Santorini: Tour around the island

If you’re considering a way to see Santorini beyond the usual tourist spots, this private tour offered by Los Volcano Tours might just be the perfect fit. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on what we know, it promises a personalized glimpse into the island’s most beautiful and lesser-visited corners. What really stands out is the chance to explore hidden gems and breathtaking viewpoints with a guide who knows the terrain—and the stories—like the back of their hand.
Another feature we like? The tour offers a flexible schedule and a private group setting, making it more intimate and tailored compared to large bus excursions. The new model cars and non-smoking vehicles are small touches but add comfort and peace of mind, especially if you’re sensitive to odors or pollution.
One thing to consider—since the tour duration is between 1 to 3 hours, it’s more of a quick, curated experience rather than a full-day deep dive. This could be perfect if you’re short on time or prefer a more relaxed, private outing. This experience seems well-suited for travelers who want a personalized, scenic, and easy-paced way to get a feel for Santorini’s unique landscape and culture.

Key Points

• Personalized experience: Private group and flexible schedule.
• Comfort focused: Clean, new-model, non-smoking cars.
• Visually stunning: Offers views that are hard to access for typical travelers.
• Includes essentials: Bottled water provided.
• Time-efficient: Tours last 1 to 3 hours—ideal for busy travelers.
• Well-rated: Driven by positive reviews highlighting knowledgeable guides and memorable sights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why Choose This Tour?

Santorini’s landscape is one of the most dramatic in Greece, created by a volcanic eruption that left behind a caldera filled with sparkling waters and picture-perfect towns. A tour that can take you off the beaten path, like this one, allows you to see the island’s hidden spots—the kind of places you might miss if you’re just wandering aimlessly with a map or relying solely on guidebooks.

From the outset, the focus is on stunning viewpoints and local encounters. The tour is designed to take you to places where the views are truly worth capturing—whether that’s the caldera’s edge, secluded bays, or scenic overlooks. The inclusion of bottled water and a clean, well-maintained vehicle makes the experience comfortable, even if the terrain can sometimes be a bit hilly or uneven.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The tour begins with a pickup at one of 12 convenient locations around the island, including popular spots like Oia, Fira, Kamari, and Pyrgos. This flexibility is a huge plus—whether you’re staying in the bustling town centers or more remote areas, you’ll find a pickup point close to you. The drop-off options mirror the pickup points, making it easy to return to your accommodation afterward.

In just a few hours, you’ll get a taste of Santorini’s most iconic sights. While the exact stops aren’t detailed, the highlights include visiting areas with breathtaking views of the caldera, and probably some local hidden spots, given the tour’s emphasis on places that travelers often overlook. The guide can provide insights into the island’s culture and history, enriching your experience beyond just sightseeing.

The Experience: What Sets It Apart

Many travelers have praised the knowledgeable guides for their insights and patience. One reviewer mentioned how their driver, a local born and raised in Santorini, took them to spots with amazing views and local flavor, making the trip more meaningful. The guide’s familiarity with the terrain and local secrets seems to be a real highlight.

The vehicle quality is another selling point. The cars are described as new, clean, and non-smoking, which means you’ll be traveling comfortably without concerns about odors or cleanliness—something you’ll appreciate when spending a few hours on the road.

Bottled water is included, which might seem small but makes a difference, especially during warm days or if you’re exploring in the heat. The tour’s flexibility allows you to tailor the experience if needed, and the private setting means fewer distractions and more personalized attention.

Value for Money

Priced at $108 per person, this tour offers a cost-effective way to explore Santorini in a private setting. Compared to larger group tours, the price includes a personalized experience, luxury transport, and a local guide—all contributing to an authentic feel that larger buses can’t match.

While the duration is on the shorter side—up to three hours—this can be perfect if you’re looking for a quick, scenic overview rather than a full-day adventure. For many travelers, especially those on a tight schedule or looking for a relaxed, personalized experience, this strikes a nice balance between cost and value.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is especially suited for travelers who value privacy and flexibility. If you want a guide who can tailor the route to your interests and move at your pace, this is a good choice. It’s also ideal for those who enjoy scenic drives and breathtaking views but don’t want to spend hours in crowded buses.

Notably, the tour’s review from a traveler traveling with an elderly parent with mobility issues highlights how accommodating and helpful the guide can be, making this a good option for slightly less mobile visitors as well.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a relaxed, intimate way to discover some of the most beautiful, lesser-known areas of Santorini, this private tour offers a lot of value for the price. It’s perfect for those who want to avoid the hustle of larger groups, enjoy personalized insights, and see the island’s best viewpoints without feeling rushed.

While it’s not a comprehensive, full-day exploration, the shorter duration is a big plus if your schedule is tight or if you prefer just a taste of Santorini’s charm. The combination of scenic drives, knowledgeable guides, and a comfortable vehicle makes it a compelling option for travelers seeking a meaningful and memorable snapshot of the island.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The tour duration ranges from 1 to 3 hours, depending on the availability and your preferences. It’s flexible enough to fit into most itineraries.

Are the cars comfortable and clean?
Yes, the cars are described as new, clean, and non-smoking, ensuring a comfortable ride throughout your sightseeing.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Based on reviews, the guide was very helpful and accommodating, making it a reasonable choice even for travelers with mobility challenges, though the terrain can be uneven in some spots.

What locations do the pickup and drop-off points cover?
There are 12 pickup and 12 drop-off locations, including Imerovigli, Oia, Kamari, Fira, Pyrgos, and others, making it easy to start and end your tour close to your accommodation.

What is included in the price?
The tour price includes the private transportation in a new, clean vehicle, bottled water, and the guidance of a knowledgeable local.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. It also offers the flexibility to reserve now and pay later.

Is this experience family-friendly?
While not explicitly labeled as family-specific, the positive review about traveling with an elderly parent suggests it’s suitable for a variety of travelers, including those requiring a bit more comfort and mobility support.

In the end, this tour seems like a smart choice for anyone seeking a personalized, scenic, and relaxed way to see some of Santorini’s best views and hidden spots—worth considering if you want a low-key but memorable island experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: