6 hours – Semi Private Island Tour with Wine Tasting and Food Pairing

A 6-hour journey through Santorini’s most captivating sights, combined with wine tasting and local cuisine, offers a well-balanced mix of history, beauty, and flavor. Priced at around $206 per person, this tour is designed for small groups—maximizing personal attention and making it feel more like a day out with friends than a crowded bus ride. You’ll visit iconic villages, explore a prehistoric archaeological site, and enjoy a vineyard lunch, all with round-trip hotel transfers included.

Two things we really appreciate about this experience are the intimate group size—limiting it to just 7 travelers—and the variety of stops that combine cultural sights with scenic wine tasting. The guide’s local knowledge shines through, making each stop more meaningful, especially when paired with delicious Greek food and wines.

A possible consideration is that the tour doesn’t include the entrance fee for the Akrotiri archaeological site, so you’ll want to budget an additional $20 if you plan to explore the ruins on your own. Also, for those eager for a beach swim, this tour doesn’t stop at the beaches for swimming, so plan accordingly if that’s a priority.

This tour suits travelers who want to see the island’s highlights without the crowds, enjoy authentic food and wine experiences, and appreciate guided insights into Santorini’s history and culture. It’s particularly well-suited for those who value small-group intimacy and flexible, personalized touring.

Key Points

• Small Group Size: Only up to 7 travelers, allowing personalized attention and a more relaxed experience.
• Diverse Itinerary: Combines historical sites, scenic villages, a volcanic beach, and wine tasting.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Adonis and Zach earn praise for their knowledge, humor, and flexibility.
• Cost & Value: Price includes lunch, wine tastings, hotel transfers, and a full day of sightseeing, making it a worthwhile investment.
• No Crowds: Smaller groups help avoid the large tourist buses and create more authentic connections.
• Flexibility & Comfort: Includes pickup from select hotels, and the tour runs smoothly with an emphasis on comfort and safety.

Exploring Santorini in Depth: A Practical Review

Starting the Day: Comfortable Pickup and Small-Group Tour

We begin our day at 9:30 am with a pickup from our hotel or a designated meeting point, depending on whether you’re staying in Fira or other central locations. The small group size—no more than 7—immediately sets a friendly, relaxed tone. When you travel with fewer people, it’s easier to ask questions, take photos without feeling rushed, and enjoy a more personal narrative from your guide.

Throughout the day, the vehicle remains comfortable, often air-conditioned, offering a smooth ride between stops. This is especially valuable if you’re visiting during the warmer months, as Santorini can get quite hot, especially around midday.

Pyrgos: A Medieval Village with Venetian Roots

Our first stop is Pyrgos, a traditional village built in the 15th century by Venetians. Here, we walk through narrow streets lined with charming stone houses, and visit one of the island’s best-preserved castle ruins. It’s a peaceful, authentic spot that feels worlds away from the busy tourist scenes at Oia. The 30-minute visit offers great photo opportunities of the town’s towers and panoramic views.

Reviewers love Pyrgos for its genuine feel. One said, “Pyrgos was pretty, the beaches looked very nice,” though note that beaches are not part of this tour; the focus is on cultural sights.

Akrotiri Archaeological Site: A Prehistoric Marvel

Next, we visit the Akrotiri Archaeological Site, often called the “Pompeii of the Aegean.” This 1-hour stop takes you through the ruins of what was once a thriving Minoan settlement from the 4th millennium BC. The site offers fascinating insights into ancient life, with well-preserved walls, streets, and pottery.

However, admission isn’t included, which means you’ll need around $20 if you want to explore on your own. Many reviews highlight the value of this stop, with visitors describing it as “an archaeological wonder” that adds a deep layer of understanding about Santorini’s long history.

Scenic Drive along Perivolos Beach

We then enjoy a leisurely drive along the 4-kilometer stretch of Perivolos volcanic black sand beach. While there’s no time to swim, the views are stunning, offering a stark contrast to the white-washed villages and a reminder of the island’s volcanic origins. This drive provides helpful photo stops and a chance to appreciate Santorini’s unique geology.

Megalochori: A Winding Village and Vinsanto Tradition

Our next village stop is Megalochori, a 17th-century village famous for its Vinsanto wine. Wandering its quiet streets, you’ll see traditional architecture and taste the real soul of rural Santorini. The 30-minute visit is a peaceful break and a chance to appreciate local craftsmanship.

Reviewers mention their appreciation for this stop, noting “the village was pretty,” and that it offers a different, less commercialized glimpse of island life.

Oia: The Cliffside Icon

No Santorini tour would be complete without a visit to Oia, famous for its sunset views, narrow alleys, and stunning cliffside vistas. Here, you’ll have about an hour to explore on foot, take pictures, and soak in the atmosphere. You might find yourself stopping at cafes or shops, but the real highlight is the view of the caldera and the iconic white buildings.

Multiple reviews rave about Oia’s photogenic qualities, with one describing it as “exquisite,” echoing the sentiments of countless travelers who cherish capturing the perfect postcard shot.

Savoring Greek Food and Wine at a Vineyard

The highlight for many is the lunch at a local vineyard, where you enjoy a traditional Greek meal paired with local wines. This isn’t just a quick snack—it’s a thoughtfully curated experience, with attentive wine tasting and food pairing that showcases Santorini’s viticultural prowess.

Guides like Zach and Spiros are praised for their knowledge and hospitality, making the wine tasting not only educational but also fun. Reviewers mention “delicious food and regional wines,” and a few note the excellent quality of the wine, making this part of the tour a real treat.

Ending the Day and Returning to Your Hotel

The tour concludes back at the starting point, typically around 3:30 to 4 pm, leaving you with plenty of time to relax or continue exploring independently. The seamless transfers and the relaxed pace mean you leave feeling satisfied, not exhausted.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

Compared to larger group excursions, this semi-private tour strikes a fine balance between affordability and intimacy. The $206 price tag includes lunch, wine tastings, transportation, and expert insights, which means you’re paying for a curated experience rather than just transportation or a generic sightseeing bus. The reviews consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and friendly manner, adding meaning to each stop.

What sets this experience apart is its focus on authenticity—visiting villages off the main tourist trail, exploring ancient ruins, and enjoying wine in a vineyard setting. The small group size ensures that you’ll never feel lost in the crowd, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities for questions, photos, and spontaneous conversations.

Practical Tips for Making the Most

• Bring cash for the Akrotiri entrance fee and any souvenirs.
• Wear comfortable shoes—walking is involved at Pyrgos, Megalochori, and Oia.
• Don’t expect to swim; plan for a beach day if swimming is a priority.
• Check if the vineyard lunch includes any dietary restrictions you might have.
• Consider the timing if you’re on a cruise—it’s only available from the Prehistoric Museum of Thera in Fira for cruise passengers.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want to see the best of Santorini without the hassle of planning, especially those who appreciate a small-group environment and genuine local experiences. It’s perfect for history buffs, wine lovers, and anyone wanting to capture the island’s most iconic scenery with expert guidance. If you prefer a more relaxed, personal feel over large crowds, this is a fantastic choice.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, round-trip transfers are included from select Santorini hotels, making logistics straightforward.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 6 hours, starting at 9:30 am and ending back at the meeting point around mid-afternoon.

What’s not included in the price?
Entry tickets for Akrotiri (€20) and personal expenses are not included but can be paid on-site or in advance.

Can I customize the stops?
The itinerary is fairly fixed, but guides like Adonis and Zach are praised for their flexibility and thoughtful approach, so some adjustments may be possible if communicated in advance.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for some walking at Pyrgos, Megalochori, and Oia.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 7 travelers, which enhances the experience by allowing more interaction and personal attention.

In short, this semi-private tour of Santorini offers a well-rounded day for those eager to experience the island’s highlights in a relaxed, intimate setting. From exploring ancient ruins and picturesque villages to enjoying local wines and authentic Greek cuisine, it’s designed to leave you with lasting memories—and plenty of fantastic photos. If you’re after a blend of history, scenery, and local flavor, this tour is a smart choice that balances value with genuine experience.