Best of Santorini Customized Private Tour

Exploring Santorini with the Best of Santorini Customized Private Tour

When you’re visiting Santorini, the island’s postcard-perfect scenery, charming villages, and volcanic beaches are what draw most travelers. For those who want to see what makes this Greek island so special, the Best of Santorini Customized Private Tour, offered by Around Travel, offers a flexible, intimate way to explore. Priced at just $69.51 per person, it’s a surprisingly affordable way to cover many of the island’s top sights without feeling rushed or lost in a large group.

The tour typically lasts between 4 to 8 hours, giving you enough time to enjoy several stops and soak up the atmosphere. What we love most about this experience is the small-group setting, which means more personalized attention from the guides, and the ability to tailor the itinerary based on your interests. Plus, the variety of stops—from the iconic villages of Oia and Pyrgos to volcanic beaches and wineries—ensures a well-rounded taste of Santorini. A little caveat: since this is a flexible tour, it’s worth booking in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred time slot and avoid disappointment.

This tour suits travelers who want a customized experience, appreciate local insights, and prefer the comfort of private transportation. If you’re short on time but want to see several highlights, or if you’re traveling with a group that values flexibility and authentic encounters, this tour could be your best bet.

Key Points

• Flexible itinerary tailored to your interests allows a personalized day on Santorini.
• Small group size ensures dedicated guide attention and a more intimate experience.
• Includes visits to iconic villages, beaches, and wineries, providing a comprehensive island overview.
• Pricing offers excellent value, considering the many stops, private transport, and local guide expertise.
• Optional stops like sunset in Oia or wine tastings let you customize your day even further.
• Highly praised guides like Dimitris and Joanna are known for their friendliness and knowledge.

A Deep Dive into the Best of Santorini Private Tour

The Experience at a Glance

For just under $70, this private, customizable tour offers a way to see Santorini’s most famous sights without the crowds or rigid schedules of larger tours. The around 4-to-8-hour timeframe is flexible, meaning you can opt for a shorter half-day or a more leisurely full-day adventure—depending on what suits your style and pace.

One of the notable advantages is the pickup service, which simplifies logistics—your guide will meet you at your hotel, port, or airport, and handle all the transportation. This takes away the hassle of figuring out public transport or negotiating taxis, especially if you’re new to the island.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Two things we really appreciate are the personalized attention from guides and the choice of stops. Multiple reviews highlight guides like Dimitris and Joanna, described as “wonderful,” “very knowledgeable,” and “sharing their love of the island.” This isn’t a cookie-cutter experience—your guide will ask about your interests and craft an itinerary that fits, whether you want to focus on photography, history, beaches, or wine.

Another key feature is the flexibility to include optional stops such as the famous sunset in Oia, the Red Beach, or a tour of a top local winery like Estate Argyros. These choices mean you can spend more time soaking in the views or tasting some volcanic wines, which the island is renowned for.

Consideration: What to Keep in Mind

A potential drawback is that since the tour is customizable, it can be as relaxed or as packed as you prefer. This means that if you’re not clear about your priorities or don’t communicate well, you might end up with a less focused experience. Also, some reviews mention the driver or guide not talking much or being preoccupied with their phone, so it’s worth mentioning your preferences for interaction upfront.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for independent travelers and small groups who want to control their pace and visit specific sights. It’s perfect if you value local insights, scenic photography spots, and a relaxed exploration of Santorini’s varied landscapes and villages. It also suits those with limited time but who still want a comprehensive taste of the island.

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Oia – The Iconic Village

Your day begins—or perhaps ends—here, at Oia, Santorini’s most famous village. Imagine walking through whitewashed alleys, crossing blue-domed churches, and gazing at breathtaking caldera views. Many reviews mention how photogenic this spot is and how it feels like stepping into a postcard.

For afternoon tours, the sunset in Oia becomes a highlight—a mesmerizing moment where the sky turns golden, and the entire village is bathed in soft light. Travelers often stay afterward to watch the sunset and capture the perfect shot, making this a memorable part of any trip.

Stop 2: Finikia – A Quiet Gem

Just outside Oia, you’ll find Finikia, a less touristy, beautifully preserved village. Its flower-filled courtyards and cobblestone streets offer a peaceful glimpse into traditional island life. This stop is perfect for photographers or anyone seeking an authentic, uncrowded experience.

Stop 3: Firostefani – The Blue Dome

A quick photo stop at Firostefani allows you to admire the famous blue dome—one of the most recognizable symbols of Santorini. From here, you’ll get views of the volcano, the sea, and the island’s capital, Fira. It’s a pictorial moment that captures the essence of the island’s charm.

Stop 4: Pyrgos Village

Known for its medieval castle and narrow alleys, Pyrgos feels like a step back in time. This village offers stunning panoramic views and a more relaxed, local vibe. The romantic atmosphere makes it an excellent place for wandering and discovering hidden courtyards.

Stops 5-7: Beaches and Volcanoes

• Perissa Black Sand Beach: Relax on sunbeds, dip into volcanic waters, or enjoy a Greek meal at a beachfront taverna. Reviews praise the authentic atmosphere and the option to pick your preferred restaurant.
• Red Beach: Known for its deep red cliffs and vivid waters, the Red Beach provides spectacular photo opportunities and a quick visit for those wanting to see Santorini’s volcanic landscape.

Optional Cultural and Historical Sights

• Akrotiri Archaeological Site: Often called the “Minoan Pompeii,” this site offers a fascinating look into prehistoric civilization buried in volcanic ash for over 3,500 years. Visitors can explore remarkably preserved streets and frescoes. A self-guided visit is typical, but guides can be arranged for deeper insights.
• Akrotiri Lighthouse: A peaceful spot with sweeping views of the caldera and Aegean, perfect for a photo stop or a quiet moment at sunset if your tour is in the afternoon.
• Megalochori: A charming village with vaulted alleys and traditional architecture, ideal for a relaxed walk and local atmosphere.

Wineries and Museums

• Estate Argyros: Known for volcanic varietals like Assyrtiko, the winery offers tastings in a modern setting. Many reviews highlight the quality of the wines and the friendly staff.
• Wine Museum Koutsogiannopoulos: Housed in a natural cave, this museum traces the history of Santorini’s wine from 1660 to 1970, providing a unique experience for wine enthusiasts.
• Santo Wines: The largest winery on the island, offering tastings, educational films, and amazing views of the caldera.

Additional Stops: Breweries and Local Shops

• Ftelos Brewery: For a craft beer experience, this modern brewery showcases local flavors and a relaxed ambiance.
• Local shops: Many guides recommend picking up souvenirs or local products at the various stops, enhancing your understanding of Santorini’s culture and crafts.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour’s private transportation means you’ll travel comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle. With most reviews praising the guides’ friendliness and knowledge, you’ll get a personalized experience. Group sizes are small, often just your party, which allows for more meaningful interactions and the chance to tailor the day.

Some reviews mention the van size—one noted it could be larger for comfort, especially with a larger group—but overall, the private setup enhances the experience.

Cost and Value Analysis

At $69.51 per person, this tour offers excellent value. You’re paying for private transportation, guided insights, and the freedom to choose your stops—all important for a memorable, stress-free day. Optional activities like wine tastings or museum visits are not included in the base price, but you can pick and choose based on your interests.

Many reviews emphasize the guides’ expertise and the variety of sights covered, which makes this price attractive. For travelers who want more than a quick glance at Santorini, but don’t want to spend a fortune on a full day, this tour strikes a balance between affordability and quality.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s designed for most travelers, including those with mobility considerations, though some stops involve walking on uneven terrain.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers private transportation, bottled water, a map, and a local guide/driver.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, optional visits like Akrotiri archaeological site, wine tastings, and museum entries are not included but can be arranged separately.

Can I customize my itinerary?
Absolutely. The tour is designed to be flexible; you can choose stops based on your interests, and guides are happy to accommodate your preferences.

What if I want to see the sunset?
For afternoon tours, there’s an optional sunset stop in Oia, which many find magical.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts roughly 4 to 8 hours, depending on your choices and pace.

Is there a recommended group size?
It’s a small group, often just your party, which allows for better interaction and a more personalized experience.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, sun protection, and a camera are advisable. The vehicle is air-conditioned, but outdoor stops require suitable attire.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, full cancellation is free up to 24 hours beforehand, providing flexibility if your plans change.

In summary, the Best of Santorini Customized Private Tour offers a fantastic balance of flexibility, expert guidance, and value. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see a broad range of sights without feeling like they’re on a rushed bus tour. The ability to choose stops, combined with knowledgeable guides and a small group environment, makes it one of the best ways to experience this iconic island. Whether you’re after stunning photo stops, a taste of local wine, or simply want to relax in the company of good company, this tour can be tailored to fit your needs.