Santorini Highlights and Wine Tasting Private Tour

Taking a private tour of Santorini offers an excellent way to see the island’s most iconic sights while gaining insights from knowledgeable guides. This 5-hour experience by GooSantorini Travel combines stunning vistas, charming villages, a mountain monastery, a black sand beach, and a taste of local wines—all in a comfortable, air-conditioned minibus with just your group.

What we love most about this tour is its balance of famous spots like Oia and Imerovigli with lesser-known gems like Megalochori, giving a well-rounded view of the island. The inclusion of a wine tasting at Venetsanos Winery is a definite highlight, offering both quality wines and spectacular caldera views. A potential consideration? The tour is quite packed, so if you prefer more leisure time at each stop, you might find it slightly rushed.

This experience suits travelers who want a rundown of Santorini’s top sights without the hassle of planning individual visits. It’s ideal for first-timers or those with limited time who want a curated, authentic taste of the island in a private setting.

Key Points

• Private, all-inclusive experience with a knowledgeable guide
• Stunning panoramic views from mountain and cliffside locations
• Includes wine tasting at a reputable winery with local wines
• Visits iconic villages like Oia and Imerovigli
• Comfortable transport in an air-conditioned vehicle
• Flexible for small groups up to 4, offering a personalized touch

A Deep Dive Into the Santorini Highlights and Wine Tour

First Impressions: What Makes This Tour Special?

From the outset, this private tour stands out because it offers a well-curated itinerary that hits all the major highlights in just a few hours. The fact that it’s private means you won’t be stuck with strangers, allowing for a more relaxed, personalized experience with your guide. The air-conditioned minibus ensures comfort, especially during warm summer days, while the bottled water keeps you hydrated throughout.

One of the most praised aspects, according to reviews, is the knowledgeable guide—Cornelia, for example, is described as “the best guide on Santorini,” fluent in multiple languages and capable of sharing engaging stories that bring each location alive. This personalized attention is a huge plus, especially when combined with the flexibility of a private tour.

What’s Included and How Does It Add Value?

The tour costs $622.29 for up to four people, which, when split among a small group, offers great value considering the exclusive access and personalized service. All fees and taxes are included, along with wine tasting, which is a significant part of the experience. You won’t need to worry about extra charges, and the wine tasting at Venetsanos Winery features local wines paired with spectacular views of the caldera.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

Oia – The Artistic Heart of Santorini

Your journey begins in Oia, which is often called the most photogenic spot on the island. Its white-washed buildings, blue-domed churches, and narrow streets are postcard-perfect, but what makes this stop special is the stunning caldera views. The guide will share stories about how artists have been inspired by Oia’s beauty, adding depth to your visit. Expect about an hour here, which is enough for photos, wandering, and maybe a quick coffee or snack.

Imerovigli – The Blue Dome and More

Next, a short stop in Imerovigli introduces you to the iconic Blue Dome Church, a classic image of Santorini. The guide will point out its postcard-perfect location, perched high on the cliffs. It’s a quick stop—about 20 minutes—but gives you a taste of the island’s dramatic geography.

Megalochori – The Authentic Village

Moving inland, Megalochori offers a glimpse into local village life. The narrow streets and traditional houses provide a more relaxed pace, contrasting with the tourist-heavy Oia. One reviewer mentions that this stop allows you to see how local residents live, making it more authentic. Your guide will walk you through the village, pointing out local features, and you’ll have about 30 minutes to enjoy this quieter side of Santorini.

Mount Prophet Elias – Panoramic Views and Monastery

The highest point on the island, Mount Prophet Elias, gives 360-degree vistas, making it a must-see for photographers and scenery lovers. The monastery perched at the summit adds a cultural layer to the experience. Expect about 30 minutes here to take photos, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and learn about the monastery’s significance.

Venetsanos Winery – A Toast to Santorini

No visit to Santorini is complete without sampling its wines. The Venetsanos Winery offers not just tastings but a chance to understand the local winemaking process. The tasting lasts about 45 minutes, where you’ll sample different local wines with stunning caldera views in the background. Reviewers praise the quality of the wines and the spectacular setting, making this a highlight for wine enthusiasts.

Perissa Black Sand Beach – The Unique Shoreline

Finally, the tour concludes at Perissa Black Sand Beach, famous for its volcanic pebble beaches. It’s a great spot to relax, take photos, or dip your toes into the cool waters. It’s a brief stop—about 30 minutes—yet offers some of the most spectacular sea views and a chance to see the island’s volcanic origins firsthand.

What Do Real Travelers Say?

Most reviewers praise the expert guidance and the stunning views. Cornelia’s ability to share stories in multiple languages and her enthusiasm are often highlighted. One review calls her “the best guide on Santorini,” emphasizing the quality of the personalized attention.

Many note that the wine tasting at Venetsanos Winery is both educational and delicious, with some describing it as a “famous view of the caldera” paired perfectly with local wines. The balance of scenery, culture, and wine makes this tour stand out.

While some mention that the itinerary is quite full, the overall sentiment is that the tour offers great value for a small group, with the flexibility of a private experience allowing for questions and more personalized stops.

Transportation and Practicalities

The tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle, which is essential during the warmer months. Pickup is offered, so there’s no need to worry about logistics. The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, making it a manageable and not overly rushed way to see several key sites.

Since it’s a private activity, only your group participates, enhancing comfort and allowing your guide to tailor the experience slightly if needed. The small group size (up to 4 people) means a more intimate experience, perfect for couples or small families seeking a personalized tour.

Pricing and Overall Value

At $622.29 for four people, this tour might seem steep at first glance. However, considering it includes all fees, taxes, and a wine tasting, the value is quite competitive for a private experience. You get a knowledgeable guide, flexible itinerary, and exclusive access, all in a comfortable setting.

This tour is ideal for those who want an all-in-one overview of Santorini’s highlights without the stress of navigating on your own or joining a large group. It’s especially suited for travelers seeking authentic insights, stunning scenery, and fine local wines in a tailored, private environment.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour Most?

• First-time visitors wanting a rundown of Santorini
• Couples or small groups seeking a private, personalized experience
• Travelers interested in combining sightseeing with wine tasting
• Those who appreciate expert guides with deep local knowledge
• Visitors who prefer comfort and convenience in transportation
• People who want to avoid the crowds but still see the island’s most famous sites

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but it’s best suited for those comfortable with walking and short stops. The focus on sightseeing and wine tasting makes it suitable for adults and older children.

What is included in the price?
The tour covers all fees and taxes, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and wine tasting at Venetsanos Winery. Lunch and dinner are not included.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start date for a full refund.

How long is each stop?
Stops vary from 20 minutes (Imerovigli) to about 1 hour (Oia), with most around 30 minutes, allowing for a good overview without feeling rushed.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable footwear, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a camera are recommended. Also, consider bringing a small cash or card for extra purchases or snacks.

Is this tour private?
Yes, only your group will participate, making it a more personal and flexible experience.

Whether you’re after iconic vistas, authentic villages, or a taste of local wine, this Santorini Highlights and Wine Tasting Private Tour offers a well-balanced, insightful journey that captures the essence of Greek island life. It’s perfect for those who value expert guidance, scenic beauty, and personalized service—all in just a few hours.