Santorini ATV-Quad Experience Tour + Transportation

If you’re considering exploring Santorini’s scenic backroads and hidden spots, an ATV adventure might just be your best bet. We haven’t personally taken this tour, but after digging into the details and plenty of reviews, it seems like a solid option for travelers craving an active, personalized way to see the island beyond the usual tourist spots.

What stands out about this experience? First, the small group size of just six people means you’ll get a more intimate and guided experience, rather than feeling lost in a crowd. Second, the variety of stops—ranging from black sand beaches to traditional villages, windmills, and panoramic caldera viewpoints—ensures you get a true sense of Santorini’s diverse beauty.

One thing to keep in mind is that this isn’t a laid-back sightseeing bus tour. If you’re comfortable on an ATV and enjoy a bit of off-road adventure, this could be perfect. However, if you’re not confident riding or have mobility concerns, you might want to reconsider. Generally, it’s well-suited for those who love outdoor activities and want a more active way of experiencing the island.

This tour would appeal most to travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure, scenic views, and cultural stops, all with the benefit of guided insight. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to see as much of Santorini as possible in a half-day, it’s a great pick.

• Small group size ensures personalized attention
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off for convenience
• Off-road paths and scenic stops highlight the island’s natural beauty
• Guides provide safety instructions and meaningful commentary
• Snacks, drinks, and wine samples add a relaxing touch
• Tour duration of around 3.5 hours fits well into a half-day plan

When thinking about a tour like this, it’s all about the combination of adventure, comfort, and value. At $150.61 per person, it’s not the cheapest way to see Santorini, but considering the included transportation, guide, snacks, wine tastings, and multiple stops, most seem to find it worth the price.

The tour kicks off with a hotel pickup, which is a major plus—no need to figure out how to get to the starting point, and it makes the whole experience smoother. Once you arrive at Perissa Beach, you’ll get a thorough safety briefing—crucial if you’re new to ATV riding—and then it’s time to hit the off-road trails.

The route primarily follows off-road paths and back roads, away from the busy highways, which means you avoid the chaos of city traffic and get a closer view of the island’s natural landscape. The black sand of Perissa is a stunning start, and from there, the journey takes you through a series of compelling sights.

Exploring the Stops

Perissa Black Sand Beach is your starting point. It’s a unique landscape—black volcanic sand, perfect for photos and a quick introduction to Santorini’s volcanic origins. It’s only about ten minutes here, just enough to soak in the scenery and get comfortable on your ATV.

Next, you’ll visit Emporio’s Venetian Castle and the winding streets of the town. According to reviews, this area has a labyrinth-like feel that makes wandering around quite fun. You can stop for a coffee or juice at one of the local spots, offering a taste of authentic Greek life. Here, the admission is included, meaning you won’t have to worry about extra costs except for personal purchases.

From there, the tour continues through vineyards and rural scenery to reach Megalochori, a traditional village with charming architecture and narrow streets. It’s a great spot to pause, take photos, and soak up the local atmosphere. If you’re up for it, you can visit Santorini’s oldest winery for some wine tasting—again, included in the tour. The reviews highlight the high-quality wines (three different types), which add a relaxed, flavorful dimension to the experience.

The highlight for many is the caldera viewpoint, often described as a moment that takes your breath away. Standing there, with the whole caldera unfurled beneath you, is truly special. It’s perfect for snaps and just absorbing the stunning scenery.

What’s Included & What to Expect

This tour offers quite a lot, especially for the price: all necessary equipment like helmets and fuel, bottled water, and light snacks or drinks, including lemonade, juice, and sometimes local wines. The guides are described as friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive, making sure everyone feels safe and informed throughout.

The small group size (max 8 travelers) means you’ll get plenty of attention from your guide, who will share stories and insights about each stop. Reviews repeatedly mention how guides like Pavlo, Adonis, and Pablos go above and beyond, even offering to take photos and share local tales. One review mentions a birthday celebration with a small cake, which adds a personal touch many travelers appreciated.

The Adventure & the Itinerary

Expect to drive at a mild speed, which is great for those who want an adventure without feeling overwhelmed. While the off-road terrain can get dusty—something most reviews mention—this adds to the fun and authentic feel of the ride.

The tour’s duration of around 3.5 hours strikes a good balance: you get enough time to see several sites without it turning into a full day’s commitment. Plus, since it’s a half-day tour, you still have time to explore other parts of Santorini or relax in the afternoon.

Reviews & Real Traveler Insights

Many reviews love the guides’ warmth and expertise, praising their patience and knowledge. Roxanne, for example, mentions how guides like Adonis and Pavlos took photos, shared history, and even celebrated her birthday with a cake. Her words, along with others, paint a picture of a tour that’s not just about riding but about creating memories.

Some travelers do mention the price feels a bit steep, especially if you’re on a budget. However, considering the included stops, wine tastings, hotel transfers, and personalized experience, most find it offers good value. A few reviewers noted that the off-road riding might be challenging for absolute beginners, but the brief training and support from staff usually make it manageable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re comfortable on an ATV or eager to try it out, this tour offers a fun, active way to see Santorini’s less accessible spots. It’s ideal for adventurous travelers who appreciate guided insights, scenic vistas, and a touch of local culture. It’s also suited for those who want a small-group experience with personalized service and great photo opportunities.

However, if you’re not confident riding or prefer a more relaxed, less active experience, this might not be your best choice. Also, be aware that the dust and dirt are part of the fun, so bring sunglasses and possibly a jacket if you’re sensitive to dust or cooler in the evening.

This ATV tour in Santorini offers a unique blend of activity, scenic beauty, and cultural stops, all guided by friendly, knowledgeable locals. The personalized touch, combined with the inclusion of wine tastings and multiple picturesque stops, makes it an appealing choice for those who want to see the island in a more intimate way. The small group size ensures plenty of interaction, and the safety measures in place give peace of mind, even for first-timers.

It’s a good value overall, especially if you’re looking to combine sightseeing with some fun off-road riding. The tour is particularly well-suited for travelers who enjoy active experiences and want to explore beyond the usual tourist trail, soaking in views you couldn’t easily access on foot or by car.

While it’s not perfect for everyone—especially those who might be wary of dusty rides or don’t have a valid driver’s license—it’s a memorable way to make your Santorini trip special. For adventure lovers, wine enthusiasts, or those simply after a different perspective, this ATV experience can be a highlight of your stay.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, most travelers find the riding manageable after a brief safety briefing and practice. Guides are attentive, and the tour is designed to be accessible, but you should be comfortable riding an ATV.

What should I bring with me?
Bring sunglasses to protect from dust, a jacket if you’re sensitive to cooler evening air, and your driver’s license if you want to drive. Comfortable shoes are also recommended, especially for walking around stops.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off (except from the port or airport). You’ll need to provide your accommodation details to arrange this.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, making it a perfect half-day activity that leaves plenty of time for other plans.

Is the tour family-friendly?
The tour is most suitable for travelers aged 21 and over who hold a valid driver’s license. It’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly, so check your group’s comfort level with riding.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

If you’re after a lively, scenic, and engaging way to see Santorini, this ATV tour definitely checks many boxes. It combines adventure with cultural insight, creating a memorable experience for active travelers who want to see the island’s highlights without the crowds.