Discover Santorini: Private Full-Day Tour with Wine Tasting!

If you’re dreaming of exploring Santorini beyond the usual postcard shots, this private full-day tour offers a chance to see the island’s authentic side. For around $621 per group for up to two people, you’ll spend about six hours cruising in a luxury Mercedes minibus with a knowledgeable guide. You’ll visit picturesque villages like Oia, Imerovigli, and Firostefani, enjoy a wine tasting at a historic cave winery, and marvel at sweeping views from Prophet Elias Mountain.
What we really love about this tour is how it balances iconic sights with hidden gems — like secret lookout points and a charming traditional village — all in a comfortable, private setting. Plus, the wine tasting at Koutsogiannopoulos adds a local flavor you can’t get just by wandering alone.
One potential consideration: since the tour covers many stops in just six hours, some travelers might find it a bit rushed if they want more time at each location. But if you prefer an organized, in-depth overview with plenty of expert commentary, this tour is a winner.
This experience suits travelers who want a personalized, authentic Santorini adventure without the hassle of planning each stop, especially those who value local insights and scenic views.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private tour with a dedicated guide offers flexibility and tailored insights.
• Cultural & Scenic Highlights: From villages to panoramic mountain views, you’ll see Santorini’s most photogenic spots.
• Wine Tasting: Unique visit to a cave-based wine museum with four local varieties.
• Beautiful Beaches: Stops at the Red and Black Sand Beaches showcase Santorini’s volcanic origins.
• Comfort & Convenience: Transportation in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle with door-to-door pickup and drop-off.
• Authentic Local Flavor: Explore a traditional settlement and learn about local architecture and history.

Santorini is one of Greece’s most celebrated islands, famous for its dramatic cliffs, whitewashed villages, and legendary sunsets. Yet, for many visitors, the challenge lies in making the most of a limited time while avoiding crowds or superficial sightseeing. This full-day private tour aims to give you a well-rounded and authentic taste of the island’s highlights, with the added comfort of private transportation and a knowledgeable guide.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point: From Thera to the Villages

Your day begins with pickup in Thera (Fira), the island’s bustling capital. From there, your guide — often a friendly and well-informed local — will whisk you away in a luxury Mercedes minibus, ensuring comfort and style. This private setup means you can customize a bit along the way and ask plenty of questions.

The first stops are the iconic villages of Oia, Imerovigli, and Firostefani. These are the postcard-perfect spots perched on the cliffs, offering endless views of the Caldera, volcanic islands, and the surrounding sea. Expect photo stops and some gentle walking through narrow winding streets, where you’ll see white houses, blue-domed churches, and charming cafes. Here, the emphasis is on soaking in the scenery and understanding the context of these towns as the heart of Santorini’s beauty.

What makes these stops special?
The views are truly breathtaking — especially if you arrive early or later in the day, when the light hits the cliffs just right. Also, your guide can point out details often missed by casual visitors, like the history behind the architecture or local legends associated with each village.

Wine Tasting at Koutsogiannopoulos Wine Museum

Next, the tour ventures inland to visit the Koutsogiannopoulos Wine Museum. Hidden inside an 8-meter-deep natural cave, this place is a fascinating blend of history and landscape. The labyrinthine corridors set the scene for learning about Santorini’s winemaking traditions, which date back centuries.

You’ll sample four local varieties: the crisp Assyrtiko, a fascinating Orange Wine, a smooth Ambelones (Red), and a sweet Kamaritis dessert wine. The tasting experience is complemented with crackers and chocolate, making it a relaxed yet educational experience.
This stop offers a rare chance to learn about local traditions and taste authentic Santorini wines in a setting that’s both historic and atmospheric.

What’s special here?
The cave setting adds an authentic, almost mystical vibe, making the tasting more memorable. Plus, the wines themselves showcase the island’s volcanic geology and climate, giving you a real taste of local terroir.

Ascending Prophet Elias Mountain

From wine, your journey takes you up Prophet Elias Mountain, the highest point on the island at about 1,500 feet. The drive up offers spectacular panoramic views, and the scenic overlook at the top provides a perfect spot for photos and awe.
Here, you’ll get 360-degree vistas of Santorini, the surrounding islands, and the deep blue of the Aegean Sea. The monastery at the summit adds a touch of spiritual serenity and a sense of perched above the world feeling.

Why bother going here?
Because standing atop this mountain gives you a sense of the island’s geological majesty and provides some of the most spectacular views Santorini has to offer, often described as a “must-see” by visitors.

Exploring Megalochori – A Traditional Village

After the mountain, a visit to the charming settlement of Megalochori awaits. Unlike the tourist-heavy Oia, this village offers authentic local life with narrow alleys, stone houses, and a sense of stepping back in time. You can wander freely, taking in the local architecture, small cafes, and artisan shops.

What makes Megalochori special?
Many reviews mention how this village feels more genuine and less commercialized. It’s a peaceful break from the crowds and an opportunity to appreciate everyday life on the island.

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Beaches with a Volcanic Twist

The tour wraps up with visits to Red Beach and Perissa Black Sand Beach. The Red Beach, with its striking red volcanic rocks, is a visual marvel, perfect for photos and a short walk. Nearby, the Black Sand Beach of Perissa offers a long stretch of dark sand, where you can relax and enjoy the volcanic landscape.

What’s the benefit of these beach stops?
They highlight Santorini’s geological roots — the volcanic activity that shaped the island — and give you a chance to dip your toes in the Aegean or simply soak in the scenery.

This private experience is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, flexible, and intimate look at Santorini. If you appreciate local stories, scenic views, and authentic villages, you’ll find ample value here. Reviewers praise knowledgeable guides and the ability to see off-the-beaten-path spots, often citing how the guide’s insights made the trip special.

Those who enjoy wine and stunning vistas will also find this tour a highlight, thanks to the wine museum stop and panoramic mountain views. It’s perfect for couples or small groups seeking a customized experience to avoid crowded tour buses and enjoy the island at your own pace.

In essence, this private full-day tour offers a fantastic balance of scenic beauty, cultural richness, and personalized service. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a step above the typical bus tour, with the flexibility to explore sites in depth and learn from a local guide. The wine tasting adds a special touch for those interested in local produce, while the visits to traditional villages and volcanic beaches deliver authentic sights rarely experienced in large group tours.

If you’re after a comprehensive, comfortable, and insightful way to see Santorini’s highlights without feeling rushed or overwhelmed, this tour fits the bill. It’s a good choice for couples, small groups, or anyone craving a personalized adventure with plenty of photo-worthy moments and local flavor.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 6 hours, giving you a thorough yet manageable experience of Santorini’s key sights.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers a private tour, professional driver/guide, air-conditioned transportation, and a wine tasting at the Koutsogiannopoulos Wine Museum with four local varieties, crackers, chocolate, and bottled water.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, since it’s a private tour, you can suggest adjustments or focus more on certain areas if you wish.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, along with sunscreen, a hat, and a camera. Food and drinks are not included, but you can purchase snacks along the way.

Is this tour suitable for cruise ship visitors?
Absolutely. The tour can accommodate cruise guests, with pickup arranged at the old port. It’s important to inform the provider in advance about your cruise details to coordinate pickup.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in case your plans change.

This private Santorini tour blends scenic beauty, cultural insights, and personal comfort into one memorable day. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to experience the island’s essence without the crowds, it offers real value — especially when guided by passionate locals eager to share their homeland’s secrets.