Santorini Private Tour from Athens: Sightseeing & Wine Tasting

If you’re dreaming of experiencing Santorini’s iconic scenery and flavors without staying overnight, this private day tour from Athens might be just what you need. It’s designed for travelers who want a comprehensive glimpse of the island’s best spots, all wrapped into one well-organized day. From picturesque villages to famous beaches and delicious wines, this tour covers a lot—without the hassle of planning each detail yourself.

What really draws us to this experience are two standout features: first, the expert guidance that helps you navigate the island’s highlights smoothly, and second, the inclusion of a wine tasting at a family-run winery that promises a taste of local tradition. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that this tour involves quite a bit of moving around—so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full, active day.

This tour is ideal for travelers with limited time who still want to get a meaningful sense of Santorini’s charm. It’s perfect if you’re short on days but want to see the key sights, enjoy some local wine, and take in breathtaking views—all in one go.

Key Points

• Time-efficient: Covers major sights of Santorini in just one day, perfect for busy schedules.
• Guided experience: Knowledgeable local guides enhance the trip with interesting stories and insights.
• Inclusive transfers: Hotel pickup and airport transfers make logistics stress-free.
• Wine tasting: Enjoy four different Santorini wines at a family-owned winery.
• Varied scenery: From seaside villages to volcanic beaches, the tour offers a broad look at the island’s diverse landscape.
• Moderate pace: While packed, it’s manageable for most travelers with average mobility.

An Honest Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting the Day – From Athens to Santorini

The day begins early with a hotel pickup, which is a nice touch as it eliminates the need to navigate transportation on your own. The private transfer to Athens airport and the flight to Santorini are included, making it straightforward to get there without the usual hassles of self-arranged travel. Once you arrive, a local guide/driver will meet you, and the real adventure begins.

Visiting Oia – The Picture-Perfect Village

Your first stop on the island is Oia, renowned worldwide for its postcard-worthy views of white and blue buildings and stunning sunsets. Most visitors find Oia to be a highlight, and it’s easy to see why—its narrow streets are crammed with photogenic spots, and the panoramic views are impressive. You get about 75 minutes here, which is enough to wander, snap some photos, or simply soak in the scenery.

One reviewer remarked, “Our guide, Dora, gave us an experience that far exceeded our expectations. Her warmth and knowledge made our trip memorable.” It’s clear that a good guide can really elevate your visit to a place like Oia.

Exploring Megalochori – A Quiet Charm

Next, the tour takes you to Megalochori, a less touristy, traditional village in the island’s interior. With its whitewashed houses, blue-domed churches, and underground cave dwellings, it offers a glimpse of authentic local life away from the crowds. Walking along its narrow lanes, you’ll notice the slower pace and charming architecture.

A visitor shared, “The peaceful streets and tiny bell towers made it feel like stepping back in time.” It’s a perfect spot to enjoy some calm and take photos away from the busier tourist hubs.

Wine Tasting at a Family-Owned Winery

One of the tour’s real treats is the wine tasting at a family-run winery with three centuries of tradition. You’ll sample at least four different wines accompanied by cheese and rusks, giving you a real taste of Santorini’s unique viticulture. The experience is both fun and educational, especially if you’re a wine lover.

While the winery may change during some months, the tasting itself remains a highlight—many reviews highlight the quality of the wines and the warmth of the hosts. As one reviewer put it, “Impress your guide with your wine-tasting abilities, and enjoy the flavors of local wines in a cozy setting.”

Visiting Iconic Beaches – Red and Perivolos

Next, the tour makes stops at Red Beach and Perivolos Beach. The Red Beach, with its striking volcanic cliffs and reddish hues, is a dream for photos and a chance to marvel at natural volcanic formations. You get about 20 minutes here, which is enough for a quick look and some snapshots.

Just a short drive away is Perivolos Beach, famed for its black sand and lively seaside restaurants. A quick 15-minute stop allows you to walk along the sands or grab a drink with a view—that’s enough to soak in the beach vibe without losing too much time.

Climbing to the Monastery of Profitis Ilias

Driving up to the highest point on the island, the Monastery of Profitis Ilias, offers stunning panoramic views of Santorini. Built in 1711, this tranquil spot is ideal for tasting local products made by monks and taking in sweeping vistas of the island’s volcano and coastline. About 20 minutes here is sufficient, especially if you’re simply enjoying the scenery.

Wrapping Up and Returning to Athens

After a full day of sightseeing, the journey back includes a transfer to the airport for your flight to Athens. From there, a private transfer takes you back to your hotel, wrapping up a smooth and organized experience.

What Our Reviewers Say

Multiple reviews praise the guides, with comments like “Dimitris was extremely knowledgeable and attentive,” and “Argyris made the experience personal and friendly.” These guides seem to make a real difference, turning a busy day into a memorable one with their stories and warmth.

Reviewers also love the variety of scenery—from the postcard-perfect Oia to the volcanic beaches and mountain-top monastery, it’s a tour that truly hits a lot of highlights in a short span. The wine tasting is often singled out as a highlight, with many saying it’s a lovely chance to sample authentic local wines.

One traveler expressed that “spending a day on Santorini felt like weeks thanks to the great guide and beautiful sights,” which speaks to how packed and rewarding this experience can be.

The Practicalities: Transportation, Price, and Fit

Though priced at around $1,554 per person, this includes everything from flights and transfers to guide services and wine tasting. When you consider the ease of logistics and the access to top sights, it offers good value for those who want a no-hassle, guided experience.

Transportation is in a deluxe minivan, which makes the day comfortable despite the tight schedule. The tour is designed for most travelers with a moderate physical fitness level, as there’s some walking and stair navigation at sites like Oia and Megalochori.

Since it’s a private tour for your group only, you won’t share the experience with strangers, which adds a layer of convenience and personalization.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you have limited time but want to see Santorini’s highlights, this tour is a smart choice. It’s especially suited for those who prefer guided experiences to navigating on their own or booking separate activities. Wine lovers, photo enthusiasts, and anyone keen to get a broad sense of the island’s beauty and charm will find plenty to love here.

However, keep in mind the schedule is quite full—if you prefer a more leisurely pace or want to explore at your own pace, this might feel rushed. Also, if you’re traveling with very young children or have mobility issues, check the physical demands of walking through villages and sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for someone with mobility issues?
It’s designed for travelers with a moderate physical fitness level. Some walking and stair navigation may be involved at sites like Oia and Megalochori.

How long is the flight from Athens to Santorini?
While the exact flight time isn’t specified, the tour includes a flight from Athens to Santorini, which is typically about 45 minutes.

Are all the sites included in the itinerary free to visit?
Most stops, like Oia, Megalochori, beaches, and the monastery, don’t require entrance fees. There’s a small optional fee for museum visits if you choose to add them.

What is included in the price?
Roundtrip flights, hotel transfers, a local guide, wine tasting, and airport transfers are all included. Bottled water is also provided.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, there might be some flexibility, but modifications aren’t specified. It’s best to discuss directly with the provider.

Is this tour good for families?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, most adult travelers have found it manageable. Consider your children’s interests and stamina before booking.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a camera are recommended. Some walking is involved, so be prepared for uneven surfaces.

How much time do I spend at each stop?
The schedule is quite packed, with roughly 1 to 1.5 hours at key sites like Oia and Profitis Ilias, and shorter stops at beaches and villages.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Santorini private tour from Athens offers a convenient, all-in-one snapshot of the island’s most iconic sights, paired with excellent logistical support. It stands out for its knowledgeable guides, scenic variety, and the chance to taste local wines in an authentic setting. While the schedule is tight, it’s ideal for travelers who want to maximize their limited time and get a well-rounded impression of Santorini.

If you’re after a guided, hassle-free day that combines sightseeing, culture, and flavors, this tour could be a great fit. It’s especially suited for those who want a curated experience without the stress of planning every detail. Just be prepared for a busy day—and bring your camera!

Disclaimer: As always, verify current availability and details directly with the provider before booking, as some elements like winery closure months may change.