Santorini Highlights& Wine Tasting Private Tour

Planning a visit to Santorini? You’re in for a treat. This Highlights & Wine Tasting Private Tour promises a taste of the island’s most iconic sights, paired with a relaxed, intimate experience that lets you soak in the scenery without feeling rushed. If you’re someone who appreciates good views, local history, and a bit of vino, this could be just the right fit.

What draws us to this tour? First, it covers a well-curated itinerary based on the most requested spots over ten years, ensuring you see what’s truly worth your time. Second, the private aspect means you won’t be stuck with strangers, allowing for a personalized, flexible experience. On the flip side, one thing to consider is that the tour lasts about 6 hours, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full, active morning or early afternoon. This tour works well for couples, friends, or small groups who want a balanced mix of sightseeing and leisure.

If you’re after a rundown of Santorini’s highlights with a touch of local flavor, this tour is likely to suit you. It’s especially appealing for first-timers or those with limited time on the island who want to get a solid sense of its best spots without the hassle of organizing multiple excursions.

Key Points

• Customizable, private experience ensures you get personal attention and flexibility.
• Includes scenic stops, beaches, archaeological sites, and a winery visit—a well-rounded taste of Santorini.
• This tour offers stunning views and photo opportunities at landmark locations like Profitis Ilias and the Akrotiri Lighthouse.
• Wine tasting at a cliffside winery enhances the cultural flavor and provides a relaxing end to your day.
• Good value for the price when considering the personalized service, multiple stops, and included wine tasting.
• Timing and pace are manageable—about six hours, ending mid-morning to early afternoon—ideal for fitting into a busy schedule.

A Closer Look at the Santorini Highlights & Wine Tasting Tour

When you first hear about a six-hour private tour of Santorini, the word “comprehensive” comes to mind. It’s the kind of experience that balances travel logistics with the joys of discovery. We’re talking about covering key highlights that have proven to be the most requested over ten years of tours, making it a solid choice for visitors who want a curated taste rather than a hit-or-miss adventure.

How the Tour Begins: Up at Profitis Ilias

Your day kicks off with a pickup (usually included if you opt for the full package), and the first stop is the monastery of Profitis Ilias. Sitting at the highest point on the island, this site offers sweeping views that let you get your bearings and appreciate the island’s volcanic beauty. It’s not just about the view—there’s a sense of peacefulness and history here that you’ll feel as you stand at the top. The visit lasts about 30 minutes, and since it’s free to enter, it’s a great way to start your day with a bit of perspective.

Red Beach: A Photographic Highlight

Next, you’ll make your way to the Red Beach for a quick 20-minute photo stop. You won’t get to actually dip your toes in the water here—visiting the beach for swimming or relaxing isn’t permitted, likely for safety reasons. But you’ll enjoy capturing the striking red volcanic cliffs against the azure sky. This spot is a favorite for those stunning photos that scream “Santorini.” The quick stop means you get the visuals without losing precious time, and it’s a perfect photo opportunity.

Passing by Akrotiri and the Lighthouse

The next part of your journey takes you past the Akrotiri archaeological site and the village. While the actual ruins aren’t part of the tour (since no entrance fee is included and the itinerary is more about passing by), you do get a glimpse of this prehistoric settlement, which adds a layer of historical intrigue. You’ll also stop briefly at the Akrotiri Lighthouse—another place perfect for snapping some breathtaking images of the caldera and the sea.

Long Relaxing Stop at Perissa Beach

Then, it’s time for a substantial break at the Perissa Black Sand Beach, where you’ll have around 1.5 hours. This is the perfect spot to unwind—whether you want to lounge on the sand, explore the shoreline, grab a drink, or even try watersports. The beach area is lively, with plenty of cafes, tavernas, and shops, making it an ideal place to soak in the local vibe. We love the fact that you’re given enough time here to wander freely—no rushing through, just genuine leisure.

An Afternoon at the Winery

To wrap up your tour, you’ll visit a local cliffside winery—specifically Santo Wines. Here, you’ll get an introduction to the island’s winemaking tradition, which dates back generations. The tasting includes several varieties of Santorinian wines, and you’ll have the chance to learn about local production methods from knowledgeable guides. This segment lasts about 45 minutes and offers a relaxing way to end your day, with plenty of photo ops and souvenirs available for purchase.

What the Tour Includes and What It Doesn’t

This experience provides a lot of value, especially with the inclusion of Santo Winery entrance fees and wine tasting. Bottled water is also included, which helps keep everyone hydrated during the busy day. No lunch or snacks are provided, so it’s smart to bring a small snack if you tend to get hungry between stops.

While the tour is entirely private, meaning only your group participates, the price of around $232.71 per person is quite reasonable considering the personalized service and multiple highlights. It’s worth noting that most travelers book this experience about 111 days in advance, signaling its popularity among visitors.

Transportation and Timing

The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, starting in the morning and ending around midday. This timing suits those who want a full but not exhausting day. The private nature means transportation is tailored to your group—comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles are typical, making the journey between sites smooth and enjoyable.

Flexibility and Personalization

The private setup means guides can adapt to your interests, spend more time at spots you love, or skip those you’re less interested in. Many reviews mention how engaging and informative the guides are—particularly highlighting their local knowledge and storytelling skills.

The Authentic Experience: What Travelers Say

Reviewers have been overwhelmingly positive, especially about the guides. One mentioned how Christos provided “wonderful stories and information” that deepened their appreciation of the island. Another called it a “fabulous tour with beautiful vistas”, praising the guide’s friendliness and local insights. The wine tasting at Santo Wines is also a highlight, often described as a must-do experience, especially thanks to the excellent selection of local wines and the scenic setting.

One reviewer summed it up by saying, “Took us to all the most beautiful views, local spots, and allowed us to explore and take photos.” Such feedback underscores how well this tour balances sightseeing, relaxation, and education.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a rundown of Santorini’s top sights, particularly if you prefer a more intimate experience. It’s well-suited for couples, small groups of friends, or anyone who appreciates a good balance of sightseeing and leisure. The private format and flexible stops make it a good choice for travelers who want a personalized touch, and the inclusion of wine tasting adds a unique local flavor.

While it’s not specifically tailored for children or families, the pace and content are family-friendly, provided everyone is comfortable with a moderate amount of walking and sightseeing.

The Sum Up

All in all, the Santorini Highlights & Wine Tasting Private Tour offers a well-rounded, intimate way to explore some of the island’s most captivating sights. It’s a thoughtfully curated experience that combines scenic vistas, cultural landmarks, and a relaxed tasting session—all in one manageable package.

If you’re after a day that covers the essentials without rushing, and you value expert guides and personalized attention, this tour is a solid choice. The included wine tasting is an especially nice touch, giving you a taste of local tradition along with stunning views. Just keep in mind it’s best suited for those comfortable spending around six hours on their feet, with a relaxed pace.

For anyone looking to make the most of their limited time on Santorini, this experience hits the right notes—beautiful scenery, engaging stories, and a taste of the island’s renowned wines.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for anyone with mobility issues?
Since the tour involves some walking and stops at sites with uneven surfaces, it might not be ideal for those with mobility concerns. However, the tour is private, so you can discuss accommodations with the provider.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, most likely, since it’s a private tour, transportation between sites is included, offering a comfortable ride throughout your day.

Are meals included in this tour?
No, lunch and snacks are not included, so it’s advisable to bring a small snack or plan to eat during your free time at Perissa Beach.

Can I customize the stops?
Being a private tour, guides are usually flexible. If there are specific sites you’re particularly interested in, it’s worth discussing this with the provider beforehand.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, water, and a camera. Since it’s a half-day tour ending around midday, a light jacket or sunglasses might also come in handy.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 111 days ahead, which suggests high demand, especially in peak season.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

What makes this tour good value?
Considering the personalized nature, multiple scenic stops, and included wine tasting, the price reflects good value, especially for those wanting a curated experience without the hassle of organizing everything themselves.

This tour strikes a nice balance—covering essential sights, offering scenic views, and ending with a laid-back wine tasting. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a relaxed yet enriching taste of Santorini, tailored to their pace and interests.