Santorini Highlights: Private Sightseeing Tour in Santorini

Exploring Santorini can easily feel overwhelming given the island’s stunning sights and rich variety of villages, beaches, and viewpoints. That’s where a private guided tour like this one from Simply Santorini Tours comes into play. It offers a well-curated 5-hour itinerary designed to showcase the best of the island, all while providing the comfort and flexibility of a personal guide.

What we love most about this experience is how it combines stunning scenery with authentic local insights, thanks to knowledgeable guides who truly know Santorini inside out. The tour’s flexibility, including optional stops like a local winery or a walk along a famous beach, means it can be tailored to your interests.

One potential consideration is the duration—five hours is enough to see many highlights, but travelers seeking a deeper dive into each village or museum might find it a bit rushed. Still, for those wanting a comprehensive snapshot of Santorini’s most photogenic spots without the hassle of planning individual transport, this tour hits the mark.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate personalized attention, value stunning views, and want a balanced mix of sightseeing and relaxation. It’s especially ideal for first-time visitors or those short on time but eager to soak up the island’s essence.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: A private tour means your group’s interests shape the itinerary.
• Stunning Photo Opportunities: Iconic blue-domed churches and caldera views are front and center.
• Flexible Stops: Optional winery visit and beach time add tailored touches.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Artemis and Babis are praised for their friendliness and local insight.
• Value for Money: At around $196 per person, the tour offers a lot of well-organized sightseeing.
• Comfort and Convenience: Includes pick-up, air-conditioned transport, bottled water, and a bespoke plan.

Discovering Santorini: An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point: Oia – The Iconic Village

The tour kicks off in Oia, arguably the most famous village on the island. Known worldwide for its whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches, Oia’s charm is magnetic. Visitors often describe it as breathtaking, with some reviewers mentioning that their guides asked what they wanted to see first, making the experience feel tailored from the beginning. Expect about 45 minutes here, enough to soak in the views and snap some memorable photos.

Since Oia is a top spot for sunset, arriving earlier helps avoid the busiest times, and having a guide means you get insider tips on the best photo spots and local eateries. The lack of entrance fees makes it accessible, but be aware of the crowds if visiting during peak season.

Firostefani and the Blue Dome Church

Next stop is Firostefani, home to the famous Blue Dome Church—a classic Santorini icon. This stop is designed for quick photo ops (about 15 minutes), but the impact is big. The blue roof against the white architecture has become a symbol of the island, and guides often emphasize its perfect positioning for capturing the best photos. It’s a great spot for a quick, memorable snapshot before moving on to the next village.

Pyrgos: The Venetian Village

The journey continues to Pyrgos, a lesser-known gem perched at the foot of Mount Profitis Ilias. This village offers panoramic views of both the caldera and the island’s interior, with remnants of Venetian architecture adding a historic flair. Spending about 45 minutes here, visitors can wander through narrow lanes, explore local churches, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. Reviewers mention Pyrgos’s charm as less touristy, offering a glimpse into authentic Greek village life.

Megalochori: The Picturesque Old Settlement

A highlight for many is Megalochori, renowned for its restored mansions and traditional architecture. This village feels like stepping back in time, with high walls, quaint alleys, and a sense of preserved authenticity. It’s an ideal place for a leisurely stroll, and about 45 minutes here allows for exploring the architecture and perhaps stopping for coffee or a quick snack. Travelers note that Megalochori’s picturesque setting often earns high praise for its unspoiled charm.

Optional Stop: Red Beach

While not included in the standard itinerary, a quick drive past the Red Beach offers a chance to admire its spectacular red volcanic cliffs. Given just 10 minutes viewing time, it’s more a photo stop than an exploration, but the rock formations are genuinely striking. It’s perfect if you’re a landscape enthusiast or want a quick glance at one of Santorini’s most distinctive beaches.

Perivolos Beach: Relaxation and Lunch

After a busy morning, you’ll have approximately an hour at Perivolos Beach, famed for its black volcanic pebbles and lively seaside atmosphere. It’s a favorite for relaxing, and many visitors appreciate having time to dip their toes in the water or enjoy lunch at a beachfront taverna. The black sand and pebbles make it uniquely Santorini—unlike most Mediterranean beaches—and the relaxed vibe here makes it a perfect pause in your day.

Optional Winery Visit: Estate Argyros

A standout feature of this tour is the optional visit to a local winery, like Estate Argyros. For just $25 per person, you can sample a variety of local wines, with the driver guiding you through options suited to your preferences. Reviewers mention the wine tasting as a highlight, citing particularly good selections that give a real taste of Santorini’s wine-making tradition. The visit usually lasts about an hour and offers a taste of Santorini’s distinctive volcanic wines.

Transportation and Practical Details

The tour is conducted in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort even in the hottest months. The vehicle accommodates your group exclusively, providing a personalized experience free from the hustle and bustle of larger tours. Pickup is offered from your accommodation or cruise port, which adds convenience, especially if you’re arriving by cruise.

The overall duration of about 5 hours balances sightseeing with downtime. This makes it an excellent option for travelers who want to see many highlights without feeling rushed. The price point of roughly $196 per person offers good value considering the private guiding, transport, bottled water, and the flexibility of stops.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

The tour includes bottled water, transportation, a local expert guide, and personalized planning. Extras like entrance fees to attractions (around €20) and wine tasting (optional, €25) are paid separately. Lunch or additional refreshments aren’t included, but your guide can recommend seaside restaurants at Perivolos.

Reviews and Real Experiences

Reviewers repeatedly praised their guides for friendliness, knowledge, and personal touches. One reviewer, Michael, appreciated how Artemis tailored the experience, making sure everyone was comfortable despite the heat. Others highlighted guides like Babis for their welcoming attitude and local insights. Several reviewers noted the excellent value for the price, especially given the flexibility and private nature of the tour.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This private tour is ideal for those who value customized experiences and want to avoid the crowds. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but eager to see the key sights with the comfort of private transportation. Couples, small groups, or families will appreciate the personalized approach, especially with optional stops like wine tasting or beach visits.

Travelers who love to take photos will enjoy the stops at Oia and Fira, but the tour also balances sightseeing with relaxing moments at the beach. However, if you prefer in-depth visits to museums or a more extensive exploration of each village, this tour might feel a bit rushed.

Final Thoughts

This Santorini private sightseeing tour offers a well-rounded, high-value experience. It hits the highlights—Oia, Fira, Pyrgos, Megalochori—while offering optional extras like the winery, making it adaptable to different interests. The guides receive high praise for their knowledge and friendliness, which elevates the experience beyond just sightseeing.

The combination of stunning vistas, authentic villages, and the convenience of private transport makes this tour a fantastic choice for first-time visitors or those who want a streamlined yet personal way to explore Santorini. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who appreciate comfort, flexibility, and a touch of local flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, providing a more personalized and flexible experience.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, including all stops and optional activities.

What is included in the price?
The price includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a dedicated local guide, bottled water, and a bespoke itinerary. Extras like entrance fees and wine tasting are paid separately.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is described as a bespoke experience, and guides can tailor stops based on your interests, including optional visits like wineries or beaches.

Is pickup available?
Yes, pickup from your accommodation, cruise port, or upper station of cruise cable car is offered.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing, sun protection, and a camera are recommended. Since the tour includes outdoor stops, be prepared for the heat in summer.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed, but it’s best to confirm if traveling with very young children or special needs.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this tour is booked about 45 days ahead, but earlier booking is recommended during peak season to secure your preferred date.

In sum, this private Santorini tour strikes a good balance between convenience, authenticity, and scenic beauty. It’s a great way to see the island’s highlights without the stress of arranging logistics yourself, all while enjoying insightful guiding and plenty of memorable vistas.