Private Tour: Great Wines and Famous Towns of Santorini

Exploring Santorini through this private tour offers a perfect blend of breathtaking views, delightful wines, and charming towns. For $527.34 per person, the 6-hour journey takes you to iconic spots like Oia’s Main Street, the Three Bells of Fira, and the Monastery of Profitis Ilias, with air-conditioned Mercedes-Benz transfers ensuring a comfortable ride. The tour is ideal for those who want a personalized experience, with private guides and wine tastings at two wineries included.

While the tour emphasizes wine and sightseeing, its focus on relaxed pacing and expert guidance makes it suitable for most visitors, especially those eager to enjoy Santorini’s scenery and flavors at a leisurely rate. One consideration is that the wines served are mainly whites and dessert wines, which aligns with the island’s production but may not appeal to red wine enthusiasts. This tour offers a comprehensive day exploring Santorini’s stunning landscapes and renowned vineyards.

Key Points

• Private 6-hour tour with air-conditioned Mercedes-Benz vehicle
• Visits to Oia, Fira, Pyrgos village, and the Monastery of Profitis Ilias
• Wine tastings at two top wineries featuring 4 varieties each
• Local lunch served during wine tastings at one of the wineries
• Exclusive guide, all stops included, with pickup and return from hotels or Airbnb
• Mainly white and dessert wines are sampled, with no red wine tasting included

Exploring Santorini’s Iconic Towns and Scenic Vistas

This tour begins in Oia, famous for its white buildings and stunning views of the Aegean Sea. Travelers enjoy a leisurely walk along Oia’s Main Street, soaking in the picturesque scenery and discovering hidden corners of this renowned town. The setting invites perfect photo opportunities, especially at the historic ruins of Oia’s castle and the windmills that are familiar symbols of the island.

Next, the guide leads visitors to the Three Bells of Fira, a classic white and blue church with iconic blue domes. This photo stop lasts about 20 minutes, with free admission, offering a chance to capture the picturesque architecture and panoramic views of the caldera. The route continues to the Monastery of Profitis Ilias, located at Santorini’s highest point, providing sweeping vistas over the island and the Aegean Sea.

Wine Tasting at Hatzidakis Winery

A significant highlight of this tour is the wine tasting at Hatzidakis Winery. Here, visitors sample 4 different wines in a relaxed setting. The guide ensures guests understand the local production methods, which focus on white and dessert wines typical of Santorini’s volcanic terrain. The tasting experience lasts about an hour, allowing ample time to appreciate the distinct flavors and aroma profiles of each wine.

Exclusive Wine and Lunch at Anhydrous Winery

Following Hatzidakis, the tour moves to the Anhydrous Winery, where another 4 wines are tasted. What sets this experience apart is the local lunch served during the tasting—a chance to enjoy fresh, local dishes paired with Santorini’s unique wines. This included meal offers a genuine taste of the island’s culinary traditions, enhancing the overall experience.

Visiting the Monastery of Profitis Ilias and Pyrgos Village

The Monastery of Profitis Ilias presents visitors with spectacular views of Santorini from its highest point on the island. The 30-minute stop provides a serene atmosphere and photo opportunities overlooking the landscape. Nearby, the route passes through Pyrgos village, giving a glimpse of traditional architecture and quaint streets, though the main focus remains on the panoramic vistas from the monastery.

Transport and Comfort: Modern Mercedes-Benz Minivan

Throughout the tour, guests travel in a modern, air-conditioned Mercedes-Benz minivan, which offers a quiet, comfortable ride across the varied terrain. Pickup and drop-off are included, with flexibility for those staying at hotels, Airbnb accommodations, or near the top of the cruise port’s cable car. Since parts of Santorini are built on slopes or pedestrianized areas, the pickup point might be a nearby walking meeting point if direct access is restricted.

Guide Expertise and Personal Service

This tour features an English-speaking guide, ensuring clear communication and insightful commentary. Reviews highlight guides like Marina, Elena, and Stefanos for their knowledge, engaging personalities, and ability to respond to questions. Their expertise, especially in winemaking, enhances the experience and allows for a deeper appreciation of Santorini’s wine culture.

The Focus on White and Dessert Wines

The wines served during the tour are mainly white wines and dessert wines, which reflect the island’s typical production. Guests should note that red wines are not featured, so those who prefer red may want to plan accordingly. The focus on local varieties helps visitors understand the distinctive flavors that make Santorini wines unique.

Practical Details and Booking

The tour departs at 9:30 am and includes pickup and return from your accommodation. The full refund policy allows cancellation up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. The tour is suitable for most travelers, although mobility may be a consideration if hotel access is limited due to Santorini’s terrain. Group discounts and mobile tickets offer added convenience.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What makes this tour special is its combination of scenic sightseeing and expert wine tasting in a private setting. The personalized service and carefully curated itinerary mean visitors spend their day relaxing and learning without feeling rushed. The inclusion of a local lunch, visits to key landmarks, and wine tastings at two top wineries create a well-rounded experience.

Who Will Love This Tour Most

This experience appeals most to wine enthusiasts and those interested in Santorini’s towns and views. The private format offers flexibility and intimacy, ideal for couples, families, or small groups. Since the tour emphasizes white and dessert wines, it suits travelers who appreciate light, sweet, or aromatic wines. It’s perfect for those wanting a comprehensive day blending sightseeing, tasting, and relaxation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of the tour?
The price includes pickup and return, private guide, wine tastings at two wineries, and lunch served during the tastings. Transportation is in a modern Mercedes-Benz minivan.

Are there any additional costs?
Optional gratuities are not included but are left to the discretion of guests.

What kind of wines are served during the tour?
The wines are mainly white wines and dessert wines, typical of Santorini’s production.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 6 days in advance. For a full refund, cancellations must be made at least 6 days before the tour.

Is this tour suitable for children or guests with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but accessibility may be limited if accommodations are on slopes or in pedestrian-only areas.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing and walking shoes are recommended for town walks and photo stops. Sunscreen and a hat are advisable for outdoor visits.

How long are the wine tastings?
Each winery tasting lasts approximately 1 hour, including sampling four wines and learning about local varieties.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a local lunch is served during the wine tasting at Anhydrous Winery.

Will I get a chance to see sunset views?
While sunset views are highly praised in other reviews, this specific tour does not mention sunset stops. It focuses on town sightseeing and wine tasting.

What makes this tour different from other Santorini wine tours?
Its private format, personal guide, and inclusion of local lunch at a winery make it a more intimate and comprehensive experience.

This Private Tour: Great Wines and Famous Towns of Santorini offers an insightful, relaxed way to enjoy the best of Santorini’s scenery and wines in a single day. It’s especially suited for wine lovers and those wanting a personalized, hassle-free experience on this stunning island.