Santorini See Everything All Day Private Tour

If you’re visiting Santorini and want to see the island’s most iconic sights without feeling rushed or overwhelmed, a private tour like this one from Epitome Travel Greece might just be what you need. Offering a full 8 hours of personalized exploration, this experience is tailored to your interests, with a knowledgeable local driver and a luxury air-conditioned van making the journey comfortable and relaxed.

One standout aspect of this tour is the bespoke nature — it’s not a cookie-cutter group experience. Instead, you get a private guide who adapts the itinerary to your preferences, ensuring that your day is filled with meaningful moments and stunning vistas. That said, it’s worth considering that this tour isn’t designed for those with mobility issues, as it involves some walking and steep alleyways.

This tour is best suited for travelers eager to see a broad swath of Santorini without sacrificing comfort or authenticity. If you love engaging guides, panoramic views, and a bit of flexibility, this could be your ideal way to soak up the island’s magic.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Customizable 8-hour private tour tailored to your interests and pace.
• Comfort and Convenience: Travel in a luxury, air-conditioned van with WiFi, phone chargers, and bottled water.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable local driver/guide provides insightful commentary on every stop.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Covering top sights like Oia, Fira, beaches, and hidden gems, plus local villages.
• Value for Money: Private tour for one group costs $425, providing a highly personalized experience.
• Limited Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues.

A Full Breakdown of the Santorini Experience

From the moment your driver arrives at your hotel or port, the focus is on personalized service. The luxury vehicle, equipped with WiFi and phone chargers, sets the tone for a day of comfort. Your guide will be waiting with your name — whether you’re arriving by cruise, plane, or staying in Fira — and from there, the adventure begins.

Oia: The Iconic Village (1.5 hours)

Your first stop is Oia, arguably the most photographed spot on the island. The narrow alleys, whitewashed buildings, and blue-domed churches create a postcard-perfect scene. This is where you’ll spend about an hour and a half wandering, taking photos, and soaking in the view of the caldera. Reviewers highlight how the guides often share interesting stories about Oia’s history and architecture, enriching the experience beyond just photo ops.

Three Bells of Fira (30 minutes)

Next, you’ll visit the famous Three Bells of Fira, a cultural and religious landmark that offers a glimpse into local traditions. With only half an hour here, you’ll get a chance to appreciate the architecture and snap some photos of the iconic church, all while your guide shares tidbits about the significance of this site.

Hidden Gem (30 minutes)

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the inclusion of a lesser-known location. Our guides seem to know exactly where to take you to experience Santorini away from the crowds. This spot offers a peaceful retreat and a different perspective on the island’s beauty — perfect for those wanting a more intimate moment amid the scenery.

Megalochori and Akrotiri Lighthouse (1 hour combined)

The charming village of Megalochori is a favorite among reviewers for its authentic vibe and traditional architecture. You’ll stroll through narrow streets lined with colorful houses, perhaps stopping for a coffee or a quick browse in local shops. Your guide might point out stories about the village’s history, making it a richer experience than just walking around.

The Akrotiri Lighthouse offers panoramic views of the volcanic landscape. Here, you can enjoy sweeping vistas, particularly if the weather is clear, and learn about the island’s volcanic history — an important aspect of Santorini’s identity.

Beaches: Red and Black (1 hour)

Santorini’s volcanic beaches are a highlight, and this tour includes visits to Red Beach and Black Beach. Both beaches are striking: Red Beach with its cliff backdrop and Red-hued sand, and Black Beach with its volcanic pebble shoreline. Expect about 30 minutes at each, enough to take photos, dip your toes, or just marvel at nature’s dramatic palette.

Lunch Break

A highlight for many reviewers is the delicious lunch at a farm-to-table restaurant. This isn’t just a quick bite; it’s an authentic meal paired with local flavors, often highlighted as a memorable part of the day. You’ll have about an hour here to relax, savor your meal, and enjoy the peaceful rural surroundings.

Emporio Village and Prophet Elias Monastery (1.5 hours)

Post-lunch, you’ll visit Emporio, a traditional village with charming streets and panoramic views. This stop often surprises visitors with its authenticity, away from the more touristy areas. It’s an excellent spot for photos and soaking up local life.

The Holy Monastery of Prophet Elias is a highlight for its breathtaking views and the sense of tranquility it offers. The 45-minute visit allows you to explore the monastery grounds and enjoy sweeping views of the island.

Pyrgos Kallistis (45 minutes)

The last stop is Pyrgos, a hilltop village with a medieval castle and old-world charm. Walking through its alleyways, you’ll feel like stepping back in time. Reviewers love how guides share stories about Pyrgos’ history and architecture, making it more than just a scenic overlook.

The Practical Side: Transportation, Timing, and Value

What really sets this tour apart is the luxury transportation. The air-conditioned van is spacious, clean, and equipped with WiFi and phone chargers, making the long drives comfortable and connected. With private pickup and drop-off included, you avoid the hassle of coordinating multiple transfers or navigating public transport.

At 8 hours, the timing is well-balanced. You get enough time at each stop without feeling rushed, and the flexible itinerary means your guide can prioritize areas of particular interest. Reviews praise the organization and the careful pacing, with travelers noting that they saw “everything” and appreciated the ability to customize the day.

Regarding cost, $425 for a private group might seem steep at first glance, but when you consider the comfort, flexibility, and personalized experience, it’s a solid value. Travelers highlight the quality of the guides — praising Stavros, Nickolas, and Theo for their friendliness, knowledge, and attentiveness. Many reviews mention how guides go above and beyond, even offering to take photos or suggest hidden spots for great shots.

Additional Considerations

While the tour is packed with sights, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility challenges. Also, if you’re traveling with a cruise, the guide will meet you at the cable car exit — a detail that helps streamline your day. Lunch isn’t included in the price, but the recommended farm-to-table restaurant is well worth the extra expense, both for the food and the experience.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This private experience is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, flexible, and comfortable way to see Santorini’s highlights. It’s especially suited for those who value expert insights, stunning photo opportunities, and the ability to personalize their day. If you prefer group tours with a set schedule, this might feel a bit too tailored, but for those seeking intimacy and authenticity, it’s ideal.

Nature lovers, history buffs, and foodies will all find something to love here. The guides’ local knowledge and the varied stops ensure each moment feels meaningful, not just rushed sightseeing.

The Sum Up

This 8-hour private tour of Santorini offers a well-rounded, personalized journey through one of Greece’s most captivating islands. The combination of expert guides, luxurious transportation, and carefully curated stops means you’ll experience the island’s essence without the stress of self-planning. The stops are thoughtfully chosen, blending iconic sights with hidden gems, and the flexibility ensures your day reflects your interests.

While it’s pricier than group tours, the added comfort, privacy, and tailored experience make it a worthwhile option for those who want to enjoy Santorini in style and substance. It’s an excellent choice for couples, families, or friends who want to explore at their own pace and leave with a collection of unforgettable memories.

If you’re after a thoroughly enjoyable, authentic, and hassle-free way to discover Santorini’s highlights, this private tour from Epitome Travel Greece is a strong contender.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for cruise ship travelers?
Yes, the guide will meet you at the top of the cable car exit with your name written on a sign, making it easy to find and start your day smoothly.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers private transportation in a luxury, air-conditioned van, WiFi on board, bottled water, phone chargers, and a local English-speaking guide. Pick-up and drop-off from your hotel, port, or airport are also included.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, giving ample time at each stop without feeling rushed.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is designed to be flexible. Your guide can adapt the stops based on your interests and preferences.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but a recommended farm-to-table restaurant offers a delicious local meal, which many travelers find worthwhile.

Are there any accessibility limitations?
The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or travelers with mobility issues due to walking and uneven surfaces at some sites.

What is the price per group?
The tour costs $425 per group, which is a good value considering the personalized service and private experience.

How many people can join?
This is a private tour for your group only, up to the number of people that can comfortably fit in the vehicle.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of expert guides, personalized itinerary, luxurious transport, and authentic experiences makes it a top choice for those wanting to truly discover Santorini.

Can I see all the main sights in one day?
Yes, the carefully planned itinerary ensures you’ll visit key landmarks, charming villages, and stunning beaches in just one day, making the most of your time on the island.