Santorini car tour with a local

If you’re planning a trip to Santorini and want a flexible, in-depth way to see the highlights without the hassle of navigating on your own, this private car tour with a local guide might just be what you’re looking for. Designed for first-timers and seasoned visitors alike, it offers a curated experience of the island’s best-known sights in about five hours. The fact that it’s private and customizable means you’ll get a tailored adventure that fits your interests, whether that’s sightseeing, shopping, or simply soaking in the views.

Two things we really like about this tour are the personalized guidance and the variety of stops included. The guide’s local knowledge adds a layer of insight that you won’t get with a generic tour, and the itinerary hits all the familiar highlights—plus some unique touches like a visit to a boutique winery. Another plus is the opportunity to relax at Perivolos Beach, which is often praised for its volcanic sands and lively vibe.

That said, one thing to consider is the price point—$172.86 per person might be on the higher side if you’re traveling solo or on a budget. But when you factor in the convenience of hotel pickup, a private vehicle, and a customizable plan, it can feel like good value, especially given the personalized touch.

This tour is especially suited for travelers who want a flexible, comfortably paced overview of Santorini’s sights with a local guide who can offer deeper insights. It’s great for first-timers, groups who prefer privacy, or anyone wanting to avoid the crowds and get an authentic feel for the island.

Key Points

• Customizable itinerary allows you to focus on your interests.
• Private, guided experience offers personalized insights and flexibility.
• Visiting Oia and Imerovigli provides postcard-worthy views and photo ops.
• Includes a visit to Profitis Ilias Monastery for panoramic views and local architecture.
• A stop at a boutique winery combines art, history, and wine tasting.
• Relaxing beach time at Perivolos offers volcanic sands and a lively atmosphere.

Exploring Santorini in Comfort and Style

This tour is an excellent way to get an overview of Santorini’s most famous sights without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. The fact that it’s a private, local-led experience means you’re not just riding along—you’re gaining a deeper understanding of the island. The guides are experienced and knowledgeable, often sharing insights about Greek politics, local culture, and history that you won’t find in guidebooks.

The tour kicks off in Oia, arguably the most iconic village on the island. Known for its stunning whitewashed buildings and blue domes, Oia is a photographer’s paradise. We loved the way the guide pointed out interesting spots and helped us find the best angles for photos. The one-hour stop includes some free time for wandering, shopping, or grabbing a snack.

Next, you’ll head to Imerovigli, another picture-perfect caldera village. It’s often less crowded than Oia but equally charming. The blue-domed church here is one of the most photographed on the island—and for good reason. We enjoyed the relaxed vibe and the chance to soak in more incredible views.

Up to the Highest Point: Profitis Ilias Monastery

From Imerovigli, your journey continues to Profitis Ilias Monastery at the highest point of Santorini. The views from this spot are spectacular—think sweeping panoramas of the island spreading below. The monastery itself has a quaint Cycladic architecture dating back to the 1700s. The 30-minute stop is enough to take in the scenery and snap some photos, all while learning a bit about local religion and history from your guide.

Unique Wine Tasting and Artistic Vibes at a Boutique Winery

One of the highlights for many visitors is a visit to a 150-year-old family-run winery. This is not your typical vineyard visit—here, you get to explore underground caves, check out local art, and sample small-batch wines. The vintner often guides you through tastings starting at just $5, giving a taste of the island’s native varietals. We loved the way the winery combined art, history, and hospitality in a cozy setting.

According to reviews, this winery is considered the smallest in Santorini, which makes it all the more intimate. One reviewer mentioned loving the “unique mix of art, history, and friendly hospitality,” which captures the vibe perfectly.

Relax at Perivolos Beach

The final stop is Perivolos Beach, a favorite among travelers for its black volcanic sands and lively beach scene. The hour spent here is perfect for unwinding, sunbathing, swimming, or just people-watching. The beach’s fun atmosphere makes it a great way to cap off your morning or afternoon on the island.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, a driver with local knowledge, hotel pickup/drop-off, a bottle of water, and all taxes. It’s all about convenience—no stress about finding parking or navigating roads. Meals, snacks, and drinks are not included, so you might want to bring some snacks or plan to grab something before or after the tour.

The Real Experience: What Travelers Are Saying

Multiple reviews underscore how much visitors appreciated the guides’ friendliness and knowledge. One reviewer shared, “We had a wonderful day with Ioannis (John)… despite being from Thessaloniki, John spends months every year in Santorini,” highlighting the genuine local expertise. Another called the guide “wonderful and perfect in all ways,” emphasizing the personalized service.

One traveler noted that their guide was “prompt, professional, personable, and very knowledgeable,” which makes a big difference when you’re trying to pack several sights into a half-day. These insights reinforce that choosing a private guide adds value, especially if you’re keen to learn beyond the usual tourist spots.

Flexibility and Customization

Since the itinerary is customizable, your guide can adapt based on your interests. Want more time at a specific village? Or perhaps a longer beach stop? Just ask! This flexibility is a key advantage over standard group tours, especially if you want to explore at your own pace.

Practical Tips

Remember to bring sun protection—sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are must-haves for Santorini. If you plan to swim, pack towels and swimwear. The tour usually lasts about five hours, so wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for walking and sightseeing. The vehicle is air-conditioned, making it pleasant even on warm days.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors who want a rundown, or for those wanting to avoid the hassle of self-driving. It’s perfect if you prefer a personalized experience with a knowledgeable guide. It’s also suited for groups or couples who value privacy and flexibility. If you’re really into wine or art, the boutique winery adds a charming, unique touch.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally suitable for most travelers, keep in mind the stops involve walking and some uneven surfaces. It’s best for children who can handle a few hours of sightseeing comfortably.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the guide will tailor the experience based on your interests and preferences, making it a flexible way to see the island.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 5 hours, including all stops. It’s a well-paced itinerary that balances sightseeing with relaxation.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers transportation in a private vehicle, a local guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, a bottle of water, and all taxes.

Are meals included?
No, meals, snacks, and beverages are not included, so plan accordingly.

Is there a tour option with wine tastings?
Yes, the visit to a boutique winery features tastings starting at $5, with the winery producing small-batch, island-specific wines.

Do I need to book in advance?
Absolutely. The tour is typically booked about 33 days ahead, and securing your spot early is recommended, especially during peak season.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, which offers some peace of mind in case your plans change.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a well-rounded, personalized way to explore Santorini’s highlights without the stress of navigating alone, this private car tour ticks many boxes. The combination of stunning vistas, charming villages, and a knowledgeable guide makes it a solid choice for anyone wanting to get the most out of a half-day on the island. It’s especially great if you value flexibility, insider insights, and comfortable transport.

While it might seem on the pricier side, the convenience and tailored experience often justify the cost. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip to revisit favorites, this tour offers a relaxed, insightful way to enjoy the spectacular sights of Santorini.

In the end, this tour is best suited for travelers who want to see the island without the rush, learn a bit about local life, and enjoy the scenery at their own pace. It’s a warm, friendly taste of Santorini that lets you focus on what you really want to see—and take great photos while you’re at it.