Santorini Private Tour: Hidden Gems & Wine Experience

Exploring Santorini often feels like wandering through a postcard — iconic white buildings, blue-domed churches, and spectacular caldera views. This private tour offers a chance to see the island’s lesser-known corners, away from the tourist throngs, while savoring some of the best volcanic wines around. With a skilled English-speaking driver guiding a small group, it promises intimacy, flexibility, and insider knowledge.

What we love most about this experience is its focus on authenticity—you’ll visit quiet, charming spots like Finikia and Imerovigli, places that often get overshadowed by Oia’s crowds. Plus, the opportunity to taste Santorini’s unique volcanic wines at Art Space Winery is genuinely special, providing a deeper understanding of the island’s viticulture.

However, one consideration is the timing and pace—at six hours, it’s a fairly packed itinerary, so if you’re someone who prefers a more relaxed, unhurried visit, you might find it a bit brisk. Still, for those eager to cover a lot of ground and see Santorini’s secret sides, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s especially suitable for travelers who value authentic experiences, scenic views, and wine tasting, all in a private, tailored setting.

Key Points

• Authentic hidden spots: Skip the crowds at Oia and explore quieter villages and viewpoints.
• Stunning panoramas: From the highest point on the island to scenic lighthouse views.
• Cultural and culinary insight: Guided wine tasting featuring volcanic wines that define Santorini’s terroir.
• Flexible, private experience: Customized itinerary with a dedicated driver and guide.
• Photographer’s dream: Numerous photo stops at carefully selected locations.
• Value for money: Price reflects an intimate, personalized tour with many exclusive sights.

An In-Depth Look at the Santorini Private Tour

Starting Point: Thera and the Journey to Hidden Corners

Your day begins in Thera (Santorini’s main town), where you’re picked up by a comfortable, air-conditioned van operated by iGoHellas. The 30-minute drive out of town sets the tone for the day — relaxed but purposeful. The vehicle is private, so your group can chat freely, ask questions, or just enjoy the scenic ride.

First Stop: Secret Photo Spot Overlooking Oia

The tour’s first highlight is a hidden vantage point that offers sweeping views of Oia below, without the usual crowds. This spot provides a perfect photo opportunity and a quiet moment to soak in the island’s beauty. One reviewer mentions, “This is the kind of view you wish you could keep all to yourself,” which perfectly captures the serenity of this secret spot.

Imerovigli: The “Balcony of the Aegean”

Next, you head to Imerovigli, often called Santorini’s “balcony” due to its commanding views. Unlike Oia, Imerovigli remains more tranquil, with its winding, whitewashed alleyways, charming staircases, and vibrant bougainvilleas. Walking through this village, you’ll find a handful of hidden photo spots that are ideal for capturing the essence of the island—less touristy and more authentic.

A key advantage here is the less crowded environment, allowing for relaxed exploration and beautiful photos without the throng of travelers. You’ll also get a guided tour explaining the history and the significance of these spots, adding depth to your visit.

The Summit of Profitis Ilias: The Highest Point

From Imerovigli, the journey continues uphill to Profitis Ilias, the highest point on Santorini at nearly 1,800 feet. From here, the views are breathtaking—over the caldera, neighboring islands, and the endless Aegean. The monastery at the summit adds a touch of local history, and the panoramic vistas make this a highlight for many travelers.

One review suggests that the views from here are worth every step—a real highlight that offers a nearly 360-degree perspective of the island’s volcanic landscape.

Art Space Winery & Art Gallery: Volcanic Wines Tasting

A visit to Santorini isn’t complete without sampling its renowned volcanic wines. At the Art Space Winery & Art Gallery, you’ll enjoy a curated tasting of 46 different wines, each with a story rooted in the island’s volcanic soil. The guide will explain how the unique terroir influences the flavor profiles, making this a genuinely educational experience.

Guests have noted that the wines are a revelation, with some describing the tasting as “a journey through the island’s landscape in a glass.” The intimate setting allows for plenty of conversation and questions, making it a memorable part of your day.

The Heart of Santorini: A Natural Rock Formation

One of the most Instagram-worthy stops is the natural heart-shaped window in the rock. This natural formation frames the sea, sky, and volcano perfectly, creating an unforgettable photo. Reviewers often comment on how this spot is surprisingly less crowded and offers a peaceful setting to appreciate the island’s natural artistry.

Akrotiri Lighthouse: End of the Day with a View

The tour concludes at the Akrotiri Lighthouse, at Santorini’s southwestern tip. Here, the rugged cliffs meet the blue waters, and the views are simply stunning. It’s the perfect place to reflect on the day, with dramatic scenery and fewer visitors than other popular spots.

Travelers mention that the cliffs and sea views here are some of the best on the island, providing a fitting finale to this carefully curated adventure.

Return to Thera

A comfortable 45-minute drive takes you back to Thera, where the tour ends. Along the way, you can chat about the day’s highlights or simply enjoy the scenic drive.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This private tour is designed to be straightforward. Included in the price are round-trip transportation, an English-speaking driver, basic travel insurance, and a bottle of water — all adding to the comfort and convenience.

You’ll need to budget separately for lunch, refreshments (beyond water), and cable car tickets if you’re arriving by cruise ship or planning to visit Fira.

Pricing and Value

At $230 per person, the price might seem steep, but considering the private nature, personalized attention, and exclusive access to lesser-known spots, many find it offers excellent value. The carefully curated stops, especially the wine tasting and scenic viewpoints, elevate the experience beyond typical group tours.

Duration and Flexibility

Clocking in at six hours, the tour strikes a good balance—covering significant sights without feeling rushed. The private setup means the itinerary can be slightly adjusted if needed, making it a flexible option for different interests or physical pace.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want to avoid the crowds and explore Santorini’s hidden sides. It’s ideal for those interested in local culture, scenic views, and wine, and who prefer a personalized, intimate setting over large group excursions. If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic, and authentic day, this tour delivers.

The Sum Up

For those seeking an authentic look at Santorini beyond the postcard clichés, this private tour offers a thoughtful combination of quiet villages, stunning viewpoints, and volcanic wines. It’s a chance to experience the island’s natural beauty and local charm in a relaxed, personalized way.

While it’s a fuller schedule—packed with photo stops, tastings, and scenic drives—the value lies in the small group atmosphere and the opportunity to sidestep the crowds. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want a deeper, more genuine connection with Santorini’s lesser-known treasures.

Ultimately, this tour balances beautiful scenery, cultural insight, and exclusive access, making it an excellent option for anyone craving an authentic, memorable day on the island.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately six hours, allowing plenty of time to explore the key sites without feeling rushed.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, round-trip transportation in a private van is included, with pickup and drop-off in Thera.

What languages are available for the guided tour?
The tour is led by an English-speaking driver, and the tour guide can speak English, Spanish, or French.

Are meals included?
No, lunch and refreshments are not included, but a bottle of water is provided. You can buy lunch separately at your convenience.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, there’s flexibility to adjust the schedule slightly based on your interests or pace.

Are there any additional costs?
You might need to pay separately for cable car tickets if arriving by cruise or planning to visit Fira, and for any extra drinks or souvenirs.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
While generally suitable for most, the walking involved at some stops might require a moderate level of physical fitness. Check with the provider if you have specific mobility concerns.

This Santorini private tour delivers a mix of scenic beauty, cultural richness, and authentic experiences, perfect for travelers eager to see the island’s secret sides while savoring its famed volcanic wines.