Private Half Day Tour of Santorini’s South Side

Discover the Best of South Santorini in a Private Half Day Tour

For those seeking an intimate and comprehensive look at Santorini’s southern highlights, this private 5-hour tour offers a personalized experience led by an expert guide and a dedicated driver. At $166.31 per person, it delivers a well-balanced mix of history, scenery, and culture, making it perfect for travelers who want to explore at their own pace without the crowds. The tour is known for its warm guide, who shares local stories and insights, and for the luxury of private transportation, ensuring comfort and flexibility.

The tour concentrates on the most distinctive sites of southern Santorini, including the ancient ruins at Akrotiri, the breathtaking Red Beach, the charming village of Megalochori, and a local winery. While it’s a shorter excursion, the 5-hour duration allows ample time to appreciate each stop without feeling rushed. This tour suits visitors looking for a personalized, informative, and scenic experience, especially those interested in archaeological relics and wine tasting.

Key Points

• Private 5-hour tour with an expert guide and driver
• Visit Akrotiri’s archaeological ruins, a Minoan city from 1450 BC
• Photograph Red Beach’s colorful cliffs and black volcanic sand
• Explore Megalochori, a picturesque traditional village
• Stop at a local winery to learn about Santorini’s winemaking and taste wines
• Flexible pick-up options at all accessible locations in Santorini

Starting at Mount Profitis Ilias: The Island’s Highest Point

The tour begins at the Monastery of Profitis Ilias, located less than five kilometers from Pyrgos. This site is the highest point of Santorini, offering sweeping views of the island and the Aegean Sea. Built in 1711, the monastery showcases classic Cycladic architecture, and visitors can taste local products right at this elevated spot. This stop takes around 20 minutes and is free of charge, making it an ideal first taste of Santorini’s spiritual and scenic grandeur.

Red Beach: The Volcanic Wonder

Next, the tour moves to Red Beach, one of Santorini’s most striking natural attractions. The colorful cliffs—a mix of red, black, and white volcanic rock—frame a narrow strip of reddish sand on the coast. It’s a photo opportunity from the cliffs, which provide exceptional views and a chance to appreciate the island’s volcanic activity. Visitors can enjoy swimming in a calm small bay or relax on the beach’s sun loungers and umbrellas, although the sea is rocky and steep to enter. The 20-minute stop is free, but keep in mind that it can get crowded due to the beach’s popularity.

Megalochori: Charm in a Traditional Village

The tour then ventures into Megalochori, a quaint village renowned for its whitewashed houses and narrow streets. This 30-minute stop allows visitors to wander through its picturesque alleys, admire historic architecture, and soak in the authentic local atmosphere. The village offers insight into traditional Santorini life and provides great photo opportunities, especially of its churches and plazas. No entrance fees apply, making this a relaxing and culturally rich experience.

Akrotiri Archaeological Site: A Window into Minoan Life

One of the primary highlights is a visit to the Akrotiri archaeological site, where prehistoric ruins reveal traces of a Minoan city destroyed by a volcanic earthquake around 1450 BC. Although the entrance fee is not included, the site features well-preserved stone buildings, advanced drainage systems, and artifacts that tell the story of a thriving ancient civilization. The 30-minute stop offers a glimpse into ancient Aegean life, with the guide sharing insightful commentary about the archaeological significance.

Emporio: Medieval Fortress and Local History

The tour continues with a stop in Emporio, a fortified village with medieval roots. Its unique fortress-like architecture and stone buildings reflect a history of protecting against pirates. The 45-minute visit allows for exploring the narrow streets, viewing Kasteli Castle—a well-preserved fortress—and understanding its role in Santorini’s past. The area remains inhabited, and efforts are made to preserve its authentic charm. No entry fees are required, and the visit provides a hands-on look at traditional Cycladic architecture.

Perissa Beach: Black Volcanic Sand and Coastal Beauty

The final stop is at Perissa Beach, an unexpected highlight for its long stretch of black volcanic sand. This miles-long beach at the base of Mesa Vuno offers a cosmopolitan vibe, with options for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling. The coarse sand can become quite hot in summer, so comfortable footwear is advised. The 7-kilometer coastline merges with Perivolos Beach, creating a spacious, lively environment perfect for relaxing before the tour concludes.

Wine Tasting at a Local Santorini Winery

A key feature of this tour is the visit to a traditional winery, where learn about Santorini’s distinct winemaking techniques. Guests enjoy tasting local wines while taking in spectacular views of the caldera cliffs. This wine tasting offers an authentic taste of Santorini’s viticultural heritage and is often highlighted as a favorite part of the experience, with a relaxed atmosphere and expert guidance.

Logistics and Transport: Comfort and Convenience

This private tour features air-conditioned minivan transport, ensuring a comfortable ride between stops. The driver and guide work together to provide seamless navigation and tailored commentary. Pickup is available at various accessible locations across Santorini, including Fira’s cable car exit—a convenient option for cruise ship passengers. The flexibility in pickup and drop-off locations makes this tour adaptable to different travel plans.

Tour Experience and Personalization

Multiple reviews praise the knowledgeable, friendly guides who share local stories and personal insights. Guests appreciate the pace of the tour, which balances sightseeing and relaxation, along with the attention to detail from the guide. The private nature of the tour ensures the group’s full attention, allowing for customized stops and personalized questions.

Cost and Booking Considerations

Priced at $166.31 per person, this tour is an excellent value given its private setting and comprehensive itinerary. Most bookings are made 89 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. The tour is booked with ease, and free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing peace of mind.

Final Thoughts on the Santorini South Side Tour

This private half-day tour offers a personalized and balanced glimpse into Santorini’s archaeological sites, villages, natural scenery, and wines. The expert guide, combined with luxury transportation, makes for a hassle-free experience that covers the island’s most iconic and lesser-known sights.

While it’s not an exhaustive exploration, the carefully curated stops make it a great introduction for visitors eager to see the highlights without feeling rushed. The lack of included entrance fees and meals means travelers should budget accordingly, but the overall experience remains impressive and worthwhile for those interested in history, culture, and scenic beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, providing enough time to explore each stop comfortably.

What locations are included in the itinerary?
Stops include Mount Profitis Ilias, Red Beach, Megalochori, Akrotiri archaeological site, Emporio, and Perissa Beach, along with a wine tasting.

Is this tour suitable for cruise ship passengers?
Yes, pickup is offered at the Fira cable car exit for cruise travelers, making it convenient for those arriving by ship.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees are not included for sites like Akrotiri. Guests should budget for these separately.

Can I customize the tour?
As a private tour, it allows for some flexibility and personalization within the five-hour window.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking, sunscreen, and a hat for outdoor stops like Red Beach and Perissa.

Is food included in the tour?
No, meals and drinks are not included unless specified, but the wine tasting is a highlight.

What do reviews say about the guide?
Guides are highly praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and local insights, making the experience engaging and enriching.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking around 89 days in advance is typical, especially during peak seasons.

Is the tour accessible for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, with pick-up options available at all car-accessible locations in Santorini.