Best of Santorini Full-Day Private Guided Tour

Planning a day on Santorini and want to see the island’s highlights without the hassle of navigating on your own? This private full-day tour offers a balanced mix of history, breathtaking scenery, charming villages, and local wine, all guided by knowledgeable locals. With a flexible itinerary tailored to your interests, it’s perfect for travellers who prefer comfort and insider insights over crowded group tours.

We love that this experience includes custom pickup, private transportation, and the chance to explore at your own pace. The tour hits the must-see spots like Oia, Akrotiri, and Prophet Ilias, while also offering some hidden gems like quiet viewpoints and local villages. The only thing to keep in mind is that it’s a long day — about 7.5 hours — so it’s best suited for active travelers or those comfortable with a packed schedule.

This tour might not be ideal for mobility-impaired visitors, but for those eager to maximize their time on Santorini, it’s an excellent choice. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning as a seasoned island lover, you’ll find this trip offers a well-rounded, authentic experience and plenty of opportunities for stunning photos and memorable moments.

Key Points

• Flexible, private experience with a customizable itinerary tailored to your interests
• Expert local guides enhance your understanding and access to top sights
• Stunning views of the Caldera, beaches, and island landscapes
• Visit both iconic and lesser-known spots, from Oia’s sunset views to Emporio’s historic charm
• Includes wine tasting at Venetsanos Winery, adding a flavorful local touch
• Value for money considering private transport, entry fees, and personalized attention

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins with hotel or villa pickup in Thera, the island’s main town, with the driver and guide ready to whisk you across Santorini in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. The private nature of this tour means no waiting around for other groups — your guide, whether it’s Kostas, Yannis, or George, will focus solely on your interests.

Traveling in a private van allows for a relaxed pace as you hop from one sight to the next, with short stops in strategic locations. From the outset, reviewers note the comfort and knowledge of the guides make all the difference — “Very knowledgeable and accommodating,” says Che Mokhtar. This personalized approach is perfect if you want to skip the busy crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience.

Visiting Akrotiri Excavations

One of the tour’s main highlights is the Akrotiri Archaeological Site. This Bronze Age city, preserved by volcanic ash, offers a rare glimpse into ancient life, and some even suggest it could be the inspiration behind Atlantis. Expect to see multi-storied buildings, detailed wall paintings, and sophisticated drainage systems that showcase a thriving civilization more than 3,600 years ago.

The experience here is both educational and awe-inspiring. You’ll get a sense of the scale and prosperity of the ancient settlement, with your guide explaining the significance of each discovery. Che Mokhtar highlights that “it’s worth the early start to beat the crowds,” and this stop definitely offers a sense of walking through history.

Beaches: Red and Black Sands

After exploring ancient ruins, the tour makes stops to admire Santorini’s striking beaches. The Red Beach is famous for its dramatic cliffs and crimson sands, which look like they belong on a postcard. It’s a perfect spot for photos, and you’ll get a good view even if you don’t plan to set foot on the sand.

Next up is Perivolos Black Beach, the largest on the island, covered with volcanic black pebbles that contrast stunningly with the bright blue waters. This beach is perfect for a quick dip or just relaxing and soaking in the scenery. Many reviewers appreciate the opportunity to see these iconic beaches without the hassle of navigating themselves, and some even enjoy an optional seaside lunch to fuel their explorations.

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Exploring Villages: Emporio, Pyrgos, and Imerovigli

The journey continues into Emporio, the largest village, with its historic windmills and Byzantine ruins. Walking through its narrow streets offers a glimpse into traditional island life away from the tourist crowds. As Sarina recalls, “Kostas knew the best spots for photos and secrets about the island,” reinforcing how a knowledgeable guide can unlock hidden corners.

From Emporio, you’ll ascend to Prophet Ilias, the highest point on Santorini. From here, the views are panoramic — a 360-degree vista of the caldera, neighboring islands, and volcanic landscape. The nearby monastery adds a spiritual touch, with its ornate architecture perched atop the mountain. The highlight for many is Skaros Rock, once a pirate lookout and now a dramatic viewpoint.

A walk through Pyrgos — the island’s old capital — takes you along winding paths toward the Venetian castle ruins, offering yet another perspective on Santorini’s layered history. Reviewers love the less crowded atmosphere of Pyrgos, which feels authentic and quiet compared to Oia.

Wine Tasting at Venetsanos Winery

No visit to Greece is complete without sampling local wines, and the Venetsanos Winery provides just that. Here, you’ll learn about the island’s winemaking traditions and enjoy tastings of Santorini’s renowned wines. The winery is situated on a hillside with spectacular views, so it’s a perfect spot for relaxing and savoring the flavors.

Guests often rave about the quality of the wines and the friendly, informative guide who makes the experience engaging. This stop adds a delicious layer to the day, especially if you’re a wine lover or eager to learn more about Greece’s viticulture.

Final Stops: Firostefani and Oia

Before wrapping up, the tour makes a quick stop in Firostefani to see the iconic Blue Dome Church — one of the most photographed sites on Santorini. From here, views of the caldera are postcard-perfect, and it’s a great photo op for your collection.

The last leg takes you to Oia, the most famous village on the island. Built into volcanic niches on the caldera rim, Oia is a maze of charming streets, boutique shops, and breathtaking sunset vistas. Reviewers like Paul mention that their guide, George, “took us everywhere, letting us spend as much time as we wanted,” which is a real plus for those seeking flexibility.

Many travelers find Oia to be the highlight, especially for its stunning sunset, unique architecture, and vibrant art scene. The views here are truly unforgettable, and wandering through Oia’s narrow alleyways offers countless photo opportunities.

Practical Details and Value

At $676 per group (up to 18 people), this tour offers excellent value considering the private transportation, guide, and entrance fees included. The fact that you can customize the route and spend as much time at each stop as you wish makes it ideal for travelers wanting a personalized, relaxed experience.

The 7.5-hour duration means you’ll cover a lot of ground, but the private setting helps keep it comfortable. Reviewers note that the guides’ knowledgeable insights and friendly manner make the long day enjoyable rather than exhausting.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience suits first-time visitors who want an overview of Santorini’s main sights without the stress of planning or crowded bus tours. It’s also perfect for romantic couples, families, or small groups of friends seeking a personalized day out. If you’re someone who appreciates expert guidance, stunning vistas, and local stories, this tour will satisfy those desires.

The Sum Up

For the value of a private day exploring Santorini’s most iconic sights, this tour hits all the right notes. You get to see ancient ruins, picturesque villages, volcanic beaches, and sample local wines, all with a private guide who personalizes the experience. The route is thoughtfully curated to balance popular landmarks with quieter, authentic spots, making it ideal for travelers who want depth and flexibility.

If you’re after a relaxed, insightful, and scenic exploration of Santorini with the comfort of private transport, this tour is well worth considering. It’s especially good for those who want a meaningful experience beyond the typical group excursion, with plenty of opportunities for photos, learning, and savoring local flavors.

Who is this tour best suited for?

Travelers who value private, customizable experiences; those eager to see both famous and hidden spots; and anyone looking for a comfortable, guided day without the hassle of self-driving or crowded buses. It’s an excellent choice for those who want a well-rounded introduction to Santorini — full of stunning views, local stories, and memorable experiences.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for large groups?
Yes, the tour can accommodate up to 18 people, but it is designed for private groups, so you’ll have your own guide and vehicle.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes, a sun hat, and a camera are recommended to make the most of the day, especially for walking through villages and taking photos.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, entrance fees to sites like Akrotiri are not included, and food and drinks are optional unless specified. The winery visit is included in the tour.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour offers a flexible schedule, so you can prioritize the sites you’re most interested in seeing.

Is the tour appropriate for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as some sites involve walking on uneven terrain.

What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is this tour good for a first visit to Santorini?
Absolutely. It covers all the major highlights and provides insightful commentary, making it perfect for first-timers wanting a comprehensive day on the island.

You can check availability for your dates here: