Private Custom Land Tour in Santorini with a Local

Exploring Santorini becomes truly special with the Private Custom Land Tour in Santorini with a Local. Priced at $143.30 per person, this 5-hour experience offers a tailored journey around the island’s most iconic spots. Led by a professional, English-speaking driver, the tour focuses on creating a comfortable, personalized adventure, making it an excellent choice for those who value flexibility and expert guidance. Reviews consistently highlight the knowledgeable guides and stunning views, with a perfect 5.0 rating from 61 reviews, and 100% recommend this experience.

While the itinerary is flexible, it covers Oia, Firostefani, Profitis Ilias, Akrotiri, Red Beach, and Perissa Black Sand Beach. The tour includes private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle and bottled water, making the experience both comfortable and convenient. The main limitation is that lunch and dinner are not included, giving travelers the freedom to choose their own meals. Booking well in advance—about 51 days ahead—ensures you secure this popular, highly-rated tour.

Key Points

• Personalized 5-hour tour around Santorini with an English-speaking driver
• Visits to Oia, Firostefani, Profitis Ilias, Akrotiri, Red Beach, and Perissa Black Sand Beach
• Private transportation with air conditioning and bottled water included
• Flexible schedule with 60-minute stops and time for photos and sightseeing
• Tour suitable for most travelers, with most participants able to join and service animals allowed
• Departure from Fira, ending back at the same point, with free cancellation available

Visiting Oia: The Village of Sunsets and Blue Domes

The tour begins in Oia, a village famed for its spectacular sunsets and picturesque streets. You spend about 45 minutes here, exploring the narrow roads, whitewashed buildings, and the old Castle of Oia. This spot offers some of the best photo opportunities, especially with the blue dome churches that are instantly recognizable. The admission is free, but the views make it a highlight for any visitor.

The panoramic vistas from Oia give travelers a chance to appreciate Santorini’s iconic scenery. The guide provides insightful commentary about the village’s history and architecture, enriching the experience beyond just taking photos.

Firostefani and the Caldera Views

Next, the tour moves to Firostefani, a charming village with spectacular views of the Caldera. In just 10 minutes, travelers can admire sights like the rock of Skaros, the volcano, and the famous Blue dome church. This stop is perfect for photo sessions and soaking in the island’s natural beauty.

The free stop offers a quick but impactful view of Santorini’s volcanic landscape. The guide points out notable landmarks and shares interesting facts about the area, making these moments both scenic and educational.

Highest Point at Profitis Ilias

At Profitis Ilias, the highest point on the island, visitors enjoy a 15-minute stop to take in breathtaking panoramic views. From this elevation, you can see the entire island, including the volcano and surrounding landscapes. The area offers photo opportunities and a chance to explore the surroundings briefly.

The stop is admission-free, and the guide explains the significance of the mountain and nearby features, offering a comprehensive perspective of Santorini’s volcanic origins.

Akrotiri: The Red Beach and Panoramic Vistas

The journey continues with stops at scenic points around Akrotiri, including panoramic views of the caldera. You’ll have a few minutes at each spot to capture photos before heading to the Red Beach, renowned for its distinctive red rocks.

The Red Beach stop lasts about 15 minutes, allowing enough time to admire the unique geological formations. Visitors often find the stark contrast of the red rocks against the blue waters striking for photos and sightseeing alike.

Red Beach: Unique Geology and Photo Opportunities

The Red Beach spot is a highlight for many, offering the chance to view the striking red cliffs and crystal-clear waters. The 15-minute stop allows for photos of the volcanic rock formations and the beach’s natural beauty. Given its popularity, this site often becomes a memorable part of the tour.

Though the stop is brief, the vivid colors and dramatic scenery make it worth the visit. Travelers should be prepared for a quick walk to optimal viewpoints.

Perissa Black Sand Beach: Relaxation and Lunch Break

The tour’s longest stop, at Perissa/Perivolos Beach, lasts about 1 hour. Here, visitors have free time to relax, dip their toes in the black sand, or enjoy a meal at nearby restaurants. The unique black sand is a signature feature of Santorini’s volcanic terrain.

This stop is ideal for those wishing to unwind or sample local cuisine. The tour does not include lunch, but the area offers numerous dining options, making it easy to extend the experience if desired.

The Comfort of Private Transportation

Throughout the tour, private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle ensures a comfortable experience. The driver is described as professional and friendly, providing informative commentary at each stop. The tour includes bottled water for refreshment during the ride.

This setup allows for flexibility and personalized pacing, setting it apart from larger group tours. The meeting point is in Fira, a central location easily accessible via public transit.

Booking, Timing, and Flexibility

Most travelers book the tour about 51 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. The full experience lasts approximately 5 hours, with around 1 hour and 40 minutes of travel time between stops. The tour ends back in Fira, the starting point.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, adding peace of mind for those planning ahead. The private format means your group has exclusive access, making for a more relaxed and tailored experience.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Others

The main strengths of this private tour are the personalized attention, flexible itinerary, and the knowledgeable driver-guide. The reviews praise the guides’ ability to navigate the day smoothly and share insightful information about each location.

Unlike group tours, this experience offers more flexibility at each stop, with plenty of time for photography and exploration. The value for money is clear, considering the private transport, the expert guidance, and the customized itinerary.

Who Will Most Enjoy This Experience

This tour is ideal for those who want a personalized taste of Santorini without the constraints of a larger group. It suits travelers seeking flexibility, photographers, and history enthusiasts interested in the island’s landmarks and scenery.

Most travelers will find the pace comfortable, and the guide’s insights enhance the visit. The lack of included meals allows freedom to choose dining options that suit individual tastes and schedules.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. The stops involve walking around scenic spots, but the overall pace is manageable.

Can I customize the stops or duration?
Since it’s a private tour, the guide can adapt the schedule within the 5-hour window, focusing more on specific sites if preferred.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring comfortable footwear, sun protection, and a camera for photography. The tour provides bottled water and air-conditioned transport for comfort.

Is lunch included in the tour price?
No, lunch and dinner are not included, giving flexibility to choose where and when to eat.

How do I book this tour?
Booking is recommended about 51 days in advance. You can confirm your reservation with Blue Moon Tours via the booking platform.

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

Where does the tour start and end?
It departs from and returns to Fira, making it easy to access from most accommodations.

How long is the total travel time?
Travel between stops is approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes in total, with each stop lasting 10 to 45 minutes.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not part of the tour, so travelers can choose their preferred dining options at Perissa Black Sand Beach.

Will I receive any photos or souvenirs?
The tour doesn’t specify photos or souvenirs, but the stops offer ample opportunities for memorable photographs.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, the private nature makes it suitable for solo travelers who want a personalized experience.

This Private Custom Land Tour in Santorini offers an engaging, flexible way to see the island’s highlights in just a few hours, all while enjoying the comfort of private transport and expert guidance. It’s a practical choice for anyone wanting a curated experience tailored to their interests, highlighting Santorini’s most photogenic and iconic sights.