Enjoy the best of Santorini with our Private Tour!

When it comes to exploring Santorini, many travelers seek a blend of famous sights, scenic views, and authentic local experiences. This private tour from Anemi Travel promises just that—delivering a personalized, relaxed way to see the island’s highlights and secret corners. We haven’t tried it ourselves, but from the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary, it’s clear this tour offers a compelling mix of easy transportation, fascinating sights, and knowledgeable guidance.

Two things we particularly like about this experience are the customizable itinerary—tailored to your interests—and the focus on authentic, less-crowded spots like Pyrgos and Profitis Ilias. Plus, the inclusion of a wine tasting at Santo Wines adds a wonderful local touch. The only potential downside? It’s a relatively short tour—around four to five hours—so it’s definitely a taste of the island rather than an exhaustive exploration. Perfect for those with limited time or wanting a relaxed overview, this tour suits couples, families, or anyone wanting a semi-private, memorable day without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience tailored to your interests
• Knowledgeable guides with deep local insight
• Visit iconic sights and hidden gems for a well-rounded view of Santorini
• Includes transportation and bottled water for comfort and convenience
• Optional wine tasting with spectacular views of the caldera
• Free cancellations up to 24 hours before the tour

Why Choose This Private Santorini Tour?

The beauty of this private tour lies in its flexibility and personalized approach. You’re not just on a preset bus route; instead, a knowledgeable driver takes you around in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, adapting the itinerary based on your preferences. The fact that it’s private means fewer strangers and more intimate conversations about the island’s history, culture, and secret spots.

The tour covers a lot of ground in about five hours, which makes it a great option for those with limited time or travelers who want a curated highlights reel. Plus, the inclusion of bottled water and private transport makes the experience both comfortable and stress-free—no need to worry about navigating or parking.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Three Bells of Fira

This icon of Santorini is nearly impossible to miss. Officially called the Catholic Church of the Dormition, the Three Bells of Fira are famous worldwide and second only to the blue-domed churches of Oia for recognition. Sitting at a scenic viewpoint, this spot offers a postcard-perfect photo opportunity with its charming architecture and stunning caldera backdrop. It’s a quick stop, about 30 minutes, perfect for snapping some pictures and soaking in the panoramic views. Visitors can expect no entrance fees, making it a cost-effective start to your day.

Stop 2: Pyrgos Kallistis

Next, we head to Pyrgos, the island’s medieval jewel. As the former capital, this village has preserved its old-world charm and narrow winding streets, with whitewashed houses and centuries-old churches. It’s the ideal place to get a sense of traditional Santorini life away from the busier tourist hubs. The tour allows about 30 minutes here—long enough to stroll and perhaps enjoy a quiet moment away from the crowds. Reviewers consistently praise Pyrgos for its “easy grace,” making it a favorite for those seeking authentic local architecture and a calmer atmosphere.

Stop 3: Monastery of Profitis Ilias

Perched at an impressive 567 meters—Santorini’s highest point—this monastery offers spectacular views of the island, volcano, and Aegean Sea. Sitting at the top of Mount Profitis Ilias, the Monastery of Profitis Ilias is both a spiritual site and a vantage point. The 30-minute visit offers a chance to breathe in the fresh mountain air and take in panoramic vistas. It’s worth noting that this spot provides a different perspective on the island’s geography, and the drive up itself is scenic.

Stop 4: Perivolos Beach

Moving to the southeastern coast, Perivolos Beach is renowned for its long stretch of black volcanic sand. It’s a lively spot, often filled with sunbathers and swimmers, and offers an excellent chance to relax and enjoy the sea. About 30 minutes here allows for a quick dip or a stroll along the shoreline. Its proximity to other notable sights makes it a convenient and beautiful stop. Visitors often comment on the stunning contrast of the black sand against the blue sea—a picture-perfect moment.

Stop 5: Red Beach

Possibly the most dramatic landscape feature on the island, Red Beach is famous for its volcanic red cliffs, almost vertical in some spots, and small reddish pebbles. The scenery is truly striking and perfect for photos. Visitors love renting a canoe or sea bicycle to explore the rugged coastline from the water, as one reviewer notes, “the view from the water is just as incredible.” This 30-minute stop offers a chance to marvel at nature’s raw power and beauty, though it can get busy with travelers.

Stop 6: Santo Wines for Wine Tasting

No visit to Santorini is complete without sampling its famed wines. The Santo Wines winery is highly recommended—not just for its excellent wines but for the breathtaking sunset views over the caldera. The 45-minute tasting experience isn’t included in the price but is a worthwhile splurge if you’re a wine enthusiast. Guests rave about the knowledgeable staff and the spectacular setting, making it a true highlight of the tour.

Stop 7: Imerovigli

Often called the “balcony of Santorini,” Imerovigli offers sweeping views of the caldera and volcano. It’s a peaceful spot to wander, with beautiful whitewashed buildings and narrow alleyways. The tour allocates 30 minutes here, giving plenty of time for photos and a relaxed stroll. Many find it a perfect place to take in the scenery without the crowds that flock to Oia.

Stop 8: Oia

Finally, no trip to Santorini is complete without a visit to Oia. Known worldwide for its stunning sunsets, this village’s white buildings and blue domes look like they’ve been plucked straight from a painting. Your 30-minute visit will give you a taste of its charm, perfect for photos and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. Although it’s a brief stop, it’s enough to appreciate its postcard beauty and maybe grab a quick coffee or souvenir.

Value and Practicalities

This tour costs roughly $405 for a group of up to four people, which breaks down to about $101 per person. For a private experience that includes transportation, bottled water, and the flexibility to customize the itinerary, this is quite reasonable. It’s especially appealing for couples or small families wanting a curated experience without the hassle of self-driving or navigating busy buses.

The vehicle is air-conditioned, which is a blessing on sunny Santorini days, and the driver is described as knowledgeable and energetic—adding a layer of comfort and local insight. The tour is available daily from 10 am to 7 pm, offering flexibility for different schedules.

What’s not included?

The tour doesn’t include lunch, coffee, alcohol, snacks, or entrance fees for museums or attractions. The wine tasting at Santo Wines is an optional extra but highly recommended for a memorable local experience. Budget accordingly if you plan to indulge.

Booking and Cancellation

This private tour can be booked up to 69 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. Cancellation is straightforward—free up to 24 hours before—which is ideal for travelers with changing plans.

Authentic, Flexible, and Enjoyable

Based on reviews and the detailed itinerary, this private tour is well-suited for travelers who want to see both the iconic sights and some lesser-known spots without the stress of planning every detail. The flexibility to customize the experience means you can focus on what interests you most—whether stunning views, local villages, or cultural sites.

The guides have earned praise for their knowledgeable, friendly demeanor, making the experience both fun and informative. The stops at Pyrgos, Imerovigli, and Oia are highly valued for their beauty and tranquility, while the scenic drives provide plenty of opportunities for fantastic photos.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for couples seeking a romantic, personalized day, families wanting a relaxed and educational tour, or anyone looking for a hassle-free way to see Santorini’s highlights. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and tasting, with ample time to relax and take in the views.

If you’re on a tight schedule but want a rundown of the island’s beauty and charm, this tour hits the mark. But if you’re after an in-depth exploration of every corner or visiting multiple wineries, you might want to supplement with additional excursions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the private nature means you can tailor the pace to your comfort level.

Does the tour include entrance tickets?
No, entrance fees for museums or sights are not included, but most stops are free to enjoy from the outside.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the driver can help adjust the stops based on your preferences, making your experience more personal.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, camera, and any personal items you need. Bottled water is provided.

Is the wine tasting optional?
Yes, it’s not included in the price but highly recommended if you enjoy local wines and stunning views.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins in Fira and ends back at the same spot, with pickups available from your accommodation or port.

Final Thoughts

This private tour from Santorini offers a balanced, flexible way to experience the island’s highlights and hidden treasures. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and the ability to tailor your day, it’s an excellent choice for travelers seeking an authentic, relaxed, and memorable Santorini adventure.

Ideal for couples, small families, or anyone who appreciates a personalized touch, this tour provides a snapshot of Santorini’s natural beauty, charming villages, and delicious wines—all without the stress of self-guided travel. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, you’re likely to come away with beautiful memories and stunning photos to cherish.