Santorini highlights tour

Exploring Santorini’s Hidden Treasures: A Detailed Review of the Highlights Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Santorini, you’ve likely seen the stunning photos of blue-domed churches and dramatic sunsets. While many visitors stick to the usual hotspots, a private highlights tour like this promises a more personalized way to experience the island’s magic. Although we haven’t taken this exact tour ourselves, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s perfect for travelers who want an authentic, flexible, and scenic trip with expert local insights.

What we love about this experience is how it combines stunning viewpoints, visits to traditional villages, and the chance to explore historical sites—all in just five hours. Plus, having a private driver means your schedule is flexible and tailored to your interests. However, a small caveat is that entrance fees and meals are not included, so budget accordingly. This tour is ideal for those who want a comprehensive yet relaxed day on the island, especially couples or small groups seeking a personalized adventure rather than a large group tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience with a local driver for a personal touch
• Visit key viewpoints and traditional villages, including Oia and Pyrgos
• Includes transportation, WiFi, and water for comfort and convenience
• Focus on photo opportunities and scenic spots, perfect for capturing memories
• Flexible schedule with pickup and drop-off at your hotel
• Not including entrance fees or meals, so plan ahead

Why Choose the Santorini Highlights Tour?

This tour offers a well-rounded snapshot of Santorini’s most iconic sights combined with the comfort of private transportation. The experience is crafted to allow visitors to slow down and truly appreciate the island’s beauty—without the rush of larger group tours. Guided by an experienced local driver who speaks English or Greek, you’ll gain insights into the island’s history and culture, making the sights more meaningful.

The 5-hour duration strikes a practical balance—long enough to cover major highlights but short enough to fit into a busy travel itinerary. The luxury vehicle with WiFi and bottled water ensures a comfortable ride, whether you’re lounging in the back seat or snapping photos through the window.

The Itinerary in Detail

Let’s walk through what you can expect on this private tour, exploring some of Santorini’s most memorable spots.

Pyrgos Village: The Traditional Heart of Santorini

Your journey begins in Pyrgos, a village that embodies authentic island life. With over 60 traditional churches, Pyrgos offers a peaceful, picturesque atmosphere far from the crowds. We loved the chance to stroll through narrow alleyways and soak in the local vibe. Reviewers mention that guides often share stories about the village’s history, which adds depth to the visit. Expect scenic views, charming cafes, and plenty of photo opportunities.

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The Monastery of Prophet Elias: The Highest Point

Next, the tour takes you to the monastery of Prophet Elias, perched at 567 meters above sea level. This spot offers panoramic views of the entire island and beyond—a real highlight for photography and sightseeing. Nicolas, one reviewer, appreciated the stop here, noting that the drive up provides great vistas and that the location is perfect for capturing sweeping photos of Santorini’s volcanic landscape.

Akrotiri Village and Ancient Excavations

The journey then moves towards Akrotiri, home to one of the island’s most significant archaeological sites. This prehistoric city, preserved by volcanic ash, offers a glimpse into ancient civilizations that once thrived here. While entrance fees are not included, many find the site fascinating and worth visiting if time permits. A reviewer mentioned visiting the excavations and being impressed by the well-preserved ruins, adding a layer of historical richness to the tour.

The Red Beach: A Photograph’s Paradise

Just nearby, a quick stop at the Red Beach provides an iconic photo op. The striking red volcanic cliffs contrasting with the blue sea make for stunning images. Some travelers might choose to stay longer if they’re into photography or swimming, but with the tour schedule, it’s a brief but memorable stop.

Firostefani and the Three Bells Church

Next, the tour visits Firostefani, a quieter village with spectacular views of the caldera. Here, you’ll find the Three Bells Church, a favorite among photographers for its classic architecture and scenic backdrop. We loved the tranquility of this spot, away from the more touristy Oia. It’s perfect for those wanting beautiful photos without the crowds.

The Iconic Village of Oia: Sunset and Photos

The final stop is Oia, arguably the most famous village on the island. Known globally for its stunning sunsets and white-washed buildings, Oia is a must-see. Your driver will likely recommend the best spots for photos and suggest arriving a bit earlier to avoid the crowds. Reviewers praise Oia’s charm, noting how it’s a highlight of the tour, especially for photo lovers. You’ll have some free time here to explore and enjoy the view before heading back.

Transportation and Comfort

One of the standout features of this tour is the luxury, air-conditioned vehicle equipped with WiFi and bottled water. This ensures a comfortable ride, especially on warmer days. Guests have noted the driver’s professionalism and punctuality, which makes a big difference in how relaxed your day feels. The vehicle is suitable for small groups (up to 2 people), making the experience more intimate.

Practical Considerations

The tour starts with a hotel pickup—be sure to be ready in the lobby about 10 minutes early. Since transportation is private, the driver can adapt to your preferred pace and stops, which is a big plus over larger group excursions. Remember, entrance fees and meals are not included, so bring cash or cards for optional visits and snacks.

Authenticity and Local Insights

The reviews mention the driver’s friendliness and knowledge, which enhances the experience. Nicolas appreciated how the guide helped plan the tour, making it more tailored to their interests. This personal touch allows travelers to focus on what interests them most, whether that’s photography, history, or simply soaking up the views.

The stopping points—like Pyrgos and the monastery—are chosen for their authentic charm and scenic beauty, rather than commercialized attractions. The tour’s flexibility ensures that you’re not just ticking off sites but truly experiencing the essence of Santorini.

Value for Money

At $339 for a group up to 2, this private tour offers excellent value, especially considering the inclusions: private transportation, WiFi, water, and a driver. When you compare this to the cost of renting a car or booking multiple individual excursions, it becomes a smart choice for those who want convenience and a personal touch.

While entrance fees aren’t included, you can choose to visit sites like the archaeological site at Akrotiri if interested, adding to the experience without feeling rushed. The tour’s length strikes a good balance—enough time to see the highlights without a tiring full-day commitment.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour suits travelers who value flexibility and personalized experiences. Couples or small groups wanting intimate sights like Pyrgos and Oia will find it ideal. It’s also perfect for those interested in photography—with stops at the best viewpoints—and for anyone eager to learn a bit about local traditions and history from a knowledgeable driver.

If you prefer a guided group tour with a guide explaining every detail, this might not be the best fit, as no guide is included beyond the driver. However, if you want a relaxed, scenic, and customizable day, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

The Santorini Highlights Tour offers a balanced, scenic, and personal approach to exploring the island’s most photogenic and authentic sites. The private nature of the trip allows for customization, making it a great way to see Pyrgos, Prophet Elias, Akrotiri, Red Beach, Firostefani, and Oia comfortably and at your own pace.

The combination of stunning vistas, charming villages, and historical sites makes it a worthwhile investment for those wanting an immersive experience without the hassle of large group tours. The comfortable vehicle, friendly driver, and flexible itinerary add significant value, especially for first-time visitors looking to get the most out of a limited timeframe.

If you’re seeking a relaxed, scenic, and personalized day on Santorini—with opportunities to capture photos and learn about local culture—this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

FAQs

Is this tour private?
Yes, it is a private experience for groups up to 2 people, with a dedicated driver.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes private transportation, pickup and drop-off at your hotel, a professional driver, air-conditioning, WiFi, and mineral water.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees to sites such as Akrotiri are not included, so you may want to budget for them if you plan to visit.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 5 hours, with flexible starting times depending on availability.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunscreen are recommended for the outdoor stops.

Does the driver speak English?
Yes, the driver speaks English or Greek, providing helpful commentary and assistance.

Can I customize the stops?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss your preferences with the driver to focus more on sites you love.

Is it suitable for photography?
Absolutely. Many stops are perfect for capturing beautiful photos, especially Oia and the viewpoints.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You can bring snacks or plan to eat during any free time in Oia or other villages.

How do I book?
You can reserve your spot in advance—pay later, and cancel free up to 24 hours before the tour.

This Santorini Highlights Tour is a fantastic way to combine scenic beauty, cultural highlights, and a touch of luxury—all tailored to your preferences. Whether you’re a first-timer or returning visitor, it offers a memorable way to see the best the island has to offer.

You can check availability for your dates here: