Santorini Customized Tours

If you’re planning a trip to Santorini and want an experience tailored just for you, Santorini Customized Tours might be exactly what you’re looking for. With a perfect 5-star rating based on 61 reviews, this private, flexible tour offers a unique way to explore the island’s most iconic spots at your own pace. The idea of working with an experienced private concierge who adapts the itinerary to your interests is appealing, especially if you’re tired of cookie-cutter group excursions.

What we love most about this experience is the personalized approach—you get to choose where to go, how long to stay, and what to focus on. Plus, the inclusion of snacks, water, Wi-Fi, and air-conditioned transport makes for a comfortable and hassle-free day. One thing to keep in mind: some attractions, like the archaeological sites and wine tastings, aren’t included in the price, so you’ll want to budget for those extras.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want control over their day, enjoy discovering hidden spots, or simply prefer a more intimate, less crowded experience. If you’re visiting Santorini for the first time and love a mix of sightseeing, local culture, and tasting, this could be perfect. However, if you’re after a fixed schedule or guided commentary, you might find the flexibility a bit too open-ended.

Key Points

• Fully customizable: You decide the route, timing, and stops, making your day uniquely yours.
• Flexible schedule: Tours range from 3 to 10 hours, so you can choose how long to explore.
• Comfort and connectivity: Private transport with Wi-Fi, snacks, and water included.
• Diverse stops: From the picturesque Oia to volcanic beaches and local wineries, there’s a lot packed into one day.
• Extra costs: Some attractions and activities, like archaeological sites and wine tastings, cost additional.
• Highly rated guides: Multiple reviews praise Milan’s knowledge and personalized service.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Oia – The Queen of Santorini’s Villages

Starting with Oia, you’ll visit what many consider the most photogenic and beautiful village on the island. Famous for its gleaming blue-domed churches, narrow winding streets, and stunning sunset views, Oia is a must-see. What makes this tour stand out is the chance to explore hidden spots away from the crowds, helping you capture those perfect photos. Reviewers like Krista find the guidance exceptional, noting that Milan “brought us to places where we got the best pictures of Santorini,” which is a big plus for photography lovers.

Imerovigli – The Balcony Over the Caldera

Next, you’ll head to Imerovigli, often called “The Balcony to the Aegean” thanks to its panoramic vistas. Sitting about 350 meters above sea level, it’s the highest point of the caldera, offering spectacular views of Skaros Rock and the volcano crater. This is a quieter spot than Oia but no less stunning, perfect for soaking in the scenery. Expect about 30 minutes here, giving you time to breathe in those sweeping views without feeling rushed.

Monastery of Profitis Ilias – The Peak with a View

Climbing up to the highest point on the island at 567 meters, the Monastery of Profitis Ilias offers all-encompassing views over Santorini. Beyond the scenic outlook, you might enjoy sampling local products made by monks, adding a taste of the island’s spiritual and culinary culture. The 30-minute stop is brief but impactful, providing a peaceful break amid your busy day.

Emporio – Authentic Village Life

For those craving a taste of local architecture and traditional life, Emporio is a highlight. Walking through its narrow streets, you’ll see Cycladic architecture and a Venetian castle dating back to the 13th century. The chance to meet local residents adds a genuine touch to the experience. It’s about 30 minutes here—enough to appreciate the authenticity without feeling like you’re rushing.

Akrotiri Archaeological Site – A Peek into Ancient Santorini

If history piques your interest, the Akrotiri archaeological site is an essential stop. This ancient Minoan settlement, dating back 5,000 years, was remarkably preserved by volcanic ash. The tour includes a one-hour visit, but note that admission tickets are not included, so you’ll want to budget accordingly. Reviewers like Jana praise the site as “fascinating,” though some mention it’s a bit of a walk, so comfortable shoes are a must.

Akrotiri Lighthouse and Volcanic Formations

The edge of the island reveals volcanic features such as the lighthouse, volcanic rock formations, and the famous Red Beach with its striking red cliffs. This area provides fantastic photo ops and a chance to see the island’s volcanic origins up close. The hour-long stop includes a farm-to-table restaurant offering local organic products, giving you an authentic taste of Santorini’s culinary scene. The restaurant and some other sites are at your expense, but the experience of dining amidst such scenery is often praised.

Estate Argyros – Savoring Santorini Wines

Wine lovers will appreciate the visit to Estate Argyros, where you can taste a selection of local wines made in volcanic soil. The vineyard tour includes explanations of grape cultivation and wine production, making it both educational and delicious. The tasting isn’t included in the tour price but is highly recommended, especially considering Santorini’s reputation for unique wines, thanks to its volcanic terroir.

Vlichada – Lunar-Like Black Sand Beach

Finally, the tour wraps up at Vlichada, an unusual volcanic beach covered in black sand and sand-and-ash formations. Often called “Moon Beach,” it’s a surreal landscape perfect for a short break, whether for relaxing or snapping more photos. There’s also an option to grab drinks at Theros Wave Bar, making this a laid-back, scenic end to the day.

What the Reviews Say

Looking at feedback from travelers, the common threads are enthusiasm for the knowledgeable guidance and the beautiful, diverse sights. Krista mentions that Milan “provided wonderful conversation and exceptional information,” while Janette calls the tour “the best” because of Milan’s attention to detail and the photography spots he knew. Jana particularly appreciated the communication before the trip, noting that the organizer “had impeccable communication” and that Milan’s passion for Santorini made the experience memorable.

Many reviews emphasize the personalized nature of the tour. Anand notes that Milan “decided the agenda based on your liking and your number of visits,” which speaks to the flexibility that sets this experience apart from typical group tours. Edward highlights how Milan “adjusted the itinerary to our wishes” and managed weather changes smoothly, ensuring a relaxed, enjoyable day.

Transportation & Pricing

The tour price is approximately $232.57 per person, which might seem steep at first glance. However, this includes private transportation, Wi-Fi, snacks, bottled water, and the benefit of a guide who tailors the experience to your interests. The flexibility to choose your start time and stops means you can maximize your comfort and sightseeing preferences.

Remember, some attractions like archaeological sites and wine tastings require additional fees. These are not included in the base price, so planning ahead helps avoid surprises. It’s worth weighing how much you value the private, personalized service against the extra costs for specific activities.

Duration & Booking

The tour can last anywhere from 3 to 10 hours, giving you the option to make it a half-day or full-day adventure. Since it’s booked on average 43 days in advance, it’s clear many travelers find this flexibility and personalized touch worth planning ahead.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This is an ideal choice if you want a customized experience that caters to your interests, whether that’s photography, local culture, history, or wine tasting. It suits travelers who prefer an intimate, flexible day rather than a generic bus tour. If you’re traveling with friends, a partner, or even solo but craving a private guide’s insights, you’ll likely find this tour rewarding.

While not specifically geared toward children or families, older kids who enjoy walking and sightseeing might also enjoy the varied stops. Just be aware that some sites involve walking and admission fees, so plan accordingly.

The Sum Up

In all, Santorini Customized Tours offers a truly flexible, personal way to explore this stunning island. The combination of knowledgeable guidance, tailor-made stops, and comfort makes it stand out for travelers seeking a memorable, less cookie-cutter experience. The reviews show that most guests leave feeling well-informed and satisfied, often praising the guide’s expertise and friendly demeanor.

If you’re the kind of traveler who values control over your day, loves discovering hidden gems, and wants to experience Santorini at your own pace, this tour is worth considering. It’s particularly well-suited for those who appreciate good conversation, scenic views, and local flavors—especially wine.

For anyone wanting a unique, customized introduction to Santorini, this tour promises a memorable day crafted around your interests and pace. Just remember to budget for extra activities or site fees, and book well in advance to secure your preferred timing.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While not specifically marketed as a family-friendly tour, older children who enjoy walking and sightseeing could enjoy the stops. Keep in mind that some sites involve walking and additional entrance fees, so plan accordingly.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers private transportation, Wi-Fi, snacks, bottled water, and a guide who personalizes your experience. Additional expenses like archaeological site entries, wine tastings, and meals are paid separately.

Can I choose the start time?
Yes, the pickup is offered at the time and place of your choosing, giving you the flexibility to start when it suits your schedule.

How long does the tour last?
The duration ranges from 3 to 10 hours, depending on your preferences. You can customize the length of your experience.

What about the transportation?
You’ll travel in an air-conditioned vehicle, which ensures comfort throughout the day. Wi-Fi and snacks are provided on board.

Are there group discounts?
Yes, group discounts are available, but the experience is private for your party only.

Do I need to book in advance?
Most travelers book around 43 days in advance, especially if they want a specific date or time. Booking early helps secure your preferred schedule.

If you’re after a flexible, personalized way to experience Santorini without the rush of large tours, this private tour could be just the thing for you. It combines the beauty of the island with the comfort of tailored service and knowledgeable guidance, making it a worthwhile option for a memorable day.