Discover Santorini: Private Full-Day Tour with Wine Tasting!

Discover Santorini: Private Full-Day Tour with Wine Tasting offers a balanced mix of breathtaking scenery, cultural highlights, and authentic local experiences. For around $621 per group (up to 2 people), you’ll spend six hours cruising in a luxury Mercedes minibus with a knowledgeable guide, visiting iconic villages, sampling local wines, and relaxing on distinctive beaches. This tour promises a deeper connection to the island beyond the usual crowded spots.

What immediately catches the eye is how comprehensive and personalized this experience is. I love the way it combines scenic viewpoints with cultural and culinary insights—especially the visit to the Koutsogiannopoulos Wine Museum, set in a natural cave, which adds a cool, subterranean twist to wine tasting. The inclusion of off-the-beaten-path lookout points and the charming village of Megalochori makes this a perfect choice for travelers wanting a genuine feel of Santorini.

A potential downside? The cost might seem steep for some, especially if you’re traveling solo or on a tighter budget. But considering the private nature, the luxury transport, and the variety of stops, many will find this trip offers value that’s hard to beat. Just keep in mind that food isn’t included, so you might want to plan for a meal afterward.

This tour hits the sweet spot for those seeking a flexible, intimate way to see the best of Santorini without the hassle of organizing multiple tickets or navigating public transport. It’s especially ideal if you want a relaxed, curated day with plenty of insider tips and stunning photo opportunities.

Key points / Takeaways

• Private, customizable experience: The tour is fully private, allowing you to tailor the day to your interests and enjoy a more relaxed pace.
• Expert guide (Arthur): Many reviews praise the guide’s friendliness, knowledge, and ability to answer questions, making the experience more engaging.
• Stunning viewpoints: Stops at Oia, Imerovigli, and Firostefani provide some of the most iconic views of the Caldera, perfect for photos.
• Unique wine tasting: The Koutsogiannopoulos Wine Museum, set inside a natural cave, offers not just tastings but a fascinating glimpse into local wine history.
• Diverse beaches: Visiting the Red Beach with its volcanic red rocks and the Black Sand Beach offers a chance to relax and marvel at the island’s volcanic origins.
• Authentic villages: Exploring Megalochori reveals a charming, less touristy side of Santorini, with quaint alleys and traditional architecture.

An In-Depth Look at the Santorini Private Full-Day Tour

Starting Point and Pickup Logistics

The adventure begins with pickup in Thera, the main town of Santorini, making it convenient for most travelers staying on the island. The tour provider mentions that if your hotel isn’t accessible by car, the driver will meet you at the closest possible location, which is a thoughtful detail. For cruise ship visitors, arrangements are made to meet you at the Old Port, with the driver holding a sign, ensuring a smooth transition from ship to tour without stress.

The Scenic Villages: Oia, Imerovigli, and Firostefani

The tour’s first stops take you to the classic Oia, famed worldwide for its white-washed buildings and blue-domed churches perched on the Caldera’s edge. I love the way the guide can point out secret spots locals cherish, adding a layer of insider knowledge. You’ll have plenty of time for photos, and many reviewers, like JoAnn, mention how guides like Arthur go beyond the typical tourist spots, taking you to places only locals know.

Next, the stops at Imerovigli and Firostefani offer equally stunning views—less crowded than Oia but equally beautiful. The panoramic vistas of Thirasia Island and the volcanic islets make for memorable photo ops, and you can truly appreciate Santorini’s volcanic heritage from these lookout points.

Wine Tasting at Koutsogiannopoulos Wine Museum

The highlight for many is the visit to the Koutsogiannopoulos Wine Museum, set within a labyrinth of natural caves. This is not just a tasting; it’s an experience that lets you learn about the island’s winemaking history inside a historic underground setting. Tasting four varieties—Assyrtiko, Orange Wine, Ambelones, and Kamaritis—gives you a taste of the local terroir, complemented by crackers and chocolates. The reviews praise the guide’s knowledge and the chance to sample wines that aren’t available everywhere.

Ascending Prophet Elias Mountain

A short drive takes you up to Prophet Ilias Mountain, the highest point on the island at 1,500 feet. Here, you get 360-degree views of Santorini and the surrounding Aegean Sea, making it an ideal spot for photos and absorbing the vastness of the landscape. It’s a peaceful place to reflect on the volcanic origins and the rugged beauty of the island.

Exploring Megalochori

The charming village of Megalochori provides a contrast to the bustling tourist hubs. Its narrow alleys, traditional architecture, and relaxed vibe offer a slice of authentic life. Several reviews mention how guides like Arthur take the time to show you hidden corners and share stories about local life, enriching your understanding of Santorini’s cultural tapestry.

Beaches: Red and Black Sand

No trip to Santorini would be complete without a visit to its iconic beaches. The Red Beach, with its vivid red volcanic cliffs, is a visual marvel and great for photos or a quick walk. Later, the Black Sand Beach (Perissa) offers a long stretch of volcanic sand and a chance to unwind. You’ll have free time here to relax, take a swim, or explore the nearby amenities.

Practical Aspects: Transportation, Timing, and Cost

The use of a luxury Mercedes minibus ensures comfort, especially after a day of walking and sightseeing. The 6-hour duration strikes a good balance—enough time to see the highlights without feeling rushed. The price, at $621 for a group of two, reflects the private, tailored nature of the experience, including all taxes and wine tasting.

While a bit pricey, the value lies in the personalized attention, the convenience of door-to-door pickup, and the ability to skip lines and avoid big tour groups. Many reviews mention how the driver—Arthur—was punctual, friendly, and went out of his way to make the day special, including pre-visit calls and a well-organized itinerary.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for couples or friends traveling together who want a mix of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and relaxation without the hassle of planning. It’s ideal if you appreciate comfort, personalized service, and a flexible schedule. Travelers interested in wine, authentic villages, and panoramic views will find this tour ticks all those boxes.

Why It’s Worth Considering

While the price might seem high, the private setting and customizable itinerary justify the expense for many. You’ll get expert guidance, avoid crowded spots, and visit some of the island’s most renowned and hidden treasures. The wine tasting and scenic stops add a layer of local flavor that’s hard to replicate on a self-guided tour.

Final thoughts

If you’re visiting Santorini and want to savor its beauty without the crowds, this private tour offers a well-rounded, enriching experience. It’s perfect for those who value comfort, authentic moments, and insider knowledge. With the right guide—many reviews highlight Arthur’s friendliness and expertise—you’ll leave with stunning photos, delicious wines, and a deeper understanding of this volcanic marvel.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the private guide and driver, transportation in a luxury air-conditioned minivan, hotel pickup and drop-off, and a wine tasting at the Koutsogiannopoulos Wine Museum with four varieties and snacks.

Are food and drinks included?
No, meals are not included, but the wine tasting is part of the experience. You may want to bring some snacks or plan for a meal afterward.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour allows flexibility for you to adapt the stops according to your interests and preferences.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera are recommended. You might also want to bring some cash for souvenirs or additional snacks.

Is this suitable for cruise ship passengers?
Absolutely. The tour can arrange pickup at the Old Port, with the driver waiting at the upper cable car exit, making it easy to connect from your ship.

What about accessibility?
If your hotel isn’t accessible by car, the driver will meet you at the nearest accessible point. Some stops involve walking, so wear comfortable shoes.

Who is this tour best for?
Couples, friends, or small groups looking for a personalized, premium experience with stunning views, wine, and authentic village visits will find this tour ideal.

To sum it up, this private full-day tour of Santorini offers a thoughtful blend of scenic beauty, cultural charm, and personalized service. The combination of panoramic views, local wine tasting, and visits to authentic villages makes it an excellent choice for travelers who want a deeper, more relaxed connection to the island. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate comfort and expert guides to help unlock the island’s secrets.