Santorini:Private Top Highlights & Hidden Gems Tour

Thinking about exploring Santorini but want to skip the crowds and see the island through the eyes of a local? This private tour offers a tailored experience that hits the high points—like Oia and Imerovigli—while also uncovering some lesser-known gems. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a personalized way to absorb the island’s beauty, history, and unique landscapes, all in a manageable five hours.

What we love about this experience is how it balances iconic sights—like the blue-domed churches of Oia—with authentic spots like Perissa’s volcanic sands. Plus, the flexibility of a private guide means you can spend more time soaking up the views or exploring a specific site that catches your interest. One thing to consider is that this tour doesn’t include entrance fees or guided interior visits, so you might want to budget extra time or money if you’re keen to explore archaeological sites more thoroughly. This tour suits those who appreciate comfort, personalized attention, and a mix of famous and hidden corners of Santorini.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience tailored to your interests.
• Includes visits to top landmarks like Oia, Imerovigli, and Prophet Elias Monastery.
• Breathtaking scenic stops at volcanic beaches and panoramic viewpoints.
• Comfortable transportation in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle.
• Flexible timing to enjoy each stop at your own pace.
• Ideal for travelers who want a more intimate, personalized tour of Santorini.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and What You’ll Experience

This tour is designed to give you a well-rounded view of Santorini’s highlights, with enough time to enjoy each spot without feeling rushed. It’s a private experience, which means your driver-guide will tailor the pace and stops to your interests. Here’s what you’ll typically encounter:

Starting Point and Pickup Options

You can choose from nine convenient pickup locations, including popular spots like Perissa, Kamari, Imerovigli, Athinios Port, Santorini Airport, Oia, Akrotiri, Thera, or the central square in Firostefani. This flexibility helps travelers arriving by plane or ferry, or those staying in different parts of the island. Expect your driver to hold a sign with your name, ensuring a smooth start.

Oia: The Iconic Village

Your first stop is the famed Oia, renowned for its whitewashed alleys and blue-domed churches. The views here are often described as postcard-perfect, with narrow cobbled streets winding past charming cafes and shops. We loved the way Oia’s architecture blends seamlessly into the landscape, offering countless photo opportunities. Because this is a private tour, you can take your time wandering, capturing images, or simply soaking in the atmosphere without feeling rushed.

Imerovigli and Skaros Rock

Next, the tour takes you to Imerovigli, often called the “balcony to the caldera.” It’s a quieter, less crowded spot compared to Oia but just as stunning. From here, you’ll get spectacular views of Skaros Rock, a volcanic formation rising dramatically from the sea. Guides often point out why Imerovigli has become a favorite among photographers and romantics alike. As one reviewer put it, this village offers a “perfect shot of the caldera with fewer crowds.”

More Great Tours Nearby

Prophet Elias Monastery

Moving inland, you’ll ascend to the Prophet Elias Monastery, sitting at Santorini’s highest point. This site not only provides sweeping views of the island and the Aegean Sea but also offers a glimpse into the island’s religious history. The monastery has been well preserved, and climbing up there is rewarded with panoramic vistas and a sense of standing atop Santorini itself.

Volcanic Beaches: Red and Black Sands

No trip to Santorini is complete without visiting its distinctive beaches. Your guide will take you to Red Beach, located near the ancient site of Akrotiri. It’s famous for its striking red volcanic sand and towering, crimson cliffs—an otherworldly landscape. Many describe it as a jaw-dropping sight, perfect for photos or a brief walk along the shoreline.

Further along, you’ll enjoy stops at Perissa and Perivolos, two beaches adorned with black sand—a result of volcanic activity. Here, you can relax on the unique dark sands, which shine beautifully under the sun. The massive Mesa Vouno rock rising out of the sea adds to the dramatic scenery, making this area a favorite for those wanting a more laid-back, natural experience.

Free Time and Local Flavors

The tour includes ample free time in Perissa or nearby villages for lunch, drinks, or just wandering. This is a great opportunity to sample local cuisine, browse shops, or simply sit back and enjoy the seaside atmosphere. Many travelers appreciate the chance to pause before heading back to their accommodations or cruise ship.

Returning and Drop-off

Your driver will drop you off at your chosen location, whether it’s the airport, port, or a hotel. This personalized departure means less hassle and more time enjoying your last views of the island.

Why This Tour Stands Out

The private nature of the experience is its best feature. We loved how our guide was able to adapt the day to our interests—spending extra time at a viewpoint or skipping a stop if we preferred. The modern, air-conditioned vehicle kept us comfortable, especially during the midday sun.

The knowledgeable local guide elevated the experience. They shared stories about the history of each site, from the significance of the churches in Oia to the volcanic origin of the beaches. As one reviewer noted, the guide’s insights made the scenery more meaningful, transforming a pretty view into a story of the island’s geological and cultural past.

The scenic variety was another highlight. From the bustling elegance of Oia to the peacefulness of Imerovigli, and the striking volcanic beaches, each stop offered something unique. The views from Prophet Elias Monastery, in particular, are often described as breathtaking—worth the climb for that reason alone.

While the cost of $164 per person might seem high compared to group tours, the value lies in the personalized attention, flexibility, and comfort. For travelers seeking an intimate experience that covers a broad spectrum of Santorini’s best-loved sights, this tour packs a lot into just five hours.

The Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Timing is flexible, but most tours last about five hours, with starting times that you can check with the provider. The tour does not include entrance fees, so budget extra if you want to explore archaeological sites more deeply.

The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility issues, as some sites involve walking or climbing. You’ll want comfortable shoes, a camera, and sunglasses to make the most of your day.

Booking is easy with flexible cancellation policies—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can reserve now and pay later, which helps if your plans are still tentative.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is a solid choice for travelers who want a personalized, comfortable way to see Santorini’s top sights without the hassle of arranging multiple transports or group tours. Couples and small groups will especially appreciate the private aspect. It’s perfect if you value expert local guides, stunning scenic viewpoints, and the freedom to customize your day.

If you’re short on time but want to get a meaningful taste of the island, this five-hour trip makes the most of your day. It’s also great for those who prefer a quieter experience—away from the large cruise crowds—yet still want to see the most famous sites.

For travelers who want a blend of iconic vistas and authentic moments, this tour hits the sweet spot. Just remember, it doesn’t include entrance fees or in-depth museum visits, so plan accordingly if you’re eager to explore the archaeology or interior sites more thoroughly.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Since it involves some walking and climbing to sites like Prophet Elias Monastery, it’s best suited for those with good mobility. It’s a relaxing experience for most adults and older children.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is private and can be tailored to your interests, allowing you to spend more time at certain sights or skip others.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a camera, and comfortable shoes. Since it’s a daytime tour, hats and sunscreen are also recommended.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees to attractions are not included. You might want to bring extra cash if you plan to visit archaeological sites or museums.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts about five hours, but this can be adjusted depending on your preferences.

How do I arrange pickup?
You can choose from nine pickup locations, and your driver will be waiting at the designated spot with a sign bearing your name.

To sum it up, this private tour offers an excellent way to experience the highlights of Santorini while enjoying the comfort and flexibility that come with a personalized approach. It’s best suited for those eager to see both the celebrated sights and some lesser-known treasures with the help of knowledgeable guides. If you value authentic experiences, stunning vistas, and a tailored itinerary, this could be your ideal way to explore the island.

You can check availability for your dates here: