Santorini Private Full Day Tour 9 hours

Exploring Santorini with a private guide offers a tailored, relaxed way to see the highlights of this iconic Greek island. This 9-hour tour, offered by Santorini Skyline Events, costs $687.84 per group (up to four people) and is designed for travelers seeking a flexible, intimate experience. The tour is entirely customizable, with your personal driver and guide working alongside you to craft an itinerary that fits your interests.

What I love about this experience is the personal attention—it’s not a bus full of strangers, but just your group and a knowledgeable guide. The vehicle is air-conditioned, which is a real blessing during the hot summer months, and the flexibility to choose your stops means you can focus on what excites you most. A standout feature is the guide’s local expertise, steering you away from cookie-cutter tours towards hidden gems like local wineries or scenic photo spots. The reviews rave about dependable guides like William_R, who, according to one traveler, “took us all over Santorini to every place we asked and to local gems he knew.”

One potential consideration is that at $687 for a group of four, this tour might seem pricey if you’re traveling solo or as a couple, but remember—the price covers your entire private vehicle and guide for the day, which offers both convenience and exclusivity. Lunch and drinks aren’t included, so plan for that separately, but with all the stops and sights, the value comes from the flexibility and expert guidance.

Key Points

• Customizable itinerary: Your guide works with you to tailor the day to your preferences.
• Private, intimate experience: Perfect for small groups or couples wanting exclusivity.
• Comfortable transport: Travel in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle that’s perfect for the warm Greek sun.
• Expert local guides: Known for dependable, friendly guides like William_R who know Santorini’s hidden corners.
• Flexible meeting points: Choose between your hotel or the cruise port’s cable car top.
• All-day sightseeing with stops at major highlights like Oia, the red beach, and scenic viewpoints.

A Deep Dive into the Santorini Private Full Day Tour

If you’re someone who values a personalized approach to travel, this private tour promises flexibility and comfort. The experience begins with your preferred meeting point, either at your hotel or at the top of the cable car at the cruise port—an important consideration if you’re arriving by cruise ship. From there, the journey unfolds in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle, a crucial perk on an island that can get quite hot.

The guide works with you to craft an itinerary that suits your interests, which I find especially appealing. For example, the tour can include iconic spots like Firostefani Village for that breathtaking chapel shot, or the famously photogenic Oia. As you wander through those narrow, winding streets filled with whitewashed houses splashed in shades of pink, fuchsia, and cobalt blue, it’s easy to understand why Oia is one of the most photographed spots not just in Greece, but the world. One traveler even described it as “almost impossible to describe in words,” which I take as a sign of its authentic charm.

Beyond Oia, the tour includes a visit to several beaches—red, black, and the waterfront Perissa and Perivolos—offering a variety of landscapes and sand textures that are fun to explore. The optional waterfront lunch at a local restaurant is a nice way to experience the island’s culinary scene without feeling rushed, although it’s not included in the price. The stop at Kamari Beach and Megalochori adds even more local flavor and scenic beauty.

Another highlight is the visit to Prophet Elias, the highest point on the island, offering panoramic views that are well worth the trip. You’ll also have the chance to visit what’s considered the best winery of the island, which can be a real treat if you’re into local wines or just want a taste of Santorini’s viniculture.

One thing I really appreciate is the genuine flexibility of this tour. The provider states that all stops are just suggestions, and the guide is happy to customize based on your interests. That kind of tailored experience is what makes a private tour stand out—it’s not a rigid schedule, but a personalized adventure.

The reviews are glowing, with a perfect rating of 5.0 from seven travelers. William_R, in particular, raved about the “personal, dependable & safe guide” who took them all over the island and knew hidden spots. That level of trust and rapport adds a lot to the experience, especially on a place as beautiful and busy as Santorini.

While the tour is quite comprehensive, keep in mind that it does not include meals or drinks, so budget accordingly if you want to enjoy local cuisine or a refreshing beverage during your stops. Also,, the full day of sightseeing means you’ll be on the move most of the time, so comfortable shoes and sun protection are advisable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private, customizable experience is suited for travelers who want to explore Santorini at their own pace without the hassle of large tour groups. If you’re a couple or a small family looking for exclusivity, or a group of friends wanting personalized attention, this is a fantastic choice. It’s especially appealing if you’re arriving by cruise and want a reliable, flexible way to see the island’s highlights without worrying about schedules or crowds.

Those interested in local wines, scenic photography, or simply soaking up the beauty of Santorini in comfort will find this tour incredibly rewarding. Keep in mind that the cost may be on the higher side for solo travelers, but the personalized service and flexibility often justify the price.

The Sum Up

This private full-day tour of Santorini packs a punch, offering the perfect blend of personalized attention, flexibility, and insider knowledge. The chance to visit iconic sights like Oia, scenic viewpoints, and beaches, combined with a knowledgeable guide like William_R, makes for an authentic and enriching experience. It’s a solid choice for travelers who prioritize comfort and customizability over rigid schedules and large group tours.

While it’s priced higher than some group options, the private nature, tailored stops, and attentive guiding make it worthwhile—especially if you’re traveling with friends or family. The ability to choose your own stops ensures you’ll see what most interests you, making the full day both diverse and deeply personal. If you’re visiting Santorini and want to indulge in an expertly guided, flexible exploration, this tour might just be one of your best options.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult, and most travelers can participate. It’s a comfortable option for families wanting a private, flexible day.

Can I meet the guide at a specific location?
Absolutely. You can choose to meet at your hotel or at the cruise port’s cable car top, depending on your arrival plan.

Are meals included in this tour?
No, lunch and drinks are not included but you can opt for lunch at waterfront restaurants at your discretion during the stops.

How long in advance should I book?
On average, this tour is booked about 45 days in advance, which suggests good availability but also indicates how popular it is.

What makes this tour different from a standard group tour?
The private, fully customizable nature allows you to decide where to go and how long to spend at each site, unlike fixed-group tours.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour features an air-conditioned vehicle, which is especially appreciated during the warm Santorini days.

In the end, this private tour offers a thoughtful, flexible way to see the best of Santorini without the rush or crowds. Perfect for those who want a relaxed, tailored experience with local insights and stunning vistas.