Private Santorini Day Tour & Native Driver

Exploring Santorini becomes truly special with the Private Santorini Day Tour & Native Driver. Priced at $266.81 per person, this 7 to 7.5-hour journey offers customized sightseeing in an air-conditioned vehicle with a dedicated local guide. The tour is highly rated with a perfect 5.0 out of 5 from 20 reviews, and it’s recommended by 100% of past participants. An attractive feature is the hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a smooth and convenient experience. This tour is ideal for those who want to see the highlights of Santorini at their own pace without the stress of planning, especially since it covers a range of scenic, historic, and cultural stops.

While the tour offers great flexibility and personalized attention, it’s worth noting the physical demands—some stops involve walking, and the tour may be less suitable for very young children or guests with mobility issues. This experience appeals to adventurers, couples, and those interested in a comprehensive yet relaxed exploration of Santorini.

Key Points

• Private full-day tour with customizable sights and local driver
• Price of $266.81 per person, suitable for those seeking personalized attention
• Duration of about 7 hours, with hotel pickup and drop-off included
• Stops include Firostefani, Imerovigli, Oia, and more, covering famous viewpoints and historic sites
• Admission fees are mostly free, except for specific sites like Akrotiri and wineries
• Highly rated with perfect 5-star reviews and expert guides

Exploring Santorini in Comfort and Style

This private tour provides the chance to discover Santorini’s most iconic sights in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. The native driver ensures a smooth journey, allowing visitors to relax and focus on the scenery. The customizable itinerary means you can focus more on the locations most interesting to you, whether that’s relaxing in a quiet village or exploring ancient ruins.

Having hotel pickup and drop-off makes this tour especially convenient, removing the need to coordinate meeting points. The private setting guarantees undivided attention from your guide, who shares insights about each location, from volcanic landscapes to historic sites. This flexible approach makes it easier to adapt the pace and depth of exploration based on your preferences.

Discovering Firostefani and Its Calm Views

The tour begins at Firostefani, a peaceful spot offering the same breathtaking Caldera views as Fira but in a quieter setting. Firostefani sits just 15 minutes from Fira, making it easy to visit both the peaceful surroundings and the island’s lively nightlife later in the day. Visitors find the coastal path between Firostefani and Fira especially appealing in the early morning or evening, perfect for a relaxing walk.

This village features numerous restaurants, bars, and shops, mainly along the main street, so it’s easy to enjoy a local meal or a drink without leaving the serenity behind. The tour recommends Firostefani for couples seeking tranquility and a beautiful setting. However, it’s not ideal for children, as it’s about a 20-minute drive from the beach, and the terrain isn’t very accessible for strollers.

Imerovigli: The Highest Village with Historic Charm

Next, the tour moves to Imerovigli, a village perched at the highest point of the Caldera, at roughly 300 meters above sea level. This location has been inhabited since Byzantine times and was originally built around Skaros, established around 1207 by Venetian settlers. Today, Imerovigli is a thriving spot filled with luxury hotels, fine restaurants, and boutiques.

The village offers endless views of the volcanic landscape, and its paved paths connect to the main town of Fira, providing spectacular photo opportunities. Visitors can appreciate the medieval atmosphere and learn about the history of the area, making it a must-see for history buffs and scenery lovers alike.

Oia’s Iconic Sunset and Blue Domes

One of the highlights of this tour is Oia, renowned for its spectacular sunset, famous blue-domed churches, and panoramic views. The location is situated on a cliff top, offering stunning vistas over the volcano and the Aegean Sea. Oia’s picturesque streets are among Greece’s most photographed, with whitewashed buildings, narrow alleys, and charming shops and cafes.

The tour allocates about 75 minutes here, giving ample time to stroll, capture photos, and enjoy the atmosphere. Visiting Oia reveals why it remains a top destination for visitors seeking the quintessential Santorini experience.

Climbing to Profitis Ilias Monastery

The monastery of Profitis Ilias is situated at the highest point on the island, providing breathtaking views of the Aegean coastline. Built in 1711, this monastery is a peaceful spot to appreciate the volcanic landscape and learn about religious history. Visitors can taste local wines and products prepared by the monks, adding a culinary dimension to the visit.

The 20-minute stop at this viewpoint is perfect for photos and catching a panoramic overview of Santorini. It offers a tranquil break from sightseeing and an authentic glimpse into the local monastic life.

Megalochori: A Traditional Village with Heritage

Megalochori stands out for its well-preserved Cycladic architecture and historic churches. The village’s central square features the Church of the Introduction of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the church of Agia Anargiri, both celebrated during local festivals. The village has been inhabited since the 17th century, with archeological evidence dating back to the Cycladic periods.

The 30-minute stop allows visitors to explore the charming streets, marvel at the traditional buildings, and get a taste of local culture and history. The village’s authentic atmosphere offers a peaceful contrast to busier tourist spots.

Emporio: The Medieval Fortress Village

Emporio is the largest settlement on the island, located 12 km from Fira, at the foot of Prophet Elias Mountain. It features medieval architecture, with fortified buildings and narrow streets designed to defend against pirates historically. The castle town of Kasteli within Emporio displays volcanic stone walls and historic structures.

The 40-minute visit highlights local craftsmanship and offers insight into Santorini’s ancient trade importance. It’s a less crowded spot that appeals to visitors interested in history and authentic local life.

The Spectacular Red Beach

Red Beach dazzles visitors with its vivid red cliffs and unique volcanic landscape. The towering red rocks and reddish sand create a dramatic scenery, contrasting sharply with the black pebbles along the shore. The best viewpoints are from above the beach, offering perfect photo opportunities.

A 20-minute stop here allows visitors to admire the colorful landscape and take memorable photos. The beach’s volcanic origin makes it one of the island’s most visually striking spots.

Optional Visits: Akrotiri and Wine Tasting

The tour offers optional visits to Akrotiri Archaeological Site and Estate Argyros for wine tasting. The Akrotiri ruins reveal Minoan-era history, with reconstructed houses, ancient baths, and detailed mosaics. Entrance fees are about $20 per person, and the site is open for self-guided exploration.

Estate Argyros provides a gastronomic experience with local wine tastings and traditional Greek dishes. The 40-minute visit showcases Santorini’s wine heritage and culinary traditions, perfect for foodies and wine lovers. These optional stops add depth but are not included in the base price.

Practical Details and Tour Logistics

This private tour includes all fees and taxes, bottled water, and a local experienced host. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort throughout the day. It is designed for most travelers, but some stops require walking and may not be suitable for small children or those with mobility issues. The tour is most popular among those who want a comprehensive, personalized experience of Santorini’s highlights.

Booking is straightforward, with the tour typically booked 168 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. The free cancellation policy offers flexibility if plans change due to weather or other reasons.

Perfect for a Tailored Santorini Experience

This private full-day tour stands out by combining customization, comfort, and expert guidance. It covers many key sights without the rush of large group tours, making it a practical choice for those who want to maximize their time. The positive reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery as core strengths.

While it lacks included food and wine tasting, the optional stops allow for culinary exploration, making it ideal for food and wine enthusiasts. The balanced pace and personalized approach make it suitable for adventurers and couples seeking an authentic, relaxed day on Santorini.

Private Santorini Day Tour & Native Driver: A Well-Rounded Choice

This tour offers an excellent blend of iconic sights and quiet moments, with the convenience of private transportation and personalized attention. It is best suited for those who want to see the best of Santorini without the crowds and enjoy flexible pacing. Guests should prepare for some walking, but the comfortable vehicle and expert guide compensate with insider knowledge and stunning views at every stop.

This experience truly captures the essence of Santorini, making it a compelling option for first-time visitors or those wanting a comprehensive yet relaxed exploration of the island.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour involves walking at some stops, which may be challenging for very young children. It’s best suited for older children and adults who can handle some physical activity.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours to 7.5 hours, including all stops and transportation.

Does the tour include meals?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there are opportunities to enjoy local cuisine at some stops.

Are entrance fees included?
Most entrance fees are not included. For example, visiting the Akrotiri archaeological site costs about $20 per person.

Can the itinerary be customized?
Yes, since it’s a private tour, the itinerary can be tailored to your interests and pace.

What is the cost per person?
The tour is priced at $266.81 per person, reflecting its private, personalized nature.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s recommended to book about 168 days in advance due to high demand.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour features an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort during the day.

What makes this tour stand out?
The private guide, customizable stops, and hotel pickup and drop-off combine to create a personalized and convenient experience.

What is the cancellation policy?
Guests can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with full refunds available if canceled timely.

This Private Santorini Day Tour & Native Driver offers a well-balanced exploration of the island’s most famous sights, blending scenic beauty, history, and local culture in a comfortable, personalized setting. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting a customized, relaxed day on one of Greece’s most stunning islands.