Santorini: 6hr Private Custom Tour with Olive Oil or Wine Tasting

Exploring Santorini: A Deep Dive into the 6-Hour Private Custom Tour with Olive Oil or Wine Tasting

If you’re planning a trip to Santorini, chances are you want to see the highlights without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. This private 6-hour tour offers the perfect way to tailor your experience, whether you’re into stunning viewpoints, charming villages, or local flavors like olive oil and wine. From what we’ve seen in reviews, it’s an experience that combines flexibility with expert guidance—ideal if you prefer a personalized approach rather than a cookie-cutter group tour.

What really catches our eye about this experience is the ability to customize your day around your interests. Plus, the included tastings—either olive oil or wine—are a nice touch that adds a flavor of local culture. However, it’s worth noting that entrance fees to some sights are at your own expense, so plan accordingly. This tour seems best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, tailored day on the island without the hassle of figuring out logistics themselves.

Two things we love about this tour: First, the private, customizable aspect means you’re in the driver’s seat. Second, the expert guides seem to truly know their stuff, making each stop more engaging. On the flip side, one possible consideration is that at 6 hours, it’s a fairly full day—so if you’re seeking a leisurely pace or have mobility issues, you’ll want to communicate your needs upfront. All in all, it’s a great choice for those who want to see Santorini their way, with a knowledgeable guide helping to make each moment memorable.

This tour is especially ideal for travelers who appreciate flexibility, cultural tastings, and scenic views, and who want to avoid overly structured bus schedules. Let’s unpack what makes this experience stand out, from the itinerary to genuine guest impressions.

Key Points

• Tailor-made Experience: You get to decide what to see and do, making each trip unique.
• Flexible Schedule: Morning or afternoon departures help fit your plans.
• All-Inclusive Tasting Options: Olive oil or wine tastings are included, adding a flavorful local touch.
• Hassle-Free Transfers: Hotel pickup and drop-off save you time and effort.
• Top Sights Covered: From Oia’s cliffs to local villages, the tour hits many must-see spots.
• Authentic Local Experiences: Visit organic farms and family-run wineries for genuine insights.

A Walkthrough of the Itinerary and What You Can Expect

Monastery of Profitis Ilias

Your day starts at the highest point on the island, offering panoramic views of Santorini’s volcanic landscape and the surrounding archipelago. This spot is perfect for snapping photos and soaking in the scenery. Guests often comment on how breathtaking the vistas are, with one reviewer noting, “The views from the monastery were unforgettable.”

Since there’s no admission fee, it’s a free and serene way to kick off your tour. Expect about 15 minutes here—enough to appreciate the sweeping landscape and maybe take some selfies.

Pyrgos Village

Next, you’ll explore Pyrgos, a charming village with a rich history and authentic feel. Wandering its narrow streets offers a glimpse into traditional Cycladic architecture and local life. Reviewers have loved how guides make this stop feel special, with one noting, “Our guide was really great about adapting to our group’s pace.” Expect around 45 minutes to stroll, take photos, and maybe browse some local shops if you’re keen.

Vlychada Beach and Cliffs

A quick stop at Vlychada brings rugged cliff shores into focus, offering dramatic scenery right beside the beach. It’s a brief 15-minute stop, but the cliffs’ unusual shapes and stark beauty are worth a look. It’s a reminder of Santorini’s volcanic origins, perfect for those who love natural, unspoiled landscapes.

Firostefani Blue-Domed Church

This iconic spot is a quick 10-minute stop, giving you a chance to see the famous blue-domed church and soak in its breathtaking view. Photographers love this location, and many reviews mention how picturesque it is. It’s a classic Santorini shot that you’ll want to add to your collection.

The Castle of St Nicholas

Spending about an hour here allows you to enjoy sweeping views and hear some engaging stories from your guide, who will fill you in on the site’s history. Guests report that the view from this spot is “bewitching,” and the stories make it come alive. Plus, there’s time to relax and soak in the scene, which is a real plus.

Organic Farm Visit & Olive Oil Tasting

This part of the tour is a favorite among those who appreciate authentic flavors. Visiting SantOrganics, you’ll learn about traditional farming methods and enjoy an olive oil tasting. Many reviewers found this experience to be extraordinary, with one describing it as an “extraordinary gustatory experience.” The 1.5-hour visit provides insight into local agriculture and tastes that connect you to the land.

Gavalas Winery

The tour concludes with a visit to one of the oldest family-owned wineries on the island. The wine tasting here is highlighted as a real highlight—many guests rave about the quality and variety of wines, with some calling it the “best winery found in Santorini.” The guide’s enthusiasm and energy enhance the experience, making it both educational and enjoyable.

The Practical Side: Transportation, Pricing, and Tips

The tour includes private transportation, with pickup and drop-off at your hotel or the cable car station. This makes logistics much easier, especially if you’re arriving via cruise ship or staying in a central location. The total duration is about 6 hours, which packs in a lot without feeling rushed.

The cost per person is approximately $244, which on paper might seem high, but considering the private guide, customizable experience, tastings, and transportation, it offers good value. Guest reviews consistently praise guides like Kathrin and Sabina for their knowledge and personable approach, which greatly enhances the experience.

You should be aware that entrance fees for sights are at your own expense, so budget accordingly if you want to go inside certain locations. Also, if you’re arriving by cruise, note that cable car tickets are €6 per person each way, and this isn’t included in the tour price.

Suitability and Considerations

This tour appeals most to those who want a personalized experience and enjoy local tastings. If you’re a foodie, wine lover, or just love discovering hidden spots, this tour is tailored for you. However, it’s also quite full—some reviews mention that the day moves quickly—so if you prefer a slow, leisurely pace or have limited mobility, you might want to discuss your needs with the provider in advance.

What Guests Are Saying: Authentic Feedback

Guests are overwhelmingly positive, with all reviews rating the tour 5 stars. They praise guides like Kathrin and Sabina for their knowledge and friendliness, and many mention how they appreciated the customization—whether it’s visiting specific sites or adjusting the pace.

One review highlights, “Our guide was really great about adapting to the age and capabilities of our group,” showing this tour’s flexibility. Others loved the spectacular views, with comments like “The views from the monastery were unforgettable,” and the wine tasting is consistently called out as a highlight.

Several guests mention how this tour felt like a personal experience rather than a standard group outing, with reviews emphasizing the importance of guides listening to their interests and taking them to secret spots.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private, customizable tour is best suited for travelers who value flexibility, personalized attention, and local flavors. It’s perfect if you want to tailor your day around specific interests—whether that’s scenic vistas, charming villages, or tasting authentic food and wine. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off makes logistics easier, especially for those arriving via cruise.

The tour offers a great balance of sightseeing, cultural insights, and tasting experiences, making it ideal for curious travelers who want to go beyond the typical tourist spots. While the price might seem steep at first glance, the personalized service, knowledgeable guides, and chance to explore at your own pace make it worthwhile.

If you’re seeking an immersive, flexible, and well-organized day in Santorini, this private tour could be just what you need to make your visit truly memorable.

FAQs

Is this a private tour?
Yes, only your group will participate, ensuring a personalized experience.

Can I choose between olive oil and wine tasting?
Absolutely, during the booking process you select your preferred tastings, either olive oil or wine.

Are hotel pickups and drop-offs included?
Yes, the tour offers hassle-free pickup and drop-off at your hotel or the cable car station.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 6 hours, including visits to various sites, tastings, and travel time.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees for sites are at your own expense.

What should I wear?
Dress appropriately for the weather, as the tour operates in all conditions. Comfortable shoes are recommended since there’s walking involved.

Is this tour suitable for older travelers?
Many reviews mention guides’ flexibility and adaptation, making it suitable for different ages, but clarify your needs when booking.

What about children?
The tour is designed for most travelers, but children’s suitability depends on their mobility and interest. Check with the provider if needed.

How far in advance should I book?
Most guests book about 99 days ahead, so early planning is advisable for guaranteed availability.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

This private tour offers a thoughtful way to experience Santorini’s beauty, culture, and flavors at your own pace. Whether you’re a first-timer or returning visitor, it’s a chance to see the island through a personalized lens that leaves plenty of room for discovery and enjoyment.