Santorini Private Tour: Hidden Gems & Wine Experience

Exploring Santorini often means battling crowds in Oia or Fira, but this private tour offers a refreshing alternative—intimate, authentic, and packed with stunning views. While it comes at a reasonable price of $229 per person, it promises a blend of quiet corners, scenic vistas, and unique local flavors.

What we love most about this experience are the chance to sidestep the crowds in Oia, visit lesser-known photo spots in Imerovigli, and indulge in a curated wine tasting that highlights the volcanic character of Santorini wines. The scenic stops like Profitis Ilias and the Akrotiri Lighthouse enhance the sense of adventure without feeling rushed. The only thing to consider? It’s a half-day tour, so if you’re after a full-day sightseeing marathon, you might need extra options.

This experience suits travelers who want to see Santorini beyond the tourist hotspots, appreciate stunning scenery, and enjoy authentic, intimate moments. If you’re a wine lover or a photography enthusiast, it’s an especially good pick. Now, let’s walk through what makes this tour particularly appealing—and worth your time and money.

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Key Points

Exclusive Access: Visit less crowded, authentic spots like Imerovigli and Finikia Village for picture-perfect moments.
Stunning Vistas: Panoramic views from Profitis Ilias and Akrotiri Lighthouse create memorable photo opportunities.
Wine Tasting: Sample Santorini’s volcanic wines at a curated winery, gaining insight into the island’s unique terroir.
Authentic Experience: Discover local legends and hidden alleys, avoiding the typical crowded tourist routes.
Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, with cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for flexibility.
Comfort & Convenience: Round-trip transportation and an English-speaking driver make the day smooth.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Santorini’s Hidden Side

Santorini is famous for its postcard-perfect views and charming villages like Oia, but this tour shies away from the crowds, showcasing a more genuine side of the island. Starting in Finikia Village, you’ll find yourself perched over the caldera, observing sweeping views that mimic the ancient circle called “Stroggyli” or “Strongyli.” It’s a quiet spot, often overlooked by visitors, offering a peaceful morning with impressive photo opportunities.

Next, the tour takes you to Imerovigli, often called the “balcony of the Aegean.” Known for its winding white alleys, charming staircases, and vibrant bougainvillea, Imerovigli feels like a secret paradise. Several hidden photo spots along the way ensure you’ll come away with beautiful images that aren’t marred by crowds. Reviewers have commented that “Imerovigli feels far more authentic and less touristy than Oia,” making it a favorite stop.

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A Scenic Ascent to Profitis Ilias

The highlight of the tour is reaching Profitis Ilias, the highest point on the island at nearly 1,800 feet. The views from here are truly breathtaking—overlooking the caldera and neighboring islands, with the Aegean stretching endlessly in every direction. The monastery at the summit adds a sense of tranquility and history, and the vistas here are often described as “stunning” and “panoramic.” Expect to spend some time soaking in the scenery, perfect for photography or simply appreciating the vastness of the landscape.

Wine Tasting at Art Space Winery

No visit to Santorini is complete without sampling its volcanic wines, and this tour’s curated tasting at Art Space Winery & Art Gallery delivers just that. You’ll taste 46 of Santorini’s finest wines, each reflecting the island’s unique volcanic soil. The owner and guide often share insights into the winemaking process, enhancing the tasting experience. Guests have noted that “each sip reveals something new about the island’s heritage,” and many appreciated the personalized attention during the tasting.

Discovering the Heart of Santorini

A highlight for many is the Natural heart-shaped rock window—a natural formation framing the sea, sky, and volcano. It’s a picture-perfect moment that feels almost surreal, offering a natural “frame” for your photos. This spot, known as the Heart of Santorini, is a natural wonder seldom crowded, making it an ideal place to pause and take in the scenery.

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The Akrotiri Lighthouse & Dramatic Cliffs

Finally, the tour concludes at Akrotiri Lighthouse on the southwestern tip of the island. With its dramatic cliffs and endless blue waters, this spot offers some of the most striking views on Santorini. It’s a quieter alternative to the busy caldera, and the landscape here is rugged, wild, and postcard-worthy. Visitors often mention the sense of solitude and natural beauty as a major draw.

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What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes round-trip transportation, an English-speaking driver, basic travel insurance, and a bottle of water. These amenities contribute to a hassle-free experience, especially in a place like Santorini where parking and navigating can be tricky.

Note that lunch and refreshments are not included, so you might consider packing some snacks or planning a meal afterward. For cruise passengers, cable car tickets cost around 6 euros each way, and you’ll want to factor that into your planning if you’re arriving via cruise.

Practical Tips for the Tour

The tour lasts about half a day, making it suitable for those with limited time or who prefer a relaxed pace. The transportation is comfortable, and small group sizes ensure personalized attention. Since the tour is available in English, Spanish, and French, language barriers are minimized. Remember to bring your camera, sun protection, and comfortable footwear—many of the stops involve walking along uneven paths or stairs.

Booking is flexible—you can reserve now and pay later, with full refunds available if canceled up to 24 hours prior. This makes it easier to plan without financial risk.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers seeking a more authentic, less touristy glimpse of Santorini. It’s ideal for photography lovers, wine enthusiasts, or anyone wanting stunning scenic views without the crowds. If you’re after a relaxing, scenic adventure with insightful commentary and personalized attention, this tour hits the right notes.

It’s less suited for travelers looking for a full-day or all-encompassing sightseeing tour, as it focuses on specific highlights in a half-day window. But for those wanting a well-curated, intimate exploration of Santorini’s hidden gems, it’s a fantastic choice.

The Sum Up

This private tour offers a genuine and scenic escape from Santorini’s busy hotspots. By visiting less crowded villages, panoramic viewpoints, and tasting volcanic wines, you’ll gain a richer understanding of the island’s natural beauty and local heritage. The combination of authentic spots, breathtaking vistas, and personalized service makes it a standout choice for travelers looking to experience Santorini in a relaxed, meaningful way.

The value of this tour truly lies in its balance of privacy, scenic beauty, and cultural insight—all at an accessible price point. If you’re eager to see Santorini’s secret corners and enjoy its flavors without the throngs of travelers, this experience will serve you well.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, round-trip transportation is provided, making it convenient to focus on the sights and not the logistics.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, reservations can be made with the option to pay later, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What languages are available for the tour?
The tour is offered in English, Spanish, and French, so language barriers are minimized.

What should I bring along?
Bring your camera, sun protection, comfortable shoes, and perhaps a light snack, as lunch is not included.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s a relaxed experience that can be enjoyed by most age groups, especially those comfortable with walking on uneven terrain.

What is the time length of the tour?
It lasts approximately half a day, ideal for a relaxed exploration.

Are the wine tastings conducted at a winery?
Yes, at the Art Space Winery & Art Gallery, where you’ll taste some of the island’s finest volcanic wines.

Are there any additional costs?
You might want to budget for cable car tickets if arriving via cruise, as well as meals or snacks.

Can I customize my experience?
The tour is pre-designed, but the small-group setting offers some flexibility for personal interests and questions.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. Many reviewers highlight the scenic viewpoints and hidden spots as perfect for capturing stunning photos.

Santorini’s best-kept secrets await on this thoughtfully curated private tour. Whether you’re after spectacular views, authentic local experiences, or a chance to taste the island’s famous wines, it offers a well-rounded, memorable day and an authentic taste of Santorini’s quieter side.