Santorini See Everything All Day Private Tour

This experience made our article of The Top 2 Fira Full-Day Tours.

Santorini See Everything All Day Private Tour: An Honest Look

If you’re planning a trip to Santorini and want to see the island without feeling rushed, this private 8-hour tour might be exactly what you’re after. Offered by Epitome Travel Greece, it promises a personal, flexible way to explore the most iconic spots and some lesser-known treasures, all in one day.

What makes this tour appealing? For starters, it’s tailored to your interests, with a local guide-driver who keeps things intimate and relaxed. Plus, the luxury, air-conditioned van ensures comfort even in the midday sun. But, as with all things, it’s worth considering that this is a full-day commitment, so be prepared for a busy but rewarding experience.

This tour is well-suited for travelers who want a rundown of Santorini, especially if you prefer a more personalized touch and dislike big group rushes. It’s also particularly good for those who appreciate a mix of stunning viewpoints, charming villages, and historical sites—all without the hassle of planning each stop independently.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private tour means it’s all about your pace and interests.
• Comfort and Convenience: Luxury vehicle, WiFi, bottled water, and chargers included.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Covers major sights like Oia, Fira, beaches, villages, and landmarks.
• Expert Guide/Driver: Knowledgeable local who makes the trip informative and smooth.
• Flexible Schedule: 8 hours to see the best of Santorini without feeling rushed.
• Great Value: For the price, you get a full day with private transport and a tailored route.

Experience Overview: A Deep Dive into What You’ll Get

Starting Point: Thera (Fira)

Your adventure begins here, where your guide will pick you up from your accommodation or cruise port. The ease of hotel or port pickup means you won’t waste any time or energy figuring out logistics. Once on board, you’ll settle into your comfortable, air-conditioned van, ready to explore.

Oia: The Iconic Village

The first stop is Oia, known worldwide for its postcard-perfect sunsets and charming alleyways. Spending about 1.5 hours here gives you plenty of time to wander, snap photos, and soak in the vibrant, artistic atmosphere. Expect narrow streets lined with boutiques, cafes, and whitewashed buildings with blue accents. This is a favorite among reviews, with travelers mentioning the “beautiful views” and “timeless charm.”

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The Three Bells of Fira

Next, a quick 30-minute stop at Three Bells of Fira—a classic photo op with its distinctive church architecture. It’s a short but worthwhile moment to appreciate the traditional Cycladic style. Many find it a convenient spot to take memorable pictures and get a sense of local architecture.

Hidden Gem Stop

The tour includes a special hidden spot, usually a lesser-known viewpoint or charming alley. This is a highlight for those wanting to escape the crowds and see a more authentic, quieter side of the island. Travelers have mentioned how this adds a special touch to the day, allowing you to see a side of Santorini most travelers miss.

Megalochori Village

A 30-minute walk through Megalochori offers a peek into local life, with traditional houses and quaint streets. Many reviews praise the guide’s ability to highlight the village’s character and history, making it a peaceful contrast to busier spots.

Akrotiri Lighthouse & Beaches

Your route takes you to the Akrotiri Lighthouse, perched on volcanic cliffs, offering stunning panoramic views. Nearby, you’ll find the Red Beach and Black Beach, each with their distinctive volcanic sand and striking scenery. These stops are great for photos and experiencing Santorini’s volcanic heritage. Expect about 30 minutes at each beach, giving enough time for a walk and some photos.

Lunch at Black Beach

The tour includes a 1-hour lunch break at Black Beach, which is a good chance to relax and fuel up. Many travelers find this a highlight—whether you choose a seaside tavern or grab a quick snack, it’s a nice pause in the day’s busy schedule.

Exploring Villages and Monasteries

Post-lunch, you’ll visit Emporio, a traditional village with old-world charm, and the Holy Monastery of Prophet Elias, offering panoramic views from its vantage point. Reviews note that the guide’s flexibility and knowledge really shine at these stops, making the experience both educational and scenic.

Pyrgos Kallistis: The Village atop the Hill

Your last stop is Pyrgos Kallistis, a picturesque village with narrow streets and panoramic vistas. This is a favorite for its authentic feel and sweeping views, giving a fitting end to your day of exploration.

Return to Thera

After a full day of sightseeing, your driver will bring you back to your accommodation or port, feeling satisfied with a well-rounded glimpse into Santorini’s beauty.

Why Travelers Love This Tour

Multiple reviews highlight the knowledge and friendliness of the guides, with travelers praising their ability to personalize the experience. For example, Darryl from the US mentioned, “Our guide Theo was excellent,” and Mary appreciated her guide’s flexibility and careful driving.

The stunning views, especially from viewpoints and villages, consistently impress visitors. Johan from Malta called it “an amazing day,” noting how their guide drove all over the island, providing info, photos, and even tips for the best shots.

Many appreciate the value for money—for a fixed price, you get an all-day, private experience with comfortable transport, refreshments, WiFi, and personalized attention. The comfort and convenience of the luxury van, combined with the flexibility of the itinerary, make it a practical choice for making the most of your limited time in Santorini.

Possible Drawbacks

One thing to keep in mind is the full-day schedule, which might be tiring for some, especially if you’re not used to long tours. Also, since it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or pets, it’s not ideal for travelers with mobility issues or animals. Some might find the cost higher than group tours, but many feel the privacy, comfort, and customization justify the price.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour caters well to those who want to see a lot without the hassle of planning multiple stops. It’s perfect if you’re seeking a relaxed, guided experience that balances sightseeing with comfort. It suits romantic couples, friends, or solo travelers who value personalized attention and high-quality transportation.

While not designed for children or those with mobility issues, it’s ideal for anyone who appreciates stunning views, authentic villages, and a customized experience that respects your pace.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for cruise ship travelers?
Yes, the driver will wait for cruise ship guests at the top of the cable car exit with your name written, making pickup straightforward.

What’s included in the price?
You get private transportation in a luxury air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, WiFi, phone charger, and a local expert guide. Hotel, port, or airport pickup and drop-off are included.

Can I customize the itinerary?
While the tour follows a suggested route, the private nature means your guide can be flexible and include your interests.

How long do we spend at each site?
Most stops are around 30 to 45 minutes, with longer at Oia (1.5 hours) and the monastery (45 minutes). The schedule is designed to cover everything comfortably without rushing.

Are meals included?
Lunch is not included but is scheduled at Black Beach, offering you time to relax and choose your own meal.

Is this tour family-friendly?
It’s best suited for those who can handle a full day of sightseeing. It’s not wheelchair accessible, and pets are not allowed.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a personalized, comfortable way to see Santorini, this private 8-hour tour offers a balanced mix of iconic sights and hidden gems. The inclusion of a knowledgeable guide-driver, flexible itinerary, and plush transport means you get to enjoy the island without the usual stress of planning or rushing.

It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who want a full, immersive day with the option to tailor certain stops. The reviews confirm that the experience is well-organized, scenic, and memorable—thanks largely to guides who know how to make your day special.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to maximize your time on this stunning island, this tour provides a thorough, enjoyable way to soak in Santorini’s magic.

Remember, it’s a full day, so come prepared for some walking and sightseeing. But with the comfort of private transport and the expertise of your guide, it’s a hassle-free way to truly experience the best of Santorini.

You can check availability for your dates here: