritizing speed and comfort, especially if arriving late or with tight connections.
Bottom Line: When time is tight, this efficient transfer ensures a smooth start to your trip.
10. Blue Dome And Oia Sunset Small Group Transfer

Combine a scenic tour with a romantic sunset in Oia with this small-group transfer for about 3.5 hours. It departs from Kamari or Fira and visits the famous Blue Dome in Firostefani before heading to Oia for sunset.
Rated 4.5 from 46 reviews, travelers enjoy the relaxed pace and the stunning views. The air-conditioned vehicle and knowledgeable guide make this a comfortable, informative experience.
It’s great for couples or small groups who want to see Oia without the hassle of arranging transportation themselves. The sunset views are often highlighted as unforgettable.
Bottom Line: A perfect choice for a romantic evening that combines sightseeing with breathtaking sunset views.
11. Akrotiri private tour, by licensed guide, with transfer

Ending our list is the Akrotiri Private Tour—a 1 hour 40 minutes to 2-hour visit to the ancient Minoan site. For $391.32 per group (up to 4), this tour offers an expert guide to unlock the mysteries of this well-preserved ancient settlement.
The tour includes exploring the ruins, from houses to frescoes, with insights into how the inhabitants lived nearly 4,000 years ago. The guide shares detailed information about Minoan architecture, society, and volcanic destruction.
Guests appreciate the personalized attention, with many describing their guide as knowledgeable and engaging. It’s ideal for history enthusiasts or travelers wanting a deeper understanding of Santorini’s ancient past.
Bottom Line: If you want an in-depth, private visit to Akrotiri with expert guidance, this tour provides a comprehensive and enriching experience.
How to Choose Your Private Driver Experience in Santorini
When selecting a private driver service, consider your budget, interests, and time constraints. For a flexible, full-day exploration, the Santorini Private Land Tour offers a personalized approach—great for first-time visitors. If sailing is your preference, the private catamaran trips or luxury yacht experiences provide unforgettable water-based adventures, ideal for celebrating special occasions.
Airport and port transfers are perfect if you want to bypass logistics headaches, especially if your schedule is tight. For wine lovers, the wine tasting tour offers a well-rounded experience of the island’s viticulture.
Booking early, especially during peak summer months, guarantees availability and peace of mind. Think about what you most want to experience—whether it’s sightseeing, sailing, or culture—and choose the service that best matches your pace, interests, and budget.
To sum it up, Santorini offers a wide range of private driver services to enhance your trip, from leisurely land tours to exclusive sailing cruises. For a gentle introduction, the Santorini Private Land Tour is hard to beat. For a romantic day on the water, consider the private yacht cruise. And if seamless logistics matter most, the reliable airport and port transfers are always a good choice. Booking early ensures you’ll secure your preferred experience and enjoy Santorini’s beauty without worry.