Santorini Highlights Tour with Wine Tasting option

Santorini Highlights Tour with Wine Tasting option offers an excellent way to see some of the most iconic sights of this volcanic Greek island in a half-day or full-day format. With a rating of 4.9 out of 5 from 67 reviews, this experience is praised for its knowledgeable guides, breathtaking views, and the chance to indulge in local wines. Whether you’re short on time or eager to explore more deeply, this tour hits the main highlights while offering some personalized touches that make it stand out.

We love the way the tour balances popular sights like Oia and Pyrgos with visits to less-visited villages and archaeological sites. The option to include a wine tasting at a renowned winery adds a delightful flavor to the trip, especially since Santorini’s volcanic soil creates distinctive wines that are worth savoring. The small group size (6-12 guests) ensures a more intimate experience and personalized attention from guides.

One potential consideration is the duration—the full-day tour extends to about 7 hours, which might feel long for some travelers, especially if you’re not keen on extensive walking or spending many hours on the road. Also, entrance fees for Akrotiri (20 euros) and the wine tasting (20 euros) are extra, so budget accordingly.

This tour suits travelers who value expert guides with local insights, appreciate scenic drives, and want a well-rounded overview of Santorini’s highlights without the hassle of organizing transport and logistics themselves. It’s especially praised by those who want a personalized, friendly experience that makes them feel more like a guest than just a tourist.

Key Points

• Comprehensive experience: Covers iconic sights like Oia, Pyrgos, Akrotiri, and Red Beach in one day.
• Small group size: Ensures a personal, relaxed atmosphere and more attention from the guides.
• Expert guides: Guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and often go above and beyond, as reviews highlight.
• Scenic stops and photo opportunities: Expect breathtaking vistas and plenty of chances to capture memories.
• Optional wine tasting: Adds a delicious local flavor to the tour, highly recommended for wine enthusiasts.
• Flexible options: Choose between a shorter classic tour or a full-day experience with extra sites.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Santorini Highlights Tour

When considering a tour of Santorini, it’s crucial to understand what each option offers. The Classic Tour (4.5 hours) and Full-Day Tour (7 hours) differ mainly in coverage, but both promise a deep dive into the island’s most photogenic and culturally rich spots.

Starting Your Day: Hotel Pick-Up & Transport

The tour begins with hotel pickup from a range of 15 locations, including popular spots like Fira, Oia, Kamari, Imerovigli, and even the port. This makes the experience smooth and convenient, especially if you’re staying outside the main towns. The transportation is by air-conditioned coach, which is a welcome relief after walking in the sun. The small group size (6-12 guests) means you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and guides tend to be attentive.

Exploring Oia: The Crown Jewel of Santorini

The first major stop is Oia, renowned worldwide for its blue-domed churches and stunning caldera views. As the tour guides often mention, Oia is the postcard-perfect village, but it’s also crowded. The guided walk provides a perfect opportunity for insider tips, avoiding some of the hustle, and taking in the view at a comfortable pace. Many reviewers, like Joanne, emphasize the guide’s photography skills—”He was an amazing photographer,” they say—making it easier to capture your best shots.

Prophet Elias Monastery and Pyrgos

Next, the tour takes you to Prophet Elias Monastery, the highest point on the island, offering sweeping panoramic views. It’s a photo-worthy stop, and the guided visit allows for some interesting stories about the monastery’s history and significance.

Afterward, Pyrgos — a medieval village with narrow winding streets and traditional architecture — provides a glimpse into local life. The one-hour stop here offers a chance for photos, exploration, or even a quick snack. Many reviews mention how guides make these stops engaging and personal, sometimes improvising to match guests’ interests, especially if the group is small.

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The Archaeological Wonder: Akrotiri Excavations (Full-Day Tour)

In the full-day option, the highlight is the Akrotiri Excavations, a Minoan Bronze Age site buried in volcanic ash that offers clues to Santorini’s ancient past. Entrance isn’t included, but at 20 euros per person, it’s considered worthwhile. Visitors often describe it as “coming alive,” revealing a thriving ancient civilization preserved by the volcanic eruption.

Red Beach and Emporio Village

The Red Beach, with its dramatic cliffs and volcanic hues, is a favorite for dramatic photos. It’s a quick stop that lets you walk along the shoreline or simply marvel from above.

Emporio, a medieval village with Venetian history, is less busy and offers a different, quieter perspective of island life. Many reviewers appreciate the mix of well-known sights with off-the-beaten-path villages.

The Wine Tasting: A Perfect Finish

Adding a wine tasting for 20 euros elevates the experience. You’ll sample some of Santorini’s unique volcanic wines in a cozy setting, often with spectacular sunset views if timed right. Several reviews highlight how guides are knowledgeable about local wines, making it more than just sipping—it’s about understanding what makes Santorini wines special.

Transportation & Logistics

Throughout the tour, luxury transportation and expert guides ensure a seamless experience. The guide/driver is often praised for their professionalism, local knowledge, and friendly attitude. The tour covers multiple stops with brief but well-paced drives, optimizing your time and comfort.

What Travelers Say

The majority of reviews are glowing. Many mention guides like Kostas, Sofia, Jacob, Nikolaos, and Vangelis—all of whom are praised for their knowledge, humor, and personal touches. Comments like “Kostas went above and beyond” or “Sofia was an incredible guide” reflect high satisfaction.

The value for money is clear: for the price, you get transport, expert guidance, and memorable sights. Extra costs for entrance and tastings are reasonable, especially when compared to the value of the experience and the convenience of having everything organized.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re short on time but want to see the “must-visit” sights of Santorini, this tour is ideal. Food and wine lovers will appreciate the optional tasting, and those who love photography will find plenty of picture-perfect moments. It’s also perfect for travelers who prefer small, personalized groups with knowledgeable guides who can adapt if you have special interests.

However, if you’re seeking a very leisurely, laid-back day with ample free time, this guided tour might feel a bit structured. And if budget constraints are tight, keep in mind the additional costs for entrance fees and wine tasting.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from 15 designated locations, making it very convenient.

How long does the tour last?
You can choose between a 4.5-hour classic tour or a 7-hour full-day experience, depending on your interests and schedule.

What is included in the price?
Transport, a local guide, bottled water, taxes, and fees are included. Entrance to Akrotiri and the wine tasting are extra.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?
It’s suitable for most, but not for those with mobility issues or back problems. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, camera, and a jacket are recommended. Dress for all weather conditions.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are there private group options?
Yes, private groups are available for those seeking a more personalized experience.

Is there a minimum group size?
The tours operate with small groups of 6-12 people, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Can I customize the tour?
While the itinerary is set, guides often improvise or tailor stops if the group’s interests differ, especially for private bookings.

Final Thoughts

This Santorini Highlights Tour strikes a fine balance between seeing the island’s most famous sights and enjoying a more personal, engaging experience. The expert guides, combined with spectacular views and authentic encounters, make it a worthwhile choice for many travelers. The optional wine tasting adds a memorable local flavor, perfect for those wanting to savor Santorini’s volcanic wines.

If you’re after an efficient, well-organized tour that maximizes your limited time and offers a genuine connection with the island’s beauty and history, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially ideal for first-time visitors eager to hit all the highlights without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

For those seeking a friendly, knowledgeable guide who can share stories and little secrets about Santorini, along with beautiful photo opportunities, this experience offers tremendous value. Just be prepared for some walking and extra costs if you want to visit the archaeological site or indulge in wine tasting.

In all, it’s a solid choice for anyone wanting an authentic slice of Santorini, delivered in a friendly, professional manner that leaves you with great memories and plenty of photos.

You can check availability for your dates here: