Santorini Private Highlights Tour & Wine Tasting with local guide

If you’re planning a trip to Santorini and want more than just the standard snapshots of its famous blue domes and sunset views, a guided private tour might be just what you’re looking for. This particular experience offers a well-rounded glimpse into the island’s top sights, combined with some local wine tasting, all led by knowledgeable guides who genuinely love sharing their home. While it’s not the cheapest way to see Santorini, many find the personalized touch and insider details worth the extra cost.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are the personalized service offered by the guides and the opportunity to visit a mix of iconic and lesser-known spots. It feels like exploring with a friend who knows all the best photo spots and local stories. The wine tasting at Art Space adds a special flavor to the day, giving you a taste of local craftsmanship. One potential consideration is the short time at each stop, which is great if you’re on a tight schedule but might feel rushed if you want to linger longer.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a flexible, guided experience that covers much of Santorini’s highlights without the hassle of organizing transportation or figuring out logistics. It’s perfect if you prefer a more intimate, engaging way to explore rather than large group excursions. Keep in mind, it’s a five-hour tour, so it’s ideal for those with limited time or cruise ship passengers eager to maximize their short stay.

Key Points

• Private and personalized experience tailored to your interests.
• Includes wine tasting at a unique local winery.
• Visiting a variety of highlights: beaches, villages, monasteries, and scenic viewpoints.
• Knowledgeable guides who share insider info and local stories.
• Great value for those wanting a full, curated experience in a condensed timeframe.
• Short stops, perfect for quick but memorable visits, especially for cruise travelers.

An In-Depth Look at the Santorini Private Highlights Tour

When we think about Santorini, we imagine those unforgettable sunsets, its iconic blue-domed churches, and the vibrant white houses clinging to steep cliffs. This private tour promises to show you the island’s best in about five hours, which is quite a feat considering Santorini’s sprawling beauty. It’s designed for travelers who want a rundown without the hassle of arranging multiple logistics themselves.

You’ll start with a pickup in a luxury, air-conditioned vehicle, which is a nice touch, especially during the hotter months. The tour is private, so only your group participates, allowing for a more relaxed, flexible experience and the chance to ask all your questions. Many reviews highlight guides like Elias and Theodore as being friendly, knowledgeable, and flexible—adding a personal touch to what can otherwise feel like a rushed group experience.

The Itinerary: From Beaches to Villages and Wineries

The tour kicks off at Red Beach, one of Santorini’s most photogenic spots. Its striking red volcanic sand is a must-see, but keep in mind that landslides have affected access since 2013, which might limit access to parts of it. Still, the view is worth it, and you’ll understand why it’s such a popular photo op. The beach’s composition of black and red volcanic rocks makes it unlike any other.

Next, you’ll visit Perissa Black Sand Beach, the island’s longest stretch of sand, perfect for a quick dip or just some relaxing photos. The clear waters here are inviting, and the remnants of Saint Irene’s early Christian church add a touch of history to your seaside stroll. It’s a straightforward stop that many find relaxing and scenic.

From there, you’ll head inland to Moni Profitis Ilias, the highest point on the island. Sitting atop Mount Profitis Ilias at around 567 meters, the monastery offers sweeping views of Santorini. It’s a peaceful spot, perfect for taking in the island’s landscape and learning about its spiritual history.

The charming village of Pyrgos is next. Built amphitheatrically on a hill, Pyrgos features narrow, labyrinthine streets, medieval architecture, and remains of a Venetian castle. Several reviews mention this as one of the less touristy spots, offering a glimpse into authentic local life. With about 45 minutes here, you’ll have enough time to stroll, snap photos, and soak in the medieval atmosphere.

Now, here’s where the tour really shines for wine lovers: a visit to Art Space Winery in Exo Gonia. It’s a unique art and wine center carved into pumice rock chambers. You’ll sample four local wines in a setting that combines contemporary Greek art with traditional winemaking. Many reviews praise the quality of the wines and the chance to see traditional production methods. The 1-hour 15-minute stop allows enough time to taste, explore the art gallery, and learn about local wine culture—definitely a highlight for many.

Moving on, you’ll see the Three Bells of Fira, an iconic church with its blue dome and three bells, perched above the cliffs. It’s one of the most recognizable sights, offering fantastic photo opportunities and panoramic views of the caldera.

Finally, your tour ends with a visit to Oia, the postcard town of Santorini. Famous for its white houses, blue-domed churches, and narrow alleys, Oia is a must-see. While it can get crowded, many find it’s worth the effort for the picture-perfect scenery.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

From the reviews, it’s clear that guides like Elias and Theodore elevate the experience. Their extensive knowledge, friendly manner, and willingness to customize stops are repeatedly praised. Many travelers mention how they appreciated the flexibility, especially when navigating the sometimes physically challenging terrain or adjusting to needs like tired grandparents.

The wine tasting is frequently highlighted as a fun, authentic addition. You’ll get to sample four different wines, many of which are produced using traditional techniques, adding a taste of local craftsmanship. This aspect makes the tour especially appealing to those who enjoy wine or want to learn about Greek winemaking.

Another aspect that travelers love is the timing. The entire experience is about five hours, perfect if you’re on a cruise or have a limited window. The private nature means you get to see what you want, take photos at your own pace, and avoid the big crowds that often dominate famous sites like Oia’s blue domes.

Considering the Price

At $178.22 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest option out there, but many feel that the personalized service, local insights, and curated itinerary justify the cost. You get the convenience of transportation, expert guiding, wine tasting, and access to multiple highlights—all in a compact, well-organized trip. For cruise passengers or those short on time, it offers great value compared to larger group excursions.

Are There Any Drawbacks?

A common theme in reviews is that stays at each stop tend to be relatively short—around 20 to 45 minutes. If you’re someone who loves lingering at sights or exploring at a relaxed pace, this could feel a bit rushed. Also, since the tour covers a lot of ground quickly, it might not suit travelers who prefer to focus on just one or two sites.

Some spots, like Red Beach, are affected by natural factors such as landslides, which can limit access or views. Still, guides are good at adjusting and sharing the best viewpoints available.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re craving a personalized, well-rounded snapshot of Santorini—covering beaches, villages, scenic views, and wine—this tour is a strong choice. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate knowledgeable guides, like to ask questions, and want a comfortable, stress-free way to see multiple highlights without catching public transport or hiring multiple cars.

It’s also ideal for cruise passengers, given the 5-hour duration and private transport. The flexibility and intimate setting make it a great fit for families, small groups, or couples wanting a private experience.

However, if you prefer to linger longer at fewer spots or are on a tight budget, you might need to consider other options or customize your day further.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is this tour suitable for first-time visitors to Santorini?
Absolutely. The tour covers a broad selection of the island’s most photo-worthy and iconic spots, making it perfect for those new to Santorini who want a rundown in a short time.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers private transportation, bottled water, four local wines for tasting, and a guided experience. You get a private vehicle and guide, which ensures personalized attention.

How long do stops last?
Stops range from about 15 to 45 minutes, which is enough for photos, quick explorations, or a brief rest. Keep in mind, the overall tour is about five hours, so the pace is brisk but manageable.

Is the wine tasting included?
Yes, the wine tasting at Art Space Winery is included in the price. You’ll sample four different wines in a unique setting, learning about local wine traditions.

Can I customize the tour?
While the basic itinerary is fixed, many guides are flexible and can tailor certain stops or the pace, especially if you communicate your preferences.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is suitable for most travelers, but wine tasting is for those over 18. Children could join but won’t partake in the wine tasting.

What are the main highlights I’ll see?
Expect to visit Red Beach, Perissa Black Sand Beach, Moni Profitis Ilias, Pyrgos village, Art Space Winery, Three Bells of Fira, and Oia—covering beaches, villages, scenic views, and cultural spots.

This private Santorini tour offers an engaging, well-organized way to explore the island’s top sights with friendly guides and a touch of local flavor through wine tasting. It’s best suited for travelers who want a tailored experience, quick but meaningful, especially if time is limited or you’re arriving via cruise. While the stops are brief, the quality of insights, scenery, and the personal touch make this a worthwhile option for many.

If you’re after a dive into Santorini’s highlights with an insider’s perspective, this tour hits that sweet spot. Just be ready for a fast-paced day that covers a lot of ground—and maybe even leaves you with a few new favorite wine choices.