Best Of Santorini Private Customizable Tour

Exploring Santorini with the Best Of Santorini Private Customizable Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Santorini and want a way to see the island without the hassle of planning every detail yourself, this private tour might just be what you’re looking for. It promises a flexible, guided experience that hits the most iconic sights along with some lesser-known spots, all in about six hours.

What we like most about this experience is the personal touch — a private guide tailors the day to your interests, and the included transportation means you skip the stress of figuring out public transport or renting a vehicle. Plus, the reviews speak volumes: travelers consistently rave about their guides’ knowledge and friendliness, making the whole day feel more like a day out with a local friend rather than a strict tour.

On the flip side, there’s a bit of a trade-off with the price point — at nearly $244 per person, you’re paying a premium for the privacy and flexibility. If you’re on a tight budget, this might feel a little steep compared to group tours or DIY exploring, especially since some activities like lunch and entrance fees are not included.

This tour is ideal for those who want a relaxed, curated experience but don’t want to be stuck to a rigid schedule. It suits travelers who appreciate local insights, beautiful scenery, and the chance to customize what they see and do. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a personalized day out should find this a worthwhile investment.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private, customizable tour guided by a knowledgeable local.
• Flexible Itinerary: Visits to famous landmarks and hidden spots, with time for relaxing and photos.
• Comprehensive Sights: From Oia’s iconic blue domes to the panoramic views from the monastery and lighthouse.
• Beach Time & Lunch: Opportunity to swim at Red Beach and relax at Perivolos Beach, with the option to eat at seaside tavernas.
• Transport & Convenience: Hotel/port pickup and drop-off included, making logistics simple.
• Authentic Insights: Guides share local stories and lesser-known facts that enrich your visit.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

The Convenience of Private Transportation & Pickup

One of the biggest advantages of this tour is the door-to-door pickup. Whether you’re staying at a hotel or arriving at the port or airport, the private minivan ensures a seamless start and end to your day. No need to worry about navigating public transport or whether you’ll find your way back after a long day of exploring — your guide handles that.

This level of convenience allows you to relax and focus on enjoying the sights, especially since the tour is designed to be about 6 hours long. The driver is not just a chauffeur but often acts as a mini guide, providing snippets of local info during the drives.

The Itinerary — A Well-Balanced Mix of Landmarks and Hidden Gems

Oia kicks things off. It’s the poster child of Santorini with its whitewashed buildings and blue-domed churches. It’s the kind of place that’s worth the early arrival to beat the crowds, and you’ll get about 90 minutes to soak in the views, browse shops, and snap photos. People often mention how iconic this spot is — and for good reason.

Next, the tour takes you to Megalochori, a more tranquil village away from the typical tourist trail. Strolling through its narrow, winding alleys, you’ll see traditional houses and bell towers, giving you a taste of local life. According to reviews, guides often share insights about local culture here, making it more than just a photo stop.

From there, you’ll head to the Akrotiri Lighthouse for dramatic cliff views and a chance to see the surrounding islands. Built in 1892, it’s an excellent spot for sunset or just to take in the panorama. The walk around the lighthouse is brief but offers some of the best vistas on the island.

Red Beach is next — a must-see for its strikingly reddish volcanic cliffs. It’s a natural wonder that’s perfect for photos and quick exploration. You might find that the time here is just enough for a few shots and some admiring the scenery. It’s a highlight for many, thanks to its unique volcanic landscape.

Then, you’ll relax at Perivolos Beach, known for its black volcanic sand and lively seaside tavernas. Here, you get about an hour to swim, stroll, and possibly grab a snack or drink at one of the many restaurants. Some reviews mention that the lunch isn’t included, but this is a great chance to enjoy authentic Greek cuisine by the sea.

Finally, the Monastery of Profitis Ilias at the island’s highest point offers sweeping views and a peek into monastic life. Built in 1711, this spot combines history, scenery, and local wine tasting, making it a fitting end to your day.

What Our Reviewers Say

Many travelers highlight the knowledge and friendliness of the guides. Brad from the review stated, “Dimitri (“Jimmy”) was the best driver we had through our entire Greece trip,” emphasizing how guides make the experience memorable. Others have appreciated guides’ attentiveness, with Olga noting, “He is punctual and very knowledgeable, welcoming and friendly.”

The scenery and photo opportunities are frequently praised. Alexandra called her guide “excellent,” mentioning how he took her to beautiful spots and offered fantastic restaurant suggestions. The views from the lighthouse and monastery are consistently described as breathtaking.

Some travelers cherish the customization aspect. Deanne wrote, “Demetrius was an excellent guide, took us to all parts of the island,” highlighting how the flexible schedule lets you see exactly what interests you.

The Price and What It Includes

At $243.83 per person, this tour includes private transportation, hotel/port/airport pick-up and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, bottled water, and all fees and taxes. This makes it straightforward to budget your day, knowing there are no hidden costs.

However, note that lunch, entrance fees for museums or attractions, and optional activities like cable car rides are not included. Some reviews mention that guides can recommend good seaside restaurants, which can be a real plus if you want authentic local dining.

The Experience: What to Expect

Overall, expect a relaxed pace with plenty of opportunities for photos, short walks, and learning about local culture. The tour involves some walking, stairs, and slopes, so moderate fitness is recommended. If you have mobility concerns, communicate these in advance — guides usually aim to accommodate.

Each stop is brief but packed with visual and cultural interest. The guides’ local knowledge turns a simple sightseeing trip into a more meaningful experience, especially when they share stories and tips you might not find in a guidebook.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who value flexibility, personalized attention, and local insights. It’s ideal if you’re visiting Santorini for a day or want a rundown without the hassle of planning every stop. Couples, small groups, or solo travelers who want a private experience will find this especially worthwhile.

While not explicitly designed as a family tour, the physical exertion involved means it’s better suited to those comfortable with walking and stairs.

The Sum Up

This Best Of Santorini Private Customizable Tour offers a detailed, flexible way to explore the island’s highlights and hidden gems. The private guide and transportation remove much of the planning stress, allowing you to focus on enjoying the scenery, learning about local culture, and capturing stunning photos.

The tour’s strength lies in its balance — covering iconic sights like Oia and Red Beach, while also giving you access to less crowded spots like Megalochori and the monastery. The guides’ reputation for friendliness and knowledge adds a personal touch that makes the day special.

While the total cost is higher than some group tours, the personalized service and tailored experience make it a good value for those wanting a more intimate and relaxed day out. It’s a smart choice if you prefer a flexible, curated approach to discovering Santorini’s beauty.

If you’re after a comprehensive yet comfortable way to see the island’s major sights, coupled with local stories and scenic views, this tour deserves serious consideration.

FAQs

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel, port, or airport pickup and drop-off, making your day hassle-free.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 6 hours, giving you enough time to see the sights without feeling rushed.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, it’s a private, customizable tour, so guides usually tailor the stops based on your interests.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking, sun protection, and money for lunch or souvenirs, as meals and optional costs are not included.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While most travelers can participate, some physical activity is involved, so it’s better for those comfortable with walking and stairs.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made around 86 days prior, so early reservation is recommended for your preferred date.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees at museums or attractions are not included, but guides can suggest good options.

What is the price per person?
The tour costs about $243.83 per person, which covers transportation and guide services.

Are meals included?
No, meals at seaside restaurants are optional and not part of the package.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

If you’re seeking a hassle-free, personalized way to explore Santorini’s sights and secrets, this tour might just be the perfect fit. Just remember to communicate your interests with your guide — they’re there to make your day memorable.