Santorini: Private Customizable Car Tour with a Local Guide

If you’re considering a way to see Santorini without the hassle of big tour groups or rigid schedules, this private car tour might just be what you need. It’s designed to give you a personalized experience of the island’s top sights, with the flexibility to tailor your day around your interests. We’ve looked into it, and from the glowing reviews, it’s clear this tour delivers a lot of value, especially thanks to knowledgeable local guides and stunning vistas.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the focus on comfort and customization. Traveling in an air-conditioned vehicle with a driver who’s also a local guide means you get expert insights without feeling rushed. Plus, the chance to hop between popular spots like Oia, Akrotiri, and volcanic beaches — all at your own pace — makes it appealing. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that entrance fees to sites aren’t included, so you’ll want to budget for that separately.

All in all, this tour is well-suited for travelers who value a flexible, personalized approach to exploring Santorini, whether you’re on your first visit or a return trip wanting to see different parts of the island. It’s also great for those who prefer private experiences over crowded group outings.

Key Points

• Flexible and personalized: You can customize your stops based on your interests.
• Knowledgeable local guides: Guides are praised for their friendliness, insights, and flexibility.
• Comfortable transportation: Travel in air-conditioned vehicles, ideal for hot days.
• Photogenic stops: Oia, Profitis Ilias, volcanic beaches, and more are included.
• Additional costs: Entrance fees and guided tours in sites like Akrotiri are extra.
• Ideal for privacy and flexibility: Perfect for couples, families, or small groups wanting a tailored day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why This Tour Might Be the Right Choice for You

Santorini’s beauty is undeniable, but navigating it on your own can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially with limited time. This private tour offers a good balance: it hits the major highlights without the rush, with a driver who doubles as a guide. We loved the way guides like Billy and John get to know what interests you and adjust the itinerary accordingly. This personal touch can make all the difference, particularly if you want to focus on certain sights or avoid the busiest spots.

The price of $169 per person may seem steep compared to group tours, but considering you’re traveling in a private vehicle with a local expert, many find it a worthwhile investment. The vehicle’s comfort and the ability to customize your stops mean you get a more tailored experience that’s often hard to replicate with larger tours. Plus, reviews highlight that guides are not only knowledgeable but also personable and accommodating, which makes the day flow smoothly.

Another plus is the variety of sights you can see in just five hours. The tour includes Oia’s photogenic streets, the historic Akrotiri excavation site, the panoramic views from Profitis Ilias mountain, and a relaxing swim at volcanic beaches like Perivolos or Perissa. If you wish, you can also add extra stops, like exploring more archaeological sites, which offers some flexibility.

What You Can Expect During the Tour

Pickup and Initial Planning

Your tour begins with hotel pickup or meeting at a convenient location like the cable car exit in Fira. From there, your guide will ask about your main interests and start shaping the itinerary. This initial contact is crucial because it sets the tone for a personalized experience. Reviews often mention how guides like Billy and Yiannis ask questions, listen carefully, and then craft a day that matches your preferences.

Visiting Oia Village

The first stop is typically the famous Oia, renowned for its whitewashed buildings and views over the caldera. It’s a photographer’s paradise, and you’ll have plenty of time for wandering, souvenir shopping, or simply soaking in the scenery. Reviewers love that guides take you to the quieter parts of Oia, away from the crowds, which makes for a more relaxed photo session.

More Great Tours Nearby

Exploring the Akrotiri Excavation Site

Next, you might visit the Akrotiri archaeological site, often called Greece’s “Pompeii.” While entrance fees aren’t included, the site is a fascinating window into the island’s prehistoric past, covered by volcanic ash over 2,000 years ago. While the guided tour inside isn’t included, guides do provide insightful commentary about the ruins and history, enhancing your visit.

Panoramic Views from Profitis Ilias Mountain

Traveling to the highest point of Santorini, the Profitis Ilias monastery offers sweeping 360-degree views of the island, sea, and neighboring islands. It’s a perfect spot for photos and absorbing the landscape. Many reviews highlight how this stop provides a sense of the island’s scale and beauty, with guides making sure you capture the moment.

Relaxing at Volcanic Beaches

No trip to Santorini is complete without a dip in its volcanic beaches. You’ll likely stop at Perivolos or Perissa for a swim, where black sand and volcanic rocks create a striking contrast to the blue sea. Reviewers mention how these beaches are perfect for unwinding, and guides often recommend local seaside tavernas for a casual lunch or snack. You can even bring your own swimsuit and towel for this part.

Optional Add-ons and Flexibility

If you’re interested, the tour can include extra stops like the Akrotiri prehistoric city or wine tastings, depending on your preferences. This flexibility is appreciated by many, allowing you to customize your experience and focus on your favorite aspects of the island.

Transportation and Comfort

Traveling in an air-conditioned SUV or mini-van means you stay comfortable, especially during the hot summer months. Several reviews emphasize how clean and well-maintained the vehicles are, making the journey pleasant. The private nature of the tour means no need to worry about strangers or rigid schedules—your driver is also your guide, making the experience more personal.

The duration of 5 hours strikes a good balance: long enough to see key sights without feeling rushed. The ability to start at different times depending on your schedule adds extra convenience, especially if you’re arriving on a cruise or have other plans.

Cost and Value for Money

At $169 per person, this private tour isn’t the cheapest option out there, but many reviews highlight its good value. For the price, you get private transportation, a knowledgeable driver, and flexibility to customize your route. Considering the high praise for guides like Billy and John, many feel they receive personalized attention and insider tips that would be hard to find on a group tour.

Remember that entrance fees to sites like Akrotiri aren’t included, so you’ll need to budget for those separately. Still, the overall experience—combining comfort, flexibility, and expert guidance—can make this a worthwhile choice if you want a more tailored and relaxed day on Santorini.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This private tour suits travelers who want to see the highlights in comfort and style. It’s ideal if you prefer a flexible itinerary and personalized attention over a crowded group experience. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, a family with older children, or a small group of friends, you’ll appreciate the privacy and customization.

It also works well for those with limited time on the island, as the five-hour frame means you can see several major sites without feeling exhausted. Plus, if you enjoy capturing photos or learning about local secrets, guides are eager to share their tips.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for cruise ship passengers?
Yes. The tour offers pickup at the cable car exit in Fira, making it convenient for cruise travelers. The flexibility in timing can accommodate different shore excursion schedules.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, an experienced driver with local knowledge, all taxes, a bottle of water, and Wi-Fi.

Are entrance fees to sites included?
No, entrance fees for sites like Akrotiri are not included, so you should budget extra for these.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. Your guide will ask about your interests and tailor the stops accordingly, with optional additions like archaeological sites or wine tastings.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, towel, sandals, camera, water, biodegradable sunscreen, and cash for extras or entrance fees.

How long does the tour last?
The standard duration is 5 hours, but you can check starting times and availability when booking.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While it’s not explicitly advertised as a family tour, the flexible pace and private setup make it suitable for groups with older children or teenagers comfortable with walking and sightseeing.

What language is the guide in?
Guides speak English, as noted in the tour details.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a personalized, comfortable way to experience Santorini’s highlights, this private car tour ticks many boxes. With knowledgeable guides who genuinely care about customizing the day to your interests, you’ll get a deeper, more relaxed look at the island’s beauty. The inclusion of scenic viewpoints, historic sites, and volcanic beaches makes for a well-rounded day, especially with the freedom to skip the crowds and focus on what interests you most.

While not the cheapest option out there, many travelers find the price justified by the quality of the experience, the comfort of the vehicle, and the insights of the guides. It’s especially suitable for those who value flexibility, personalized service, and a more intimate way to explore Santorini.

For anyone looking to make the most of their limited time on the island or simply enjoy a more relaxed, tailored day, this tour offers a practical and enjoyable way to see the best that Santorini has to offer.

You can check availability for your dates here: