Santorini Private Sights Tour

Exploring Santorini with a Private Sights Tour

If you’re dreaming of seeing Santorini without the crowds and with a bit of personal flair, this private sights tour could be just what you need. Although I haven’t done it myself, the reviews paint a compelling picture of a flexible, intimate experience designed to let you see the island your way. For those who love the idea of a curated day with expert guidance—and a sleek ride—this might be a perfect fit.

What really catches our eye is the ability to customize your stops and the dedicated attention from a knowledgeable driver-guide. Plus, the fact that it’s a private tour means you’re not rushing through with strangers, and you get to enjoy the sights at a pace that suits you. On the flip side, one consideration is the 5 to 6-hour duration—unless you’re eager to pack your day, it’s worth planning your energy accordingly.

This tour suits travelers who value personalized experiences, enjoy scenic drives, and want to see both the iconic sights and some hidden gems. It’s especially great if you’re traveling as a couple, family, or small group and appreciate a more tailored approach to exploring.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Custom stops and a private guide mean you get to see what interests you most.
• Comfortable Transportation: Travel in a modern black BMW with WiFi, air conditioning, and bottled water.
• Flexible Itinerary: Visit main sights like Oia and Firostefani, plus lesser-known spots like Pyrgos and Akrotiri Lighthouse.
• Expert Guide: Guides are praised for their knowledge and accommodating attitude.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Bottled water and WiFi are provided; entrance fees are separate.
• Ideal for Those Wanting Control: Perfect for travelers who prefer a tailored experience over a large group tour.

An In-Depth Look at the Santorini Private Sights Tour

If you’ve ever tried to navigate Santorini on your own, you’ll know how tricky it can be to see everything without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. That’s where a private tour like this promises to shine—by offering a more relaxed, customized way to explore the island’s highlights and hidden corners.

Priced at around $172 per person, this experience seems to strike a good balance between comfort and value—especially when you consider the private nature and the flexibility it offers. The reviews suggest that most people book about three weeks in advance, which isn’t surprising given how popular Santorini is.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

This tour spans approximately 5 to 6 hours, giving you ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling hurried. The itinerary features a mix of cultural, natural, and scenic highlights:

Akrotiri Lighthouse
Your journey begins at one of Greece’s oldest lighthouses, dating from 1892. It’s a quick stop—about 30 minutes—with stunning views and a bit of history to start your day. Visitors love the simplicity and the chance to snap photos of the Aegean Sea from this historic spot.

Akrotiri Archaeological Site
Next, you get to explore the famous archaeological site—an ancient city preserved in volcanic ash. It’s a highlight for history buffs, although note that the admission ticket isn’t included (€12), so plan accordingly. The reviews highlight the value of learning about Santorini’s ancient past here.

Red Beach
A quick 20-minute stop at the iconic Red Beach, known for its striking red volcanic sand. It’s a popular photo spot and a chance to stretch your legs and take in the unique landscape.

Perissa Black Sand Beach
You’ll then have an hour to enjoy Perissa Beach—famous for its dark basalt sands and clear waters. Many visitors appreciate the free time to relax, dip in the sea, or grab a seaside snack at one of the restaurants.

Monastery of Profitis Ilias
Climb up to the highest point on the island, at 567 meters, for panoramic views. This stop, about 40 minutes long, offers photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate Santorini’s rugged terrain.

Firostefani
A 30-minute stroll through this charming village introduces you to the famous blue-domed churches and a bit of geological and historical context of the island. It’s a photographer’s dream, and guides are known for sharing interesting tidbits.

Pyrgos Village
The largest preserved village on Santorini, Pyrgos offers a mix of traditional Cycladic houses, vineyards, and a Venetian castle. It’s a quieter spot where you can soak in local charm and enjoy less touristy scenery.

Oia
Finally, you’ll spend about an hour in Oia, the island’s most famous village, renowned for its sunset views and charming alleyways. Many reviews mention that it’s best to visit near the end of your tour for the full effect—plus, it’s a perfect spot for those iconic photos.

What Sets This Tour Apart

Customization and Flexibility
Unlike large group excursions, this private tour allows you to tailor your stops. Want more time at a beach or skip a site? Just ask your guide. The reviews repeatedly mention guides’ flexibility and attentiveness, which really elevates the experience.

Knowledgeable Guides
Guests rave about guides like Vilson and Marco—described as friendly, knowledgeable, and accommodating. Their insights bring the sights to life, making each stop more meaningful.

Comfort and Convenience
Traveling in a modern, air-conditioned BMW with WiFi means you stay comfortable and connected. Plus, the included bottled water is a nice touch, especially on warm days.

Photographic Opportunities
The views from Profitis Ilias, the blue domes of Firostefani, and the sunset in Oia make for unforgettable photos—and the private aspect means you can take your time.

Considering the Cost and Value

At roughly $172 per person, this may seem steep compared to group tours, but the private nature, personalized stops, and comfort can justify the price. Plus, reviews highlight the value of having a guide who can adapt the tour according to your interests and pace.

You’ll also want to factor in the extra costs like entrance fees (€12 for Akrotiri archaeological site) and optional cable car tickets if arriving by cruise ship (€6 per person, per way). The fact that bottled water, WiFi, and private pickup are included makes the experience feel more seamless and luxurious.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views. One user said Vilson was an “excellent service” and “a fantastic guide,” emphasizing how much they appreciated the personalized care. Another noted that the 6-hour drive was a “fabulous way” to see the island’s highlights—highlighting the value of the flexible timing and stops.

Even when faced with delays, guides like Marco showed a high level of understanding and flexibility, which many travelers find reassuring. Guests also love the ability to enjoy the famous Oia sunset at their own pace, making it a perfect end to your day.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This private tour is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, personalized experience—those who appreciate a flexibility that big group tours can’t offer. It suits couples, small families, or small groups who want to explore at their own pace and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

If you value knowledgeable guides, scenic drives, and the option to request specific stops, you’ll find this tour a worthwhile investment. It’s especially good for first-timers who want to get a rundown without the stress of figuring out transport and timing on their own.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s a private experience, so only your group will participate, handled by a dedicated guide.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the private tour, bottled water, WiFi on board, air-conditioned vehicle, and customized pickup and drop-off. Entrance fees are not included.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 5 to 6 hours, giving you enough time to enjoy each stop without rushing.

Can I customize the stops?
Absolutely. The guide is there to accommodate your interests, so you can request specific sights or ask for more time at certain locations.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While the tour is flexible and informative, it’s mainly designed for small groups and doesn’t specify special arrangements for children, so consider your family’s needs before booking.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, you’ll need to pay for entrance fees to sites like Akrotiri Archaeological Site (€12) and any optional cable car tickets (€6) if applicable.

How do I book?
Most travelers book about 22 days in advance. You can reserve through Viator, and the experience is confirmed once booked.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour relies on good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I leave the tour early?
Since it’s a private experience, you can communicate your needs with the guide if you wish to leave early, but be aware of the scheduled stops and timing.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a relaxed, personalized way to see Santorini’s highlights and hidden treasures, this private sights tour offers a lot of value. The combination of knowledgeable guides, scenic stops, and flexible timing means you’ll likely come away feeling like you truly experienced the island rather than just ticking off a checklist.

It’s perfect for travelers who want control over their day, enjoy comfortable transportation, and value authentic insights. While the cost might be higher than group options, the private aspect and tailored approach make it worth considering—especially if you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking to avoid the crowds.

This tour balances comfort, personalization, and expert guidance—making it a solid choice for anyone wanting an intimate, memorable Santorini experience.

Feel free to ask if you want more insights or tips on making the most of your Santorini trip!