Santorini Highlights Tour with Wine Tasting option

When it comes to seeing Santorini, a well-organized tour can be a game-changer—especially if you’re short on time or prefer not to navigate alone. The Santorini Highlights Tour with Wine Tasting option, offered by Argyros Travel, promises a balanced blend of classic sights, local charm, and even a splash of volcanic flavor at a winery.

While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the glowing reviews and detailed itineraries make it clear that it’s a solid choice for travelers eager to see the best in a manageable, small-group setting. We love the way this tour combines iconic postcard-perfect views with authentic village visits, plus the added allure of a wine tasting that lets you savor Santorini’s volcanic terroir.

A potential consideration? The full-day version involves quite a bit of timed driving and walking, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace or have mobility concerns, the classic 4.5-hour option might suit you better.

This experience would appeal most to travelers who want a rundown without feeling rushed, especially those who appreciate local stories, scenic views, and good company. Whether you’re a first-timer or a repeat visitor wanting to catch a few highlights, this tour offers authentic moments and beautiful vistas you’ll remember.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Expert guides are consistently praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling skills.
• Varied itinerary includes iconic sites like Oia and Pyrgos, plus historic and natural landmarks such as Akrotiri and Red Beach.
• Wine tasting is an optional addition, offering a chance to enjoy local volcanic wines in a stunning setting.
• Luxury transportation and hotel pickup make the day seamless and stress-free.
• Flexible options cater to different time constraints, from a quick 4.5-hour tour to the full 7-hour experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Meeting Point and Pickup

The tour begins with hotel pickup from 15 convenient locations, including Fira, Oia, Kamari, and others. This is a real plus, as it saves you the hassle of figuring out transportation and allows you to start the day relaxed. The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately—think comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a light jacket if needed.

If you’re staying outside the main towns, you’ll be asked to meet at a central point, such as the Fira bus station or the cable car top station. The tour provider emphasizes clear communication, and they’ll send you details on where to meet if you don’t respond to their emails in time.

The Classic Tour (4.5 hours): Highlights and Pace

This shorter option is perfect for those with limited time. It includes all the highlights that make Santorini special: Oia, Pyrgos, and the Prophet Elias Monastery. You’ll stroll through Oia’s famous blue-domed churches and narrow streets, soaking in the views and capturing photos. The guide’s insights breathe life into the scenery—no more generic tourist snapshots here.

The visit to Pyrgos, a traditional village with a medieval charm, offers a chance to wander narrow alleyways, see local architecture, and enjoy sweeping island panoramas. The tour also features a photo stop at the Prophet Elias Monastery, perched atop the island’s highest peak, offering panoramic views worth a quick look.

The Full-Day Tour (7 hours): More of Santorini’s Secrets

Adding to the classic experience, the full-day includes Akrotiri Excavations, Red Beach, and Emporio.

• The Akrotiri site is an ancient Minoan city buried by volcanic ash, often called the “Pompeii of the Aegean.” Entry isn’t included (costs 20€), but the guide provides fascinating context about this archaeological wonder, which brings the island’s ancient past vividly to life.

• The Red Beach, with its striking red cliffs and volcanic sands, is a must-see for its natural drama. It’s a great spot to snap memorable photos or just marvel at nature’s volcanic artistry.

• Emporio, a medieval village with Venetian roots, offers a labyrinth of alleys to explore, along with a castle that provides a sense of history and a view of the surrounding countryside.

The Guide and Transportation

Throughout the tour, an experienced guide leads the way, sharing stories, historical facts, and local insights. The reviews consistently highlight guides like Nikolaos, Sofia, Kostas, and others for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to personalize the experience. Many travelers appreciated their storytelling skills, which made the sights come alive.

Transportation is by luxury, air-conditioned coach, ensuring comfort during the often winding drives between sites. The size of the groups (6-12 guests) means you’re not lost in a sea of strangers, and your guide can tailor parts of the tour based on your interests.

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The Optional Wine Tasting

For an extra 20€, you can indulge in a Santorini wine tasting at a renowned winery—an experience many reviews recommend. You’ll sample volcanic wines, which have a distinctive minerality due to the island’s unique geology. The setting typically offers stunning views, making this a relaxing way to end or enhance your day.

Travelers describe the wine tasting as a highlight, with many noting the knowledgeable staff and quality of wines. It’s a great way to slow down and savor Santorini’s volcanic terroir in a peaceful environment.

What Travelers Say

The reviews paint a consistent picture of a well-organized, enjoyable experience. Guests rave about their guides, with comments like “Nikolas was outstanding” and “Sophia was an incredible guide.” Many mention how small groups make the tour feel personal, with plenty of time for questions, photos, and customized stops.

The value for money also earns kudos. For the fee, you get hotel pickup, transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and multiple sights, often with some flexibility. One reviewer pointed out that the tour covered “all the key sights” in a short time, making it perfect for those with limited days on the island.

Some travelers appreciated the extra touches, such as bottled water, personalized photo opportunities, and the chance to learn about local culture and history beyond just the scenery.

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a rundown of Santorini’s most iconic sights in a manageable day. It’s also perfect for travelers who prefer small groups and expert guides, ensuring a friendly, personalized experience.

If you’re a history buff, a lover of scenic vistas, or a wine enthusiast, this tour ticks multiple boxes. It’s especially suited for those who want to see a lot without feeling rushed, as the moderate pace and flexible options cater to different energy levels.

However, if you’re looking for a more leisurely, less structured day or have mobility issues, you might find the full schedule a bit packed. Also, since certain sites like Akrotiri require additional entry fees, budget accordingly.

The Santorini Highlights Tour with Wine Tasting offers a well-rounded, authentic glimpse into the island’s beauty, history, and flavor. The combination of gorgeous views, knowledgeable guides, and small-group intimacy makes it a standout choice for many travelers.

You’ll especially enjoy this tour if you value local storytelling, picturesque stops, and a taste of Santorini’s volcanic wines. It’s a smart way to cover a lot of ground in one day, providing enough variety to keep everyone engaged.

While it may be a bit intense for those seeking a slow, relaxing day, it’s definitely a good option for anyone wanting a balanced, immersive, and fun introduction to Santorini.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup from 15 pickup locations around Santorini, simplifying your start to the day.

What if I don’t respond to the tour provider’s emails?
If you don’t answer their emails at least 2 hours before the tour, you’ll need to meet at the central Fira bus station where staff will hold a sign for “Santorini highlights tour.”

Can I opt for the wine tasting?
Yes, the wine tasting is an optional upgrade costing 20€ per person. Many travelers find it adds a lovely relaxing end to the tour.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the Akrotiri Excavations entrance fee (20€) is paid separately if you choose to visit the archaeological site.

How long is the tour?
The classic tour lasts around 4.5 hours, while the full-day version is approximately 7 hours. Exact starting times vary; check availability when booking.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour involves some walking and standing, so consider your child’s stamina and interest.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, a camera, and a sun hat are recommended. Dress for the weather, as the tour operates in all conditions.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
It’s not recommended for wheelchair users or those with significant mobility problems due to walking and uneven surfaces at some stops.

In sum, this tour offers a thoughtful way to see Santorini’s highlights, with a friendly guide, beautiful vistas, and a taste of local wines—perfect for making the most of your precious time on this stunning island.

You can check availability for your dates here: