Secrets of Santorini – Private Full Day Tour with Dinner

Exploring Santorini with a Private Twist: Secrets of Santorini – Full Day Tour with Dinner

This full-day private tour in Santorini costs around $289 per person and lasts approximately 6 hours, offering a mix of off-the-beaten-path sights, local flavors, and tranquil views. Led by guides like Fotis and Mike, you’ll explore hidden vantage points, a traditional distillery, charming villages, and a historic lighthouse. The tour wraps up with a delicious local dinner at a family-run tavern and a peaceful sunset viewing far from the cruise ship crowds.

What we especially appreciate about this experience is the flexibility—since it’s private, you can tailor the stops to your interests, whether that’s wandering through maze-like streets or savoring local wines. The comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi makes for a relaxing journey, and the local dinner truly captures the essence of Santorini’s cuisine.

One potential consideration is that this tour involves a fair amount of walking, particularly through narrow alleys and traditional villages. While that’s part of the authentic charm, it’s worth noting if you prefer a more relaxed pace or have mobility concerns.

This tour suits travelers who want a more personal, less touristy experience in Santorini—perfect for those who enjoy culture, scenic views, and delicious local food. If you’re eager to see the island beyond the typical postcard spots, this private tour offers a genuine taste of Santorini’s quieter, authentic side.

Key Points

• Private & Flexible: Customizable itinerary for a personalized experience
• Authentic Locations: Visit lesser-known villages, a historic lighthouse, and a traditional distillery
• Scenic Stops: Enjoy quiet vistas and a peaceful sunset away from crowds
• Local Flavors: Savor a homemade dinner featuring classic Santorini dishes and local wine
• Comfort & Convenience: Air-conditioned vehicle, Wi-Fi, and hotel pickup/drop-off included
• Authentic Guides: Knowledgeable guides that adapt the tour based on your interests

In-Depth Look at the Secrets of Santorini Tour

Starting Off at Imerovigli: The View You Can’t Miss

The tour begins with a visit to a secret spot in Imerovigli—a place that offers a double panoramic view of both the west and east sides of the island. Words might not do it justice, but the peacefulness and breathtaking vistas immediately set the tone. This stop is perfect for photos and soaking in the quiet beauty of Santorini without the usual crowds. The fact that it’s free to visit makes it an excellent way to start your adventure with no added cost.

Canava Santorini Distillery: A Taste of the Past

Next, you visit a local distillery museum, where you get a glimpse of traditional ways of producing spirits. It’s a fun, educational experience that also engages your taste buds—sampling ouzo, tsikoudia, and local liqueurs. Several reviewers, like Robert M, highlight this stop as a favorite: “Mike was a great guide. He has some great insights about the island and was fun to travel with.” The inclusion of admission in the tour fee makes this a good value.

Exploring Emporio: Wandering Through a Village’s Heart

The journey continues into Emporio, a traditional village with narrow alleys winding up to a historic castle. Walking in these streets feels like entering a different world—less touristy and more authentic. Nicole E. describes it as “a place for those looking to escape the crowds and see more traditional parts of Santorini.” It’s an area where you can really appreciate local architecture and village life. Be prepared for some walking on uneven cobblestones, which is part of the charm but worth considering if mobility is an issue.

Akrotiri Lighthouse: A View of Endless Blue

A stop at the historic Akrotiri lighthouse, built in 1892, offers stunning views of the Aegean Sea. It’s a brief stop, but the scenery is spectacular—a perfect moment to take photos or just breathe in the salt air. As one reviewer put it, it’s “the perfect spot to relish the endless blue.”

A Quiet Dinner at a Family-Run Taverna

One of the highlights is the dinner at a family-run tavern right on the water. The restaurant’s atmosphere is described as peaceful and authentic, with dishes like Fava, Tomatokeftedes, Kalamari, and fresh fish. Accompanied by homemade wine, this meal is praised as possibly the best dinner of the trip. The inclusion of local wine and bread makes it feel like a true taste of Santorini. This stop is more than just a meal—it’s an immersive experience in local hospitality and flavors.

The Heart of Santorini: A Sunset Like No Other

After dinner, the tour takes you to Megalochori, the “heart of Santorini,” for a quiet, crowd-free sunset. You’ll enjoy a complimentary small bottle of local wine while watching the sun melt into the horizon, turning the sky into a canvas of colors. Nicole E. describes this as “a peaceful place to enjoy your wine and watch the sun set.” This stop captures the tranquil side of Santorini many travelers miss—perfect for reflection and unwinding after a busy day.

What’s Included & What to Expect

This tour covers quite a bit for the price. Included are bottled water, a full dinner with local specialties and wine, museum entrance fees, and a small bottle of local wine for the sunset. The air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi makes the journey comfortable, especially if you’re used to long drives or want to stay connected. The private transportation and hotel pickup/drop-off add to the convenience, making it a fuss-free experience.

The Guides & Authenticity

Travelers have praised the guides—Fotis and Mike—for their knowledge, flexibility, and friendly manner. “Fotis was an excellent guide, and this tour was amazing,” says Nicole, emphasizing the personalized attention and the insider tips that elevate the experience beyond just sightseeing.

Duration & Walking Considerations

At about 6 hours, the tour is long enough to see a variety of sights without feeling rushed. However, it does involve a good amount of walking, especially in the villages. If you’re someone who prefers to relax and avoid lots of steps, it’s worth being prepared. Still, most reviewers agree that the authenticity and scenery make it well worth the effort.

Value for Money & Who It’s For

While $289 might seem steep at first glance, the all-inclusive nature of the tour—private transport, guided commentary, meals, and exclusive sites—justifies the cost. You get a personalized experience that can’t be easily matched by group tours.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a peaceful, authentic glimpse into Santorini’s less touristy side—those who value good food, scenic views, and knowledgeable guides. It’s especially suited for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a tailored experience that balances sightseeing with relaxation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore and enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Is transportation included?
Yes, private, air-conditioned transport with Wi-Fi is included, with hotel pickup and drop-off for convenience.

What kind of meals are served?
You’ll enjoy a full dinner featuring local specialties such as Santorinian salad, Fava, Tomatokeftedes, fresh fish or steak, bread, and homemade local wine.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, guides are flexible and can adapt the stops based on your interests.

Are there any admission fees?
Yes, the tour includes museum entrance fees. Other stops like the lighthouse and villages are free to explore.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for some walking and uneven terrain in villages.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s recommended to book about 49 days in advance for better availability, especially in peak seasons.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a camera. The tour supplies bottled water and wet tissues.

What’s the best part according to previous travelers?
Many highlight the guide’s insights and friendly approach, the scenic views, and the authentic dinner as standout moments.

In summary, the Secrets of Santorini private tour offers an excellent way to experience the island’s quieter, more traditional side. With thoughtful stops, a delicious local meal, and a peaceful sunset, it’s well-suited for those who want a meaningful and relaxed day. If you enjoy guided cultural insights, scenic vistas, and authentic local flavors, this tour will meet and surpass your expectations.