Santorini: Highlights prive tour & wine tasting-local guide

If you’re considering a day in Santorini that combines the best sights with a taste of local life, this Highlights Private Tour & Wine Tasting could be just what you’re after. From what we’ve seen and heard, it’s a well-crafted experience that balances sightseeing, cultural insights, and a delicious wine stop—all with a personal touch from local guides.

Two things we particularly like about this tour: first, the flexibility to customize destinations to suit your preferences, and second, the genuine warmth and knowledge of the guides, especially Elias, who gets rave reviews. That said, it’s worth noting that if you’re after an in-depth exploration of archaeological sites or prefer large group tours, this might not be the perfect fit. It’s best suited for travelers looking for an intimate, flexible experience that showcases Santorini’s beauty and charm without feeling rushed.

Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty. We’ll walk you through what the tour offers, what makes it special, and why it could be a highlight of your visit — or not quite right for your travel style.

Key Points

• Personalized and flexible itinerary allows you to choose your preferred destinations.
• Expert local guides like Elias make the experience engaging and knowledgeable.
• Includes a wine tasting at a traditional Santorini winery, with four glasses for each guest.
• Transport is comfortable and air-conditioned, with hotel or chosen point pickup and drop-off.
• A great value for the price when considering the personalized service, wine, and sightseeing.
• Ideal for travelers who want a mix of culture, scenic views, and local flavors without the crowds.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

This tour is designed as a more personal, flexible way to see Santorini — perfect if you want to avoid the large bus crowds. It lasts about 5.5 hours, which makes it a manageable day, leaving plenty of time to relax afterward or explore on your own. For around $169 per person, it offers a lot of value, especially considering the exclusive, private group setting, and the insider knowledge from local guides.

One of the strongest points? The tour’s customizability. You can choose your stops from a list of 15 pickup and drop-off locations around the island, making it easy to start and end wherever suits you best. This helps avoid long transfers and keeps the day flow natural.

What You’ll Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

While the tour is flexible, it typically includes a series of highlights designed to give you a well-rounded view of Santorini. You’ll start with a pickup at one of 15 options, whether it’s your hotel, a specific landmark, or the port. From there, your local driver and guide will take you on a scenic drive across the island.

The first stops often include some of Santorini’s most photogenic spots, such as the legendary views of the caldera or picturesque villages. The guide’s goal is to show you both the tourist favorite sites and some hidden gems, which will appeal to those who want more than just the standard shots.

The Culture & History

The guides are eager to share stories about Santorini’s history and local life. This isn’t just a sightseeing ride; it’s an opportunity to learn about the island from someone who knows it intimately. Expect to hear engaging facts about the island’s past, and plenty of chances to ask questions.

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The Wine Tasting Experience

One of the tour’s highlights is the visit to a traditional and iconic winery. Here, you’ll sample four glasses of local wines, with your guide explaining the different varieties, the wine-making process, and what makes Santorini wine unique. The visit typically includes a tour of the art space wine museum and winery, adding depth to your tasting experience.

This part of the tour is especially appreciated — reviews mention the excellent wine selection and the chance to enjoy Santorini’s flavors in a relaxed setting. It’s a great way to unwind and savor the island’s culinary side.

Customization & Flexibility

What sets this tour apart is the ability to change destinations based on your preferences or weather conditions. If there’s a particular spot you’re eager to see, or if you want to skip somewhere, your guide can accommodate. This flexibility is a big plus, especially for travelers with specific interests or tight schedules.

Transport & Comfort

Your ride is in an air-conditioned vehicle, which is essential in the Greek summer heat. The driver is experienced and knowledgeable, managing the narrow, winding roads with ease. Pickup and drop-off are included from your hotel or any other point you specify, making the experience stress-free and tailored to your plans.

Authentic, Local Insights

The guides are local families, which adds authenticity and a genuine connection to the island. As one reviewer pointed out, Elias was “outstanding — personable, enthusiastic, and well-informed,” making the experience lively and engaging. Expect a tour that feels more like exploring with a knowledgeable friend rather than a scripted presentation.

Value for Money

When you consider the personalized service, wine tasting, and flexible itinerary, the price of $169 per person seems reasonable. It’s especially appealing if you prefer a small, private group over large tour buses. Plus, the experience of learning about Santorini directly from locals adds a lot of value.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who want a customized, relaxed day in Santorini, combining sightseeing with a taste of local culture and wine. It’s well-suited for couples, friends, or small groups who appreciate the personal touch and insider insights. If you’re after a more immersive, less commercial experience, this tour will fit your style.

Potential Drawbacks

A few considerations: For those seeking an in-depth archaeological or historical tour, this might be too light on the historical details. Also, if you prefer a structured schedule with fixed stops, the flexibility might feel a bit too loose. Lastly, entry to the prehistoric city of Akrotiri costs extra (~$12), so if that’s a must-see, budget accordingly.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this Santorini Highlights Private Tour & Wine Tasting strikes a good balance between sightseeing, culture, and relaxation. The guides’ local knowledge and friendly approach make it stand out, especially if you’re looking for a more intimate experience. It’s a smart choice if you value flexibility, personalized service, and a genuine taste of Santorini.

Whether you’re celebrating a romantic getaway or just want to enjoy the island’s beauty at your own pace, this tour offers an engaging, memorable day. It might not be the best option for someone craving a rigid, in-depth archaeological visit, but for most travelers wanting a well-rounded, enjoyable experience, it hits the mark.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
You get a private driver, pickup and drop-off from your hotel or chosen location, four glasses of local wine at a traditional winery, bottled water, and the chance to see Santorini’s best spots—all in an air-conditioned vehicle.

Can I customize the destinations?
Yes. The tour is flexible, and you can choose which sights to visit from a list of 15 pickup and drop-off locations. The guide can also adapt the schedule to meet your interests.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 5.5 hours, giving ample time to enjoy the sights without feeling rushed.

Is there an option to visit Akrotiri?
Visiting the prehistoric city of Akrotiri is not included in the base price but can be added for an extra fee (~$12).

What makes this tour different from others?
The personalized approach, local guides, and wine tasting experience really set it apart. It’s designed to provide a more authentic and relaxed way to see Santorini.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While not specifically designed for kids, the relaxed pace and private setting make it manageable for families with older children who enjoy learning about local culture and scenic views.

What should I bring?
Sunglasses, sunhat, camera, and sunscreen are recommended. Remember, food isn’t allowed in the vehicle.

How do I book?
You can reserve now with flexible payment options and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Just pick your preferred start time and location.

To sum it up, if you’re after a personalized, insightful, and enjoyable way to explore Santorini’s highlights, this private tour with wine tasting offers a lovely balance of beauty, culture, and comfort. It’s particularly ideal for those who value local insights and flexible plans over large-group hustle.

You can check availability for your dates here: