A full 8 hour Santrorini Tour (private)

Experience the beauty of Santorini with this comprehensive 8-hour private tour designed to showcase the island’s most iconic sights. Priced at $260.28 per person, this tour offers a personalized journey with pickup from your hotel or cruise ship port, ensuring a hassle-free start. The tour’s flexible itinerary allows customization to match your interests, making it ideal for those who want a tailored exploration of Santorini’s highlights with private transport and expert guiding.

This tour has earned a perfect 5.0 rating from 2 reviews, reflecting strong satisfaction with the knowledgeable guiding and stunning locations visited. Travelers appreciate the value for money and the personalized attention this private experience provides, especially compared to group tours. It’s perfect for visitors who want a full day dedicated to seeing the key sights at a comfortable pace.

Key Points

• Private, customizable 8-hour tour with pickup from hotel or cruise port
• Visit top sights: Firostefani, Oia, Pyrgos, Skaros Rock, Red Beach, and more
• Learn from an expert guide with personalized commentary
• Enjoy wine tasting at Santo Wines with breathtaking views
• Stop at the Akrotiri Archaeological Site (admission not included) for history enthusiasts
• Ideal for those seeking a relaxed, flexible experience with a private vehicle
• Advance booking recommended, with bookings typically made 106 days in advance

Santorini’s Most Scenic Views at Firostefani

The tour begins with a stop in Firostefani, where magnificent views of the volcano and Thirasia island greet visitors. You’ll have time to capture stunning photos of the caldera against the sunset or bright daylight, making it an ideal spot for photography. Since the admission is free, it’s a perfect start to the day’s sightseeing.

This vantage point provides an excellent overview of the island’s volcanic landscape, giving a sense of the dramatic scenery that shapes Santorini. The relaxed 15-minute stop allows for appreciating the natural beauty before moving on to more immersive experiences.

Exploring the Iconic Skaros Rock

Next is a visit to Skaros Rock, a lava formation that is one of the most recognizable landmarks on the island. The 30-minute stop offers spectacular views of the caldera from above, emphasizing the volcanic origins of Santorini. Recognized by UNESCO as an important site, Skaros Rock offers a unique perspective of the island’s geological history.

There’s no admission fee for this stop, and the lava mountain provides a dramatic backdrop for photos. Visitors can enjoy the fresh air and panoramic vistas while learning about the significance of this geological feature.

Discovering Oia’s Main Street and Blue Domes

A highlight of this tour is the visit to Oia, famous for its white churches with blue domes, the old castle, and charming boutiques. As the tour allocates one hour here, visitors have ample time for shopping, dining, or simply soaking in the scenery. Many opt to enjoy coffee or traditional Greek desserts during their visit.

The combination of stunning architecture and vibrant atmosphere makes Oia a must-see. The flexible timing, especially at sunset, allows travelers to experience its magic without rushing.

Wandering the Traditional Streets of Pyrgos

The tour continues to Castelli of Pyrgos, a traditional village characterized by narrow streets and old cave houses. The 20-minute walk through Pyrgos offers a glimpse into the island’s authentic side, away from the busier tourist spots. Visitors can admire the medieval castle and explore the ancient architecture.

This stop provides an authentic taste of local life, with plenty of opportunities to appreciate the historic charm of one of Santorini’s most traditional villages. It’s a quieter, more relaxed area that balances well with the more lively tourist spots.

Tasting Local Wines with a View at Santo Wines

One of the tour’s notable highlights is the wine tasting session at Santo Wines, lasting 40 minutes. Visitors sample a variety of local wines while enjoying a breathtaking view of the caldera. This experience combines gastronomy and scenery, giving a taste of Santorini’s renowned wine culture.

The free tasting and spectacular setting make this stop especially appealing for wine enthusiasts or those simply wanting to enjoy a leisurely break with a view. It’s a moment to relax, sip, and take in the colors of the island’s landscape.

Exploring the Historical Akrotiri Archaeological Site

The Akrotiri Archaeological Site is a key stop for history buffs. The tour allocates one hour here, where visitors can explore the ancient Minoan city preserved by volcanic ash. The museum visit is optional, but note that admission is not included in the tour price.

This site offers insights into Santorini’s volcanic past and early civilization. The rarely seen volcanic ruins and well-preserved structures provide a tangible connection to the island’s deep history, although the tour does not include inside visits to the museum.

Scenic Photos at Red Beach

Near Akrotiri, the Red Beach offers a stunning landscape famous for its vivid red cliffs and volcanic rocks. The 20-minute photo stop here allows visitors to marvel at the spectacular contrast of red hills, dark blue waters, and volcanic formations.

Since the beach is only visited for photos and not swimming, travelers should come prepared with their cameras. The scenery is especially captivating from the top vantage points, providing memorable images of Santorini’s volcanic beauty.

Visiting the Byzantine Church of Panagia Episkopi

The tour concludes with a 30-minute visit to the Byzantine church of Panagia Episkopi in ​Episkopi Gonia​. Built in the late 11th century, this important religious monument houses a priceless icon, the Panagia Glikofilousa.

This church exemplifies traditional ecclesiastical architecture and offers a peaceful, historic setting. It’s a meaningful stop for those interested in religious history and cultural heritage.

Practical Details and Logistics

The tour departs from Fira, Greece, with the end point flexible based on your preference. The pickup service ensures a smooth start, and the air-conditioned vehicle keeps the group comfortable throughout the 8-hour journey. The tour runs daily, with bookings often made 106 days in advance, indicating high demand.

Marinakis Tours provides this experience, with full confirmation upon booking. The tour is private, meaning only your group participates, and it’s suitable for most travelers, including those with service animals. The cancellation policy offers full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours prior.

Santorini Private Tour: The Perfect Choice for Personalized Exploration

This full-day private tour offers a flexible and comprehensive way to see Santorini’s most famous sights at a relaxed pace. The expert driver-guides make navigation easy, and the customizable itinerary ensures you spend time on what interests you most.

The combination of scenic views, cultural sites, and local taste experiences makes this tour stand out. Its high ratings and detailed stops demonstrate its quality and appeal, especially for visitors wanting a tailored, stress-free day.

While the admission costs for sites like Akrotiri are not included, the overall value remains strong considering the personalized experience and expert guidance. This tour suits those who prefer comfort, flexibility, and a deep dive into Santorini’s highlights without the rush of group tours.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price covers the private transportation, guide service, and all listed stops except site admissions.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is private and customizable, allowing you to adapt stops to your interests with your driver-guide.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting from Fira and ending at your preferred location.

Is pickup offered from my hotel or cruise ship?
Yes, hassle-free hotel or port pickup is included.

Are there any physical requirements?
The tour involves walking at stops such as Pyrgos and Skaros Rock, but overall, it’s suitable for most travelers with moderate mobility.

Is the tour suitable for families or groups?
Absolutely, the private nature makes it ideal for families, friends, or small groups seeking a personalized experience.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, given the popularity, booking around 106 days in advance is recommended to secure your preferred date.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but there are opportunities for lunch or coffee during stops like Oia or at local cafes.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start for a full refund.

What makes this tour stand out compared to others?
Its private, customizable format, expert guiding, and balanced mix of scenic viewpoints, cultural sites, and local wine tasting distinguish it from more generic tours.

This 8-hour private Santorini tour offers a well-rounded, relaxed way to see the island’s best spots, making it a top choice for those prioritizing comfort and personalized attention.