Santorini: 6hr Private Custom Tour with Olive Oil or Wine Tasting

When searching for a way to explore Santorini beyond the typical tourist spots, a private, tailor-made tour offers a refreshing blend of flexibility and personalized attention. This 6-hour experience promises to let you set the pace, choose your favorite sites, and indulge in local flavors like olive oil and wine tastings. With an average booking window of 99 days in advance and a perfect 5.0 rating from 86 reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find this tour both valuable and memorable.

What we particularly love about this experience is how it combines customization, breathtaking views, and genuine local experiences. Plus, the included hotel pickup and drop-off make it hassle-free. A small caveat might be that entrance fees to some sites aren’t covered, so budget a little extra for those. This tour suits travelers who want an authentic, flexible way to see Santorini with a knowledgeable guide — especially those eager to explore more than just the standard sights.

Key Points

• Fully customizable private tour designed around your interests and pace.
• Includes iconic spots like Oia, blue-domed churches, and scenic villages.
• Tastings of local olive oil and wine, plus organic farm visits.
• Hassle-free hotel pickup and drop-off from your accommodation or the cable car station.
• Expert guides adapt the itinerary to suit all ages and mobility levels.
• Price at $243.83 per person offers a high-value, personalized experience.

Why Choose a Private, Custom Tour in Santorini?

Santorini’s breathtaking cliffs, charming villages, and volcanic beaches are enough to make you fall in love. But navigating the island on your own, especially with limited time, can feel overwhelming. That’s where a private, tailor-made tour shines. It gives you the freedom to focus on what interests you most, whether that’s photographing iconic blue domes, sampling local delicacies, or exploring hidden spots only the locals know.

What makes this tour stand out is its ability to blend structured sightseeing with spontaneous stops. Guided by a local expert, you’ll visit iconic spots like Oia, Firostefani, and the Castle of St Nicholas, while also having the flexibility to add your own favorites or skip the less exciting bits. Many reviewers mention how guides like Kathrin, Sabina, and Markos make the experience both educational and fun, often tailoring the itinerary on the fly based on your mood or energy level.

The value is undeniable, especially considering the included transfers, guide, tastings, and private experience. For those who prefer a curated, less rushed day, this private tour is hard to beat. Plus, with reviews highlighting the guides’ knowledge and personable attitude, you’re assured of a friendly, insightful encounter with the island’s highlights.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Stop 1: Monastery of Profitis Ilias

Climbing to the highest point on Santorini, this monastery offers sweeping views of the entire archipelago. It’s a quick stop, but the scenery from up here is phenomenal — perfect for panoramic photos or just soaking in the vastness of the island. Reviewers mention how visiting this spot early on helps set the tone for the day, with blissful views and a sense of the island’s scale.

Stop 2: Pyrgos Village

This historic village is often described as a hidden gem. Its winding streets, traditional architecture, and peaceful atmosphere provide a lovely contrast to the busier tourist hubs. You’ll have about 45 minutes to stroll, snap photos of the whitewashed buildings, and appreciate the local vibe. Guests report feeling the charm of Pyrgos, especially when their guides share stories about its history.

Stop 3: Vlychada Beach

A brief stop here offers views of rugged cliff shores right next to the beach. The scenery is particularly striking — volcanic rock formations create a dramatic backdrop. Some guests mention that this stop is perfect for a quick walk along the shore or just enjoying the landscape before heading on.

Stop 4: Firostefani

Perched slightly above Fira, this area is famous for its blue-domed church, which travelers love to photograph. It’s a quintessential Santorini picture spot, and your guide will probably suggest the best angle. Expect about 10 minutes here, perfect for a quick but memorable photo opportunity.

Stop 5: The Castle of St Nicholas

Offering spectacular views of the caldera, this spot is rich with stories about the island’s history. Many reviewers appreciate guides sharing gripping tales that bring the landscape to life. You’ll also enjoy some free time here to absorb the scenery or take photos.

Stop 6: SantOrganics Organic Farm & Olive Oil Tasting

This is a highlight for many guests, who enjoy learning about traditional Santorini agriculture. The farm tour lasts about 1.5 hours and includes an olive oil tasting, giving you a taste of the island’s culinary heritage. Reviewers mention the experience as both educational and delicious, with some calling it a “must-do” for food lovers.

Stop 7: Gavalas Winery

End your day with a wine tasting at one of the island’s oldest family-owned wineries. Many guests rave about the excellent wines and the chance to learn about local grape varieties. It’s a relaxing way to conclude your personalized day, especially if you’re a wine enthusiast.

What to Expect from Your Private Tour

Duration & Timing: The tour lasts about 6 hours, with flexible start times — morning or afternoon. Being private means you can adapt the pace, spend more time at your favorite stops, or skip places that don’t interest you.

Transportation & Comfort: Pickups are offered directly from your hotel or the cable car station, making logistics simple. The private nature ensures you won’t be squeezed into a crowded bus, and guides are generally very accommodating, adapting routes to suit all ages and mobility levels.

Cost & Value: At $243.83 per person, you’re paying for a highly personalized experience that includes guide services, all tastings, and private transport. With reviews praising the guides’ knowledge and ability to customize, many find it excellent value for the depth and flexibility it provides.

Guide & Experience: Numerous reviews mention guides like Kathrin, Sabina, and Markos by name, highlighting their friendliness, local knowledge, and ability to tailor the tour. Many comments emphasize how guides shared stories and insights that enriched their understanding of Santorini.

Accessibility & Suitability: While some stops involve walking, guides often customize routes to accommodate mobility concerns. This makes the tour suitable for a broad range of travelers, including older visitors.

Authentic Experiences & Unique Insights

One of the main draws of this tour is its focus on authentic local experiences. The olive oil tasting isn’t just a quick sample — it’s an hour and a half of learning about traditional farming practices, visiting a farm that emphasizes organic methods. Guests mention the farm tour as a highlight that’s both flavorful and educational.

Similarly, the wine tasting at Gavalas Winery offers more than just sipping wine — many guests note how the guide’s enthusiasm and storytelling made the experience engaging and memorable. Tasting wines from one of the oldest family-owned wineries adds a layer of authenticity that big commercial wineries often lack.

Some guests also appreciated how guides like Kathrin or Markos went above expectations, adjusting the schedule based on weather, energy levels, or preferences. This flexibility ensures that everyone gets a personalized, relaxed day without feeling rushed or pressured.

Practical Tips & Considerations

• Entrance fees: While the tour covers the guide, farm, and winery tastings, note that any entrance fees are at your own expense. For instance, if you want to visit certain viewpoints or sites that charge entry, budget accordingly.
• Weather & clothing: The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately — comfortable shoes for walking, sun protection, or rain gear depending on the forecast.
• Booking in advance: Given its popularity (most travelers book 99 days ahead), it’s best to reserve early to secure your preferred date.
• Custom preferences: When booking, specify whether you want olive oil or wine tasting included, as the tour can be tailored to your interests.

The Sum Up

This private 6-hour tour offers an excellent way to experience Santorini beyond the typical cruise or self-guided visit. It combines flexibility, expert guiding, and a focus on local flavors and scenery, making it particularly suitable for travelers who want a deeper, more personalized connection with the island.

Whether you’re a fan of stunning viewpoints, history, food, or wine, this tour adapts to your interests while providing a smooth, hassle-free experience — thanks to hotel pickups, private transport, and thoughtful guides. The high review scores reflect consistent quality and genuine guest satisfaction, especially with guides who go out of their way to craft memorable days.

It’s a fantastic choice for those who value authenticity, customization, and comfort, and it’s especially beneficial for travelers who prefer a relaxed pace and the chance to really savor each spot. If you’re looking to explore Santorini with a knowledgeable guide, sample local specialties, and enjoy stunning vistas at your own tempo, this tour could be just the ticket.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and guides often adapt the route to accommodate mobility or age-related needs.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes local taxes, bottled water, a local guide, private transportation, hotel pickup/drop-off, olive oil tasting, and wine tasting.

Are entrance fees to sites covered?
No, entrance fees to any sites or attractions are at your own expense, so plan accordingly.

Can I choose between the olive oil or wine tasting?
Yes, during the booking process, you can specify whether to include the olive oil or wine tasting, allowing for a customized experience.

What should I wear?
Dress appropriately for weather conditions; comfortable shoes are recommended since there will be walking around villages and scenic spots.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book around 99 days ahead, so early reservation is advised to secure your preferred date.

This private tour offers a wonderful balance of sightseeing, tasting, and personal attention, all wrapped into a flexible, authentic experience of Santorini’s most captivating spots. Whether you’re a first-timer or a repeat visitor, it’s a fantastic way to make the most of your day on this stunning island.