Santorini: Hidden Gems Tour and Wine Experience with Tasting

Exploring Santorini’s Hidden Gems and Wine with Santo Luxury Escape

This Santorini tour offers a carefully curated glimpse into some of the island’s less obvious but incredibly stunning locations, combined with a delightful wine tasting experience. It’s a private, six-hour adventure designed for those who want to see the authentic side of Santorini away from the crowds, while indulging in the island’s renowned wines.

One of the things we love about this experience is how well it balances off-the-beaten-path sights with cultural and sensory delights. Plus, the inclusion of a wine tasting at a local museum makes it both fun and educational. The only consideration might be the limited duration—if you’re craving a deep dive into Santorini’s history or nightlife, this tour is more about scenic beauty and relaxed exploration.

It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate authentic, picture-perfect moments, enjoy wine, and like the idea of a personalized experience that moves at a comfortable pace. If you’re after a mix of incredible views, hidden spots, and a taste of local vintages, this tour could be just right.

Key Points

• Authentic local wine tasting included with 5-7 varieties of Santorini wines
• Visits to less crowded, breathtaking locations like Imerovigli, Skaros Rock, and the Theoskepasti Church
• Opportunity to see Santorini’s most beautiful viewpoints from Mountain Profitis Ilias
• Experience Santorini’s hidden heart-shaped rock and Akrotiri Lighthouse for unique photo ops
• Round-trip transport and a knowledgeable, English-speaking driver
• Flexible booking with full refund up to 24 hours before

Why This Tour Stands Out

Santorini is famed for its picture-perfect villages, dramatic caldera views, and stunning sunsets. Yet, many travelers find the most memorable spots are often the quieter, less touristy areas. This tour cleverly focuses on those hidden gems, offering a more intimate experience of the island’s natural beauty and authentic charm.

Starting at the edge of Oia, one of the most famous spots in Greece, you’ll get the chance to enjoy a quieter, less commercialized view of its iconic white buildings and blue domes. Our reviewers particularly appreciated the spectacular views over the caldera from this spot. The tour continues through Imerovigli, which is often considered the most beautiful village — less crowded but equally picturesque, with its white alleys and bougainvillaea.

An Invitation to Santorini’s Secret Spots

The highlight of this tour is the visit to Anastasi Orthodox Church in Imerovigli, along with the famous Skaros Rock — a natural fortress that adds drama to the landscape. Reviewers have described Skaros Rock as “a must-see for photo lovers,” and the views from here are truly impressive. The hidden Theoskepasti Church, tucked away and surrounded by nature, offers a peaceful, almost untouched vibe that’s hard to find elsewhere.

A trip up to Mountain Profitis Ilias is a chance to see Santorini from its highest point — approximately 2,000 feet above sea level. The monastery at the summit adds a touch of serenity, and the panoramic vistas of the island, neighboring islands, and the volcano are nothing short of breathtaking. Many guests mention how “the views from up here are worth the climb,” and it’s a fantastic spot for photos.

The Heart of the Tour: Wine at Koutsogianopoulos Winery Museum

Perhaps the most unexpected highlight is the wine tasting at the Koutsogianopoulos Winery Museum. The experience isn’t just about sipping local wines; it’s about connecting with Santorini’s wine-making heritage. You’ll taste 5-7 local varieties, giving you a real sense of what makes Santorini wine unique — from crisp whites to rich reds.

Guests have noted that the wine tasting was “informative and relaxed,” with a friendly guide helping you learn about the different varieties. The included cheese and olives pairings further enhance the experience. For wine lovers, this is a fantastic way to discover the island’s flavors without the crowds of larger wineries or group tours.

Exploring Santorini’s Hidden Heart & Lighthouse

The heart-shaped rock formation in the most southwestern tip of the island is a real hidden gem. It’s a natural feature that offers a peek at the Aegean Sea and the volcano, giving you that quintessential Santorini photo. Many reviewers mention that “it’s a surprisingly romantic spot,” perfect for memorable pictures.

The Akrotiri Lighthouse caps off the tour with commanding views over the sea and the island’s rugged coastline. Situated in a remote, scenic area, it’s a peaceful place to absorb the natural beauty and snap some last photos before heading back.

Practical Details & What to Expect

Transportation & Group Size: The tour includes round-trip transportation with an English-speaking driver, making logistics hassle-free. It’s a private tour, so you’ll enjoy a more personalized experience. The group size is limited, ensuring plenty of attention from your guide.

Duration & Flexibility: At around 6 hours, this experience offers a relaxed pace with ample time at each stop. You can check availability for different start times, and the book-now-pay-later option allows flexibility.

Cost & Value: At $226 per person, the price includes wine tasting, transportation, a guide, and several iconic stops. Considering the private nature, the included tastings, and the exclusive spots visited, this is a good value for travelers seeking a curated, authentic experience away from the crowds.

What’s Not Included: You’ll need to budget for lunch and refreshments outside the tour, and if you’re a cruise passenger, the cable car tickets aren’t included (around €6 each way).

Authentic Experiences That Matter

Based on reviews, guests appreciated the quality of the sights and the personalized approach. The driver-guide was praised for being friendly, knowledgeable, and flexible, which really enhanced the overall experience. Many noted that the views from the mountain summit are unforgettable, and the hidden church and rock formations are well worth seeking out.

The wine tasting at Koutsogianopoulos Winery Museum was repeatedly highlighted as a standout feature, adding a cultural and gustatory dimension to the tour. Guests felt it was a rare opportunity to learn about local wine-making traditions in a relaxed, intimate setting.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for travelers who prefer quality over quantity. If you love discovering less touristy spots, enjoy beautiful vistas, and want a personalized, relaxed experience, this is ideal. It’s great for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a taste of authentic Santorini without the hassle of large group excursions.

Wine lovers will appreciate the tasting component, while photographers will find plenty of stunning vistas and unique angles. If your main goal is to see the most iconic views and hidden corners of Santorini in one compact trip, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

This Hidden Gems Tour and Wine Experience strikes a good balance between scenic beauty, cultural insight, and relaxed exploration. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want to see Santorini’s quieter, more authentic side while indulging in local wines.

The private setup ensures a personalized touch, and the carefully selected stops mean you’ll leave with both stunning photos and a deeper appreciation for the island’s lesser-known treasures. While it’s not a deep historical tour, it perfectly captures the breathtaking scenery and unique charm that make Santorini a standout destination.

In essence, if you’re after a more intimate, scenic, and flavorful slice of Santorini, this tour offers a compelling combination of sights, tastes, and genuine moments.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, giving you enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation is provided, making it easy and stress-free to move between locations.

What is included in the price?
You’ll get wine tasting (5-7 varieties), transportation, a guide, a map, water, a mobile phone charger, and cheese and olives to accompany the wine.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children or non-drinkers?
While the wine tasting is optional, children can still enjoy the sightseeing and scenic spots. Non-drinkers might want to skip the tasting but can still appreciate the views and cultural stops.

Are the stops crowded?
The tour focuses on less crowded, authentic locations, so you’ll avoid the busiest tourist spots and enjoy more peaceful moments.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, camera, and some cash for souvenirs or additional refreshments are recommended.

In summary, this Santorini tour offers a beautifully balanced experience of scenic highlights, hidden treasures, and local flavors. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a personalized, relaxed day exploring the island’s quieter sides while tasting some of its finest wines.