Santorini First-Time Guests Private Tour Sightseeing, excavetions & wine testing

Experience Santorini Like a Local: A Comprehensive Review of the Private First-Time Guests Tour

If you’re visiting Santorini for the first time and want to see the best the island has to offer, this private sightseeing tour is an excellent choice. Priced at around $300.98 per person, it lasts roughly 6 to 7 hours and covers everything from iconic villages with blue domes to volcanic beaches, wineries, and ancient ruins. Led by experienced guides in a comfortable luxury vehicle, this tour promises a personalized experience tailored to your interests.

One of the things we love about this tour is its carefully curated itinerary that balances famous sights with lesser-known gems—like the tranquil Megalochori. Plus, the inclusion of wine tasting at a volcanic vineyard offers a flavor of local tradition that many visitors miss. The option for pickup and the private setup means you can enjoy a flexible, intimate day without the crowds.

A potential consideration is the full-day schedule, which might be a bit demanding for those with limited mobility or simply wanting a more relaxed pace. Still, if you’re eager to explore the island thoroughly in one go, this is a fantastic option. It suits travelers who appreciate authentic experiences, enjoy learning from guides, and want to see the diverse facets of Santorini—from its scenic villages to its archaeological history.

Who is this tour best for? It’s ideal for first-timers to Santorini eager to get an overview of the island’s highlights with a knowledgeable guide. It also appeals to those interested in wine and history, and who prefer a private, tailor-made experience over group tours. If you’re looking for a comprehensive, well-balanced day out that covers both scenic beauty and cultural richness, this tour fits the bill.

Key Points

• Personalized experience with a private guide in a luxury vehicle
• Comprehensive itinerary including villages, beaches, wineries, and ancient ruins
• Authentic local experiences like wine tasting and exploring non-touristy villages
• Excellent reviews highlight knowledgeable guides and stunning views
• Cost reflects value through a full day of diverse activities and expert commentary
• Flexibility with pickup options and customizable aspects

The Complete Breakdown of Your Santorini Day

Starting Point and First Impressions

The tour begins with a pickup at the Cable Car of Santorini in Fira, the bustling heart of the island. From the start, the focus is on providing a comfortable, personalized experience—your group alone, not a crowd, in a luxury vehicle. This sets the tone for a day where your pace and interests come first.

Firostefani: The Crown of Fira

Your first stop is Firostefani, a quaint village perched on the highest point of Fira. Sometimes overlooked by visitors rushing to Oia, Firostefani offers some of the most breathtaking views of the caldera and the volcano. You get about 45 minutes here, enough to snap photos and soak in the scenery. The village’s cozy cafes and boutique hotels provide a peaceful contrast to the busy town below.

We loved the way this stop sets a relaxed tone early on, giving you a chance to appreciate the island’s natural beauty without the crowds. The quiet streets and scenic outlooks make it a perfect introduction.

Oia: The Iconic Village

Next, you’ll visit Oia, probably the most famous village on Santorini’s northwest edge. Known globally for its whitewashed buildings, blue domes, and spectacular sunsets, Oia extends along the caldera at about 70–100 meters above sea level.

Your guide will point out the narrow passageways and charming central square—perfect for wandering and taking photos. The 1 hour and 40 minutes spend here is ideal for exploring at your own pace, with plenty of photo opportunities, particularly of the white churches and colorful bougainvillaea. The steep steps down to the port are a reminder of the village’s dramatic setting, though you won’t be required to descend if you prefer.

From reviews, it’s clear many visitors find Oia mesmerizing. One reviewer said, “It’s a scenic village on the north west edge of the island, with complex narrow passageways and beautiful sunset views.” If you love classic postcard scenes, Oia will not disappoint.

Megalochori: A Quiet Taste of Local Life

The tour continues to Megalochori, a peaceful, traditional village about 9 km southwest of Fira. Its stone streets and neoclassical houses evoke a slower, more authentic atmosphere. With only around 300 residents, it’s a perfect spot to get a sense of local life away from the tourist throngs.

We appreciated the chance to stroll cobbled streets lined with old cave houses and stately churches, with high fences and solid wooden doors that hint at the island’s pirate history. The village is also famous for its vineyards and wineries, making it an ideal stop for wine lovers.

Volcanic Wine Tasting at Gavalas Winery

Santorini’s volcanic soil makes its wines uniquely flavorful. Your visit to Gavalas Winery (or a similar local hotel) includes tasting four different varieties of volcanic wine, with the opportunity to learn about the history and production.

According to reviews, the wine tasting is a highlight—one visitor shared, “You taste four different varieties per person and learn about the local wines,” which adds depth to your understanding of Santorini’s viticulture. The tasting takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes, offering plenty of time to savor and ask questions.

Exploring the Ancient City of Akrotiri

History buffs will find the Akrotiri Archaeological Site fascinating. This prehistoric settlement was buried by volcanic ash around 1650 BC, preserving frescoes and well-preserved structures. At about 1 hour and 30 minutes of exploration, you’ll walk through the ruins of a city that dates back to 4500 BC, gaining insight into the island’s earliest civilization.

One reviewer noted, “It’s one of the most important prehistoric settlements of the Aegean,” and praised the impressive mural paintings. Visiting here offers a tangible connection to Santorini’s ancient past.

The Black Sand Beach: Perissa

No trip to Santorini is complete without experiencing its volcanic beaches. The Perissa Black Sand Beach stretches for about an hour, where you can swim, relax, and enjoy lunch at a seaside restaurant. Its black volcanic sand and pebbles create a striking landscape, and the lively beach bars and water sports add fun and energy.

Many reviewers mention the lively atmosphere, with one saying, “The inviting beach bars and plentiful restaurants make it a very lively place,” perfect for a laid-back yet vibrant beach experience.

Wrapping Up in the Caldera

The tour concludes with a final glimpse of the caldera, leaving you with a feeling of having truly touched the essence of Santorini. The small company prides itself on quality, knowledgeable guides, and family-friendly service, making this a reliable choice for first-time visitors wanting a rundown.

Authentic Experiences and Authentic Value

This tour’s strength lies in its well-rounded approach—visiting the most photogenic villages, ancient ruins, and volcanic beaches, all while sampling local wines, which are a standout feature. The private setting means your guide can accommodate your interests more easily than a standard group tour, allowing for spontaneous stops or extra time at places you love.

From glowing reviews, it’s clear that the guides’ knowledgeability and friendly demeanor make a real difference. One traveller shared, “Petros is truly one of a kind, and will make the tour worthwhile,” highlighting the importance of personal touch and local insight.

The cost is justified by the full-day coverage and the quality of experiences, especially considering included wine tastings and entrance fees. For first-timers, it’s a fantastic way to get a comprehensive snapshot of the island without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Practical Tips

• Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially for walking in villages and archaeological sites.
• The lunch at the beach can be casual, so bring some cash or card.
• The timing is flexible but expect to spend most of the day outdoors, so dress appropriately for the weather.
• Since the tour is private, you can discuss and customize parts of the schedule with your guide if desired.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a first-time visitor wanting a thorough introduction to Santorini, this tour is ideal. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate a personalized experience, enjoy wine, and want to explore both popular sights and hidden corners. History enthusiasts will love the archaeological site, while lovers of scenic villages will find plenty to adore.

Couples, families, or small groups looking for a luxurious, intimate day will find this a worthwhile investment. If you prefer a more relaxed, unhurried pace or want to spend more time in one or two places, you might want to customize or extend your stay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for young children?
The tour is private and flexible, so it can be suitable for children, especially if they enjoy walking around villages and beaches. However, some stops, like the archaeological site and walking in villages with steep steps, may require some patience.

How long is the total duration?
The entire experience lasts around 6 to 7 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and tasting.

Does the tour include entrance fees?
Yes, the tour covers entrance costs for the archaeological site and the wine tasting at the winery.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, you may be able to discuss modifications with your guide, such as spending more time in a favorite spot or skipping certain stops.

Is pickup offered?
Yes, pickup is available, making it easy and convenient to start your day without worries.

What’s the best time of year for this tour?
While not explicitly stated, Santorini generally has good weather from spring to fall. The tour requires good weather, and if canceled due to rain or storms, a full refund or rescheduling is available.

How is the wine tasting experience?
Guests report that the wine tasting is informative, with four varieties sampled per person, paired with stories about local vineyards, offering a deeper appreciation for Santorini’s volcanic wines.

Final Thoughts

This private Santorini tour offers a robust, authentic experience that showcases the island’s most iconic sights along with hidden gems. It balances scenic beauty, history, and local flavors—all delivered with expert guidance and a personal touch. For first-time visitors eager to see as much as possible without sacrificing quality, it’s an ideal choice.

While it demands a full day and some walking, the experience’s depth and personalized service make it worthwhile. The combination of stunning views, historical sites, and wine tasting creates a memorable introduction to Santorini that many travelers cherish long after their visit.

If you want a comprehensive, hassle-free, and authentic way to discover Santorini, this tour will serve you well—especially if you appreciate good guides, beautiful scenery, and local wines. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, family, or small group, it offers a fantastic way to make the most of your time on this beautiful Greek island.

Enjoy your Santorini adventure—wonderful sights, delicious wines, and timeless beauty await.