Santorini ATV Quad Tour + Lunch and PICKUP

If you’re considering a way to really get to know Santorini beyond the usual tourist spots, an ATV tour with lunch might just be your best bet. We’ve looked into this experience, which offers the chance to zip around the island’s rugged terrain, visit some of its most photogenic spots, and enjoy a traditional Greek meal—all in about three hours. It’s a popular choice, boasting a high 4.5-star rating from recent travelers, and a solid 94% recommend it. But is it worth your time and money? Let’s break down what you need to know.

What we love about this tour? First, the small group size means more personalized attention and a more relaxed vibe. Second, the stunning stops—like Perissa’s black sand beach and the windmills of Emporio—are genuinely memorable. However, it’s worth noting that the tour does not include drop-off service, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation back to your hotel or accommodation. This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures, are comfortable riding ATVs, and want an authentic, less conventional way to see Santorini.

Key Points

• Ideal for adventure lovers who want to explore off the beaten path
• Includes a traditional Greek lunch, often praised for its authenticity
• Small group tours offer more attention and a relaxed atmosphere
• No drop-off service, so plan your transportation accordingly
• Age restrictions require drivers to be at least 21 with a valid license
• Multiple stops highlight the island’s best views and local villages

What the Tour Entails: A Deep Dive

This Santorini ATV tour lasts roughly 3 hours and starts from Fira, with convenient pickup options included. The entire experience is tailored for small groups — with a maximum of 8 travelers — which helps keep the journey intimate and allows guides to give more focused insights.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Visit and Why It Matters

Stop 1: Perissa Black Sand Beach
This striking volcanic beach is often the first stop, and rightfully so. Its black sand is a dramatic contrast to the whitewashed buildings and blue waters of Santorini. Here, you can snap photos of the crystal-clear waters and enjoy the scenery for about 10 minutes. Travelers rave about this stop — one reviewer called it “indescribable,” and it’s a great spot for a quick photo break before moving on.

Stop 2: Heart of Santorini
Next, you’ll explore a hidden trail leading to a heart-shaped opening in the caldera, a spot perfect for capturing wide-open sea views. This is a less touristy spot that offers a romantic, almost secretive feel. Expect to spend about 15 minutes here, soaking in the stunning vistas, especially at golden hour. Several reviews mention the breathtaking views and the special feeling of being somewhere a bit off the usual tourist trail.

Stop 3: Traditional Village of Megalochori
Ride through this charming village, where narrow lanes and whitewashed homes reflect authentic local life. It’s a great chance to see a more traditional side of Santorini, far from the crowds. The visual appeal and relaxed pace make it a favorite stop for many.

Stop 4: Vlichada and the Vineyards
As you cruise through lush vineyards, you’ll learn about grape cultivation in volcanic soil—a unique aspect of Santorini’s wine-making scene. This stop, which lasts about 10 minutes, provides insights into local viticulture and the island’s famous wines. Several reviews highlight the educational element combined with scenic beauty.

Stop 5: Windmills of Emporio
Iconic windmills and the Venetian castle in Emporio offer panoramic cliff views. This spot is often praised for its “picture-perfect” scenery and historical charm, making it a perfect photo opportunity and a good wrap-up to the sightseeing part of the tour.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

ATV Equipment and Training
Before setting off, you’ll receive all the necessary gear, including helmets and safety instructions. The guides are professional and attentive, ensuring everyone feels confident – even if it’s your first time on an ATV. As some reviews mention, safety is taken seriously, and if the guides feel someone isn’t fit to continue, they reserve the right to pull them from the tour and offer a partial refund.

The Lunch
After the adventure, everyone gathers at a local restaurant for a full Greek meal. Reviewers consistently say the food is authentic and plentiful. One reviewer described the meal as “gorgeous Greek food,” and another called it “incredibly authentic.” The meal is family-style, often highlighting seafood, which many find to be a perfect finish to the day.

Group Size and Guides
With small groups, guides can give more personalized stories and safety tips. Travelers frequently mention how personable and knowledgeable the guides are, with several reviews praising specific guides like Pavlo and Alex for making the experience enjoyable and informative.

Logistics and Practical Considerations

Pickup and Drop-off
The tour includes pickup from Fira and starts promptly at 1:00 pm, with pickup arranged for around noon. Keep in mind, no drop-off service is provided, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation back. Many guests find this manageable, especially if they’re staying nearby or plan to continue their day in Fira.

Age and Licensing Requirements
You must be at least 21 years old with a valid driver’s license to operate an ATV. There’s no age limit for passengers, so if you prefer just to ride along, you’re good to go. This is an important point to consider if you’re traveling with younger or less experienced drivers.

Weather and Cancellations
Since this tour requires good weather, it can be canceled if conditions aren’t suitable, with options for rescheduling or full refunds. Always check the forecast and communicate with the operator if you have concerns.

Price and Value
At around $154 per person, this tour offers a lot: scenic stops, cultural insights, a hearty lunch, and the thrill of riding an ATV. Numerous reviews praise the value — many say they saw parts of the island they wouldn’t have otherwise — and the experience’s overall quality. Keep in mind, no extra drinks or personal expenses are included, so budget accordingly.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Feedback

Most reviews are glowing, highlighting knowledgeable guides and breathtaking views. For example, one traveler said Pavlo was “exceptional,” offering helpful information and kindness. Others appreciated the authentic Greek lunch, noting it’s a highlight of the day. The views from the windmill stop or the caldera’s heart-shaped opening are often described as “indescribable,” emphasizing the visual impact.

Some travelers mention the well-maintained equipment and feel reassured by the safety briefings. Meanwhile, a few reviews note that the tour doesn’t include many stops for exploring or swimming beyond the main sites, which might feel a bit rushed if you’re hoping for more beach time.

A less favorable review mentions that the tour time was changed at short notice, and transportation was no longer included. This highlights the importance of double-checking what is included and understanding the logistics beforehand.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This ATV tour offers a unique, adventure-packed way to see parts of Santorini many visitors miss. If you love outdoor activities, enjoy learning about local culture through food and scenery, and are comfortable on an ATV with a valid license, you’ll find this tour a memorable addition to your trip. The small group size ensures a personal touch, guides are friendly and knowledgeable, and the stops are carefully chosen to showcase the island’s most photogenic spots.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed sightseeing experience with more beaches or less riding, this might not be your best fit. Also, travelers who don’t have transportation arranged should plan accordingly, since no drop-off service is included.

All things considered, for those seeking a lively, scenic, and authentic slice of Santorini, this ATV tour supplies an excellent balance of adventure, culture, and cuisine—all wrapped up in a well-organized package.

FAQ

Is pickup included in this tour?
Yes, pickup from Fira is included, and the tour starts at 1:00 pm. Pickup is usually arranged around noon.

Do I need to have a driver’s license?
Yes, you need a valid driver’s license to operate the ATV, and you must be at least 21 years old.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Guides provide full training and instructions, making it accessible for most riders. Safety is taken seriously, and the guides are very attentive.

What’s the duration of the tour?
The full experience lasts about 3 hours, including stops, riding, and lunch.

Are there any stops for swimming or beach activities?
No, the tour focuses on scenic stops, villages, and viewpoints. You only get brief stops at beaches like Perissa for photos.

Can I ride as a passenger?
Yes, there’s no age restriction for passengers, so if you prefer not to drive, you can simply ride along.

What should I wear or bring?
Wear comfortable clothes suitable for riding and potentially getting dusty. Bring sun protection and water, as the tour includes bottled water.

This adventure is a fantastic way to see Santorini from a different angle, combining fun riding with cultural stops and a hearty Greek meal. Perfect for active travelers who want something more engaging than just walking around town.