Day Trip to Santorini From Athens

If you’re short on time but itching to see one of Greece’s most iconic islands, this Day Trip to Santorini from Athens promises a full day of sightseeing, culture, and wine—all wrapped into roughly 10 hours. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the detailed info and reviews paint a compelling picture of what to expect.

What immediately catches our eye are the tailored experience and the focus on local flavor—a private guide making sightseeing flexible and personal, plus a wine tasting that highlights Santorini’s renowned vineyards. On the flip side, the overall cost might make some think twice, especially when factoring in flights and extras.

This tour seems best suited for travelers who want to maximize a quick visit to Santorini without sacrificing the personal touch, especially those who appreciate good wine and scenic spots. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable with a packed schedule and some walking, but not necessarily for those seeking a leisurely, unhurried pace.

Key Points

• Private guide and transfers ensure a smooth, personalized day without the hassle of group tours.
• A well-rounded itinerary includes famous spots like Oia, Red & Black beaches, and the Prophet Elias Monastery.
• Wine tasting at a family-owned winery offers authentic, high-quality local wines—highlighted as a tour favorite.
• Flexible timing and stops allow you to explore at your own pace, especially useful for capturing photos and soaking in views.
• Transportation is seamless, with private pickups and flights coordinated to maximize your limited time.
• Possible downsides: the cost can seem high for a day trip, and the schedule is tight, so energy levels and walking ability matter.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from This Santorini Day Trip

This tour is an efficient way to see some of Santorini’s most captivating sites, even if you only have a day to spare. It starts with a hotel pickup in Athens, followed by a private transfer to Athens airport. You then hop on a flight (not included in the base price, but you can opt to include flights when booking). Expect a quick 45-minute flight that lands you on Santorini, ready for a packed day.

Once on the island, your local guide will be at your side, leading you through a carefully curated itinerary that balances iconic sights with authentic local experiences. The goal here is to give you a taste of Santorini’s charm—without the need for multiple days or tedious planning.

Early Morning Pick-up and Flight

Your day kicks off early, with your driver waiting at your Athens hotel to whisk you to the airport. The flight itself is short, but the impact is big—you’ll be stepping straight into Santorini’s famous scenery. After landing, your guide greets you with a warm welcome, holding a sign with your name for easy identification.

Visiting Oia and the Top Attractions

Your first stop is Oia, a postcard-perfect village, known for its white-washed houses, narrow lanes, and blue-domed churches. The reviews highlight guides’ passion for sharing local history and culture, making the visit more meaningful than just snapping photos. Expect about an hour here to walk around, admire the views, and maybe grab a coffee or a souvenir.

Next, the tour takes you to the Black and Red beaches—remarkable for their volcanic origins and starkly contrasting colors. While these beaches are popular photo spots, they’re also about the experience of witnessing Santorini’s volcanic landscape firsthand. You might find walking on the black sand intriguing but be aware that it can be hot and a bit gritty.

Exploring Remote Villages and Local Life

A highlight for many is the visit to Megalochori, a quieter village with traditional architecture and charming bell towers. It’s a chance to see a different side of Santorini, away from the tourist crowds, and learn about local ways of life. Guides are praised for their storytelling, making these stops feel personalized and rich.

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Wine Tasting in a Family-Owned Winery

One of the tour’s standout features is the wine tasting session at a family-run winery with a three-century legacy. According to reviews, the wines are excellent, and the guide’s knowledge enhances the experience. Expect to sample four different wines paired with cheese and rusks, all in a relaxed setting with panoramic views from the vineyard. This part of the tour is especially appreciated, given Santorini’s reputation for unique volcanic wines.

Scenic Drive and Monastery Visit

The journey continues with a scenic drive through vineyards and to Prophet Elias Monastery, the island’s highest point at 565 meters. The monastery offers sweeping views and a taste of local products offered by the monks. This is a peaceful spot for photos and a moment to appreciate Santorini’s landscape from above.

Beach Relaxation and Free Time

After the monastery, you’ll visit Perivolos beach, famous for its black sand and seaside restaurants. Depending on timing and your preferences, you can relax here or take a quick swim. The guide often allows some free time for lunch or exploring, giving you a little breather before heading back to the airport.

Return to Athens

Your day wraps up with a flight back to Athens, followed by a hotel transfer. The timing is designed to maximize your sightseeing while fitting in a comfortable return—most travelers arrive back in Athens around 7-8 pm.

How it Feels to Experience This Tour

From the reviews, guests rave about their guides—saying they’re knowledgeable, personable, and passionate. One review describes their guide as exuding “charm and friendliness” and sharing insights that made the experience special. The wine tasting, in particular, is frequently highlighted as top-notch, with visitors appreciating the chance to sample local wines in a relaxed, scenic setting.

The itinerary strikes a good balance between must-see sights and authentic local flavor. It’s a whirlwind, yes, but that’s the point of a day trip. The private nature of the tour means you can ask questions, move at your own pace, and avoid the crowds often found on group excursions.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want to get a glimpse of Santorini’s highlights without dedicating multiple days. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable with a packed schedule, some walking, and a moderate physical effort—especially at spots like Oia and the monastery. Wine lovers will find the tasting especially rewarding, and those seeking a personalized touch will appreciate the private guide.

Considerations

The cost, at $960 for up to one person (or per group), is on the higher end for a single-day experience, but it includes private transfers, flights, and a tailored guide, which justifies the price for many. Keep in mind, the schedule is tight, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace or want to explore at leisure, this might feel rushed. Also, you’ll need to book flights separately unless you choose the package with flights included.

Final Thoughts

This full-day Santorini tour delivers a practical, well-organized way to see a lot of what makes the island special in a single day. The private guide and flexible stops help make the experience feel personal, and the wine tasting adds a genuine local touch that many travelers rave about. It’s an excellent option if time is limited but you still want those quintessential Greek island photos and flavors.

While the price might give some pause, the convenience, expert guiding, and curated itinerary provide good value, especially for first-time visitors or those eager to check off Santorini from their bucket list quickly. Just be prepared for a full day—wear comfortable shoes, stay hydrated, and bring your camera for the breathtaking views.

Whether you’re a couple, a solo traveler, or someone craving a snapshot of Santorini’s essence, this tour offers a practical, memorable way to experience one of Greece’s most beloved islands.

FAQ

What is included in the price of this tour?
The cost covers private transfers from your Athens hotel to the airport, a roundtrip flight to Santorini, a 6-hour private guided tour on the island, and a wine tasting with cheese and rusks. Taxes are also included.

Are flights included in the base price?
No, flights are not included unless you select the option that bundles them. You will need to book your own flights or choose the package that includes them.

How much walking is involved?
Expect some walking and stairs, especially at spots like Oia and the monastery. The tour is designed for those with moderate physical fitness, but guides will look for solutions if you need accommodations.

Can I customize the stops or schedule?
As a private tour, there is some flexibility. The guide aims to tailor the experience to your interests, but the overall itinerary is structured to fit within the 6 hours of exploration.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While primarily suited for adults, those comfortable with walking and stairs can participate. The tour doesn’t specifically cater to children but isn’t unsuitable for families with active older kids.

What should I bring?
A passport or ID is required. Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a camera are recommended. Given the pace, staying hydrated is also a good idea.

If you’re looking for a way to see Santorini without the hassle of planning everything yourself, and you’re okay with a busy day, this tour offers a balanced mix of sights, tastes, and scenic beauty. Just remember to come prepared for a full, energetic day—it’s a quick but memorable snapshot of one of Greece’s most enchanting islands.

You can check availability for your dates here: