Full-Day Santorini Personalized Private Guided Tour Experience

If you’re dreaming of exploring Santorini’s highlights on your own terms, this full-day private tour might just be your perfect match. It offers a flexible, curated experience that allows you to select the sites you most want to see, all with the comfort of a knowledgeable guide and private transportation.

The reviews are glowing, with a perfect rating of 5.0 based on 83 reviews, and 99% of travelers recommending it. We love that it combines the intimacy of a private tour with the freedom to tailor your itinerary, ensuring you get a truly personalized look at Santorini’s most iconic and hidden gems. We also appreciate the inclusion of local guides, who bring stories to life and add authentic insights. However, the price, at around $323 per person, is worth considering if you’re looking for an all-encompassing, flexible day of sightseeing.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want to skip crowded group tours, love discovering off-the-beaten-path spots, and enjoy tasting local wines and foods. If you prefer having a say in your itinerary and value expert local knowledge, this tour offers a fantastic way to see Santorini on your terms.

Key Points

• Highly personalized: You choose which sites to visit, making it ideal for tailored interests.
• Expert local guide: Knowledgeable and friendly guides enhance the experience with insights and stories.
• Comprehensive itinerary: Covering everything from iconic villages to archaeological sites and scenic viewpoints.
• Flexible duration: Around 5 to 6 hours, perfect for a full but manageable day.
• Comfortable transportation: Air-conditioned deluxe van ensures a smooth ride between stops.
• All-in-one experience: Includes hotel/port pickup and drop-off, and multiple popular sites.

An In-Depth Look at the Santorini Private Tour

The Flexibility of a Curated Itinerary

What sets this tour apart is the ability to customize your day. Unlike cookie-cutter options, you can prioritize what interests you most—be it the picturesque villages, historical sites, or stunning viewpoints. This is particularly appealing for those who want to skip the usual tourist crowds and explore at their own pace.

Starting with the Iconic Sunset in Oia

The tour typically begins with a visit to Oia, renowned for its postcard-perfect views, blue-domed churches, and scenic pathways. As one reviewer noted, “Learning all about Santorini’s culture and history was something we will never forget.” Oia is the quintessential Santorini image, perched atop a cliff with panoramic views of the caldera. You’ll have around 45 minutes here, which is enough to stroll, take photos, and enjoy the open-air cafes. Going in the late afternoon allows you to catch the famous sunset, a highlight that many visitors cherish.

The Famous Three Bells of Fira

Next, you’ll stop at the crown of Fira, peek at the blue-domed church, and soak in the expansive caldera views. This 20-minute stop offers perfect photo opportunities and a quick taste of the village’s charming architecture. Reviewers appreciated the scenic balcony for its “magnificent views” and the chance to see a classic Santorini sight.

Exploring Megalochori: Authentic Village Charm

A favorite among travelers is Megalochori, a less touristy spot packed with white-painted houses, tiny alleys, blue chapels, and underground cave homes. It offers a glimpse into local life away from the crowds, with some reviewers noting that “you’ll truly be basking in the local culture and lifestyle.” The peaceful ambiance makes it an ideal place for leisurely wandering.

Akrotiri Lighthouse & Volcanic Landscapes

The tour includes a visit to the Akrotiri Lighthouse, perched on a high cliff with sweeping views of the caldera. Built in 1892, it’s not only an excellent photo spot but also a peaceful place to take in Santorini from a different perspective. Just a short 20-minute stop, it’s appreciated for its “panoramic views and unique setting.”

Nearby, the Red Beach offers a striking natural landscape with volcanic red cliffs and unique scenery perfect for photos. The 10-minute stop is a quick but memorable encounter with Santorini’s volcanic origins.

Relaxing at Perissa Black Sand Beach

A visit to Perissa Beach provides a chance to unwind on the island’s most famous black sand beach. It’s a wonderful spot to dip your toes in the crystal-clear waters or grab a casual lunch at a seaside tavern. Reviewers mention enjoying “swimming in the Aegean Sea and tasting local dishes” here, making it more than just a scenic stop.

Panoramic Views from Profitis Ilias & Charm of Pyrgos

The Monastery of Profitis Ilias at the island’s highest point offers breathtaking vistas for those willing to climb up. From here, the view of the entire island is described as “striking,” and local products made by monks add a tasty regional touch.

Then, the charming village of Pyrgos provides winding alleys, blue-domed churches, and a 16th-century Venetian castle. It’s a perfect place to wander, and with around 30 minutes allocated, you have ample time to soak in the atmosphere.

The Ancient Secrets of Akrotiri

For history buffs, the Akrotiri Archaeological Site is a true highlight. This 4,000-year-old Minoan city, buried under volcanic ash, is remarkably well-preserved, revealing multi-story buildings, frescoes, and drainage systems. While admission isn’t included (roughly €12), many travelers say the site’s surprises make it well worth the extra cost.

Tasting Local Flavors & Winding Through Emporio

The tour also includes stops like Faros Market, where you can sample homemade wines, sun-dried tomatoes, and traditional sweets, giving you a taste of local life and food. The visit to the Windmills of Emporio adds a picturesque stop with panoramic views and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for photos and relaxing.

Unique Experiences: Wine & Beer

A couple of optional stops, such as the Wine Museum Koutsogiannopoulos and Ftelos Brewery, elevate the experience through local tastings and cultural insight. The wine museum, housed in a natural cave, showcases a history of wine production dating back centuries, while the brewery tour explains how artisan beers are made using local ingredients.

Practical Details

The entire day runs approximately 5 to 6 hours, with a private, air-conditioned van making all stops comfortable and hassle-free. Pickup and drop-off at your hotel or port add to the convenience. The tour’s private format means only your group participates, allowing for a more intimate experience.

The cost of $322.67 per person reflects the tailored, flexible nature of the tour, private transportation, and expert guiding. While optional entries like the Akrotiri archaeological site and wine museum aren’t included in the base price, the overall value hinges on the quality of personalized experiences and the ability to avoid crowded group tours.

Insights from Reviews

Guests repeatedly praise their guides for being “extremely knowledgeable” and “fun to be with,” making the day both educational and enjoyable. Many mention how well-organized the tour was, with ample time at each site, allowing for meaningful exploration rather than rushed visits.

One reviewer, Patricia, shared that learning about the island’s history and culture made their first trip unforgettable. Tania highlighted that “Nikos did a great job at ensuring the tour was well planned,” and Elaine appreciated the “comfortable, air-conditioned car” and the ability to see all the main sites plus some extras.

Final Thoughts

This Full-Day Santorini Private Tour offers an outstanding way to see the island at your own pace. Its greatest strength lies in its flexibility—you control the sites, and the guide brings local stories, tips, and insider knowledge to enhance your experience. The inclusion of scenic viewpoints, cultural stops, and optional tastings ensures that your day is both visually stunning and rich in local flavor.

While it does come at a higher price point, the personalized touch, private transport, and expertly curated stops bring tremendous value—especially for travelers seeking a tailored, intimate experience. Perfect for those who want to explore Santorini beyond the usual crowds, or for first-time visitors wanting a rundown with local insights.

If you’re after a balanced mix of sightseeing, culture, and relaxation, this tour delivers on all fronts. Just remember to book in advance, as it’s popular and tends to fill up around 68 days ahead.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the private format makes it adaptable for families, couples, or small groups.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes private transportation, a local guide, bottled water, maps, and hotel/port pickup and drop-off. Entry fees for certain sites like the Akrotiri archaeological site and wine museums are extra.

Can I customize the stops?
Absolutely. This is a fully personalized experience, so you can choose the sites that interest you most.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 5 to 6 hours, depending on your chosen stops and pace.

Is lunch included?
Not automatically, but you can enjoy food and drinks at several stops like Perissa Beach or local taverns along the way.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, as the tour is popular and typically booked about 68 days in advance.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, optional admission fees like the Akrotiri archaeological site (€12) and wine museum (€20 tasting fee) are not included in the base price.

What kind of vehicle is used?
A comfortable, air-conditioned deluxe van that ensures a smooth and pleasant ride between stops.

Can I include wine tastings?
Yes, optional visits to the wine museum and a winery experience are available for extra fees.

What is the cancellation policy?
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

To sum it up, this full-day private tour is a fantastic way to explore Santorini on your own terms, backed by expert guides and a curated itinerary. It’s perfect for curious travelers who want a flexible, comfortable, and authentic experience on one of Greece’s most breathtaking islands.