Santorini Private Tour: Fully Customized – Cruise & Hotel Pickup

Explore Santorini Your Way with a Private, Fully Customizeable Tour

A private tour of Santorini offers the chance to see this stunning Greek island at your own pace. Priced at $173.79 per person, this experience lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours and departs from either your hotel or the cruise port. The tour features luxury air-conditioned Mercedes-Benz vehicles and a dedicated private driver-guide who can adapt the itinerary to your interests. With group discounts available and mobile ticket options, it combines convenience with personalized attention.

What truly makes this tour stand out is its flexibility. You can opt for a half- or full-day experience, tailoring stops like Oia’s famous sunsets, the Minoan ruins at Akrotiri, a traditional winery, or even just relaxing on Santorini’s black sand beaches. As the most booked tour on average 71 days in advance, it clearly appeals to those seeking a customized and seamless island exploration.

While the tour price covers all transportation and expert guidance, meals and entrance fees are at your own expense, giving you the freedom to choose where and what to eat or visit. The high praise from 583 reviews underscores its value and quality, especially for those who appreciate knowledgeable guides and off-the-beaten-path discoveries.

Key Points

• Fully customizable private tour with flexible stops
• Includes hotel or cruise port pickup from all Santorini locations
• Duration of 4 to 5 hours, with options for half or full day
• Visit top attractions like Oia, Akrotiri ruins, Pyrgos, and Imerovigli
• Expert guide offers insider tips and tailored recommendations
• All transport in a luxury Mercedes-Benz van, with mineral water provided

Private Pickup and Flexible Itinerary for Santorini

This tour starts with pickup from your hotel or cruise port, including the McDonald’s near the cable car for cruise travelers. The private vehicle ensures a comfortable, air-conditioned ride across the island. The driver-guide team leads the tour, discussing your interests beforehand to craft a personalized itinerary.

You’re free to choose which stops to include or skip, making each experience adaptable. Whether you want to concentrate on historic sites, beaches, wine tasting, or the villages with iconic sunsets, the guide arranges the logistics. The full customization makes it an excellent option for those with specific interests or limited time.

The tour provides all transport, and a bottle of mineral water per person to stay refreshed. Meals and entrance fees are not included, allowing flexibility to indulge at preferred spots or hidden local favorites. The availability of hotel pickup from all accommodations across Santorini adds to the convenience.

Visiting Oia’s Iconic Sunset Village

The highlight for many on this tour is Oia, often called the most picturesque village in Santorini. The main street of Oia is an optional stop, with about an hour to wander and take photos of the famous blue-domed churches and cliffside houses. If guests are staying in Oia, the stop is replaced to explore other parts of Santorini, ensuring diversity in the itinerary.

This stop offers vivid views and a chance to capture the island’s postcard-perfect scenery. The guide can recommend best spots for sunset photos or hidden cafes to enjoy the view away from the crowds. Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides who enhance the experience with local stories and tips.

Firostefani’s Blue Dome Church and Lagoon Views

A photo stop at the Blue Dome Church in Firostefani is included, offering a classic Santorini scene. In just 15 minutes, travelers can snap pictures of the iconic church with the caldera and lagoon in the background.

The nearby artisan neighborhood provides stunning cliffside panoramas, perfect for those looking for memorable photos. While brief, this stop is highly appreciated for its scenic views and photogenic charm.

Mt. Profitis Ilias and Panoramic Island Views

A scenic stop at the Monastery of Profitis Ilias offers sweeping 360-degree views of Santorini from the highest point of the island. This 30-minute visit showcases Pyrgos, the mountain, and the surrounding landscape.

If some travelers have a fear of heights, the guide can suggest an alternative stop. The view from this vantage point provides a rare perspective of the island’s volcanic caldera and neighboring islands, making it a favorite for photo enthusiasts.

Relaxing on Perissa’s Black Sand Beach

Perissa Beach is the widest and most popular black sand beach on Santorini. The tour allows for about 30 minutes to walk on the volcanic sand or sit at a beachside cafe.

This stop gives a genuine feel for Santorini’s volcanic origins and is often praised for its dramatic landscape. It’s a perfect break for those who want to dip their toes in the sea or capture the striking contrast of black sand against the blue Aegean.

Visiting a Traditional Winery for Local Wines

An optional wine tasting stop at Estate Argyros offers an opportunity to sample Santorini’s renowned wines. The tastings, drinks, and food are not included in the tour price and are paid directly at the winery.

Santorini’s winemaking history of over 4,000 years means you’ll find crisp, high-acidity varietals that reflect the island’s volcanic soil. Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides who recommend the best wines to taste and where to purchase authentic bottles.

The Santorini Lighthouse and Unspoiled Views

A ride to the lighthouse on the southern tip of the island offers panoramic views of Santorini’s rugged coastline. The 30-minute stop is free and provides a less touristy perspective on the island’s edges.

Here, you can enjoy spectacular 360-degree vistas of the volcanic cliffs and sea. It’s an excellent photo opportunity and a peaceful spot away from the busier parts of the island.

Optional Stops in Fira, Pyrgos, and Kamari

The tour offers additional optional stops like Fira town, Medieval Pyrgos, or the Kamari beach promenade. These are walkable and can be added based on your interests.

Fira is the bustling capital, perfect for shopping and exploring local cafes. Pyrgos provides a quieter, traditional feel with medieval architecture. Kamari offers a lively beachfront promenade with cafes and restaurants, ideal for an easy stroll.

Imerovigli and the Volcano’s Edge

A visit to Imerovigli showcases a village perched on the edge of the volcanic crater. The Sugar-Cube Houses and Infinity Pools provide iconic views of the caldera.

The 30-minute stop highlights the dramatic landscape and offers great photo opportunities. This area is known for its luxury hotels and stunning sunsets.

Fully Customizable Experience

The main advantage of this private tour is its complete flexibility. During the 4 to 5 hours, guides are happy to modify the stops and pacing based on your preferences. You can spend more time at favorite sites or skip others altogether.

This personalized approach ensures a tailored experience that suits your interests, whether that’s history, beaches, wine, or local culture. The expert driver-guide manages the logistics, so you don’t have to worry about transportation or directions.

Why This Tour Offers Excellent Value

With over 580 reviews averaging a 5.0-star rating, this private tour is praised for knowledgeable guides, comfortable transport, and personalized service. Many reviewers mention that guides like Dimitris, Theodore, Elena, or Nick provide insightful commentary and make the day feel personal.

The tour’s flexibility is a strong selling point, allowing guests to create their ideal day on Santorini. The luxury vehicle and hotel or port pickup add convenience—especially important in a popular destination with crowded cruise ports or busy hotels.

While food and entrance fees are not included, this allows guests to choose their own dining options and avoid unnecessary expenses. The full refund policy up to 24 hours in advance** offers peace of mind.

This private, customizable tour is best suited for travelers who value comfort, flexibility, and guided local insights. It’s especially ideal for those wanting to maximize their time and see a wide variety of sites with the assistance of an experienced guide.

Santorini Private Tour: A Personalized Way to Discover the Island

This tour’s smooth logistics, expert guidance, and flexibility make it a top choice for visitors wanting a tailored experience. Its high ratings and positive reviews reflect its reliability and quality.

Whether you want to focus on iconic sights like Oia and the caldera, explore hidden villages, or sample local wines, the private driver-guide will accommodate your wishes. The luxury transportation and custom itinerary ensure a comfortable and memorable day.

In the end, this private tour offers excellent value for those seeking a personalized, relaxed, yet comprehensive exploration of Santorini on their own terms.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in this tour?
The tour includes hotel or cruise port pickup, private driver-guide, luxury Mercedes-Benz vehicle, and a bottle of mineral water per person.

Are meals and entrance fees included?
No, meals and entrance fees are not included and are paid at your discretion at each site.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, the tour is completely flexible—you can include or exclude stops during your experience.

What are the main stops on this tour?
Popular stops include Oia, Akrotiri ruins, Perissa Beach, Pyrgos, Fira, Imerovigli, and the lighthouse.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, with options for half or full-day experiences.

Is this tour suitable for cruise travelers?
Yes, cruise passengers are welcomed, with pickup from McDonald’s near the cable car.

What is the cancellation policy?
Full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance; cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

What makes this tour stand out?
Its full customization, private luxury transport, and highly praised guides make it an excellent choice for a personalized Santorini experience.

Is accessibility an issue?
The tour is near public transportation and accessible for most travelers, but specific accessibility details are not provided.

How do I book this tour?
Reservations can be made through the provided provider, Santorini Day Tours, with confirmation received at booking.