Santorini First-Time Guests Private Tour Sightseeing, excavetions & wine testing

If you’re planning your first trip to Santorini, chances are you’re dreaming of stunning sunsets, dramatic cliffs, and a taste of authentic Greek life. This private tour promises just that—a carefully curated journey through the island’s most iconic sights, with enough flexibility to soak in the vibe at your own pace. We’ve heard from travelers that it offers a great balance of sightseeing, history, and leisure, making it a solid choice for those who want an overview without feeling rushed.

What really caught our eye are the intimate group size (since it’s private, only your party participates) and the focus on local experiences—from visiting traditional villages to tasting wines at volcanic wineries. Plus, the luxury vehicle and an experienced guide mean you get comfortable, informative, and personalized service. That said, since the tour runs around 6 to 7 hours and includes several stops, it’s a full day that requires some stamina, especially if you want to maximize each site.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour isn’t exactly cheap, coming in at around $300 per person. But the price reflects the private, all-inclusive nature of the experience, plus the convenience of pickups and a guided itinerary. For travelers who love a mix of sightseeing and tasting, this could be well worth it—and it’s especially suited for first-timers who want to cover a lot of ground with a knowledgeable host.

Whether you’re into history, scenic views, or wine, this tour seems like a good fit. It’s best for those who value personalized service, want to explore both the well-known and offbeat spots, and prefer the comfort of a private vehicle. If you’re traveling with family or friends who appreciate a comprehensive, relaxed day, this might just be your ideal Santorini experience.

Key Points

• Personalized private tour with a flexible itinerary
• Includes visits to traditional villages, beaches, archaeological sites, and wineries
• Comfortable luxury vehicle and experienced guide
• Ideal for first-time visitors wanting a rundown
• Most reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and stunning vistas
• Price around $300 per person, reflecting high-quality, all-inclusive service

Why You Might Love This Tour

First off, the private nature of this tour is a big plus. Being the only guests means your guide can tailor the experience to your interests and pace. The guide’s knowledge seems to make a difference: reviews mention how attentive and caring guides like Petro make the day memorable and fun. One traveler noted that their guide took great pictures, making the experience even more special.

The mix of sightseeing, history, and tasting really appeals. You’ll start with Firostefani, a quiet spot with breathtaking views, and then move on to the famous Oia, renowned for its picture-perfect white houses and spectacular sunsets. The fact that you get about an hour and forty minutes there means enough time to wander, snap photos, or just sit and enjoy the vibe.

The visit to Megalochori, a laid-back traditional village, sounds like a highlight for those wanting a glimpse of local life beyond the tourist hotspots. Its cobbled streets, old houses, and churches make for a charming walk, and the fact that it’s less crowded offers a more authentic experience.

The wine tasting stops at the volcanic Gavalas winery are also a major draw. Tasting four different varieties of local wines while learning about the island’s unique volcanic terroir provides a tasty and educational experience. According to reviews, the winery visits are well-chosen, and the in-depth stories behind the wines enrich the tasting.

Next, the Akrotiri archaeological site is a must for history buffs. The well-preserved ruins of this prehistoric city, covered by volcanic ash 3,650 years ago, showcase an ancient civilization. Walking through the site, with its frescoes and murals, offers a tangible connection to the past, and many find it a fascinating highlight.

The Black Sand Beach on the southern coast is another favorite. The volcanic sand and lively beach bars create a fun, relaxed atmosphere. Spending an hour here for swimming and lunch at a seaside restaurant allows you to unwind before heading back.

Finally, the tour wraps up with a broad overview of the island’s beauty and diversity, emphasizing the caldera views and the local vibe. The concept is to give you a comprehensive taste of Santorini in just one day, with quality service and personalized attention.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Stop 1: Firostefani

Starting your day in Firostefani is like briefly glimpsing a quieter, more relaxed side of Fira. This village, perched on the highest point of the caldera, offers breathtaking panoramic views. It’s called “The Crown of Fira” for a reason. Expect a handful of cozy cafes, boutique shops, and some of the island’s most impressive hotels. It’s a calm spot to soak in the views before the busy day of sightseeing.

The 45-minute stop is perfect for photos and a quick walk, with no admission fee to worry about. It’s a peaceful intro that sets the tone for the day.

Stop 2: Oia

Next, the famed village of Oia. If you’ve seen those iconic postcard shots, you’ll recognize the views. Built into the cliffside, with whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches, Oia’s charm really comes alive in the narrow alleyways and central square. You’ll spend about an hour and forty minutes wandering here—long enough to take photos, browse shops, or find a spot to watch the sunset if you prefer.

The steep steps down to the port are a reminder of how dramatically the village sits on the caldera’s edge. This stop is a highlight for many, especially for those who want their Instagram moments.

Stop 3: Megalochori – Traditional Village

For a taste of authentic local life, Megalochori is a peaceful surprise. Its stone-paved streets, old cave houses, and traditional churches make it a charming contrast to the busier spots. About 9 km southwest of Fira, this village’s quiet ambience provides a break from the tourist crowds.

The review quotes emphasize its charm: “It is very famous for its vineyards and wineries.” The old houses and high fences tell stories of pirates and protection, adding layers of history to your visit. If you’re into local architecture and less commercialized spots, Megalochori is a real treat.

Stop 4: Gavalas Winery

A highlight for wine lovers, this stop showcases Santorini’s volcanic terroir. The island’s unique volcanic ash creates grapes with a distinctive flavor, and the local wineries have a long tradition of making exceptional wines.

You’ll taste four different varieties, learning about the history and craft behind each. The review mentions that guides choose wineries carefully, often favoring Gavalas, Argyros, or Santos — but there’s flexibility if you’d like to visit another. This experience combines education with tasting, making it both enjoyable and informative.

Stop 5: Akrotiri Archaeological Site

History buffs will love walking through the remains of Akrotiri, one of the most important prehistoric settlements of the Aegean. The city, buried under volcanic ash, preserved murals and buildings from around 4500 BC—an archaeological treasure.

Expect a walk through well-preserved ruins, murals, and a chance to learn about this ancient civilization that predates many others in the region. The 1 hour and 30 minutes exploring time is enough to get a good sense of the site’s significance without feeling rushed.

Stop 6: Perissa Black Sand Beach

On the southern coast, the Black Sand Beach offers a sensory experience. The volcanic sand and pebbles create a stark, beautiful landscape. Plenty of beach bars and restaurants make this a lively spot for lunch and a swim.

The hour-long stay allows you to relax, take a dip, and enjoy some local cuisine before heading back to wrap up the day.

Final Stop: Santorini Overview

The tour concludes with the overall experience of the island’s beauty—balancing scenic views, local culture, and history. The concept is to give you a rundown—covering both the iconic sights and hidden gems—so you leave with a better understanding of why Santorini is so special.

What Travelers Are Saying

The positive reviews reinforce what makes this tour appealing. One traveler said, “Petros is truly one of a kind, and will make the tour worthwhile.” They appreciated the guide’s attentiveness and how they made sure no important spot was missed. Another reviewer highlighted the excellent wine tasting and the full-day experience as reasons to recommend it highly. The consistency in praise for the guides’ knowledge and friendly attitude makes it clear that the human touch is a big part of the tour’s appeal.

Many reviewers also love the stunning views and the well-placed locations that maximize photo opportunities. The mix of historical sites, local villages, and beaches keeps the day dynamic and engaging.

Practical Details and Final Thoughts

At around $300 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest option, but the cost includes transportation, guiding, and wine tasting, which can add up if you try to do everything independently. The private format means you won’t be stuck with strangers, giving you flexibility and personalized attention. The tour’s duration of 6 to 7 hours is enough to see the main highlights without feeling overly rushed, but be prepared for a full day—comfortable shoes and some energy are a must.

The pickup service and mobile ticket make logistics easy, especially if you’re arriving by cruise or staying in Fira. The cancellation policy offers some peace of mind with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

If you’re a first-time visitor looking for a well-rounded, personal introduction to Santorini, this tour looks like a reliable choice. It pairs well with those who appreciate history, scenery, local culture, and wine, and prefer an organized, luxurious experience over DIY exploring.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families?
This tour is private and customizable, so it can work for families, especially if your kids enjoy history, beaches, and scenic views. However, it’s a full day, so younger children might need some breaks.

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes approximately 6 to 7 hours, covering multiple sites with enough time at each to enjoy without feeling rushed.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes a luxury vehicle with pickup offered from the meeting point.

What’s the price per person?
It costs around $300.98, which includes guiding, wine tasting, and transportation.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour start time.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, the archaeological site and winery visits include admission.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a camera are recommended. Lunch at the beach is included in the schedule.

Is this tour good for first-timers?
Absolutely, it’s designed to introduce first-time visitors to the island’s highlights efficiently.

Can I choose another winery?
Yes, if you prefer a different winery, you can discuss this with your guide.

Is the tour family-friendly?
While not specifically geared toward children, it’s suitable if your family enjoys history, scenery, and wine tasting.

In the end, this private Santorini tour offers a rich, personalized experience that combines sightseeing, culture, and local flavor in one memorable day. It’s ideal for those who want a relaxed, well-organized way to explore the island’s highlights with a knowledgeable guide—perfect for first-timers eager to get a real feel for Santorini’s magic.