Enjoy the best of Santorini with our Private Tour!

If you’re planning a trip to Santorini and want to see the best of what this famous Greek island has to offer, a private tour like this one from Anemi Travel could be just what you need. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the details paint a picture of a flexible, well-organized experience designed to showcase both iconic sights and hidden gems. Whether you’re traveling as a couple or with family, this tailored approach offers a personalized way to enjoy Santorini’s beauty without the stress of navigation or crowded group tours.

One thing we definitely appreciate about this tour is its focus on customization. The itinerary is flexible, allowing your driver to adjust the stops based on your interests, which is a real plus. Plus, the inclusion of local insights from drivers with deep island knowledge means you’re not just ticking off sights but truly experiencing the island’s character. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that this tour doesn’t include entrance fees or activities like wine tastings—so you’ll want to budget extra if those are on your must-do list. This tour seems best suited for folks who value comfort, flexibility, and a curated experience.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience tailored to your interests
• Stunning viewpoints and authentic local spots included
• Flexible timing and stops based on your preferences
• Transport is air-conditioned and reliable, with bottled water provided
• Not included: entrance fees, wine tastings, meals, and extra activities
• Ideal for couples or families seeking a relaxed, personalized day on the island

Why Choose a Private Tour in Santorini?

Santorini is one of those places that looks like a postcard at every turn, and a private tour helps you make the most of it without the usual crowds or rushed schedules. This experience offers a personalized approach, meaning you decide what to see and what to skip, all while enjoying the comfort of private transportation. Plus, with experienced drivers who know the island inside out, you’ll get insights and recommendations that you might miss on your own.

The tour’s length of about 4 to 5 hours strikes a good balance—enough time to visit several highlights without feeling exhausted or rushed. The fact that it’s a private activity means your group is the only one on the van, giving you flexibility and a more intimate experience. And at a cost of roughly $405 for up to four people, it’s a reasonable way to see a lot for the price, especially when split among friends or family.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What Can You Expect?

Each stop on this tour offers something unique, combining iconic sights with a chance to explore lesser-known spots. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll likely experience:

Three Bells of Fira – The Iconic Viewpoint

Starting with the Three Bells of Fira, you’re greeted by one of the most recognizable landmarks on the island. Officially known as the Catholic Church of the Dormition, this spot is famous for its three blue domes and picturesque backdrop of the caldera. It’s a perfect place for photos and soaking in the panoramic views of the island’s cliffs. Since it’s free to visit, it’s a good first stop to get a feel for Santorini’s dramatic landscape.

Reviewers love the views here, with one mentioning it as a very photogenic spot. It’s a quick 30-minute stop, so you won’t spend too long but will get a taste of Santorini’s charm.

Pyrgos Kallistis – Medieval Grace

Next, the tour visits Pyrgos Kallistis, described as the best-preserved medieval village in Santorini. The town exudes a peaceful, timeless vibe, with narrow winding streets and traditional architecture. It’s a chance to step away from the tourist-heavy areas and experience authentic island life. There’s no entrance fee, and 30 minutes might seem brief, but it’s enough to wander a little, take photos, and enjoy the ambiance.

One reviewer appreciated this stop, noting that it was a village they wouldn’t have found on their own but loved exploring.

Monastery of Profitis Ilias – The Highest Point

Over at Profitis Ilias Monastery, you’ll find yourself at the highest spot on the island—about 567 meters above sea level. From here, the views are stunning, offering a broad sweep of Santorini and the Aegean. This is more than just a religious site; it’s a vantage point for some truly sweeping photos.

Since it’s free to visit, it’s an added bonus that you get to experience this peaceful spot with a panoramic payoff. Expect about 30 minutes here, plenty of time to take in the scenery and snap some shots.

Perivolos Beach – Black Sand Serenity

Moving to the coast, Perivolos Beach offers a different side of Santorini—relaxed, scenic, and perfect for some downtime. The long stretch of black sand lies between Perissa and Agios Georgios, making it an excellent spot for a quick walk or a quick dip in the sea.

While 30 minutes might not be enough for a full beach day, it’s ideal for soaking up the sun and snapping some beach photos. It’s especially appealing if you’re into striking volcanic landscapes.

Red Beach – Nature’s Artwork

A highlight for many visitors, Red Beach is truly a sight to behold. Its near-vertical, crimson volcanic cliffs form a dramatic backdrop for the small, reddish pebbles below. Visitors often rent canoes or sea bicycles to enjoy the view from the water, adding an extra layer of fun.

This stop also gets rave reviews, with one reviewer describing it as breathtaking and noting the wild landscape. Again, 30 minutes is enough to marvel at the scenery and maybe snap a few memorable photos.

Santo Wines – Wine Tasting with a View

One of the more special stops is Santo Wines, renowned for its sunset-view wine tastings. Though the tasting itself costs extra, the experience of enjoying a glass of local wine while overlooking the caldera is well worth it for many visitors. It’s a perfect way to unwind and take in some of Santorini’s renowned wines.

The timing of approximately 45 minutes allows you enough space to relax, savor the wines, and enjoy the scenery. If wine tasting isn’t included in the price, you might consider budgeting extra here.

Imerovigli – The Balcony of Santorini

Known for its stunning views, Imerovigli is often called the “balcony of Santorini.” Sitting atop a cliff, this village offers sweeping vistas of the caldera and volcano. It’s a peaceful spot for photos and soaking in the beauty of the island, especially from its famous viewpoints.

A 30-minute visit lets you appreciate the architecture, the views, and the calm atmosphere—ideal for those who want a quieter, more relaxed experience.

Oia – The Postcard Perfect Village

Finally, no Santorini tour is complete without a stop in Oia. It’s often considered the most picturesque village on the island, with iconic white buildings, blue-domed churches, and stunning sunsets. This is the place for photos, wandering the charming streets, and experiencing the quintessential Santorini vibe.

The 30-minute stop is brief but enough to get a taste of Oia’s beauty. If you’re keen on exploring more, you might want to spend extra time here on your own.

What’s Included and What to Expect

This tour offers air-conditioned transportation and bottled water, making it comfortable and convenient. Since it’s private, only your group participates, avoiding crowded buses or guides. The driver acts as your personal guide, sharing insights and adjusting the stops based on your preferences.

Keep in mind that entrance fees to museums or sites are not included, nor are wine tastings, meals, or extra activities. If some stops pique your interest more than others, you can discuss extending your visit or adding additional experiences separately.

The Value of This Experience

At about $405 for a group of up to four people, this private tour offers good value for those wanting a personalized day on Santorini. When split among a small group, the cost becomes quite reasonable, especially considering the flexibility and comfort of private transportation.

The reviews highlight the quality of guides, with mentions of knowledgeable, energetic drivers who answered questions and made the trip fun. One reviewer called it “the best day in Santorini,” emphasizing how well the experience balanced iconic sights with lesser-known gems.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who prefer a flexible, private day tailored to their interests. It’s ideal for couples seeking romance and intimacy, or families wanting a more relaxed, curated exploration of the island. Because the stops are mostly outdoor and free, it’s suitable for most ages, though if you’re planning to visit specific sites with entrance fees or do wine tastings, budget accordingly.

If you’re someone who values comfort, customization, and insider knowledge, this tour ticks those boxes. However, if you’re on a strict budget or looking for an activity that includes entry fees and additional experiences, you might want to explore other options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for families? Since the tour is private and flexible, it can be suitable for families, especially those who want to explore at their own pace without rushing through crowded group activities. However, activities like beach visits are more about sightseeing and relaxing, not specific kid-focused experiences.

How long does the tour last? The average duration is about 4 to 5 hours, giving you enough time to see multiple sights without feeling rushed.

What’s not included in the price? Entrance fees for museums or attractions, wine tastings, meals, snacks, coffee or tea, and alcoholic beverages are not included. You should budget extra for these if they interest you.

Can the itinerary be adjusted? Yes, since it’s a private, tailor-made experience, your driver can suggest adjustments based on your preferences, making it a truly personalized day.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, sun protection, a camera, and water are recommended. Since some stops are scenic or involve walking, being prepared makes the experience more enjoyable.

Is pickup provided? Yes, pickup is offered from Fira or other specified locations, with drivers waiting with a sign with your name.

Are entrance fees and activities optional? Yes, you pay separately for activities like wine tastings or museum visits, which are not included in the tour price.

How far in advance should I book? The tour tends to be booked about 69 days in advance on average, so planning ahead ensures availability.

Is the tour available year-round? The tour operates from May 18, 2024, through June 17, 2026, daily between 10 AM and 7 PM.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this private tour offers a flexible, comfortable way to explore Santorini’s most captivating sights and hidden corners. It’s perfect for those who want a curated experience without the rush, with knowledgeable guides and stunning views at every turn. While it doesn’t include entry fees or activities, the ability to customize your day makes it a great investment for travelers who prioritize comfort and authenticity.

If you enjoy exploring at your own pace, discovering both famous landmarks and secret spots, and want the ease of private transportation, this tour could be just what you need. It’s especially suited for couples and families looking for a memorable, tailored day in Santorini.

Remember to plan ahead and communicate your interests with your driver to make the most of this experience. With a little flexibility and a sense of adventure, you’re set for a fantastic day on one of Greece’s most beautiful islands.