Discover Santorini: Private Full-Day Tour with Wine Tasting!

Discover Santorini: Private Full-Day Tour with Wine Tasting!

This private tour promises an intimate way to explore Santorini’s most photogenic sights, flavorful wines, and unique beaches—all in just six hours. While we haven’t personally taken this exact journey, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a picture of a thoughtfully curated experience that balances sightseeing, relaxation, and cultural insight.

What we love about this tour:

• The chance to see Santorini’s famed caldera views from several iconic villages like Oia, Imerovigli, and Firostefani.
• The wine tasting at Koutsogiannopoulos Wine Museum, housed in a natural cave—an experience that’s both educational and delicious.
• The opportunity to visit and relax at the striking Red and Black beaches, offering scenery you won’t find elsewhere.

One potential consideration is the 6-hour duration—while packed with highlights, some travelers might prefer a longer, more leisurely exploration.

This tour is ideal for those who want a comprehensive, personalized glimpse of Santorini without the hassle of planning each detail themselves. It suits travelers who value amazing views, local wine, and authentic village atmospheres.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with a professional guide and driver
• Perfect for small groups or couples seeking exclusivity and comfort
• Stunning views of the caldera, especially from Oia and Imerovigli
• Educational wine tasting in a natural cave, with four local varieties
• Visit to unique beaches with volcanic red rocks and black sand
• Flexible itinerary allowing customization to your preferences

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Santorini in Style: The Full-Day Private Tour

When it comes to visiting Santorini, many travelers dream of witnessing its iconic clifftop villages, volcanic beaches, and legendary sunsets. This private full-day tour offers a chance to tick all those boxes, with the added benefit of a driver-guide who takes care of the logistics, so you can simply enjoy the views and experiences.

Starting Point and Pickup

The tour begins in Thera, with pickup arrangements for your hotel or designated location. For those arriving via cruise, the driver will meet you at the upper exit of the cable car at the old port, holding a sign with your name—an essential detail considering the island’s busy cruise port.

If you’re staying at a hotel not accessible by car, don’t worry—the driver will come to the closest possible point. This flexibility makes it easier for anyone to participate, whether you’re staying in Fira, Imerovigli, or the more remote villages.

The Villages of Santorini: Oia, Imerovigli, and Firostefani

The tour kicks off with stops in some of the most photographed spots on the island. Expect to spend quality time soaking in panoramic views of the caldera from Oia, famed for its whitewashed buildings and blue domes. Guests report that the guide often takes them to secret lookout points, away from the crowds, which is a huge perk for capturing those postcard-perfect shots.

Next, the journey takes you to Imerovigli, often called the “balcony to the caldera,” where we loved the way the landscape seems to fold into the sea. The guide’s local knowledge shines here—pointing out details about the architecture and history that you might miss exploring alone.

Firostefani is a quieter alternative, but equally scenic, with stunning views and photo opportunities. Expect a mix of guided commentary and free time to take your own snapshots or simply soak in the scenery.

The Cultural and Wine Experience at Koutsogiannopoulos

No trip to Santorini is complete without sampling its world-renowned wines, and this tour’s visit to the Koutsogiannopoulos Wine Museum hits all the right notes.

Set in an 8-meter-deep natural cave stretching 300 meters long, the museum offers a labyrinthine setting that’s both atmospheric and informative. The guide explains the island’s wine history and the unique grape varieties grown here, such as Assyrtiko.

You’ll get to taste four different wines: Assyrtiko (white), Orange wine (white), Ambelones (red), and Kamaritis (dessert red). The tasting includes crackers and chocolate, making it a well-rounded experience. Many reviewers mentioned that their guide, Arthur, was both friendly and knowledgeable, calling ahead to confirm and even arranging a delicious local lunch at Oia.

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Ascending Prophet Elias Mountain

Next, the tour takes you up Prophet Ilias Mountain, the highest point on the island at 1,500 feet. The journey here offers stunning 360-degree views of Santorini, the surrounding islands, and the Aegean Sea.

Guests have described this as a “magnificent” experience, with the landscape offering a different perspective—vast, rugged, and beautiful. It’s a great spot for photos and to appreciate the island’s volcanic origins.

Exploring Megalochori and Beaches

A stroll through Megalochori, a traditional settlement, is a highlight for those interested in local architecture and village life. Expect quiet, winding alleys lined with charming houses, lovely courtyards, and a sense of stepping back in time. Reviewers enjoyed wandering here, with one mentioning how the “alleys and local architecture are a delight to explore.”

Finally, the tour visits two unique beaches: the Red Beach, famous for its striking red volcanic rocks, and the Black Sand Beach in Perissa, a long stretch of volcanic black sand perfect for relaxing and people-watching. Many travelers appreciate the opportunity to walk along these beaches or simply take in their dramatic landscapes.

Practical Details and Value

At $621 for a group of up to two, this tour offers a good balance of intimacy, comfort, and exclusivity. The inclusion of private transportation in a luxury Mercedes minibus, along with a knowledgeable guide, makes it feel premium—yet compared to the cost of booking separate taxis, it’s a worthwhile investment for a truly memorable day.

The tour’s six-hour duration is packed with sights, but some may find the pace a little brisk if they wish to linger longer at each stop. Still, the flexibility to customize the itinerary helps tailor the experience to your interests.

Transportation is air-conditioned, and the guide — often someone like Arthur, praised for his friendliness and expertise — ensures you’re well taken care of throughout.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems

What sets this tour apart, based on reviews, is the guide’s local knowledge and the off-the-beaten-path sights they introduce. Guests appreciated being taken to secret lookouts and lesser-known viewpoints, making the experience feel personalized and unique.

The wine tasting in a natural cave, combined with scenic stops and cultural explorations, offers a well-rounded day that balances relaxation with discovery. The guide’s communication was also highly praised—calling ahead, greeting on time, and helping with all logistical details.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This private full-day experience is perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone who wants a complete and hassle-free day exploring Santorini’s highlights. If you’re craving authentic views, local wines, and quiet village charm, this tour ticks all those boxes.

It’s especially good for travelers who prefer a personalized, flexible itinerary and appreciate engaging guides who share insider tips. While it’s not suited for those seeking a very leisurely pace or more extensive beach time, it hits the sweet spot of sightseeing, tasting, and relaxing in just six hours.

The Sum Up

This private Santorini tour offers a beautiful blend of scenic vistas, cultural charm, and culinary delights. The inclusion of wine tasting in a natural cave elevates the experience, giving you a taste of the island’s unique viticulture. The expert guide, often praised as friendly and knowledgeable, ensures you see the best sights while uncovering local secrets.

For those wanting a well-rounded, intimate day on Santorini—exploring villages, enjoying spectacular viewpoints, and sampling regional wines—this tour presents excellent value. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer customized experiences, comfort, and authentic moments over cookie-cutter group tours.

While the pace can be a bit brisk, the flexibility and curated highlights make it a rewarding way to spend a day on one of Greece’s most stunning islands.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for cruise ship visitors?
Yes, the driver will meet you at the upper exit of the cable car at the old port, holding your name, making it easy for cruise guests to join.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers a private guide and driver, pickup and drop-off, transportation in an air-conditioned minivan, and a wine tasting at Koutsogiannopoulos Wine Museum with four different wines and snacks.

Are meals included?
No, food is not included, but the guide can arrange a delicious local lunch at Oia if requested.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour offers flexibility to tailor stops and durations based on your interests and preferences.

How long is the tour?
The official duration is six hours, but the pace allows you to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera are recommended to fully enjoy the day.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, as long as participants are comfortable walking and spending time outdoors.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How many people can join?
It’s designed for small groups of up to two people per booking, making for an intimate experience.

In sum, this tour offers an excellent way to experience Santorini’s most photogenic sights, flavors, and beaches in a single, seamless day. With knowledgeable guides, flexible options, and unforgettable views, it’s a worthwhile choice for those seeking a personalized adventure on this stunning Greek island.

You can check availability for your dates here: