Santorini Popular Destinations

If you’re planning a trip to Santorini, chances are you’ve heard about its stunning sunsets, iconic white-washed buildings, and vibrant local culture. This private tour from Santorini Premium Tours promises to give visitors a tailored experience of the island’s most beloved spots—think Oia’s famous cliffs, the colorful Red Beach, and scenic villages like Megalochori. What makes this tour particularly appealing is the flexibility it offers, allowing you to craft your own itinerary with the guidance of a knowledgeable local, all while enjoying hassle-free transfers.

One of the things we love about this experience is how it combines comfort with authenticity. A private guide means you’ll get insider tips and personalized suggestions—no rushing through sites with a big group. However, it’s also worth noting that the tour’s price (around $197 per person) is on the higher side, especially for those mindful of budget. Still, the value is evident when you consider the personalized attention, the variety of sights, and the chance to skip the crowds. This tour best suits travelers who want a flexible, immersive, and comfortable way to explore Santorini’s highlights, whether you’re a first-timer or return visitor craving a customized experience.

Key Points

Flexibility and customization: You get to choose which sites to visit, making each trip unique.
Expert local guides: Knowledgeable guides like Michael-Angelo, Konstantinos, and Katarina add context and fun to your day.
Comfort and convenience: Door-to-door pickup and air-conditioned transportation make the experience smooth.
Variety of sights: From Oia’s iconic blue domes to volcanic beaches, there’s something for all.
Authentic tastes: Options to visit wineries or enjoy seaside Greek cuisine add flavor to your day.
High review ratings: With a perfect 5-star rating based on 148 reviews, this tour is highly praised for its professionalism and fun.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

This tour packs a lot into approximately five hours, but the real charm lies in its flexibility. Each stop offers something special, whether it’s breathtaking views or insights into Santorini’s culture.

Oia’s Main Street: The Heart of the Sunset

Your journey begins in Oia, arguably the most photographed village in Greece. Known for its charming cave houses built into the cliffs and the famous blue-domed churches, Oia is a must-see. The tour includes a leisurely stroll along the main street, with ample time at the viewpoint for stunning photos of the caldera and the sunset if you’re lucky with timing. Reviewers like Carlos praised their guide Michael-Angelo for making the day fun and informative, sharing stories and insider tips along the way. Expect about an hour here, which is enough to soak in the views and snap plenty of pictures without feeling rushed.

Megalochori: Authentic Village Charm

Next, the tour takes you to Megalochori, a quieter, more traditional spot. This village is perfect for wandering narrow alleys, admiring old stone houses, and enjoying a laid-back vibe away from the crowds. It’s the heart of Santorini’s wine-growing region, and many reviewers have appreciated the chance to stroll through the small square, sip coffee, and marvel at the old churches. One reviewer noted that this stop offered a glimpse of local life and historic architecture, making it a highlight for those interested in genuine island culture.

Monastery of Profitis Ilias: Panoramic Views

Perched at about 2,000 feet, the Monastery of Profitis Ilias offers sweeping views of the entire island and the Aegean Sea. Built in the 18th century, it holds icons and religious artifacts, but the real star here is the panorama. Reviewers consistently mention that the view from this high point is breathtaking and well worth the visit. Expect around 30 minutes for this stop, which provides a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to appreciate Santorini’s volcanic landscape.

Red Beach: Nature’s Masterpiece

One of the most distinctive spots on the island, Red Beach gets its name from the striking red volcanic cliffs that surround it. The beach is great for a quick visit to admire the unusual landscape, take photos, or even go for a dip if you’re feeling brave. Guests have said that the scenery here is unlike anywhere else, and it’s a fun spot for some hiking and water fun. Keep in mind that this stop is short—about 20 minutes—so plan accordingly.

Perivolos Beach: Relax and Dine by the Sea

The tour concludes at Perivolos Beach, which offers a long stretch of black volcanic sand and inviting waters. Here, you can relax, swim, or indulge in some local Greek food at a seaside tavern. Many reviews point out that this is a perfect way to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing. The opportunity to enjoy fresh seafood and Greek specialties makes this a highlight, especially for those wanting to combine scenic beauty with culinary delights.

Optional Visits: Wineries or Akrotiri Archaeological Site

One of the best parts of this tour is the flexibility to choose between visiting the Akrotiri archaeological site or a local winery. The archaeological site is a prehistoric city buried by volcanic ash, giving a fascinating glimpse into ancient life. Alternatively, a wine farm visit allows you to sample organic, handmade products and enjoy tastings amidst scenic vineyards. Reviewers frequently cite the wine tasting as a memorable highlight, praising the quality of wines and the personable guides who lead the tasting.

What to Expect from the Experience

Travelers consistently praise the knowledge and friendliness of the guides, who enhance the experience with insider tips, humorous stories, and personalized attention. Guides such as Marios, Katarina, and Adonis have received glowing reviews for making each guest feel special, whether it’s helping with photos, suggesting lesser-known viewpoints, or adjusting the pace for comfort.

The transportation is modern, air-conditioned, and door-to-door, removing the hassle of navigating narrow streets or parking. With a small group or private setting, you’ll avoid the crowded bus tours, giving you more freedom to linger or skip sites that don’t interest you.

Timing-wise, the tour is about five hours, which balances a thorough exploration with enough downtime for breaks, photos, and relaxation. Reviewers mention that the tour covers all the major sights comfortably and allows for plenty of spontaneous stops based on your preferences.

Price and Value

While the cost is around $197.69 per person, many feel it’s justified by the personalized service, quality of guides, and variety of sights. The inclusion of door-to-door pickup, bottled water, maps, and a flexible itinerary adds to the overall value, especially for those who prefer a curated experience over large-group tours. As Kim B. pointed out, this might be pricier than some expect, but the tailored attention and access to hidden gems often outweigh the cost for many travelers.

Reviews and Praise

With a perfect 5-star rating from 148 reviews, the tour clearly strikes a chord. Guests like Christina B. appreciated guides like Leftaris for making the day feel like a visit with family, while others lauded guides such as Nikki and Adonis for their professionalism and knowledge. Many reviewers highlighted the guide’s ability to manage busy days, such as handling crowds or coordinating visits around ferry schedules, which is a real bonus on a popular island like Santorini.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want flexibility and personalized attention. It’s ideal for those who appreciate comfort and want to avoid the chaos of large group tours. If you’re passionate about local culture, hidden viewpoints, and authentic experiences, you’ll find this tour rewarding. Perfect for couples celebrating special occasions, families, or groups of friends, the private nature of the tour ensures a tailored, memorable day.

On top of that, if you’re curious about Santorini’s wine or enjoy historic sites, the optional visits make this tour even more compelling. It’s especially suited for travelers with a moderate budget who value quality over quantity when exploring one of Greece’s most visually stunning islands.

Final Thoughts

This private, customizable tour of Santorini offers the kind of intimate, flexible experience many travelers dream of. The guides are consistently praised for their knowledge and friendliness, adding a personal touch that elevates the entire day. The combination of breathtaking views, cultural insights, and optional tastings makes it a well-rounded way to explore the island without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

While the price might seem steep for some, the value of personalized service, scenic stops, and hassle-free transfers make it worth consider if your goal is to see Santorini’s highlights in comfort and style. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, this tour provides the freedom to craft your perfect day on this iconic island, making memories that will last long after you leave.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the tour is designed to be flexible and comfortable for a variety of ages and mobility levels.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, the experience features an air-conditioned vehicle with hassle-free door-to-door pickup from your Santorini address.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. You can choose to visit the villages, beaches, historic sites like Profitis Ilias or Akrotiri, or a winery—making each tour unique to your interests.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers the private tour, bottled water, maps, and the transportation. Lunch and entrance fees for sites like Akrotiri are not included.

Are there options for food or wine tastings?
Yes, you can opt to visit a local wine farm and sample organic, handmade wines. There are also plenty of seaside restaurants at Perivolos Beach to enjoy authentic Greek cuisine.

What if the weather is bad on the day of the tour?
The experience requires good weather, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This private tour of Santorini is an excellent option for those seeking a personalized, in-depth exploration of the island’s most iconic sights—perfect for making the most of a limited time while soaking up the authentic charm of Santorini.