Private Tour: Great Wines and Famous Towns of Santorini

If you’re dreaming of Santorini, chances are you’re picturing those iconic white buildings, blue domes, and the endless sea views. This private tour aims to give you a taste of both the island’s captivating towns and its celebrated wines—all in just six hours. With a personalized experience led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll get to see the highlights, enjoy tasting sessions at two top wineries, and even indulge in a delicious, freshly prepared local lunch.

What we particularly love about this tour is its balance of sightseeing and wine tasting, all wrapped up in a comfortable, air-conditioned Mercedes-Benz minivan. But, as with any experience, there are some considerations—mainly the focus on white and dessert wines, which may not suit red wine lovers. Still, this is an excellent choice for those wanting a relaxed, culture-rich day with authentic touches. It’s perfect for travelers who value personalized service and want to explore Santorini without the hassle of self-driving or planning each stop.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private tour ensures an intimate, flexible day tailored to your interests.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Marina, Elena, and Stefanos bring in-depth local knowledge, making each stop meaningful.
• Stunning Scenery: From Oia’s charm to the panoramic views at Profitis Ilias, every moment is picture-perfect.
• Wine & Food: Tasting at two wineries with a knowledgeable guide, plus a local lunch, offers authentic flavors.
• Comfort & Convenience: Air-conditioned transport and hotel pickup make the day stress-free.
• Limited Focus on Reds: Mainly white and dessert wines are featured, which may not appeal to red wine enthusiasts.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Starting in Oia: The Town with a View

Your day kicks off with a visit to Oia’s Main Street, a place that’s both famous and quietly magical. Here, in just one hour, you’ll wander past the traditional white buildings, likely capturing postcard shots of the caldera and Aegean Sea. Reviewers highlight the “stunning views” and the chance to explore hidden corners beyond the crowds. It’s a great way to get a feel for this legendary town, especially if your guide points out lesser-known spots or shares interesting tidbits about Oia’s history.

Fira’s Iconic Blue Domes

Next, it’s a quick 20-minute stop at the Three Bells of Fira, where the classic blue-domed church offers that picture-perfect moment. This stop isn’t just about the photograph—it’s about soaking in the sense of place that makes Santorini so unique. You’ll see a beautifully maintained white and blue contrast, with plenty of opportunities for photos and to appreciate the island’s distinctive architecture.

Panoramic Views from Profitis Ilias

Moving on, the tour makes a 30-minute stop at Profitis Ilias Monastery, perched at the island’s highest point. Here, the sweeping vistas over Santorini and the neighboring islands are breathtaking. Reviewers love this spot for the “amazing views” and the chance to see the island from above. It’s also a good moment for some peaceful reflection or just soaking in the sunset-colored scenery, depending on the time of day.

The Heart of the Day: Wineries

The wine tastings are the core of this experience. You’ll visit Hatzidakis Winery and Anhydrous Winery, each offering a chance to sample four different types of wines. Expect mainly white wines and some dessert wines, which is consistent with Santorini’s unique volcanic terroir. Guides like Stefanos, who holds a degree in oenology, bring a depth of knowledge that elevates the tasting experience, explaining how the volcanic soil influences the flavors.

One reviewer noted, “Stefanos was knowledgeable, friendly, and hilarious,” making the visits both educational and fun. The tasting at Anhydrous Winery is complemented by a local lunch, served on the winery’s outdoor veranda, which reviewers describe as “delicious” and a highlight of the tour. This pairing offers a genuine taste of local cuisine—think simple, fresh ingredients paired with the island’s signature wines.

The Value of a Private Tour

This entire experience is around $527 per person, which might seem steep at first glance. However, considering the private nature, expert guides, visits to two wineries, and a full lunch, it offers solid value for travelers seeking a personalized, hassle-free day. The transportation in a modern Mercedes-Benz ensures comfort, especially after a morning of walking and sightseeing.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits those who enjoy wine tasting, cultural sights, and scenic views without the challenge of navigating on their own. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate the nuances of local wines and want an expert guide to bring the island’s history and flavors to life. If you’re a fan of white wines or dessert wines, this tour hits the right notes. However, red wine enthusiasts might find the selection limited.

The Balance of the Experience: Pros and Cons

Pros

• Dedicated Guide: The reviews consistently mention guides like Marina, Elena, and Stefanos as engaging, knowledgeable, and passionate. Their insights add depth to each stop, making the experience more memorable.
• Stunning Photo Opportunities: From Oia’s picturesque streets to the panoramic views from Profitis Ilias, there are plenty of moments to capture.
• Authentic Tastings: The wineries are well-chosen, offering four wine samples at each, plus an on-site local lunch—delivering genuine flavors without over-commercialization.
• Comfort & Convenience: Hotel or Airbnb pickup, plus transportation in a sleek, air-conditioned vehicle, remove stress and fatigue.
• Flexible and Private: Being a private tour means flexibility—your group moves at your pace, and guides tailor the experience to your interests.

Cons

• Limited Focus on Red Wines: As noted, the wines are mostly whites and dessert wines, which might not suit everyone’s taste.
• Duration Constraints: Six hours is a good length, but it’s enough to feel rushed if you want to linger at each stop. Timing may need to be carefully managed.
• Price Point: While the value is solid for a private experience, it is a premium price—worth it if you prioritize comfort and expert guidance.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For anyone wanting an all-in-one Santorini experience—combining iconic towns, spectacular views, and wine tastings—this private tour offers a carefully curated, engaging day. The personalized approach ensures you avoid the crowds and get insights from guides who truly know their stuff. The stops at Oia, Fira, and Profitis Ilias provide a balanced mix of photo opportunities and tranquility, while the wineries introduce you to the island’s unique volcanic wines.

The inclusion of a local, freshly prepared lunch elevates the experience from mere sightseeing to a genuine culture. The reviews affirm that guides like Elena and Stefanos make the day both informative and fun, with their enthusiasm shining through.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a stress-free, tailored experience and value quality over quantity. It’s perfect for wine lovers, photography aficionados, or anyone eager to explore Santorini’s highlights in comfort and style.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and return are included from your hotel or Airbnb, as well as the top of the cruise port’s cable car station.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately six hours, giving enough time for sightseeing, wine tastings, and lunch without feeling rushed.

Are there opportunities for photos?
Absolutely. Stops like Oia, Fira, and Profitis Ilias are renowned for stunning views and photo ops.

What kind of wines are sampled?
The tour mainly features white and dessert wines, reflecting the island’s volcanic terroir. Red wines are not the focus.

Is this a private activity?
Yes, only your group will participate, allowing a personalized and flexible experience.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a camera are recommended. The tour includes walking in towns and outdoor winery visits.

This private tour of Santorini offers a well-rounded, authentic way to experience the island’s most picturesque spots and its renowned wines. Whether you’re a dedicated wine enthusiast or simply seeking a relaxing day exploring Santorini’s iconic scenery, it delivers a memorable slice of Greek island life.