Full-Day Santorini Personalized Private Guided Tour Experience

Indulge in a full-day personalized private tour of Santorini for $322.67 per person, offering a flexible 5 to 6-hour experience that puts you in the driver’s seat. This highly-rated tour, with a perfect 5.0/5 from 83 reviews, is designed for those who want to see the island at their own pace, selecting highlights that interest them most. Guided by an experienced local driver, you’ll visit renowned sites like Oia’s sunset, the Three Bells of Fira, and Akrotiri’s archaeological ruins, all with the convenience of private transportation and tailored itineraries.

The tour stands out because it offers customization—you choose where to spend your time, whether that’s taking in spectacular views, exploring historic locations, or sampling local wines and food. With pickup included and group discounts available, this experience suits travelers seeking a flexible and personal way to discover Santorini. Keep in mind that some stops, like the Akrotiri archaeological site and wine museum, require optional admission fees, which are not included in the base price.

Key Points

• Personalized 5-6 hour private tour with flexible itinerary options
• Visit iconic spots: Oia sunset, Fira, Megalochori, Akrotiri Lighthouse, Red Beach, and more
• Expert local guide provides live commentary and insights
• Includes hotel/port/airport pickup and private air-conditioned transportation
• Optional visits to archaeological sites and wineries have additional fees
• Highly rated with a perfect 5-star rating from 83 reviews

The Tour Starts with a Sunset at Oia

This tour begins with the opportunity to watch Santorini’s famous sunset in Oia. The village’s blue-domed churches, marbled pathways, and bustling open-air cafes create a postcard-perfect setting. Oia’s cultural attractions, such as the maritime museum and traces of a Venetian fortress, add historical context, while the cave houses and neo-classical architecture highlight its affluent past. The scenic views from the cliff top make this stop a highlight, and it’s ideal for capturing stunning photos.

The 45-minute visit is free of admission fees, giving plenty of time to soak in the spectacular scenery. Choosing an afternoon departure ensures you experience the world-famous sunset in this picturesque village. The tour’s flexibility allows you to linger longer if you wish, making this stop a memorable start or end to your day.

The Scenic Cliffs at Three Bells of Fira

Next, the tour takes you to Fira’s “crown of Fira”, a charming old village perched on the caldera’s rim. The scenic balcony overlooking the caldera offers breathtaking views of the volcanic crater and the blue-domed churches that adorn every postcard of Santorini. This stop lasts about 20 minutes and is free to visit.

You’ll get a chance to admire the famous blue domed church, a symbol of Santorini, and enjoy a panoramic perspective of the island’s wild volcanic landscape. It’s a perfect spot for photos and soaking in the powerful beauty of the caldera.

Exploring Megalochori’s Traditional Charm

The tour then moves to Megalochori, a quaint village made up of white painted houses with exquisite architecture. This less touristy area offers a glimpse into local life, with tiny alleys, tower bells, and blue-domed chapels. Visitors can wander through narrow streets and see underground cave houses, which reflect traditional Santorinian architecture.

Spending around 20 minutes here, you enjoy a peaceful environment that feels authentic and unspoiled, a contrast to busier tourist spots. It’s an ideal place to appreciate local culture away from crowds.

Akrotiri Lighthouse and Caldera Views

The Akrotiri Lighthouse, built in 1892 by a French company, is a highlight for panoramic views and picture-taking. Standing on a high cliff above the sea, this beautiful lighthouse offers a unique vantage point to admire Santorini’s caldera from a different perspective.

This 20-minute stop is free and provides a quieter moment to enjoy spectacular coastal scenery. It’s particularly appreciated for its photo opportunities and peaceful surroundings.

Marvel at Red Beach’s Volcanic Landscape

The Red Beach, with its enormous volcanic rocks and steep hills, offers a distinctive landscape unlike any other on the island. This natural wonder features vivid red sand and wild scenery, making it a must-see for photography enthusiasts.

A short 10-minute visit allows time to marvel at the dramatic volcanic formations and take amazing pictures. It’s important to note that, being a natural site, facilities are limited, so plan accordingly.

Relax at Perissa Black Sand Beach

The tour includes a stop at Perissa Beach, known for its long stretch of black lava sand. Visitors have the chance to swim in the clear Aegean waters or enjoy traditional Seaside restaurants serving local dishes.

Spending around 10 minutes here, this beach is perfect for a quick dip or to simply relax and take in the volcanic scenery. The black sand makes it a striking contrast to typical sandy beaches.

The Panoramic View from Profitis Ilias Monastery

At Profitis Ilias, the highest point on Santorini, the tour offers breathtaking views over the entire island. The monastery, built in 1711, adds historical charm, while the viewpoint provides an exceptional panoramic perspective.

During the 15-minute stop, you can sample wine and local products produced by the monks, adding a taste of local tradition. This peaceful spot is ideal for taking in the island’s vast scenery.

Exploring Pyrgos’ Historic Village

Pyrgos, the oldest village on Santorini, features a 16th-century Venetian castle and charming narrow streets. The village’s circular layout and blue-domed churches create a picturesque environment.

Spending 30 minutes wandering here, visitors discover small alleys, pebble pathways, and vineyards surrounding the village. Its historic significance and traditional architecture make it a notable stop on this tour.

Discovering the Akrotiri Archaeological Site

The Akrotiri archaeological site reveals the remains of a 4000-year-old Bronze Age settlement preserved beneath volcanic ash. Visitors can explore well-preserved frescoes, multi-story buildings, and elaborate drainage systems that showcase ancient urban planning.

While the admission fee of 12 euros is not included, the site offers a fascinating glimpse into prehistoric civilization that thrived before being buried by a volcanic eruption centuries ago.

Sampling Local Flavors at Faros Market

In the outskirts of Akrotiri, the Faros Market allows visitors to taste homemade wine and local products such as fava, sun-dried tomatoes, capers, and olive paste. It’s a lively, family-run farm where you can see the wine cellar and grape-stomping tanks.

This 10-minute stop provides an authentic experience of Greek artisanal foods, with no additional cost for tasting. It offers a delightful break and a chance to bring home a taste of Santorini.

Windmills of Emporio and Sunset Views

Follow a small road to the Windmills of Emporio, situated on a hilltop overlooking the village. The 8 traditional windmills and a white-washed chapel create a scenic setting, ideal for panoramic photos and capturing the sunset.

Spending about 20 minutes here, this location combines historic charm with breathtaking sea views, making it a popular spot for memorable photos.

Visiting the Ftelos Brewery

The Ftelos Brewery offers a guided tour of its onsite artisanal beer production, which uses local ingredients. Visitors see the brewing process, fermentation tanks, and bottling line, gaining insights into craft beer making.

This 1-hour experience is both fun and educational, and beer tasting is available. The production area is visible through glass, adding a behind-the-scenes feel. Note that beer tasting is not included in the standard package.

Optional Wineries and Museums

The Wine Museum Koutsogiannopoulos showcases the history of wine production from 1660 to 1970 in a 300-meter-long natural cave. The museum tour costs €20 per person, and wine tastings are available in a specially designed room.

The costs are extra, but the museum offers a unique glimpse into Santorini’s oenological heritage. Visitors can also visit local wineries for tastings, enriching their understanding of the island’s wine culture.

The Flexibility and Personalization Advantage

This tour’s biggest strength is the ability to customize your experience. You choose the stops and duration at each site, allowing for a more relaxed or more intensive day depending on your interests. The private transportation and live commentary from a local driver ensure a comfortable and informative experience.

The pickup service simplifies logistics, and group discounts make it accessible for families or small groups. With most stops free of charge and optional paid entries, you can tailor the cost and experience to your preferences.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour the Most?

This full-day private tour appeals to independent-minded travelers who want a customized experience without the constraints of a large group. It suits those interested in history, culture, spectacular views, and local cuisine.

While it covers many must-see sites, the flexibility to focus on particular interests makes this tour especially appealing to photographers, history buffs, or wine enthusiasts. Be prepared for moderate walking at some stops, and note that admission fees for certain archaeological and museum sites are not included.

The Sum Up: The Best Private Tour for a Personal Santorini Experience

This full-day Santorini private tour offers a balanced blend of sightseeing, culture, and tasting, all tailored to your preferences. The expert guide, combined with deluxe private transport, ensures a comfortable and informative journey across the island’s highlights and hidden corners.

While some activities, like archaeological site visits and wine museum tours, have additional costs, the overall value lies in the flexibility and personalized attention. This tour is perfect for independent explorers who want to craft their own adventure and see Santorini through a local lens.

Readers should consider this experience if they prefer a relaxed pace, customizable stops, and insider insights into Santorini’s scenery, history, and flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of this tour?
The tour costs $322.67 per person.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 5 to 6 hours.

What is included in the tour?
The experience includes private transportation, hotel/port/airport pickup and drop-off, live commentary, and bottled water.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, travelers can select stops based on personal interests, making this a highly customizable experience.

Are there any additional fees?
Yes, optional entrance fees to Akrotiri archaeological site and wine museum (around 12-20 euros) are not included.

Is food or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included unless specified, but there are opportunities to sample local products and wine.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate; however, some stops may involve moderate walking.

What stops are highly recommended?
The Oia sunset, Fira’s caldera view, Akrotiri ruins, and Pyrgos village are particularly popular.

How far in advance should I book?
Most reservations are made around 68 days in advance.

What makes this tour stand out?
The personalized itinerary, local guide expertise, and flexible timing differentiate this tour from standard group excursions.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start.

Who operates this tour?
It is offered by Santo Luxury Escape.