Santorini: Guided Highlights Tour with Private Wine Tasting

If you’re planning a trip to Santorini and want a well-rounded introduction to the island’s most iconic sights, this 6-hour private tour with a wine tasting might just be the perfect fit. It’s designed for first-time visitors, cruise ship guests, or anyone eager to tick off the essential spots without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. The combination of sightseeing, authentic village visits, and a family-run winery experience makes this tour appealing—especially if you love a little personalized touch.

One of the things we love about this experience is how flexible and tailored it feels, thanks to the private guide. You’re not just riding along on a bus with strangers—you get a local’s perspective, which can make all the difference when exploring a place as layered and beautiful as Santorini. That said, a potential consideration is the tour’s pace—if you’re someone who prefers a more leisurely, unstructured day or has mobility issues, this might need some adjustment.

This tour suits travelers keen on seeing Oia’s famous blue domes, experiencing the atmosphere of remote villages, and indulging in authentic, local wine. It’s perfect for those visiting Santorini for the first time or arriving via cruise, offering a comprehensive snapshot of the island’s highlights without sacrificing intimacy or quality.

Key Points

• Personalized experience with a private guide, ensuring flexibility and tailored stops
• Includes visits to major sights like Oia, Red Beach, Black Beach, and Prophet Elias Monastery
• Unique wine tasting at a family-run winery with 4 complimentary sips of local wine
• Ideal for first-timers or cruise passengers seeking a concise, authentic overview
• Transport by luxury minibus for comfort and convenience
• Duration of 6 hours allows for a full but manageable exploration

What to Expect on the Santorini Highlights Tour

This private tour begins with hotel or port pickup, giving you a seamless start. The guide—an experienced local—takes you through some of the island’s most photogenic spots and hidden gems. We’ll explain what makes each destination special and why they’re must-sees for anyone visiting Santorini.

Visiting Oia: The Iconic Village

Our first stop is Oia, often called the crown jewel of Santorini. Famous for its blue-domed churches and crisp white buildings, Oia’s charm is undeniable. You’ll have plenty of time to walk through its narrow streets, snap photos of the postcard-perfect views, and soak in the caldera vistas. Based on reviews, guides like Algiris tend to be very personable, sharing stories that bring the town’s history and charm to life. One guest described it as “an unforgettable experience,” emphasizing the “spectacular panoramic views” that leave you breathless.

Exploring Megalochori and Remote Villages

Next, the tour takes you to Megalochori, a less crowded, more authentic village compared to the busier hotspots. You’ll stroll along winding paths, admire the tiered bell towers, and appreciate the slower pace. Driving through the rocky hills and sparse greenery, we’re told that the atmosphere here is “so tranquil and genuine,” providing a nice balance to the more touristy Oia.

The Wine Tasting at a Family-Run Winery

One of the standout moments is the visit to a 300-year-old family winery. Here, you’ll sample 4 sips of local wine, complemented by some cheese and rusks. Reviews highlight that the wine selection is excellent, with guests appreciating the chance to taste authentic Santorini wine in a historic setting. The owner’s warm hospitality and the old-world ambiance make this part of the tour memorable. It’s a great way to connect with the island’s traditions without the commercial feel of big wineries.

Visiting Red Beach and Black Beach

Santorini’s beaches are a natural spectacle, and this tour makes sure you see two of the most renowned ones. The Red Beach impresses with its reddish cliffs and volcanic surroundings, offering fantastic photo ops. It’s a natural phenomenon that appeals to nature lovers and photographers alike. Just a ten-minute drive from here is Perivolos Black Beach, where you can relax and imagine how it must have looked during volcanic eruptions centuries ago. Reviews note that these stops are brief but worthwhile, providing a glimpse of Santorini’s volcanic origins.

The Prophet Elias Monastery

Climbing to the highest point on the island, the Prophet Elias Monastery, at 565 meters above sea level, offers sweeping panoramic views of the entire island. The peaceful setting and the stunning scenery make it an ideal spot to reflect and take in the landscape. Our sources mention that the views are breathtaking and well worth the short drive up the hill.

How the Tour Works: Logistics and Comfort

The entire experience is conducted by a luxury air-conditioned minibus, ensuring comfort during the roughly six-hour itinerary. Pickup and drop-off are included, whether from your hotel or the cruise port, making logistics hassle-free. For cruise travelers, the meeting point is at the top of the cable car, which is convenient given the island’s transportation setup.

Timing-wise, the start times vary, so checking availability is key. The tour is flexible enough to accommodate some requests or delays, as one review pointed out, though it’s best to be punctual to maximize the experience. Children, pregnant women, or those with mobility impairments should consider the physical demands of some stops, like climbing to the monastery.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour offers good value with hotel/port pickup, a knowledgeable guide in English or Spanish, transport, the winery visit, wine tastings, bottled water, and all taxes. Optional extras like cable car tickets or museum entrance fees are not included, so plan accordingly if you intend to visit museums or use the cable car. Lunch is also optional and not included, giving you the freedom to explore local eateries on your own.

Authentic Experiences and Genuine Insights

From reviews, it’s clear that guides like Algiris make a difference. Guests mention his kindness and humor, which help make the day memorable, even if some felt the guide could be a bit hurried at times. The wine tasting at the historic winery, with 4 different sips, is a highlight, offering a taste of local tradition that many travelers find enriching.

The stops at Red Beach and Black Beach are brief but impactful, giving you a chance to witness Santorini’s volcanic origins firsthand. The visit to Megalochori provides a quieter, more authentic feel of village life, which many travelers cherish as a break from tourist crowds.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for first-time visitors wanting an overview of the island’s top sights and a taste of local culture. It’s also great for cruise passengers who need a comprehensive yet concise excursion. If you’re seeking a personalized, flexible experience with a knowledgeable guide, this tour ticks those boxes. However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace without many stops or have mobility challenges, you might want to discuss adjustments with the provider beforehand.

Final Thoughts

This guided highlights tour with private wine tasting offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, culture, and local flavor. The combination of visiting iconic spots like Oia, the volcanic beaches, and the highest point on the island, alongside an authentic wine experience, makes for an engaging and rewarding day. The private nature of the tour ensures a tailored experience, and the knowledgeable guides add warmth and insight that enhance your understanding of Santorini’s unique character.

While the tour might feel rushed if you want a very slow, unstructured day, it’s an excellent option for travelers eager to hit the major highlights efficiently. The value lies in the personal touch, the quality of the wine tasting, and the chance to see Santorini through the eyes of someone who truly knows the island.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for cruise ship passengers?
Yes, the pickup point is at the top of the cable car, making it easy for cruise visitors. The tour is designed to fit within a 6-hour window, ideal for cruise schedules.

What’s included in the tour price?
The price covers hotel/port pickup and drop-off, a private guide, transport by luxury minibus, a visit to a family-run winery with 4 wine tastings, cheese and rusks, and all taxes.

Can I customize the stops?
As a private tour, it’s flexible. You can discuss your preferences with your guide, but the itinerary covers the main highlights.

Are the beaches visited very long?
No, the stops at Red Beach and Black Beach are brief enough for photos and a quick look but don’t include long lounging sessions.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is optional and not included. You’re free to explore local seaside tavernas afterward or bring your own snacks.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It might be challenging for those with mobility impairments due to walking and some uphill stops, like the monastery. Pregnant women are also advised to consider physical demands.

What language is the guide available in?
Guides are available in English and Spanish, ensuring good communication.

What should I bring?
Passports or ID cards are necessary. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and comfortable shoes are recommended for walking and outdoor stops.

How long is the wine tasting?
You’ll enjoy 4 sips of wine, with some cheese and rusks, in a historic, family-run winery. It’s enough to appreciate local flavors without overindulging.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

This tour blends the best of Santorini’s must-see sights with a touch of local flavor, making it an excellent choice for travelers looking to create lasting memories on this stunning island.