Santorini: ATV-Quad Experience Tour + Transportation

If you’re considering a way to see more of Santorini beyond the usual postcard shots, this ATV-Quad Experience might be just what you need. While we haven’t personally strapped into a quad here, reviews and descriptions paint a picture of a memorable, diverse adventure that combines scenic beauty, local insights, and a dose of adrenaline.

What we love about this tour are three main things: the chance to explore varied terrains, the knowledge and friendliness of guides like Pavlo and George, and the opportunity to see hidden spots most travelers don’t get to visit. Plus, the inclusion of wine tastings and local snacks makes the experience even more authentic. The one thing to consider is the weather’s impact—since the tour is weather-dependent, it might be canceled or rescheduled if conditions aren’t ideal.

This experience suits those who enjoy outdoor adventures, want to cover a lot of ground in a fun way, and appreciate local culture and views. It’s perfect for travelers who are comfortable on a quad and eager to discover lesser-known corners of Santorini with knowledgeable guides.

Key Points

• Diverse terrain: Ride through off-road paths, narrow streets, vineyards, and coastal landscapes.
• Expert guides: Guides like Pavlo, George, and Nathan are praised for their safety focus, local knowledge, and fun personalities.
• Authentic access: Visit hidden spots like a chapel inside a cave and local villages away from the typical tourist trail.
• High safety standards: Clear instructions, helmets, safety briefings, and a focus on safety ensure peace of mind.
• Great value: For around $153, you get a mix of scenic rides, cultural insights, wine tastings, and photo opportunities.
• Flexible options: Morning and evening tours, with the possibility of booking and paying later for flexibility.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail: What to Expect

From start to finish, this tour offers a full day of exploration and adventure, designed to give you a comprehensive taste of Santorini that’s hard to match with just walking or standard sightseeing.

Beginning at Persia Black Beach

Your day kicks off at the black sands of Persia Beach, an iconic spot with volcanic sands that instantly evoke the island’s volcanic origins. Here, you’ll meet your guides and receive a thorough safety briefing, which is essential for first-timers or those a bit nervous about riding an ATV. Expect to get a quick tutorial on how to handle the quad, similar in simplicity to riding a jet ski—so don’t worry if you’re a newbie.

Off-Road Adventure to Emporio and the Venetian Castle

Once your team is comfortable, the real fun begins. You’ll hop onto your ATV and start weaving through a variety of terrains, from off-road paths to scenic coastal roads. One of the highlights is the ride to Emporio, a charming village that remains largely unchanged and offers a glimpse into traditional Santorini life. Our reviews mention guides like Pavlo and George taking time to share fascinating stories about the island’s history and culture, making each stop educational as well as scenic.

The next stop is the Venetian Castle, a well-preserved fortress that offers panoramic views over the caldera and the Aegean Sea. Riding a quad allows you to access viewpoints that are sometimes tricky to reach by car or bus, making this a highlight for those wanting to capture spectacular photos.

Exploring the Narrow Streets of Santorini

After the initial adrenaline rush, you’ll stroll through labyrinthine streets near the Venetian Castle. These are authentic, less touristy areas where you can soak in local architecture, browse small shops, or just enjoy the ambiance. One reviewer noted how they loved exploring these streets on foot and felt free to wander, discovering places most travelers miss.

More Great Tours Nearby

Megalochori Village and Wine Tasting

A popular stop on this tour is Megalochori, regarded by locals as the most traditional village. With its whitewashed buildings and peaceful vibe, it’s the perfect spot for a break. Here, you’ll visit one of Santorini’s oldest wine cellars, where a tasting session awaits. Guests often comment on the quality of the wine and the personable guides who explain the island’s wine-making traditions. The tour includes a taste of local wines, Greek coffee, or fresh juice—adding a real Mediterranean flavor to your day.

Scenic Ride Along the Caldera and Hidden Gems

The ride along the caldera is a true highlight. You’ll experience sweeping views of cliffs plunging into the sea, with stops at various scenic overlooks. Some of these are tucked away, known only to locals, and provide perfect photo ops or moments of quiet reflection. One reviewer admired how their guide took time to help them capture memorable photos, making sure everyone had a chance to document the trip.

Visiting a Cave Chapel

A unique feature of this tour is visiting a chapel inside a cave, a serene and surprisingly beautiful spot with a sense of hidden sanctity. It’s a quiet contrast to the bustling tourist spots, offering a moment of calm and spiritual charm.

Vlichada and Off-Road Paths

The journey continues to Vlichada, an area with dramatic volcanic cliffs and minimalist beauty. The off-road paths here are a favourite among those who love a bit of adventure, with some reviewers mentioning dust and dirt—so bring goggles or masks if you’re sensitive. The guides are attentive and ensure everyone is comfortable and safe.

Final Stop and Return to Perissa

Your day ends with a scenic ride back to Perissa, where you started. If you’ve opted for the sunset tour, you’ll be treated to the dramatic view of the sun setting behind the caldera, a picture-perfect moment often highlighted in reviews. Many reviewers mention how ending the day watching the sunset from a vantage point gave their experience a special, almost magical touch.

What’s Included and What to Keep in Mind

This tour provides pickup and drop-off (excluding port or airport), along with ATV/quad vehicles, professional guidance, and all safety gear—making it a hassle-free experience. Also included are fuel, bottled water, and a light snack or local wine tasting, which adds a touch of local flavor and refreshment.

The price of $153 per person is quite reasonable considering the number of stops, the small group setting, and the inclusive nature of the experience. We think the value is excellent, especially when you consider the access to hidden spots, expert guides, and the fun on and off-road riding.

Practical Tips

• Bring your driver’s license (needed if you want to drive), comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, and weather-appropriate clothing.
• Be prepared for dusty conditions—goggles or masks can make the ride more comfortable.
• The tour is weather-dependent, so check the forecast, and be flexible with rescheduling if needed.
• Children over 21 can drive, but younger children sit in the back seat or as passengers.

Tour Duration and Group Size

The tour lasts around 3 hours, with morning and late afternoon options to fit your schedule. The small group setting (usually fewer than 20 people) means more personalized attention and a relaxed experience.

Authentic Touches and Genuine Praise in Reviews

From guides like Pavlo, Nathan, George, and Alex, to scenic stops described as less crowded and more genuine, travelers consistently praise the knowledge, friendliness, and safety-consciousness of the guides. Many mention how guides go beyond just driving—they share stories, take photos, and even suggest lesser-known sites, making this more than just a sightseeing tour.

One reviewer summed it up: “Great guides, scenic routes, and the chance to see Santorini from a different perspective“—a sentiment echoed across countless reviews.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This ATV-Quad Experience is best suited for adventurous travelers keen to explore off the beaten path, lovers of scenic drives, and those who want a fun, energetic day with knowledgeable guides. It offers a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and breathtaking views, making it a fantastic way to see parts of Santorini you wouldn’t access otherwise.

While the dust and weather dependency might be a drawback for some, the overall value—small group intimacy, authentic stops, and expert guidance—makes it a standout activity. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, this tour provides a memorable way to experience Santorini’s natural beauty and local charm.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes. The guides provide a safety briefing and instructions, making it accessible even if it’s your first time riding an ATV. Many reviewers noted how guides like Pavlo, George, and Nathan were attentive and ensured everyone felt comfortable.

What should I bring?
Bring your driver’s license if you plan to drive, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, weather-appropriate clothing, and goggles or masks if you’re sensitive to dust. Note that large luggage or food in the vehicle isn’t allowed.

Can children participate?
Children over 21 can drive, but younger children sit as passengers. Unaccompanied minors are not permitted for safety reasons.

How long does the tour last?
Expect around 3 hours, with options for morning or evening starts. The duration includes stops, exploring on foot, and tasting sessions.

Are meals or drinks included?
Yes. The tour includes bottled water, a light snack, and a tasting of local wines, or traditional Greek coffee or juice. Extra drinks or food are at your expense.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Since the tour is weather-dependent, it might be canceled or rescheduled if conditions aren’t suitable. The company offers the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This Santorini ATV-Quad Experience combines adventure, culture, and stunning scenery at a fair price, making it an excellent choice for those looking to see more of this incredible island in a fun and authentic way.

You can check availability for your dates here: