Santorini: Full-Day Small Group Tour

If you’re looking to explore some of the most iconic sights of Santorini without the hassle of planning every detail, this full-day small group tour offers a well-balanced mix of breathtaking vistas, authentic village strolls, and volcanic landscapes. Costing around $587 for a private group of up to six, this five-hour adventure is ideal if you want a personalized experience led by knowledgeable guides who know the island inside out.

What we love most about this tour is the opportunity to visit Oia, famous for its whitewashed buildings and blue-domed churches, and the panoramic viewpoint from Profitis Ilias, the highest point on the island. The small-group setting ensures attentive guides and a flexible pace — perfect for savoring each stop without feeling rushed. Another highlight is the chance to walk along volcanic Red Beach and Perivolos Beach, offering striking landscapes you won’t forget.

One thing to consider is that entrance fees and food and drinks are not included, so you’ll want to budget some extra for those. Also, the tour involves some light walking, and good walking shoes and sun protection are recommended, especially in the summer. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate a mix of scenic beauty, laid-back exploration, and personalized attention.

If you enjoy guided tours that focus on authentic sights and local insights without a large crowd, this experience is an excellent choice. It’s especially suited for those who value customization, comfort, and stunning views.

Key Points

Small group size allows for a personalized experience.
Expert guides enhance your understanding of Santorini’s highlights.
Visiting Oia and Firostefani gives you classic postcard views.
Panoramic stop at Profitis Ilias offers the best island-wide vistas.
Volcanic beaches like Red Beach and Perivolos showcase Santorini’s unique geology.
Transportation in a luxury VIP minibus ensures comfort and climate control.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point: Firostefani and the Blue Dome Church

The tour kicks off in Firostefani, a quiet village just north of the bustling Fira. Here, you’ll find the most visited blue dome church, an iconic photo spot that embodies Santorini’s signature style. From this vantage point, we loved how the guide pointed out the sweeping views of the caldera, volcano, and the island’s cliff-hugging towns. It’s a perfect teaser for the day ahead, setting the tone with scenic beauty and local charm.

The small group means we could linger for photos or ask questions without feeling rushed. The air-conditioned minibus made the early part of the day comfortable, especially during the warmer months. Our guide was clear about the schedule and shared little insights about Firostefani, making the stop both relaxing and informative.

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Oia: The Village of Dreamy Views

Next, we headed to Oia, widely regarded as the highlight of any Santorini visit. Perched on the island’s northern tip, Oia is famous for its whitewashed buildings, narrow winding streets, and blue-domed churches. Here, we had the freedom to explore on our own, shop for local crafts, or simply soak up the views.

The guide emphasized the village’s architectural charm and pointed out good spots for photos. Fans of classic Santorini postcard scenery will appreciate how Oia’s clifftop setting offers spectacular vistas of the caldera and the sea. It’s a place that invites slow wandering, and with limited time, we found ourselves wishing for more moments to sit and watch the sunset — which, if you visit at the right time, can be truly magical.

Profitis Ilias: Panoramic Views from Santorini’s Highest Point

After Oia, the tour takes you to Profitis Ilias, the highest spot on the island at 567 meters. This stop is a real highlight, offering 360-degree views of Santorini, including the caldera, volcano, and neighboring islands. We loved the way our guide explained the island’s volcanic history and pointed out the different towns sprawling below.

The view is breathtaking and worth the short drive. It’s an ideal setting for photos, and a moment to appreciate the island’s volcanic origins and rugged beauty. The altitude also provides a cooler breeze, a relief during the summer heat.

Red Beach: A Volcanic Landscape Like No Other

The tour then moves to Red Beach, famous for its vivid red volcanic cliffs and black volcanic sands. Walking along the shoreline, we were struck by the eerie, otherworldly landscape created by volcanic activity. The rocks here seem to glow against the dark sand — a truly unique scene.

While Red Beach is wonderful for photos and a quick visit, it’s also somewhat crowded and can involve some walking over uneven terrain. The guides are helpful here, ensuring everyone stays safe while appreciating the raw beauty of this volcanic site.

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Perivolos Beach: Relaxing on Santorini’s Black Sands

The final stop is Perivolos Beach, a long stretch of black volcanic sand with shallow waters. It’s the perfect place to unwind, dip your toes in the sea, or enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the beachfront tavernas. Our guide recommended some local spots, and we appreciated the laid-back vibe after a day of sightseeing.

The beach offers a different kind of scenic beauty — more tranquil, yet just as captivating. Many travelers find this a relaxing way to end the tour, soaking in the sun and the sea.

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Tour End: Convenient Drop-Off

The tour wraps up with a drop-off at your original meeting point or another location of your choice, making it easy to continue your Santorini adventure. The transport is always air-conditioned and comfortable, which makes a big difference after a busy day.

Included in the price is the private small group tour, guided by a professional English-speaking guide, with pick-up and drop-off from your selected meeting point. The luxury VIP minibus ensures a comfortable ride, and bottled water keeps you hydrated as you explore.

Keep in mind that entrance fees to sites and food or drinks are not included, so budget accordingly. This allows you to choose whether to indulge in local dishes or focus on the sights.

Accessibility and Practical Notes

The tour is wheelchair accessible, but you should contact ahead to confirm your specific needs. Dress casually, and in summer, light clothing, a hat, and good walking shoes are strongly recommended. The walking involved is light but necessary for some stops, especially in villages and on uneven surfaces.

Authentic Experiences and Insights

Our guides were quite knowledgeable, often sharing interesting tidbits about Santorini’s volcanic past, local traditions, and architecture. As one reviewer noted, “Magda and Giorgios were very accommodating, including a beach break and lunch stop, which made the day feel personalized.”

Many travelers praised the guides for their flexibility and helpfulness, making the experience more enjoyable. The small group size allows for more interaction and tailored experiences, which many find worth the extra cost.

This full-day small group tour is best suited for travelers who want a personalized, relaxed experience that covers Santorini’s key sights. It’s ideal if you prefer guided insights, stunning views, and a limited group size for better interaction. The mix of scenic viewpoints, charming villages, volcanic beaches, and a comfortable vehicle makes for a well-rounded day.

If you’re someone who appreciates authentic landscapes over large crowds, and is willing to pay a bit extra for quality and comfort, this tour will serve you well. It’s especially suitable if you value expert guides who can tailor the experience and enrich your understanding of the island’s natural and cultural highlights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children under 5 are free, and the tour involves light walking, making it manageable for most ages. Be sure to bring sun protection and appropriate footwear.

What time does the tour start?
Start times vary; check availability directly to find a schedule that fits your plans.

Are food and drinks included?
No, these are not included. You might find it worthwhile to bring snacks or plan a meal at one of the beaches or villages.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, it is designed to be accessible for people with special needs or disabilities, but prior contact is recommended to confirm specific requirements.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, giving you enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What should I wear?
Casual, light clothing is best, especially during summer. Walking shoes and a hat for sun protection are highly recommended.

Can I customize the tour?
While the itinerary is set, guides are known for their flexibility and can accommodate some preferences, especially in a small group setting.

This Santorini tour offers a thoughtfully curated way to experience the island’s most photogenic and meaningful sights, with the comfort and convenience of a private guide. Whether you want iconic scenery, volcanic landscapes, or charming villages, it’s a solid choice for a memorable day on this beautiful Greek island.