The 15 Best Full-Day Tours in Santorini
Santorini’s dramatic cliffs, colorful villages, volcanic beaches, and world-famous sunsets make it a perfect place for full-day tours. What sets the island apart are the incredible views from places like Oia, the archaeological marvels at Akrotiri, and the chance to sample some of Greece’s finest wines while enjoying the scenery. Whether you’re after a private experience, a scenic boat trip, or an in-depth exploration of the island’s most photogenic spots, Santorini offers options that suit every taste and budget. Our favorites include tours like the Private Custom Tour that lets you craft your perfect day (see details here), or the luxurious Yacht Cruise that combines sailing, swimming, and fine dining (full details here).
What makes Santorini stand out is its ability to blend scenic beauty with cultural richness—whether you’re sampling Vinsanto wines, exploring ancient ruins, or watching the sunset from Oia, each experience feels authentic and memorable.
Quick Overview
Our list covers a variety of full-day tours in Santorini, including private custom drives, guided sightseeing, boat trips, and luxury yacht cruises. They cater to different interests: history lovers, wine enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and those simply wanting to relax in style. Each tour offers a unique way to see the island’s highlights, from iconic villages like Oia and Fira to volcanic beaches and archaeological sites. Now, let’s explore each option in detail.
1. Santorini Island Private Custom Tour in Half or Full Day
Starting with the ultimate flexibility, this private tour allows you to craft your own itinerary. For around $191.16, a local driver takes you to your chosen sights—including villages like Oia, Imerovigli, or Firostefani, and attractions like Profitis Ilias or the Akrotiri archaeological site. The tour duration varies from 4 to 8 hours, making it perfect if you want to skip the crowds and focus on what interests you most.
What makes this tour stand out is the personalized approach. You’ll get a dedicated driver-guide, two-way transfers, and the freedom to select your stops, whether that’s sampling Vinsanto wine or exploring traditional villages. The reviews highlight how knowledgeable guides like Arthur and Michael make your day both informative and fun. The only extra costs are entrance and activity fees.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a flexible, intimate experience with local insights. Perfect if you have a specific list of must-see spots or prefer a tailored day.
2. Full-Day Private Tour of Santorini Caldera & The Most Famous Sightseeing
At number 2, this tour packs the island’s biggest sights into about 5 to 6 hours. For $249.09 per person, you’ll explore Firostefani, Oia, and the Red and Black beaches, all in style aboard a private vehicle. The tour gives you the flexibility to avoid crowds while soaking up spectacular views from Santorini’s highest point.
Guests especially appreciate the route’s focus on iconic locations like Oia’s blue domes and the cultural charm of Pyrgos. Your guide, such as Petros, shares insightful stories about the island’s volcanic origins and history. The itinerary can be customized, and onboard Wi-Fi keeps you connected.
Bottom Line: Perfect for first-time visitors who want a rundown of the island’s top sights without feeling rushed.
3. Private Overview of Santorini: Full-Day Customizable Experience!
This private tour offers 6 to 7 hours of personalized exploration for $232.22. You’ll visit Oia, Red Beach, and the village of Pyrgos, with options to add on a wine tasting or visit the Akrotiri archaeological site. The real advantage here is the freedom to design your day around your interests.
Your guide will share local stories and highlight hidden corners—like the cave houses of Oia and the Venetian fortress ruins. Guests love the flexibility, with reviews praising guides like Vasilis for their deep knowledge and friendliness. The tour is ideal for those wanting to learn about the island in a relaxed, personalized setting.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a customized, intimate day with a knowledgeable guide.
4. Full-Day Santorini Personalized Private Guided Tour Experience
If you’re into tailored experiences, this 5 to 6-hour tour for $322.67 offers complete control over your itinerary. It includes stops at Oia, Three Bells of Fira, Profitis Ilias, and optional visits to Akrotiri or local wineries.
Guests rave about how guides like Harris or George adapt the day to fit their interests, providing rich commentary and recommendations. The tour emphasizes on personalized attention and flexible timing, making it perfect for travelers who want to see the highlights with a local expert.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those who want a private, customizable tour with in-depth insight and flexibility.
5. Private Full-Day Guided Sightseeing Tour
This 8-hour private tour at $264.47 per person covers a broad swath of Santorini’s main attractions. Highlights include Oia, Pyrgos, and the Red Beach, with a focus on archaeological sites like Akrotiri and Pyrgos‘ medieval charm.
Guide Nikos and others are praised for their extensive knowledge and friendly manner. The tour’s strength lies in its depth—seeing the archaeological ruins, the mountaintop monastery, and traditional villages all in one day. It’s a great pick for those wanting a well-rounded experience.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a full, immersive day with expert guidance and a focus on history.
6. Private Full-Day Motor Yacht Cruise with Meal, Open Bar+Transfers
For the luxury lover, this private yacht cruise offers an unforgettable day on the water. Starting at $1,799.67 per person, you’ll sail around Red and White beaches, swim in hot springs, and enjoy a gourmet lunch and open bar (more details here).
Guests report the experience as “exquisite,” with the yacht sailing past Venetian lighthouses and stopping at hidden coves. It’s all about comfort, privacy, and seeing Santorini from a different perspective. The inclusion of snorkeling equipment and fabulous meals make it a true splurge.
Bottom Line: Perfect for couples or groups seeking a luxurious, all-inclusive day at sea, with personalized routing and top-class amenities.
7. Santorini Full Day Trip by Santo Luxury Escape
This 6-hour private tour for $197.38 is designed for a quick yet in-depth overview. It hits Oia, Firostefani, and Profitis Ilias, along with optional visits to ancient sites and local wineries.
Guests praise Nikos for his friendly, informative guidance, and the tour’s relaxed pace. It’s ideal if you’re on a cruise or short on time but still want to see the highlights with a personal touch. The tour emphasizes comfort and storytelling.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers with limited time who want a curated, private experience with local insights.
8. Amazing Santorini – Full-Day Private Tour
At number 8, this 8-hour private tour costs $406.38 per person and covers villages, beaches, and wineries. It’s a full immersion, with an emphasis on relaxing and sampling local wines at selected wineries (see details here).
With a focus on personalized experiences, you’ll visit Oia, Fira, and taste Santorini wines, gaining insights from guides like Nikos. Guests love the flexibility and private attention, making it ideal for those who want to absorb the island at their own pace.
Bottom Line: Best for wine lovers and those seeking a leisurely, in-depth private tour.
9. Full Day Boat Rental Without a License in Santorini
For independent explorers, this full-day boat rental costs about $394.77 per group (up to six people). You get a 17-foot Poseidon boat with snorkeling gear, fuel (charged separately), and safety equipment (full details here).
Guests say it’s “easy to drive” and offers complete freedom to explore hidden beaches and coastline. It’s perfect for those comfortable with boating or seeking a flexible, self-guided day on the water.
Bottom Line: Ideal for adventurous groups wanting control over their itinerary and a fun, active day.
10. Santorini See Everything All Day Private Tour
This comprehensive 8-hour private tour at $266.81 covers Oia, Fira, Profitis Ilias, Pyrgos, and hidden corners. The focus is on variety—from cliffside views to archaeological sites and local wine tasting (see more details here).
Guests appreciate the expert guides like George for their knowledge and friendly approach. It’s a good fit for travelers who want to see everything without rushing, with the flexibility to customize.
Bottom Line: Suitable for those who want a full, personalized experience across the entire island.
11. My Ultimate Full-Day Private Santorini Road Trip
This luxury vehicle tour costs $189.15 per person and includes visits to Pyrgos, Profitis Ilias, and Oia. It emphasizes off-the-beaten-track spots and photo opportunities along scenic routes (more info here).
Reviews highlight Sakis’s personal touch and local knowledge. It’s perfect for travelers who want to explore beyond the usual and take in amazing views at their own pace.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers craving a luxurious, personalized drive with plenty of photo stops.
12. Private Full-Day Santorini Hidden Gems and Wine Experience
This 6-hour private tour costs $323.80 per person. It combines sightseeing with a photoshoot and wine tasting at Koutsogiannopoulos Winery Museum (see details here).
Guests rave about the photography and personalized tour that captures your moments with scenic backdrops. The focus on hidden spots and local wines makes this ideal for romantics and photo enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: Perfect for couples or small groups wanting a memorable, picture-perfect day.
13. Real Santorini: Full-Day Private Tour
Costing $356.44, this 8-hour private tour offers complete flexibility. It includes Fira, Oia, Pyrgos, and ancient ruins, with a focus on customized sightseeing (check it out here).
Guests praise guides like Giannis for personalized attention and extensive knowledge. This tour is a good choice for those who want to tailor their day and see the most scenic spots.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a fully flexible, private exploration with a knowledgeable guide.
14. Full Day Shore Excursion Tour
Designed for cruise visitors, this 6-hour tour costs around $191.88 per person. It covers Three Bells of Fira, Atlantis Experience, and Red Beach (more info here). It’s ideal for those on limited time but wanting highlights.
Guests appreciate the easy logistics with hotel transfers and the chance to see archeological sites and famous viewpoints. It’s a well-rounded option for cruise days.
Bottom Line: Perfect for cruise travelers who want a condensed but quality experience.
15. Best of Santorini Full Day Private Trip From Mykonos
Finally, this full-day tour costs $889.37 and combines ferry transfer with private vehicle. It’s designed for those arriving from Mykonos who want to maximize their time on Santorini (full details here).
It includes Oia, Pyrgos, the Red Beach, and a wine tasting, with free time at key spots. The reviews highlight how this tour offers the convenience of seamless logistics paired with personalized exploration.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers coming from Mykonos who want to see the best of Santorini in a single day.
How to Choose Your Perfect Santorini Full-Day Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, interests, and how much time you want to spend on each activity. If you’re after total flexibility and a private guide, the Private Custom Tour (see details) might suit you best. Want to enjoy sailing and swimming in style? The Luxury Yacht Cruise (more info here) offers a luxurious day at sea.
For those trying to maximize their limited time, the Full-Day Private Tour or the Full Day Shore Excursion are excellent options. And if you’re arriving from Mykonos, the Full Day Private Trip from Mykonos (see here) ensures you see the highlights without the hassle.
Remember to book early, especially in high season, as these tours fill up quickly. Check reviews, see which stops are included, and think about whether you prefer a guided experience, self-drive, or luxury sailing.
Final Thoughts
Santorini’s full-day tours offer a range of experiences—from private, tailor-made sightseeing drives to luxurious yacht cruises and self-guided boat rentals. If you’re short on time, tours like the Full-Day Private Tour or the Shore Excursion deliver big highlights efficiently. For those seeking a special splurge, the Motor Yacht Cruise provides a memorable day on the water. And if flexibility and personalized attention are your priorities, the Private Custom Tour or Full-Day Private Guided Tour will make your trip uniquely yours.
No matter your travel style, these options ensure you leave Santorini with unforgettable memories. To get the most out of your visit, consider booking your preferred tour early—Santorini’s beauty and popularity mean spots fill fast. Happy exploring!