Santorini ranks among Greece’s most photogenic and captivating islands, and it’s no surprise that guided tours are a favorite way to get the most out of your visit. Whether you want a private, customizable experience exploring villages like Oia and Imerovigli, or a wine tasting adventure among volcanic vineyards, Santorini offers a diverse range of memorable excursions. We’re especially fond of tours that combine authentic local insights with scenic beauty, such as the Santorini Private Sightseeing Tour, which hits all the highlights at your own pace. For a more active day, the Santorini Tour on Electric Bikes & Scooters offers a fun way to cover ground, soak in views, and enjoy the island’s landscape. With so many options tailored to different interests, there’s no reason not to explore Santorini beyond just snapping photos from the bus window.
Quick Overview
Our list of the best tours in Santorini covers a broad spectrum—from private full-day adventures that include villages, beaches, and caldera viewpoints, to small-group wine tours, photography sessions, and thrilling ATV rides. Whether you’re looking for an intimate experience or an active way to explore, each tour is chosen for its balance of authenticity, value, and memorable moments. For example, the Full-Day Private Tour of Santorini Caldera offers flexibility to customize your day, while the Experience Santorini: Wine Tasting Small Group Tour delivers a rich tasting adventure perfect for wine lovers.
1. Santorini: Private Sightseeing Tour
At number 1, this Private Sightseeing Tour is perfect if you want a tailored experience. It lasts 4 to 6 hours and offers the flexibility to visit Oia, Firostefani, Imerovigli, and several beaches, all with panoramic views. Your private guide will take you to scenic spots like Profitis Ilias and the red and black sand beaches, which are often missed on larger tours. Reviewers praise the guide’s flexibility—”Arthur was our driver/guide and he was wonderful,” says one, highlighting how personalized attention makes all the difference. This tour is ideal for travelers who want to control their pace and see the island’s top sights without the rush. The private format makes it worth the higher price, especially if you’re traveling with a small group or honeymooning.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking a flexible, intimate way to see Santorini’s must-see spots with expert guidance.
2. Santorini Private Land Tour With Local Driver
Number 2 is the Private Land Tour With a Local Driver, which emphasizes customization and local insights. For around $93.61 per person, you build your own itinerary while visiting highlights such as Oia, Megalochori, and the Perissa Black Sand Beach. This tour offers the chance to stop for photos, ask questions, and explore places like the Akrotiri Lighthouse. Many guests appreciate how flexible the stops are—“Kostas took us to see Prophet Elias Monastery, Red Beach, and more,” says one reviewer. Its small-group/private format makes it suitable for travelers who want to avoid crowded tours and dive deep into specific sights.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice if you want a customizable tour with a knowledgeable driver and the option to pause for photos and local experiences.
3. Experience Santorini: Wine Tasting Small Group Tour
Number 3 is the Wine Tasting Small Group Tour, which is ideal for wine enthusiasts. Over roughly 4 hours, you’ll visit three renowned wineries, including a vineyard tour at Estate Argyros, sampling 12–14 wines paired with local olives, cheese, and salami. The tour features hotel pickup, making it hassle-free, and is capped for a more intimate experience. Reviewers note that guides are extremely knowledgeable—“Muriel was so passionate and made the tasting fun,” a guest comments. This tour is perfect for those who want to combine cultural insight with tasting some of Greece’s best volcanic wines, making it a great value at $185.37 per person.
Bottom Line: Best suited for wine lovers eager to explore Santorini’s unique vineyards with expert guidance.
4. Personal Travel and Vacation Photographer Tour in Santorini
Number 4, the Photographer Tour, is perfect if capturing your trip matters. For groups up to 8, a professional photographer will guide you through iconic spots like Oia and Imerovigli while snapping high-quality photos. After the shoot, you’ll get a gallery of edited digital images—no more blurry cell phone shots in front of crowds. Reviews highlight the professionalism—“Max guided us to incredible photo spots and the pictures turned out beautifully.” This is an excellent choice for couples celebrating an anniversary, families, or anyone wanting professional images without busy street photos. The 1-3 hour experience offers a unique way to remember your trip authentically.
Bottom Line: A memorable way to get stunning photos while exploring Santorini’s most picturesque sites.
5. Santorini Tour on Electric Bikes & Scooters
Number 5 is the Electric Bikes & Scooters Tour, a fun, active way to cover ground. In just 3 hours, you’ll pedal through villages like Castelli and Megalochori, passing windmills and vineyards, with the e-bike providing a battery boost on hills. Raving reviews mention the balance of effort and scenery—“We got to see back roads and enjoy panoramic views without breaking a sweat,” says one rider. It’s perfect for active travelers or those who want an adventure with flexibility. The small group size and the option to stop for local tasting or coffee make it a well-rounded experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers wanting a hands-on, scenic tour of Santorini’s quieter, authentic spots.
6. Full-Day Private Tour of Santorini Caldera & The Most Famous Sightseeing
Number 6, the Full-Day Private Tour of Santorini Caldera, offers a comprehensive way to see everything in one day. It’s perfect for first-timers or those short on time. Your private guide will take you from Firostefani to Oia, sandy beaches, and the highest point on the island—all customized to your interests. Reviewers say, “We saw many sights with comfortable transportation and a friendly guide,” emphasizing the private, flexible nature. It’s an excellent value for a private experience that includes scenic views, village visits, and even the sunset over the caldera. The tour’s tailored approach makes it a top pick for those who want to maximize their day.
Bottom Line: The best option for a personalized, all-in-one Santorini experience without feeling rushed.
7. Private Tour: Santorini Panorama SUV Adventure
Number 7 takes you off the beaten path with a Panorama SUV Adventure. This 5-hour private tour in a luxury SUV explores hidden viewpoints, Oia, and the monastery of Prophet Elias—the island’s highest point. Reviewers love the local driver’s passion and knowledge, with “Theodore made our trip unforgettable,” highlighting how this tour offers both scenic vistas and personalized storytelling. It’s especially suited for families or friends who want a comfortable, private experience with a touch of adventure. The off-road option allows access to lesser-visited spots, making it a standout choice for explorers.
Bottom Line: A luxurious, flexible way to see Santorini’s best views and learn about its culture with a private guide.
8. Semi-Private Fishing Tour (transportation included)
Number 8 is a semi-private Fishing Tour, perfect for seafood lovers. Over 5 hours, you’ll help catch fish, shrimp, or octopus aboard a traditional wooden boat, then enjoy a freshly grilled seafood lunch on board. It’s a true local experience—“The crew grilled our catch, and it was delicious,” reports one reviewer. The tour includes snorkeling, swimming, and photo stops at volcanic cliffs, making it both active and relaxing. Perfect for groups wanting a hands-on adventure with culinary rewards. It’s capped at 10 people, ensuring a personal touch.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a mix of fishing, sightseeing, and fresh seafood in a small-group setting.
9. Santorini: 4hr Private First Impressions Tour
Number 9 offers a First Impressions Tour, also private. In 4 hours, you’ll visit Oia, Pyrgos, and Kamari Beach, with the flexibility to customize your stops. Guests mention that “Agathe was an amazing guide with a passion for the island,” and the tour is praised for personalized attention and covering the essentials efficiently. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want a private introduction to Santorini’s highlights. The customizable itinerary ensures you see what interests you most, whether it’s iconic villages or scenic spots.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for first-time visitors who want a tailored, private overview without the full-day commitment.
10. Santorini 5 Hours Sightseeing Tour
Number 10 is the 5-Hour Sightseeing Tour, a great option for those wanting a guided but efficient overview. It includes Imerovigli, Oia, and a visit to the highest mountain for panoramic views. Reviewers appreciate the knowledgeable guide—“George showed us the major sights and shared interesting stories,” says one. The tour includes black sand beaches and stops that highlight the island’s architecture. At 115 per person, it offers a solid value for a half-day adventure that balances scenery with cultural insights.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers seeking a guided highlight tour that packs the essentials into a manageable timeframe.
11. Santorini: Small Group Sightseeing Tour with a Local Guide
Number 11 is a Small Group Tour, which takes you through Oia, Firostefani, Megalochori, and Perivolos Beach. It combines guided visits with free time for lunch or swimming. Guests love the “informative and engaging guide,” emphasizing the personalized attention in a small group of mostly 4-8 people. The itinerary covers major villages, scenic views, and the Black Sand Beach. This tour is perfect if you want a balance of guided exploration and flexible downtime. At 252 reviews and high ratings, it’s a reliable choice for those who want a comprehensive yet relaxed experience.
Bottom Line: Suited for travelers who want a thorough but relaxed sightseeing day with a small-group vibe.
12. Santorini: ATV-Quad Experience Tour + Transportation
Number 12 offers the ATV-Quad Experience, a thrilling way to explore the diverse terrain of Santorini. Over 3.5 hours, you’ll ride through volcanic landscapes, narrow streets, and vantage points like the Venetian castle. Reviewers highlight the fun and freedom—“We loved zooming around the island and stopping at scenic viewpoints.” It suits adventurous travelers who want a hands-on experience with minimal fuss. The tour is capped at 6 people, ensuring safety and personal attention. It’s an excellent way to see off-the-beaten-path spots while having a blast.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting an exhilarating, flexible way to see Santorini’s landscapes.
13. Wine Tasting Tour to 3 Wineries with Transfer
Number 13 is the Wine Tasting Tour to 3 Wineries, focusing on local vineyards like Canava Roussos and Venetsanos. Over 3 hours, you’ll explore each winery, learning about Santorini’s winemaking traditions and tasting eight different wines. Many reviews mention the beautiful settings and friendly guides—“It was a great opportunity to learn about the island’s wine history,” notes one guest. The tour offers a well-paced experience for wine enthusiasts, with guided visits, tastings, and a chance to relax in picturesque environments. At $128 per person, it’s a good value for a focused wine experience.
Bottom Line: A must-do for wine lovers eager to explore Santorini’s distinctive volcanic wines in a relaxed setting.
14. Wine Stories: Daytime Tour with Tasting & Lunch
Number 14 is the Wine Stories Tour, combining wine tasting, cultural insights, and local cuisine. Over 4 hours, you’ll visit two traditional wineries and sample eight wines paired with a local lunch. Reviewers praise the informative guide and delicious food—“It was a full sensory experience,” says one. The tour emphasizes storytelling about the island’s wine history, making it engaging and educational. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want a comprehensive culinary experience while learning about Santorini’s unique terroir. At $177.74 per person, it offers good value for a mix of tasting and culture.
Bottom Line: Best suited for food and wine enthusiasts who want a detailed, flavorful journey.
How to Choose the Best Tour in Santorini
When selecting the right tour, consider your budget, time, and personal interests. For a luxurious, private experience that covers everything in a day, the Full-Day Private Tour is hard to beat. If you’re a wine lover, the Wine Tasting Small Group Tour or Wine Tour to 3 Wineries will delight your palate. For those who prefer active exploration, the Electric Bikes & Scooters Tour or the ATV Quad Experience offer a fun, energetic way to see the island.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred time slot. Tailor your choice based on whether you want private or small-group settings, and consider combining a photo tour or fishing trip if those unique experiences appeal.
In summary, Santorini offers a rich variety of tours that suit different styles—from private, personalized adventures to active, scenic excursions and culinary journeys. Whether you’re a first-time visitor seeking an overview or a returning traveler wanting to dive deeper, these options help you experience more than just postcard views. For a memorable trip, pick a tour that matches your interests, book early, and enjoy all that this stunning island has to offer.