6 hours – Semi Private Island Tour with Wine Tasting and Food Pairing

Explore Santorini in a Small Group with Wine and Food Experiences

The 6-hour semi-private island tour offered by Blue Shades of Greece provides an intimate way to uncover Santorini’s main attractions for just $206.35 per person. With a rating of 5.0 out of 5 based on 36 reviews, this tour is highly recommended by 100% of participants. It departs at 9:30 am with pickup and return transfers included, making logistics straightforward. The tour is limited to up to 7 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and engaging experience with personalized attention from the guide.

What really makes this tour stand out is the combination of sightseeing, cultural insights, and local gastronomy. You visit key sites like Akrotiri archaeological site, explore charming villages like Pyrgos and Megalochori, enjoy photo opportunities in Oia, and end with a wine tasting and traditional Greek lunch at a local vineyard. While tickets to Akrotiri are not included and cost about $20, the tour’s small-group format and expert guides make it an enriching experience suited for those seeking a balanced day of exploration and tasting.

Key Points

• Small group size of up to 7 people provides a personalized experience.
• Visits to Pyrgos, Megalochori, and Oia showcase authentic village charm and famous cliffside views.
• Highlights include Akrotiri archaeological site and Perivolos volcanic beach drive—though swimming isn’t included.
• Wine tasting and food pairing at a local vineyard offers a taste of Greek gastronomy.
• Round-trip transfers make logistics easy, especially for guests staying in select hotels.
• The tour is only in English and suited for most travelers who are comfortable with walking and limited time at each stop.

Visiting Pyrgos Traditional Village and Its Venetian Roots

The tour begins with a 30-minute visit to Pyrgos, a well-preserved 15th-century Venetian castle. This traditional village features narrow winding streets and historic ruins, offering insight into Santorini’s medieval past. The admission is free, and the stop is perfect for capturing scenic photos of the village and its ancient fortress. The guide shares stories about the village’s history, adding context to the picturesque setting.

Exploring Akrotiri Archaeological Site and Its Significance

Next, the tour heads to Akrotiri, an important prehistoric site dating back to the Late Neolithic period (from the 4th millennium BC). This archaeological wonder is a must-see for history buffs, but note that admission tickets are not included and cost around $20. The self-guided visit allows ample time to view the ruins of ancient buildings preserved under volcanic ash, offering a glimpse into early Aegean civilization.

Drive Along the Black Sand of Perivolos Beach

A scenic driving stop along the 4 km stretch of Perivolos volcanic black sand beach provides a photo opportunity and a chance to appreciate Santorini’s volcanic landscape. While no swimming is part of the itinerary, the drive along this iconic stretch of coast emphasizes the island’s volcanic origins and striking natural textures.

Discovering Megalochori, the 17th-Century Village

The tour includes a 30-minute visit to Megalochori, a fascinating village from the 17th century. Known for its wine exports and Vinsanto, a sweet local wine, Megalochori offers a quieter, authentic experience compared to busier tourist spots. The guide points out historic wineries and traditional architecture, making it an ideal location for scenic photos and cultural insights.

Exploring Oia’s Cliffside Charm and Photo Opportunities

The visit to Oia lasts about an hour, giving ample time to walk its famous narrow streets and admire the cliffside views over the caldera. Oia is renowned for its white-washed buildings, blue domes, and spectacular sunsets, though sunset watching is not part of this tour. The guide leads you through key viewpoints and helps you capture stunning photos of the village’s iconic scenery.

Wine Tasting and Greek Lunch at a Local Vineyard

The highlight for many is the visit to a local vineyard, where wine tasting and food pairing are prioritized. The tour includes a traditional Greek lunch paired with local wines, including varieties such as Vinsanto. The expert guide provides insights into Greek winemaking traditions and helps you appreciate the wines’ unique flavors, making this stop a delicious and educational experience.

Practical Details: Logistics, Group Size, and Cost

The round-trip transfers from select hotels in Santorini ensure easy access and minimal planning. The tour commences at 9:30 am and lasts approximately 6 hours, making it a manageable yet comprehensive exploration. The small group size guarantees more personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere, especially compared to larger bus tours.

While tickets for Akrotiri are not included, the $20 self-guided fee offers access to the archaeological site. Be aware that no time is allocated for swimming at the beaches, so travelers seeking a full beach day might prefer other options. The tour is conducted only in English, making it most suitable for English-speaking visitors.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Others

The semi-private format limits the group to no more than 7 participants, creating an intimate setting where guides can answer questions and share stories more freely. Many reviews praise the knowledge and friendliness of guides like Zach, Spiros, and George, emphasizing their ability to make the day enjoyable and informative. The wine tasting experience at a local vineyard is often highlighted as a memorable part of the tour, paired with the delicious Greek cuisine.

Limitations and Considerations

While this tour offers a well-rounded experience, it does not include entry tickets to Akrotiri, which guests should budget for separately. The time at each stop is relatively short, and no swimming or beach time is scheduled, which might disappoint travelers wanting more beach relaxation. The tour is conducted only in English, so non-English speakers may need to consider additional language options.

Final Thoughts on the 6-Hour Santorini Island Tour

This tour offers excellent value for a rundown of Santorini in a small-group setting. Its blend of sightseeing, cultural stories, and tasting experiences makes it suitable for visitors who want to see the highlights without large crowds. The personalized approach and expert guides receive high praise, especially for their knowledge, friendliness, and flexibility.

The wine tasting and traditional lunch at a local vineyard are standout moments, making this tour not just about sights but also about flavor and local hospitality. While it may not suit those seeking full beach days or extensive archaeological exploration, it is ideal for first-time visitors and those wanting a balanced, relaxed day with plenty of photo opportunities and insights.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes pickup and return transfers, wine tasting, lunch, and liability insurance. Tickets to Akrotiri are not included but can be purchased separately for about $20.

How long does the tour last?
The 6-hour tour begins at 9:30 am and covers multiple sites, providing a full yet manageable day of sightseeing and tasting.

Can I swim at the beaches during this tour?
No, there is no time allocated for swimming. The drive along Perivolos beach is for sightseeing and photo opportunities only.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
The tour’s walking at villages and cultural stops are generally suitable for most ages, but travelers should consider children’s comfort with walking and the short stops.

Are guides available in languages other than English?
No, the tour operates exclusively in English.

What makes this tour different from larger bus tours?
The small group size of up to 7 people allows for a more personalized, flexible experience with more interaction with the guide, making it feel more like a private adventure.

This semi-private six-hour tour from Blue Shades of Greece offers a well-balanced day of sightseeing, cultural learning, and wine tasting, making it a highly recommended choice for those eager to experience Santorini authentically and comfortably.