6 Hours Private Island Tour with Wine Tasting and Food Pairing

Explore Santorini’s Most Picturesque Villages and Beaches in 6 Hours

This private 6-hour tour offers an excellent way to see Santorini’s highlights without feeling rushed. Priced at $415.84 per person, it is ideal for those who want an intimate experience with personalized attention. The tour includes private transportation, local lunch with wine pairings, and visits to renowned spots like Oia, Megalochori, and the Akrotiri archaeological site.

While the tour covers a lot in just half a day, it does require some independent exploration at Akrotiri. The guided winery visit with expert sommelier-led wine tastings is a definite highlight, especially for lovers of local Vinsanto wine. Suitable for most travelers, this tour balances sightseeing, food, and wine in a way that feels both relaxed and enriching.

Key Points

• Private 6-hour experience with just your group for a more personalized visit
• Visit Pyrgos, Megalochori, Oia, and Akrotiri archaeological site
• Includes local lunch paired with curated Santorini wines at a top winery
• No crowds or shared groups, providing a more relaxed atmosphere
• Transportation is private and air-conditioned, ensuring comfort throughout the day
• Price of $415.84 per person offers a comprehensive half-day tour with history, culture, and flavor

Visiting Pyrgos Traditional Village and the Castelli Ruins

The tour kicks off at the Pyrgos Traditional Village, built in the 15th century by Venetians. This well-preserved castle ruin is one of the five most intact on the island, offering a glimpse into Santorini’s medieval past. Expect about an hour at this stop, with free admission and plenty of opportunities for photos of scenic streets and historic architecture.

This stop sets the tone for the day, showcasing authentic Santorini away from the more crowded tourist spots. The viewpoints from Pyrgos also provide excellent panoramic perspectives of the island’s landscape.

Discovering the Akrotiri Archaeological Site

Next, the tour visits the Akrotiri Archaeological Site, a prehistoric settlement dating back to the Late Neolithic period. This UNESCO-listed excavation reveals the remains of the first major settlement on Santorini, destroyed by a volcanic eruption around the 17th century BC.

Although admission to Akrotiri is not included, the site is open for independent exploration for about an hour. The excavation offers insights into ancient life, with well-preserved structures and frescoes that vividly depict the island’s early inhabitants.

Relaxing at Vlichada and Perivolos Beaches

Midday, the tour includes visits to Vlichada Beach, famous for its white volcanic cliffs shaped by wind and sea, creating a stunning backdrop. This beach is perfect for admiring the dramatic coastal scenery; however, swimming is not part of this tour.

Then, the drive continues along Perivolos Beach, a 4 km stretch of black volcanic sand. While there is no time allocated for swimming, travelers can enjoy the unique landscape and take photos of the striking volcanic coastline.

Exploring Oia’s Cliffside Charm

The iconic Oia village is a key highlight, with its narrow streets and cliffside views that define Santorini’s charm. The stop lasts about an hour, giving ample time to stroll through boutique shops, admire sunset vistas (if timing aligns), and take photos of the whitewashed buildings against the sea.

Oia’s scenic setting makes it a favorite for photography and gentle exploration. This visit balances sightseeing with leisure, allowing guests to soak in the village’s romantic atmosphere.

Megalochori: A 17th-Century Wine-Exporting Village

The tour takes you to Megalochori, a traditional village dating back to the 17th century. Known for its wine-making heritage, especially the famous Vinsanto wine, this stop offers insights into the island’s wine trade history.

Guests have about an hour here to walk through cobbled streets, enjoy the historic architecture, and learn about the local wine export traditions. The quiet charm of Megalochori contrasts with the busier tourist spots, providing a peaceful glimpse into everyday valley life.

Wine Tasting and Food Pairing at a Top Santorini Winery

One of the tour’s highlights is the lunch and wine tasting experience, lasting approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Held at one of Santorini’s finest wineries, the meal features authentic Greek dishes carefully paired with local wines curated by an expert sommelier.

The focus is on Vinsanto, the island’s celebrated sweet wine, alongside other local varieties. Guests enjoy bottled water and learn about wine production and pairing techniques, making this segment both delicious and educational.

Who Leads the Tour and How Is the Experience?

The tour is operated by Blue Shades Of Greece, with a designated driver and liability insurance included. The guide’s role is to provide informative commentary about each location, ensuring visitors understand the historical and cultural significance of each spot.

While the Akrotiri excavations are explored independently (with an option to pre-arrange a guide for an additional fee), the overall experience emphasizes personalized attention and the ability to move at your own pace in each location.

Practical Details: Logistics and Group Size

The tour begins at 9:30 am and concludes back at the meeting point, with private transportation throughout. The vehicle is air-conditioned, adding comfort during the day’s travels.

Because it is a private experience, only your group participates, making it suitable for those seeking a more intimate setting. The tour is accessible to most travelers, with confirmation received immediately upon booking.

Limitations and Considerations

While the tour provides a thorough overview of Santorini’s top sights, it does not include swimming at the beaches due to time constraints. Also, guided tours of the Akrotiri excavations are not included but can be arranged at an extra cost of $200 per hour if desired.

Travelers who want a fuller archaeological experience or beach time may need to plan additional excursions. The timing is well-paced but does require some independent exploration at certain stops.

Final Thoughts: A Well-Rounded Santorini Day Trip

This private 6-hour tour offers a personalized and informative way to see Santorini’s most beautiful villages, beaches, and archaeological sites. The inclusion of local cuisine and wine enhances the experience, making it both tasty and culturally rich.

Ideal for those who appreciate history, scenic vistas, and authentic food, this tour provides a balanced taste of the island’s highlights. Its private setup ensures a relaxed atmosphere, but travelers should be prepared for some self-guided exploration at certain stops.

This tour offers excellent value for its price, especially for groups seeking a comprehensive yet intimate day on Santorini with delicious wine tastings and stunning views.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, private transportation is included, ensuring comfortable travel between all stops.

Can I visit the Akrotiri archaeological site?
You can explore the site independently for about an hour, but guided tours of the excavations require an additional fee of $200 per hour and must be prearranged.

Are there opportunities for swimming during this tour?
No, the tour does not include swimming time at Vlichada or Perivolos beaches.

What is the price of the tour?
The cost is $415.84 per person, which covers all visits, lunch, wine tastings, and transportation.

How long is the wine tasting and lunch?
The wine and food pairing lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, focusing on local wines like Vinsanto.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible for most travelers and offers a relaxed pace with private transport and guided commentary.