Island of Thera in One Day: 8h Island Tour, Lunch & WineTasting

Experience the beauty of Santorini in a single day with the Island of Thera in One Day: 8h Island Tour, Lunch & WineTasting offered by Santorini Local Guides. Priced at $387.92 per person, this private adventure is ideal for cruise passengers and island visitors eager to see the most iconic sites in a limited time. The tour lasts approximately 8 hours and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a smooth and personalized experience. What sets this tour apart is its comprehensive itinerary, featuring stops at picturesque villages, a top local winery, and a seaside lunch with stunning ocean views.

With a perfect 5.0 rating from 1 review, this tour speaks to its quality, especially for those wanting insider insights from a knowledgeable guide. The tour includes wine tasting at Venetsanos Winery, a visit to the historic Akrotiri Lighthouse, and ample time to relax on Perissa Black Sand Beach. While the tour is designed to be immersive, do note that it involves some walking and sightseeing at various sites. This experience offers a well-rounded day of exploring Santorini’s highlights in style and comfort.

Key Points

• Private 8-hour tour covering Santorini’s top sights with personalized attention.
• Price is $387.92 per person, including wine tasting and seaside lunch.
• Pickup and drop-off are provided from hotels, Airbnbs, or cruise ships.
• Stops include Oia, Imerovigli, Pyrgos Kallistis, and Megalochori.
• Wine tasting at Venetsanos Winery and visits to Akrotiri Lighthouse and Perissa Black Sand Beach.
• Tour is suitable for most travelers, with most participants able to join.

Exploring Santorini’s Most Famous Village: Oia

The tour begins with Oia, the island’s most renowned village, famous for its whitewashed houses and cliffside views. You’ll find plenty of time to wander through the narrow alleys, admire the scenic vistas, and take photos of the iconic Sunset Viewpoints. This stop is admission-free and lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, making it a perfect introduction to Santorini’s charm.

Discovering Imerovigli and the Blue Dome Church

Next, the guide leads you to Imerovigli, perched on the cliffs of the Caldera. This village offers a more tranquil atmosphere and stunning views of the volcano. A notable highlight is the Blue Dome Church, a classic Santorini photo spot. Here, you have 30 minutes to absorb the scenery and snap some memorable pictures.

Panoramic Views from Pyrgos Kallistis

The tour continues to Pyrgos Kallistis, where you gain a different perspective of the island from Mt. Prophet Elias, the highest peak in Santorini. Standing at the top, you’ll see panoramic views of the entire island, providing excellent photo opportunities. The stop lasts 45 minutes, giving ample time to enjoy the scenery and explore the traditional village.

Traditional Charm of Megalochori

Megalochori is a beautifully preserved village that showcases authentic Greek architecture. You can stroll through its picturesque square, visit the village church, and see local wineries in the area. This stop lasts 45 minutes, offering a relaxed pace and a chance to soak in the charm of a less touristy spot.

Visiting Firostefani and the Blue Dome Church

The tour includes a visit to Firostefani, close to Imerovigli, where the famous Blue Dome Church stands. This photogenic site is a popular photo stop, and the town square offers lovely views of the Caldera. This part of the tour lasts 30 minutes.

The Heart of Santorini and the Natural Heart-Shaped Cliff Opening

A unique highlight is the Heart of Santorini, a natural heart-shaped opening in the cliffs. This stunning geological formation offers one of the most iconic photo opportunities on the island. You’ll spend 30 minutes here, appreciating the striking landscape.

Wine Tasting at Venetsanos Winery

One of the tour’s key features is a visit to Venetsanos Winery, where you indulge in a wine tasting session. The winery, with its traditional roots, offers a chance to sample some of the finest wines produced locally. This stop lasts 1 hour and includes a tasting experience included in the price.

Exploring Akrotiri Lighthouse

Next, the guide takes you to the 19th-century Akrotiri Lighthouse, built in 1892 by a French company. It’s one of Greece’s oldest lighthouses, and the view from here offers beautiful sights of the Aegean Sea. This 30-minute stop provides both historical interest and scenic vistas, with guided commentary included.

Relaxing at Perissa Black Sand Beach

The tour pauses at Perissa Beach, famous for its black volcanic sand. Here, you can relax, enjoy a drink or coffee, and take in the seaside atmosphere. This 30-minute break is perfect for some leisure before heading to the final major stop.

Visiting Akrotiri and the Red Beach

The day concludes with a visit to the Red Beach, known for its striking red volcanic cliffs. You have 1 hour 30 minutes to explore the area, take photos, and even enjoy a fresh fish lunch at a nearby traditional tavern. This included meal provides a taste of authentic Greek cuisine with ocean views, making for a satisfying end to the day.

Practical Logistics and Comfort

Throughout the tour, travelers benefit from an air-conditioned vehicle and private transportation. The guide is also the driver, providing an intimate and controlled experience. Bottled water is included, ensuring hydration during the sightseeing.

Expert Guide and Personalization

The in-person guide enhances the experience with local insights and personalized attention. One review praises guide Stratos for his knowledge and insider tips, which help visitors navigate busy spots and understand the significance of each location.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Most travelers book this tour 51 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing flexibility for travelers who may need to change plans. The private nature of the tour means only your group participates, adding to the personalized feel.

The Best Fit for This Santorini Tour

This 8-hour private tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Santorini’s most iconic sights, making it perfect for those with limited time who want a curated experience. It’s especially suitable for cruise passengers or visitors seeking a personalized, relaxed pace with both sightseeing and local wine tasting. The inclusion of lunch and wine tasting in the cost enhances the overall value.

Final Thoughts on the Tour Experience

The Island of Thera in One Day combines stunning views, cultural sights, and local flavors in a streamlined itinerary. It provides a balanced mix of sightseeing, tasting, and leisure, tailored for those who want to see the highlights without feeling rushed. The private setup and expert guide make it a reliable choice for an immersive day on Santorini.

While it involves several stops, the pacing is manageable, and the lunch at the seaside adds a delightful touch. The wine tasting, especially at Venetsanos Winery, is a standout feature that complements the scenic exploration. This tour offers a personalized and well-rounded way to enjoy Santorini in a single day.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, including all stops, meals, and tastings.

What is included in the price?
The price includes private transportation, wine tasting at Venetsanos Winery, lunch at a seaside tavern, and guided sightseeing at multiple locations.

Is this tour suitable for cruise ship passengers?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, making it easy for cruise passengers to enjoy without concern for timing.

What stops are part of this tour?
Stops include Oia, Imerovigli, Pyrgos Kallistis, Megalochori, Firostefani, Heart of Santorini, Venetsanos Winery, Akrotiri Lighthouse, Perissa Black Sand Beach, and Red Beach.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time, with a full refund.

Is the tour private?
Yes, this is a private tour, ensuring your group has exclusive access to the guide and transportation.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking, sun protection, and a camera to capture the views.

Are meals included?
Lunch at a seaside tavern and wine tasting are included in the tour price.

Is there any physical requirement?
Most travelers can participate, but some walking and standing at various stops are involved.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking around 51 days in advance is typical, but availability depends on the season.

Can the guide customize the experience?
Since the guide is also the driver, personalized attention is a key feature, allowing some flexibility within the itinerary.