Private Santorini Highlights Day Tour

If you’re planning a day in Santorini and want to see its most iconic spots in comfort and style, the Private Santorini Highlights Day Tour offers an engaging and flexible way to explore the island. Priced at $287.95 per person, this tour lasts around 7 to 8 hours and is designed for those who appreciate personalized attention, with the added convenience of hotel, port, cable car, or airport pickup and drop-off.

The tour includes visits to famous villages like Oia, Imerovigli, and Pyrgos, along with scenic stops at Red Beach and Perissa’s black sand beaches. One of the key features is the opportunity to explore the Akrotiri archaeological site independently (entrance own expense), where ancient Minoan ruins await discovery. Guided by a knowledgeable escort, travelers get a carefully curated taste of Santorini’s best sights and scenery.

While the tour offers a rich itinerary and the chance to avoid crowds in personalized transport, note that food, drinks, and the wine tasting are not included in the base price, providing flexibility for your preferences. This tour suits those who want a rundown of Santorini’s highlights with the comfort of private transportation and expert guidance.

Key Points

• Private tour with personalized pickup and drop-off at your hotel, port, or airport
• Visit Oia, Imerovigli, Pyrgos, and Akrotiri with flexible timing for each stop
• Includes scenic viewpoints from the caldera rim and Mt. Profitis Ilias
• Optional activities like wine tastings and beach visits are available, but at an extra cost
• Duration of 7-8 hours makes it a full but manageable day
• Small group experience with a knowledgeable escort ensures personalized attention

Santorini’s Most Famous Villages: Oia, Imerovigli, and Firostefani

This tour starts at Oia’s main square, known for its stunning blue-domed churches and postcard-worthy views. Spanning approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes, it’s the perfect spot to soak in the beauty of the caldera and snap photos of the iconic architecture. From here, the guide leads you to Skaros Rock, a dramatic natural formation offering sweeping views, where you spend about 30 minutes.

Next, the tour visits Imerovigli, the highest village on Santorini, for about 20 minutes. Here, the landscape is marked by luxury hotels and quiet streets, offering a different perspective of the island’s volcanic cliffs. The nearby Firostefani provides a quick stop for a photo with the characteristic blue-dome church, ideal for capturing the quintessential Santorini shot in 15 minutes.

Exploring Pyrgos and Its Traditional Charm

The tour then moves inland to Pyrgos, the highest and most traditional village on the island. With about 40 minutes to explore, visitors can appreciate the narrow alleys, ancient castle ruins, and local architecture. Pyrgos is less crowded, giving a more relaxed insight into local life compared to the busy Oia.

Scenic Beaches: Red Beach and the Black Sand Coasts

A highlight for many visitors is the Red Beach, renowned for its striking red volcanic cliffs and landscape. The stop here lasts 20 minutes, enough for a quick photo and to enjoy the unique scenery. The tour also provides time for a visit to Perissa’s black sand beach or Kamari Beach, each offering about 45 minutes to relax, swim, or take photos of the dark volcanic sands.

Independent Exploration at Akrotiri Archaeological Site

One of the core attractions is the Akrotiri archaeological site, where a Minoan civilization once thrived. While entrance costs 12 euros per person and is paid separately, the tour allows 30 minutes for self-guided exploration. This ancient site provides insight into Santorini’s volcanic past and its early inhabitants, making it a worthwhile stop for history buffs.

Wine Tasting at Hatzidakis Winery

For wine lovers, the optional Hatzidakis Winery offers a tasting of five local wines for 15 euros per person. The 45-minute session showcases the island’s unique grape varieties and the winemaking process, providing a flavorful taste of Santorini’s viticulture. This experience is paid separately from the tour fee.

Authentic Lunch in a Traditional Taverna

The tour includes about 1 hour and 20 minutes for an optional lunch at a traditional taverna in Akrotiri. It provides a relaxed break to enjoy local Greek cuisine, although this activity is not included in the base price and is up to individual preference.

Final Stop at Perissa or Kamari Black Sand Beaches

For the last stretch, the tour visits Perissa or Kamari beach, where roughly 45 minutes are allocated for swimming and relaxing on the dark volcanic sands. This allows for some leisure and a final scenic experience before heading back.

Convenient Logistics and Customization

A standout feature of this tour is the wide choice of departure slots, allowing travelers to plan their day with precision. The private minivan ensures comfort and flexibility, with bottled water provided throughout. The tour operator, Top Santorini Trips & Activities by Tatiana P, emphasizes local taxes and transport included in the price.

Honest Limitations and Extra Costs

While the tour offers a rundown of Santorini, certain activities are paid separately: admission to Akrotiri (12 euros), wine tasting (15 euros), and lunch if chosen. Food and drinks, aside from bottled water, are also not included in the base price. The dress code is formal, which might be a consideration for some travelers.

Flexibility and Cancellation Policy

This private tour features free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, giving peace of mind. The small group setting has been praised for the knowledgeable guides and personalized experience, with reviews highlighting the friendly and informative nature of guides like Sophia.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This tour is ideal for those who value comfort and flexibility during their sightseeing. It suits those who want a full day of iconic sights, combined with authentic experiences like wine tasting. The private format ensures less crowded, more relaxed visits, perfect for families, couples, or small groups seeking a tailored Santorini adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off directly at your hotel, port, cable car, or airport if selected.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, covering multiple stops and activities.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, but there’s an option for lunch at a local taverna.

Can I visit Akrotiri independently?
Yes, you have 30 minutes to explore Akrotiri archaeological site on your own. Entrance fee of 12 euros is paid separately.

Are there options for wine tasting?
Yes, Hatzidakis Winery offers a tasting of five wines for 15 euros per person.

What is the tour’s cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start.

What kind of transport is used?
A private, air-conditioned minivan provides comfortable transportation throughout the day.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult.

How flexible is the schedule?
The tour offers wide departure slots and the ability to choose where to spend more or less time at each stop.

What do reviews say about this tour?
Reviews highlight knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and a luxury limo-like experience, making it a popular choice.

This Private Santorini Highlights Day Tour combines the best of the island’s sights with personalized attention, making it an excellent option for a compact yet comprehensive day in Santorini. Its mix of iconic villages, beaches, and cultural sites, paired with the flexibility of private transport, ensures a memorable experience for those who want to see Santorini without the rush or crowd.