Exclusive Santorini: Oia, Pyrgos & Imerovigli in Small Group

Discover Santorini’s Charm with an Exclusive Small-Group Tour

For those seeking an intimate way to experience Santorini’s most iconic villages, the Exclusive Santorini: Oia, Pyrgos & Imerovigli in Small Group tour offers a relaxed, insightful exploration. Priced at $59 per person and lasting 4 hours, this tour is limited to 16 participants, ensuring personalized attention from a professional English-speaking guide.

This tour stands out for its well-balanced itinerary, combining stunning vistas, historic villages, and scenic walks. It’s perfect for visitors who want to see the highlights without feeling rushed, all while enjoying the atmosphere of small-group travel. The only real consideration is that the tour involves over two hours of walking on cobbled streets and uneven terrain, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Limited to 16 people for a personalized experience
• Four-hour itinerary covering Pyrgos, Oia, Imerovigli, and Firostefani
• Includes transportation in a modern A/C coach and a knowledgeable guide
• Stops at scenic viewpoints, historic villages, and iconic caldera spots
• Guided tours at each location with ample time for photos and exploring
• No lunch or refreshments included, so plan accordingly

Pickup and Meeting Point in Fira

The tour begins at the Fira Tourist Bus Parking Lot, located in front of Fira General High School. Tour participants are asked to arrive 30 minutes before the scheduled start, allowing time for check-in. Exact details are shared 48 hours in advance via email, WhatsApp, or Viber.

Travelers who prefer a more convenient start can arrange pick-up and drop-off from other locations across Santorini for an additional fee. These arrangements are handled directly with the tour provider, Greek Travel Advisors, and not through GetYourGuide. The tour guide will hold a sign with the guest’s name and the Greek Travel Advisors logo for easy identification.

Exploring Pyrgos: A Medieval Village of Narrow Streets

The tour kicks off with a 10-minute bus ride to Pyrgos Kallistis, a medieval village known for its winding alleys and panoramic hilltop views. Here, a guided walk lasts about an hour, during which you’ll see narrow streets, possibly castle ruins, and enjoy sweeping vistas of the surrounding landscape.

Pyrgos offers a quieter, more authentic snapshot of traditional Greek village life, away from the crowds of the more popular sites. The guide shares interesting insights about Pyrgos’ history and its role in Santorini’s past, giving you a richer understanding of this historic settlement.

Discovering the Charm of Firostefani

Next, the group travels by minibus for about 40 minutes to Firostefani. This peaceful village perched above the caldera provides spectacular views of the volcanic crater. During your guided visit, you’ll have time to wander Firostefani’s quiet streets and take in the beautiful caldera scenery.

The tour includes a 40-minute guided tour of Firostefani, where you can appreciate the whitewashed houses and charming churches. This stop offers excellent photo opportunities and a chance to soak in Santorini’s tranquil side, away from the busier Oia.

More Great Tours Nearby

Imerovigli: The Balcony to the Aegean

The next highlight is Imerovigli, called the “balcony to the Aegean,” thanks to its dramatic views of the caldera. The group makes a photo stop here, enjoying stunning vistas of the volcano and sea. A guided walk of approximately 40 minutes allows you to explore the village’s narrow streets and cave houses.

Imerovigli is renowned for its breathtaking scenery and is less crowded than Oia, making it ideal for relaxing strolls. The guide provides insights into the architecture and history of this picturesque spot.

Scenic Clifftop Walk from Imerovigli to Firostefani

One of the tour’s most memorable moments is the scenic walk along the clifftop path from Imerovigli to Firostefani. This approximately 30-minute route offers unparalleled views of the caldera and volcano. The walk is easy but exposes you to the wind and uneven ground, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

During this stroll, the group enjoys stunning photo opportunities, with views of the whitewashed buildings and volcanic landscape. The path is well-known for its dramatic vistas, making it a highlight of the tour.

Oia: Iconic Whitewashed Houses and Blue Domes

The famous village of Oia is the final stop, where the group spends around 30 minutes exploring its narrow streets and iconic architecture. Oia is renowned for its whitewashed houses, blue-domed churches, and breathtaking sunsets.

The guided visit includes time for photos and wandering through Oia’s charming alleys. While the village can be crowded, the tour ensures you see the most photogenic spots and enjoy a handful of unforgettable views of the caldera.

Walking Tour in Fira and Caldera Viewpoints

Back in Fira, the tour concludes with a short guided walk through the town, where the guide shares insights about Fira’s history and best viewpoints of the caldera. This segment allows you to soak in Santorini’s lively yet scenic atmosphere and get tips from the guide for your remaining stay.

This final part makes it easy to continue exploring on your own or relax at nearby cafes, taking in the breathtaking scenery before the tour ends.

Physical Demands and Practical Tips

Given the planned walking on cobbled streets and uneven paths, the tour is best suited for those with good mobility. It involves more than two hours of walking, including a 10-minute walk from Oia’s bus stop if you choose to explore independently afterward.

Participants should bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and water. The tour covers significant scenery and viewpoints, but not accessible for those with mobility impairments or who are afraid of heights.

The Experience with Highly Praised Guides

The tour is led by Emanuela, who receives high praise for her knowledge, professionalism, and friendly demeanor. She effectively injects humor and keeps the atmosphere engaging throughout the tour. Multiple reviews highlight her attentiveness, even when she’s not feeling her best.

Her bilingual ability in English and other languages enhances the experience, especially for international groups. Her tips and insights are frequently mentioned as valuable, making the tour both informative and enjoyable.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

The Exclusive Santorini tour in small group offers an excellent way to see key villages such as Pyrgos, Firostefani, Imerovigli, and Oia in a relaxed pace. The scenic walks, panoramic views, and expert guiding make it a worthwhile choice for those wanting a personalized experience without a full-day commitment.

While the physical demands are moderate, those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved. The $59 price provides good value, especially given the small-group size and guided insights. The limited time at each stop ensures a manageable pace, allowing plenty of room for photos and exploration.

This tour suits visitors who want a rundown of Santorini’s most characteristic sights, guided by knowledgeable locals, and are comfortable with walking on cobblestones. It’s ideal for first-time visitors or those who appreciate more intimate, less crowded experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts 4 hours, including transportation and guided visits at each location.

What is the meeting point?
The tour begins at Fira’s Tourist Buses Parking Lot, in front of Fira General High School.

Is transportation included?
Yes, modern A/C coaches are used for all transfers between stops.

Are meals or refreshments included?
No, lunch and drinks are not included, so it’s good to bring water and cash for any extras.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour involves over two hours of walking on cobblestones and uneven ground, making it unsuitable for those with mobility impairments or fear of heights.

Can I arrange for pickup from my hotel?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from other locations are available for an extra charge—arrangements are made directly with the provider.

This small-group tour of Santorini’s key villages offers a well-paced, scenic, and insightful experience, perfect for those wanting to see the island’s highlights with a knowledgeable guide in a relaxed setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby