Santorini Private HIGHLIGHTS TOUR

If you’re planning a trip to Santorini, chances are you want a good mix of iconic sights, local charm, and some relaxation — all without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Enter the Santorini Private Highlights Tour, a thoughtfully curated experience that promises to show you the island’s most photogenic spots, historical sites, and natural beauty in about four to five hours. While I haven’t done this exact tour myself, I’ve gathered enough info to give you a clear picture of what to expect, what’s great, and what might be less ideal.

What really stands out about this tour is the personalized approach—it’s private, meaning you won’t be stuck with a large group, and you get the flexibility to customize your day a bit. Also, the local driver-guide adds a friendly, knowledgeable touch, making the experience both informative and relaxed. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that some of the sites, like Akrotiri, do require separate tickets, which adds a small extra cost. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a well-rounded, comfortable overview of Santorini without sacrificing depth or authenticity.

If that sounds appealing, you’ll probably find this tour a perfect fit. It’s particularly good for first-timers who want to see the main highlights efficiently or travelers who prefer a private, guided experience rather than big group excursions.

Key Points

• Private and flexible: Only your group participates, with a driver-guide who can tailor the experience slightly to your interests.
• Excellent value: At approximately $46 per group (up to two), it’s a cost-effective way to see a lot of Santorini in half a day.
• Diverse stops: From traditional villages and ancient ruins to beaches and panoramic viewpoints, the itinerary covers a broad range.
• Comfort and convenience: Air-conditioned vehicle, hotel pickups, and bottled water keep things comfortable and hassle-free.
• Cultural and scenic highlights: Learn about the island’s history, taste local wines, and enjoy unforgettable sunset views.
• Some extras extra: Entrance fees for Akrotiri and cable cars are not included, so budget accordingly.

Santorini is one of those destinations that makes everyone take a lot of photos and dream about its colorful sunsets and dramatic cliffs. But navigating the island on your own or with large groups can sometimes be overwhelming, especially if you’re limited on time. That’s where a private tour, like this one, can really shine—combining convenience, expert guidance, and a chance to soak in the sights comfortably.

What the Tour Includes and How It Works

This private tour runs around five hours, giving you a good taste of what makes Santorini special without dragging on forever. Most of the day is spent traveling in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, which is a real plus given the island’s heat and often busy roads. The tour includes pickup from most hotels, so no need to worry about logistics—just show up and relax.

Your guide, a knowledgeable local driver, is there not just to drive but also to share insights about each stop. This personalized touch can make all the difference, whether it’s explaining the significance of the villages or pointing out the best photo spots. Plus, you’ll get bottled water to stay refreshed, a thoughtful detail that helps keep you comfortable during the day.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Oia
Oia is probably the most famous village on Santorini—and for good reason. Its iconic blue-domed churches, narrow cobblestone streets, and gorgeous sunset views are unforgettable. We loved how the tour gives you an hour here, giving ample time for photos and a quick browse through local shops. This is the spot for picture-perfect moments, and your guide can help you find the best vantage points.

Stop 2: Pyrgos
Next, we head to Pyrgos, the island’s oldest village, full of charm and history. The tiny streets wind up to a castle where you can look out over the entire island—definitely a highlight for those craving authentic local flavor. The guide’s local knowledge makes wandering around feel even more meaningful, and you get about 30 minutes to soak it all in.

Stop 3: Monastery of Profitis Ilias
Perched at 550 meters, this monastery offers panoramic views and a glimpse into the island’s spiritual side. Built over 500 years ago, it’s still home to around 15 monks. There’s a small shop where you can buy products made by the monks—another nice touch. About 20 minutes here, enough to enjoy the quiet and take in the vistas.

Stop 4: Akrotiri Archaeological Site
This is a must-visit for those interested in ancient history. The ruins of this 4000-year-old city are remarkably well-preserved, and walking among the remnants gives you a real sense of the island’s past. The tour mentions that including a guide takes about an hour, but without one, it’s closer to 35 minutes. Entrance fees are separate, so budget around 8 EUR per person. From the site, you’ll also see the lighthouse and catch a stunning sunset view if timing aligns.

Stop 5: Perivolos Beach
After exploring history and villages, it’s time to relax on the black sands of Perivolos. Long, scenic, and lined with beach bars and restaurants, it’s perfect for a quick stroll or just soaking up the sun. Free to enjoy, this stop balances the cultural with leisure nicely.

Stop 6: Imerovigli
Another highlight, Imerovigli, offers incredible views of Skaros Rock and the caldera. It’s less crowded than Oia but equally breathtaking. Your guide will probably point out the best photo spots here—don’t miss the sunset if the timing works out.

Stop 7: Megalochori
Finally, the tour takes you to Megalochori, a charming traditional village. Its local houses, churches, and quiet streets give you a real sense of authentic island life. Plus, it’s home to one of the best wineries on the island—great for wine lovers who want to sample some local flavors.

What’s the Experience Really Like?

From reviews, we see that travelers consistently praise the guides—who are described as knowledgeable, friendly, and helpful. One reviewer mentioned that their driver/guide, Marios, was great at photography, capturing memories while sharing insights. Another called their experience “fabulous,” noting the comfort of the vehicle and the thoughtful service, including cold waters.

The flexibility of a private tour means you’re not tied to a big group schedule or crowded buses. You can spend more time at the places you love or skip those less interesting to you. The vehicle’s comfort and the quiet pickup options also make exploring the island less stressful.

How About the Cost?

At around $46.27 for a group of up to two, this tour offers pretty good value. It covers most main sights, and the private nature means you’re not stuck with strangers. Of course, some additional costs are involved—entrance fees for Akrotiri and optional cable car tickets if you’re arriving by cruise. Still, you get a personalized experience, a knowledgeable driver, and the convenience of hotel pickup, which can be worth the extra.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best for first-time visitors wanting a snapshot of Santorini’s highlights without the hassle of planning multiple excursions. It’s also a good choice if you’re traveling with a partner or a friend and prefer privacy. People who value comfort, flexibility, and local insights will appreciate the personal touch.

If you’re after a balanced mix of history, stunning views, and local culture, this private highlights tour ticks many boxes. The carefully selected stops give you a well-rounded experience, from iconic villages and ancient ruins to beaches and panoramic viewpoints. The private setting means you can explore at your own pace, which is huge for making the most of your limited time.

Travelers who value knowledgeable guides, comfort, and a good value will find this tour very appealing. It’s especially suited for those who want to avoid the chaos of larger group tours and prefer a more intimate, tailored experience—perfect for making personal memories of Santorini.

However, if you’re on a very tight budget or looking to explore independently, you might find this tour slightly more costly than self-guided options. Also, keep in mind that some sites require separate entrance fees, so factor that into your planning.

This private highlights tour offers a reliable, enjoyable way to see the best of Santorini comfortably and conveniently. It’s a solid choice for travelers wanting a taste of everything, with a friendly local guide to enrich the experience.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, giving you enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What’s included in the price?
You get private transportation, an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, all fees and taxes, and an experienced local driver-guide.

Are hotel pickups provided?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup across most of the island, making it easy to start the day hassle-free.

Can I customize the itinerary?
While it’s a set route, the private nature of the tour allows for some flexibility depending on your preferences and timing.

Do I need to pay for entrance tickets?
Yes, entrance fees for sites like Akrotiri are not included (around 8 EUR per person), and cable car tickets are extra if visiting via cruise ship.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
The tour is generally family-friendly, but it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with walking and some historical sites.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 86 days ahead, which is advisable to secure your preferred time and ensure availability.

What is the experience with the guide like?
Reviews highlight guides as very knowledgeable, friendly, and helpful, often going above and beyond with tips and photography.

What if I cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour starts, with a full refund. Canceling less than 24 hours in advance means no refund.

Will I need to carry cash for extras?
Yes, you’ll want cash for entrance fees, optional cable car rides, and any personal purchases like wine or souvenirs.

If you’re looking for a well-paced, personalized way to see Santorini’s highlights, this private tour seems like a smart pick. It balances comfort, insight, and scenery—just the way a good island outing should be.