Best of Santorini Full Day Private Trip From Mykonos

This experience made our article of The 15 Best Full-Day Tours In Santorini.

An Overview of the Best of Santorini Full Day Private Trip from Mykonos

If you’re staying in Mykonos but dreaming of experiencing Santorini’s iconic scenery, this private day trip offers a well-balanced blend of sightseeing, local taste testing, and beach relaxation—all within about 6 hours. For $889.37 per person, you’ll get door-to-door service, ferry rides, and the chance to explore some of the island’s most beloved spots without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

What we love about this experience is how efficiently it packs in the highlights—visiting Oia, Pyrgos, and Profitis Ilias—and how it includes a wine tasting at Venetsanos Winery. Plus, the opportunity to swim at Perissa’s black sand beach and snap photos at Red Beach makes it a comprehensive taste of Santorini’s natural beauty.

A possible consideration? The tour is quite full-packed, so if you prefer a slow, wandering pace or want to spend more time in one place, this might feel a bit rushed. Still, if your goal is to see as much as possible in a short window, this tour hits the mark.

This trip suits travelers who appreciate well-organized, guided experiences that combine scenic sights, local flavor, and some free time to explore on their own. It’s especially appealing for those who want to maximize their day and avoid the logistical headaches of ferry bookings, car rentals, or navigating public transport.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary: Covers major highlights of Santorini, from villages to beaches.
• Time-saving transport: Private transfer and ferry included, maximizing sightseeing time.
• Authentic experiences: Wine tasting at Venetsanos Winery and time at iconic spots like Oia and Red Beach.
• Flexible free time: You can explore Oia, Pyrgos, and Profitis Ilias at your own pace.
• Convenience: Hotel pickup, drop-off, and ferry tickets are all organized, easing your day.
• Ideal for: Visitors with limited time, those wanting guided insight, and travelers eager for a curated highlight tour.

Exploring the Details: What to Expect from This Santorini Day Trip

The Start: From Mykonos to Santorini

Our adventure begins early—around 8:00 am—with a hotel pickup in Mykonos. The private driver will take you directly to the main port, where you’ll receive your ferry tickets and some helpful pointers about boarding. This means no stressful last-minute planning or queuing. The ferry ride itself offers a scenic crossing, giving you a glimpse of the Aegean sea—an experience in itself.

Arriving in Santorini: Meet Your Guide

Once in Santorini, you’ll be greeted by your guide at the arrivals area, holding a sign with your name. This personal touch instantly makes you feel taken care of, and from here, your full-day journey begins.

Stop 1: Oia

First stop is the world-famous village of Oia. We loved the way you have an hour of free time here—ample opportunity to wander through narrow cobblestone streets, admire the iconic blue-domed churches, and snap photos of cliffside houses with the caldera shimmering in the background. Reviewers repeatedly praise Oia’s breathtaking sunset views, which are truly unforgettable. It’s worth arriving early to avoid the crowds and find your favorite vantage point.

Stop 2: Pyrgos and Profitis Ilias

Next, you’ll visit Pyrgos, a slightly less touristy but equally charming village. It maintains a sense of authenticity, with traditional Cycladic houses and winding paths that lead to a Venetian castle. The village offers sweeping views of both sides of the island, making it a perfect spot for photography or just soaking in the scenery.

The highlight here is Profitis Ilias, perched at 600 meters atop the highest point of Santorini. The monastery offers panoramic vistas that make all those postcard shots seem almost too good to be true. One reviewer noted, “Even those averse to taking photographs will not resist the urge to take a few shots from this amazing vantage point,” which captures the essence of the spot’s appeal.

Stop 3: Venetsanos Winery

Midday, you’ll enjoy a guided tour and tasting at Venetsanos Winery. This is a genuine experience—no generic tastings here. You’ll learn about the island’s unique wine-making traditions, which have been part of Santorini’s culture for centuries. The winery’s location on the cliffs offers stunning views while you sample local varieties. Several reviews emphasize the knowledgeable guides and excellent wines, noting this as a highlight of the trip.

Stop 4: Red Beach

Next comes a visit to Red Beach, famed for its dramatic red volcanic rocks and unusual landscape. The short stop (about 30 minutes) is perfect for taking photos and marveling at the geological formations. The impressive color contrast of the rocks and the sea makes it a must-see. It’s a fleeting visit, but enough time to appreciate its uniqueness.

Stop 5: Perissa Black Sand Beach

Finally, you’ll spend about two hours at Perissa Beach, famous for its black volcanic sand. Here, you can take a dip in the crystal-clear waters, relax on the sand, or enjoy a meal at one of the waterfront restaurants (own expense). Several guests mention how perfect this stop is for cooling off and soaking in the scenic views. It’s the ideal way to wrap up the sightseeing before heading back to the port.

Return Journey

After enjoying the beach, your driver will escort you back to the port, where you’ll board your ferry back to Mykonos. The process is streamlined—ferry tickets are handed to you in advance, and you get clear instructions on boarding. Once back in Mykonos, a final private transfer delivers you to your hotel, completing the day.

The Experience in Context: Why This Tour Works

This tour is designed for those who want to see Santorini’s highlights without the stress of planning each detail. The combination of private transportation, ferry tickets, and a personal guide means you’re freed from logistical worries. That’s a big plus if you’re traveling with limited time or prefer guided insights.

The balanced itinerary—with a mix of sightseeing, tasting, and leisure—means you get a good overview without feeling overwhelmed. We appreciated the free time at Oia and Pyrgos, enabling personal exploration, and the wine tasting adds a touch of local flavor that many travelers find memorable.

The ferry transfer is a pragmatic choice, giving you a quick but scenic route between islands. Multiple reviews highlight how all the details are handled smoothly, freeing you up to focus on enjoying the sights.

Price and Value

At nearly $890 per person, the cost might seem high, but it includes all transportation, ferry tickets, and the wine tasting—elements that would be tricky to coordinate independently. For travelers short on time or wary of logistical hassles, the value of this guided, all-inclusive package is clear.

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration is the tight schedule—with so many stops packed into six hours, you’ll want to be prepared for a fast-paced day. If you prefer a leisurely stroll or extra time in each location, this might feel rushed. Also, lunch is not included, so budget for that at your own expense.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is perfect if you want to maximize your time and see the best of Santorini in a single day. It’s suited for first-time visitors or those with a limited stay who want a curated overview. The guided nature and organized logistics also appeal to travelers who prefer not to worry about details.

If you’re someone who loves photography, you’ll appreciate the carefully planned stops with spectacular views. Wine lovers will find the Venetsanos Winery visit particularly appealing, thanks to strong reviews praising the knowledgeable guides and exquisite wines.

However, if you’re seeking deep culture or want to linger longer in specific spots, this tour may feel a bit hurried. Still, for those who want a comprehensive snapshot of Santorini’s essence, it offers outstanding value.

FAQs

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers hotel pickup and drop-off in Mykonos, roundtrip ferry tickets, private transportation on Santorini, a guided tour of key sites, wine tasting at Venetsanos Winery, WiFi on board, and bottled water.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll have free time at Perissa Beach to dine at your own expense.

How much free time do we get at each stop?
You have about an hour at Oia, 90 minutes at Pyrgos and Profitis Ilias, an hour at Venetsanos Winery, 30 minutes at Red Beach, and two hours at Perissa Beach.

What is the duration of the entire trip?
The total activity lasts around 6 hours, including transport, sightseeing, and breaks.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes, as it uses private transport and involves mostly walking and sightseeing, but keep in mind the schedule is quite full. Elderly travelers should consider their pace.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How do I get my ferry tickets?
Your driver provides your ferry tickets at the start of the day, and you’ll receive instructions on boarding the vessel.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and possibly a camera. Since lunch isn’t included, plan to bring snacks or buy something during your free time.

Will I have WiFi during the trip?
Yes, WiFi is available on the private vehicle, making it easy to share your photos or stay connected.

Final Thoughts

This Best of Santorini private day trip from Mykonos offers a practical way to see the island’s most iconic sights while avoiding the stress of independent planning. It’s especially suited for those wanting a curated, guided experience that balances scenery, culture, and leisure.

You’ll love the stunning views from Profitis Ilias and the charm of Oia, coupled with the delights of local wine. The organized ferry transfer and private transport ensure your day runs smoothly, but be prepared for a fairly tight schedule.

For first-time visitors or those with limited time, this trip offers great value—giving you a meaningful taste of Santorini’s beauty, flavors, and character, all wrapped up in a single, well-managed day.