From Oia & Thera: Santorini Villages Guided Tour with Pickup

If you’re dreaming of a day exploring the iconic sights and hidden corners of Santorini, this guided tour from Oia or Thera might just be your ticket. While it’s not a private or ultra-exclusive experience, it offers a well-rounded taste of what makes Santorini so special—think postcard-perfect views, charming villages, and a splash of wine culture.

What we love about this tour is how it balances the major sights with lesser-known gems, all wrapped in a practical six-hour package. The inclusion of a local guide means you’re likely to get interesting tidbits that go beyond the typical tourist chatter. Plus, the fact that transportation, wine tasting, and pickup are included makes it a good value for those keen to tick off many highlights without the hassle of planning every detail.

That said, the tour isn’t perfect for everyone. Some travelers noted issues like inconsistent signage at pickup points and language mismatches, which could impact the experience. It’s best suited for visitors who want a guided snapshot of Santorini rather than a completely bespoke adventure. If you’re after a manageable, insightful trip that hits the high points—this could be a good fit.

Contents show

Key Points

Comprehensive itinerary combining iconic sights and lesser-known villages
Includes transportation and expert local guide for ease and insight
Wine tasting at a unique cave museum offers local flavor and education
Focus on authentic experiences like Black Beach strolls and village walks
Duration of six hours makes it suitable for a day trip but not an exhaustive exploration
Some reviews mention logistics issues like signage and language mismatches, so stay alert

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Santorini Villages Guided Tour

This tour is designed as a whirlwind introduction to Santorini’s most beloved spots, with a few surprises along the way. It hits the major photo-worthy locations and some local favorites, making it especially appealing for first-time visitors or those limited on time.

Enjoying having a local guide? These other guided experiences in Perissa might interest you

Start with the Iconic Views of Oia and the Blue Domes

Your day kicks off with Oia, arguably the most photographed village on the island. From here, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the volcanic caldera and get a close-up look at the famous Blue Domes. Many reviewers mention that this part of the tour is a highlight, with Carlos noting, “the tour was excellent in that it took us around the entire island,” and that Oia’s scenery really lives up to its reputation.

Expect to walk or drive through narrow, winding alleys filled with whitewashed buildings, vibrant bougainvillaea, and panoramic vistas. If you love classic Santorini shots, this is the spot to capture some standout photos.

Wine Tasting at the Labyrinth Wine Museum

Next, the tour offers a visit to the Labyrinth Wine Museum, a real highlight especially for wine lovers. Located eight meters underground, this cave-like setting makes the tasting experience both atmospheric and educational. You’ll sample local wines and learn about the island’s traditional winemaking methods, which are integral to Santorini’s culture.

One reviewer mentioned how cool the wine tasting was, describing the experience as “very cool,” and appreciated the chance to try wines they wouldn’t find elsewhere. It’s a chance to savor some regional flavors while soaking in a bit of local history.

Relaxing at Black Beach

A walk along the Black Beach offers a dramatic change of scenery. The volcanic coastline’s dark sands and rugged rocks create a stark, captivating background. Many travelers enjoy the chance to stretch their legs and take photos of the striking landscape.

The tour allocates about 75 minutes here, giving some free time to explore or relax. Keep in mind, this isn’t a swim-focused stop—more of a scenic break to appreciate the island’s volcanic origins.

More Great Tours Nearby

Panoramic Views from Prophet Elias Monastery

Perched at the highest point on the island, Prophet Elias Monastery offers sweeping panoramic views of the caldera, surrounding islands, and even the volcano itself. It’s a perfect spot for photos and a brief look into local religious history. Expect around 30 minutes here to take in the scenery, snap some shots, and perhaps browse the small monastery.

There's plenty more to explore in Perissa

Charm in Megalochori Village

The tour wraps up with a visit to Megalochori, one of Santorini’s less crowded but equally charming villages. Wander through its narrow alleys, admire the whitewashed buildings, and soak up a sense of authentic island life. It’s a lovely place to get a feel for local architecture and history, and many find it a peaceful, picturesque ending to the day.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Pickup from Oia or Thera — convenient start points, with some travelers noting the early pickup times (around 10 a.m.). Some reviews mention slight issues with signage, so it’s good to be punctual.
Oia — scenic walk, drive, or hike (about 1 hour). This is the quintessential Santorini experience.
Wine Tasting — approximately 61 minutes at the Labyrinth Wine Museum, a highlight for many.
Black Beach — 75-minute stop with free time, offering dramatic coastal views.
Prophet Elias Monastery — 30-minute visit with panoramic photo opportunities.
Megalochori — 45-minute exploration of this charming village.

The tour concludes with drop-offs at the original pickup points, making it a seamless experience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:

Transportation in a comfortable vehicle
Local guide with knowledge of the island’s sights
Wine tasting at the underground museum

Not Included:

Lunch (you’ll need to budget extra for a meal, which many travelers find worth it given the local eateries on the island)

Authentic Insights from Travelers

While many travelers enjoyed the overall experience, some pointed out areas for improvement. Carlos praised the guide for their knowledge, noting that “our guide was very knowledgeable on the history of Santorini, interesting facts, and specific small towns.” The wine tasting and scenic stops were also highly appreciated, with many feeling it offered great value for a half-day adventure.

However, others experienced hiccups. One traveler recounted being booked for a French guide but receiving English, which impacted their enjoyment. Another mentioned that early pickup signage could be clearer, so arriving prepared and punctual is wise.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a taste of Santorini’s most photogenic spots and cultural highlights without the hassle of organizing their own transport or guides. It’s perfect for first-timers eager to see the main sights, or those on a tight schedule who prefer a structured experience.

If you enjoy guided tours with educational elements like wine tasting and scenic viewpoints, this package offers a well-rounded snapshot. It’s less suited for travelers seeking a private, customizable experience or those wanting to spend extensive time in each location.

Final Thoughts

This guided tour from Oia or Thera offers a balanced glimpse of Santorini that combines stunning scenery, local culture, and some well-deserved relaxation. The inclusion of expert guiding, transportation, and wine tasting means you can enjoy the island’s highlights while avoiding some logistical headaches.

While the experience might be marred slightly by minor organizational issues, it delivers on the core promise of showcasing Santorini’s best-loved sights in a manageable timeframe. It’s especially suitable for first-time visitors who want a taste of everything without the need to self-drive or plan every detail.

For those who want a genuine, engaging introduction to Santorini, this tour ticks many boxes—spectacular views, historic villages, and regional wine—all wrapped in a convenient, guided format.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation is provided, making it easy to move between sites without worry.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, including all stops and transfers.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll need to purchase your own meal at a local restaurant.

What sights will I see?
Expect to visit Oia, Pyrgos, the Black Beach, Prophet Elias Monastery, Megalochori village, and a wine museum for tasting.

Can I choose pickup locations?
Yes, pickups are available from Oia and Thera.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, generally, but keep in mind the walking involved and the need for comfortable footwear.

Are guides available in languages other than English?
The tour is conducted in English, and no other languages are mentioned as available.

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

This Santorini tour offers a practical and enjoyable way to get a comprehensive look at the island’s highlights. Whether you’re after picture-perfect landscapes, a taste of local wine, or charming villages, it balances value and authentic experiences—ideal for those wanting a memorable day on this volcanic island.