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

Santorini, with its iconic white-washed buildings, stunning caldera views, and volcanic beaches, is one of Greece’s most photographed and admired islands. If you’re looking to see its best sights without the chaos of large groups, a private full-day tour promises an intimate, flexible experience. This particular tour offers a well-balanced mix of breathtaking scenery, local culture, and excellent wine tasting—all within six hours.

What makes this tour especially appealing is the private transportation in a luxury Mercedes minibus, which means you can enjoy the views comfortably and in style, plus the chance to customize your experience. The tour is designed for just two people at a time, making it perfect for couples or close friends seeking an authentic and less hurried visit. That said, it’s not inexpensive—at $621 for up to two people—but many find the personalized service and exclusive access worth every euro.

One possible consideration is the timing and pace. Though six hours might seem short given everything included, the itinerary is thoughtfully paced to give you ample time at each stop without feeling rushed. Still, if you’re keen to explore every corner of Santorini, you might wish for a longer day. This tour suits travelers who value comfort, personalized attention, and a curated look at Santorini’s highlights, especially those interested in stunning vistas, local culture, and regional wines.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience for a more relaxed and tailored sightseeing day
• Luxury transportation ensures comfort and style throughout the tour
• Spectacular viewpoints of Caldera and traditional villages like Oia, Imerovigli, and Firostefani
• Exclusive wine tasting at a unique cave wine museum featuring four local varieties
• Visit to iconic beaches, including the striking Red Beach and black sand beaches of Perissa
• Flexible itinerary allowing for photo stops, guided tours, and personal preferences
• Well-rated guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach
• Ideal for couples or small groups seeking an intimate, authentic experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

This private tour offers a curated glimpse into Santorini’s most captivating sights, blending scenic beauty, local culture, and regional wines into one seamless 6-hour package. Led by a knowledgeable guide and driven in a comfortable, air-conditioned Mercedes minibus, you’ll explore the island’s iconic viewpoints and lesser-known gems alike.

The tour is priced at $621 per group (up to two people), which might seem steep at first glance. However, considering the personalized attention, luxury transport, and exclusive access to sites, many travelers find it excellent value—especially if you’re traveling as a couple or a small party seeking privacy and comfort.

Two things we love about this experience? First, the breathtaking panoramic views of the Caldera from multiple vantage points, including Oia, Imerovigli, and Firostefani, which are truly postcard-worthy. Second, the wine tasting at Koutsogiannopoulos Wine Museum, set within a natural cave—an authentic and educational experience that pairs well with the scenic sightseeing.

One consideration is the tour’s duration—while six hours is ample to see most highlights, it’s a packed schedule, so if you prefer a slow, unhurried day, you might want to extend your stay or customize parts of the tour.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want an intimate, flexible, and luxurious way to experience Santorini’s best bits, especially those who appreciate stunning landscapes and regional wines.

Key Points

• Personalized, private group experience ensures intimacy and flexibility
• Luxury transport affords comfort, enabling you to relax and enjoy the views
• Spectacular caldera vistas at multiple viewpoints, perfect for photos
• Unique wine tasting in a natural cave with four local varieties
• Visit to iconic beaches—Red Beach and black sand beach—offering natural beauty and relaxation
• Charming traditional villages like Megalochori provide authentic local flavor
• Expert guides praised for knowledge and friendliness
• Ideal for couples or small groups seeking a tailored, memorable day

The Itinerary: What to Expect at Each Stop

Starting Point in Thera

Most tours begin with a pickup from your hotel or designated location in Thera. The process is smooth, and the driver will confirm and plan the day with you, often calling ahead to ensure everything runs seamlessly.

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Oia: The Must-See Village for Views and Photos

First stop is Oia, the iconic village famous for its white houses and blue-domed churches. Here, you’ll have a photo stop and a guided walk. You’ll get sweeping views of the caldera, with the chance to catch that perfect shot of the sunset or the traditional architecture. Reviewers love how the guide takes you to the best spots only the locals know about, avoiding the crowds.

Imerovigli and Firostefani: Panoramic Viewpoints

Next, the tour moves to Imerovigli and Firostefani, both perched high above the caldera. These areas are less crowded but equally stunning, offering some of the best panoramic vistas of the volcanic islands and the sea. Expect plenty of opportunities for photographs and some brief guided commentary about the island’s volcanic past.

Profitis Ilias Mountain

A highlight is the ascent to Profitis Ilias Mountain, reaching 1,500 feet above sea level. The views here are breathtaking, providing a 360-degree panorama of the entire island, from the volcanic cones to the surrounding sea. This stop offers some of the most memorable photo opportunities, and you’ll appreciate the chance to stretch your legs.

Koutsogiannopoulos Wine Museum: A Tasting in a Natural Cave

One of the tour’s standout moments is the visit to the Koutsogiannopoulos Wine Museum, set in an 8-meter-deep natural cave. Here, you’ll learn about the island’s winemaking history in a labyrinth-like environment that’s both atmospheric and educational. The guided tasting includes four local varieties:

• Assyrtiko (white)
• Orange Wine (white)
• Ambelones (red)
• Kamaritis (dessert red)

The tasting is complemented by crackers and chocolate, making it a delightful sensory experience. Reviewers rave about how the guide’s knowledge enhances the tasting, turning it into an engaging lesson on local wines.

Red Beach: A Striking Natural Wonder

After the wine museum, the tour visits Red Beach, renowned for its dramatic red volcanic cliffs and contrasting blue waters. You can walk along the shoreline, take photos of the unusual landscape, and enjoy some free time. The red rocks are a striking reminder of the island’s volcanic origins, appealing to both nature lovers and photographers.

Perissa Black Sand Beach: Relaxation and Scenic Beauty

Finally, the Black Sand Beach of Perissa offers a chance to unwind and take in the natural beauty. The beach’s dark volcanic sand provides a unique setting, and you can either relax or take a short walk along the shore. Many visitors appreciate having some free time here to soak in the sun and marvel at the contrasting landscapes.

Return to Thera

The tour wraps up with a comfortable drive back to your starting point, leaving you with plenty of wonderful memories and photos.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

• Transport: An air-conditioned Mercedes minibus provides a smooth, comfortable ride. The small size of the group means more personal attention.
• Tour Duration: Six hours, with starting times available based on availability; check ahead to plan your day.
• Price & Value: At $621 for two, this is a premium experience. The value lies in private, flexible sightseeing, expert guiding, and exclusive access to sights.
• Included: Pickup and drop-off, professional driver/guide, wine tasting, bottled water, all taxes.
• Not Included: Food and drinks outside the wine tasting, so you might want to bring some snacks.
• Best For: Couples or small groups who want a private, relaxed, and personalized day on Santorini.
• Accessibility: The tour involves walking at sites like villages and beaches, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
• Cancellation & Payment: Flexible booking options, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Authentic Traveler Perspectives

From reviews, it’s clear that guides like Arthur elevate the experience. One traveler praised him for taking them “to spots only the locals know about,” while another highlighted the “magnificent views” and “amazing, fresh food” arranged at Oia. The comfort of the van, praised for being spotless and spacious, adds to the appeal of this tour.

The wine tasting also receives high marks, with visitors noting it turns a simple visit into an educational experience. The combination of scenic viewpoints, charming villages, and authentic wine tasting makes this tour a well-rounded way to see Santorini without the hassle of self-driving or large tour groups.

This private full-day tour is best suited for those who want a tailored, intimate exploration of Santorini’s most iconic sights, combined with local flavor and expert guidance. If you’re a couple looking for a romantic day with plenty of stunning photo opportunities, or a small group eager for a relaxed yet rundown, this experience offers excellent value and comfort.

The inclusion of a wine tasting in a natural cave adds a distinctive touch, making it perfect for wine enthusiasts or those curious about regional specialties. The carefully curated stops mean you’ll leave with a good sense of the island’s beauty, history, and local culture—without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

While the price might seem high, the combination of private service, luxury transport, and exclusive sights justifies the expense for travelers craving a truly personalized Santorini adventure. For anyone who appreciates comfort, authenticity, and expert insight, this tour provides an enjoyable, memorable way to experience the best of what Santorini has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves walking through villages and beaches, so mobility limitations might pose challenges. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour offers flexibility to personalize the day according to your preferences, making it a truly tailored experience.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a hat, a camera, and perhaps some additional snacks since food is not included.

How long is the wine tasting?
The tasting at Koutsogiannopoulos Wine Museum is part of the visit, featuring four distinct local wines and some snacks, in a cave setting.

Is the tour suitable for cruise ship visitors?
Yes, arrangements are made for cruise ship travelers, with pickup at the port’s upper exit, especially if you have priority tender.

What does the price include?
Pickup and drop-off, private transportation in a luxury minibus, a guided tour, wine tasting, bottled water, and all taxes.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s advisable to reserve ahead, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred starting time and ensure availability.

Are food and drinks included?
No, outside the wine tasting, food and additional drinks are not included, so plan accordingly.

This Santorini private tour offers a well-rounded, scenic, and culturally enriching day—perfect for travelers who value comfort, authenticity, and a touch of luxury. Whether you’re here for the views, the wines, or the charming villages, it’s an experience that balances all three effortlessly.

You can check availability for your dates here: