Santorini Highlights and Wine Tasting Private Tour

Exploring Santorini becomes a truly personalized experience with the Santorini Highlights and Wine Tasting Private Tour. Priced at $622.29 per group, accommodating up to 4 people, this 5-hour journey offers an intimate look into the island’s most iconic sights, complemented by a wine tasting at Venetsanos Winery. Led by a knowledgeable guide, the tour combines sightseeing, cultural insights, and a relaxing wine experience, making it ideal for those wanting a comprehensive yet private exploration of Santorini’s highlights.

The tour includes pickup service and a deluxe air-conditioned minibus, ensuring comfort as you traverse the island. Though no meals are included, bottled water is provided, and all fees and taxes are covered. This experience suits visitors who prefer a personalized itinerary and want to avoid crowds, gaining an in-depth understanding of Santorini’s history, culture, and stunning landscapes.

Key Points

• Private 5-hour tour with a deluxe minibus for up to 4 people
• Includes visits to Oia, Imerovigli, Megalochori, and the highest point at Mt. Prophet Elias
• Wine tasting at Venetsanos Winery with local wines and caldera views
• Stops at Black Beach, historic villages, and scenic mountain vistas
• All fees and taxes included, with pickup and bottled water provided
• No lunch or dinner included, making it flexible for your plans

Santorini’s Iconic Oia and Its Picturesque Sunset Views

The tour begins with a visit to Oia, renowned as the most photographed location on the island. Here, traditional architecture and volcanic rock dwellings create a mesmerizing backdrop for memorable photos. The guide explains that Oia’s charm lies in its artistic inspiration, with countless artists having captured its beauty in paintings and photographs.

Expect to spend about an hour exploring Oia’s narrow streets and admiring panoramic caldera views of the Aegean Sea. The sunset here is famous, and even if your visit isn’t during sunset, the scenery offers a lasting impression of Santorini’s unique landscape.

Imerovigli and the Blue Dome Church: A Postcard-Perfect Stop

On the way to further sightseeing, a 20-minute stop in Imerovigli offers an opportunity to see the Blue Dome Church, a well-known postcard image of Santorini. This village is admired for its cliffside location and spectacular views, making it a favorite for photographers and artists alike.

The short stop allows for quick, stunning views without extensive walking, and the guide shares insights about the village’s architectural style and local life, helping visitors appreciate the drama of the caldera scenery from a different vantage point.

Discovering Megalochori’s Charm and Authentic Village Life

Next, the tour takes a 30-minute walk through Megalochori, a village that showcases local island life. The guide leads you through narrow streets, revealing traditional houses and local customs. Visitors get a glimpse of everyday life in Santorini, away from the tourist crowds.

This stop offers a chance to see how residents live, with a focus on authenticity and local architecture. It’s a peaceful area that contrasts with busier spots, perfect for those who want a more laid-back experience.

Reaching the Summit at Mt. Prophet Elias for Panoramic Views

A highlight of this tour is the visit to Mt. Prophet Elias, the highest point on Santorini at around 2,000 feet (600 meters). The 30-minute stop promises breathtaking 360-degree views, where visitors can see the entire island and the surrounding Aegean archipelago.

The Greek Christian monastery perched at the mountain’s peak adds a cultural depth to the experience. Inside, the guide explains the monastery’s history and significance, offering a serene atmosphere and an excellent photo opportunity.

Wine Tasting at Venetsanos Winery: Savoring Local Flavors with a View

A 45-minute stop at Venetsanos Winery allows for an educational and delicious experience. The winery, known for its traditional winemaking methods, offers insights into local wine secrets.

Visitors enjoy sampling a selection of famous Santorini wines while taking in the spectacular caldera views. The wine tasting is a key feature of this tour, combining culinary pleasure with scenic beauty. All tasting fees are included, making it an effortless way to indulge in local flavors.

Exploring Perissa Black Sand Beach and Volcanic Pebbles

The tour then proceeds to Perissa Black Sand Beach, where volcanic pebbles cover the shore. With 30 minutes to admire the black volcanic sands and Aegean Sea views, visitors get a sense of Santorini’s volcanic activity.

This stop is ideal for taking photos or simply relaxing by the water. The nearby islands add depth to the scenery, and the beach’s size makes it a memorable stop without feeling crowded.

Practical Details and Tour Logistics

The tour departs from your location with pickup service included, and the air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort throughout the approximately 5-hour experience. Bottled water is supplied, and all fees and taxes are covered, simplifying the planning process.

Since lunch and dinner are not included, visitors have flexibility to explore local dining options afterward. The tour’s private nature allows for a more personalized experience, with the guide tailoring commentary to your interests. The tour is designed to be accessible, and most travelers can participate comfortably.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Others in Santorini

The private setting and flexible itinerary distinguish this tour from group excursions. The knowledgeable guide earns high praise for sharing engaging stories and insights, making the sightseeing both informative and enjoyable.

The inclusion of wine tasting at Venetsanos Winery adds a memorable flavor to the day, and the stops at Oia, Imerovigli, and Megalochori provide a well-rounded experience of both tourist favorites and authentic villages.

Final Thoughts on the Santorini Highlights and Wine Tasting Private Tour

For travelers seeking a comprehensive, personalized exploration of Santorini, this tour offers exceptional value. The combination of scenic stops, cultural insights, and wine tasting creates a balanced and enjoyable experience. The high praise for the guide and the carefully curated stops make it a preferred choice for those who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy an intimate look at the island.

The $622.29 price for a private group of up to four ensures a luxurious, tailored day. While the tour doesn’t include meals, the flexibility allows for dining on your own afterward, making it adaptable to your schedule.

This tour is best suited for visitors who value expert guidance, stunning views, and a relaxed pace. It delivers a genuine taste of Santorini’s beauty and culture, all wrapped up in a comfortable, private experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes all fees and taxes, bottled water, wine tasting at Venetsanos Winery, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience lasts approximately 5 hours.

What stops are part of the itinerary?
Stops include Oia, Imerovigli, Megalochori, Mt. Prophet Elias, Venetsanos Winery, and Perissa Black Sand Beach.

Is this a group or private tour?
It is a private tour, meaning only your group participates.

Are meals included?
No, lunch and dinner are not included, but bottled water is provided.

What is the tour’s cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Who leads the tour?
A knowledgeable local guide with expertise in Santorini’s culture and history conducts the tour.

Is the tour suitable for all physical levels?
Most travelers can participate, but some stops involve walking through villages and uneven surfaces.

How do I book this tour?
Reservations are available through the provider, GooSantorini Travel, and confirmation is received upon booking.

Can I customize this experience?
Since it is a private tour, the guide can tailor the experience to your interests within the scheduled stops.