Santorini is a perfect destination for full-day tours because of its compact size and dramatic scenery. Whether you want to explore the charming villages, relax on unique beaches, or sample local wines, a well-organized tour makes the most of your limited time. We’re particularly fond of tours that combine panoramic views with authentic local experiences, like visiting Oia and Fira, or tasting wines at Koutsogiannopoulos Wine Museum. For example, a private trip with a custom itinerary can let you choose your own highlights, ensuring no must-see spot gets missed.
If you’re short on time but want to see the best, the private tours provide flexibility and personal attention, while all-day guided excursions give a broad overview with expert commentary. We’ve looked at options that range from a quick half-day adventure to comprehensive full-day explorations. Below is a quick overview of what’s available, with links to the detailed descriptions.
Quick Overview
- The Santorini: Half or Full-Day Private Island Tour offers a customizable private experience perfect for those who want personal attention and flexibility.
- The Best of Santorini Full-Day Private Guided Tour is a comprehensive, private exploration of the island’s main sights, ideal for travelers who want an in-depth look.
- The Discover Santorini: Private Full-Day Tour with Wine Tasting combines sightseeing with a relaxed wine experience, perfect for wine lovers and those seeking a more relaxed pace.
1. Santorini: Half or Full-Day Private Island Tour
At number one, this private tour is tailored to your interests, making it perfect for first-timers or visitors on a tight schedule. You can choose between a half-day or full-day experience, giving you the flexibility to explore the island at your own pace. The tour includes visits to the iconic villages of Oia, Imerovigli, and Firostefani, where you can stroll through narrow streets and admire the whitewashed buildings. You’ll also see Red Beach, Profitis Ilias, and the Black Beach, which highlight Santorini’s volcanic origins.
What makes this tour stand out is its custom-made itinerary—your local guide will tailor it based on your interests. Many reviewers praise the guide’s knowledge and friendliness, with one saying, “Huge thanks to our guide Arthur—he made the experience unforgettable.” The flexibility means you can focus on photography, local dining, or hidden spots only locals know. The private setting ensures a relaxed pace with no rush.
Bottom line: This tour is a great choice if you want a personalized experience, especially for a first visit or if your schedule is limited. It offers the perfect balance of sightseeing and local flavor for about $211 per person.
2. Best of Santorini Full-Day Private Guided Tour
Second on our list is the Best of Santorini private tour, which packs in the island’s top sights in about 7.5 hours. For around $676 per group, you get a completely flexible itinerary with a dedicated guide who knows the island inside out. This tour covers Oia, Imerovigli, Firostefani, Akrotiri, Red Beach, Black Beach, Emporio, Megalochori, Prophet Elias, Pyrgos, and Venetsanos Winery.
What makes this tour exceptional is its comprehensive scope. You’ll enjoy breathtaking vistas from the cliffside villages and visit the highest point, Prophet Elias, for sweeping panoramic views. The guide can tailor the route to emphasize your interests—whether that’s local villages, archaeological sites, or scenic viewpoints. The reviews highlight how knowledgeable guides like Kostas and Yannis make the experience memorable, sharing secrets and stories that bring the island to life. One reviewer notes, “Kostas knew the best photo spots and hidden corners we’d never discover on our own.”
This tour is best suited for travelers who want an in-depth, all-encompassing day and don’t mind a packed schedule. It’s ideal for those who value guided insight and want to see everything in a single day.
Bottom line: If you want a detailed, private tour that hits all the major highlights with a knowledgeable guide, this is your best bet for a full, enriching day out.
3. Discover Santorini: Private Full-Day Tour with Wine Tasting!
Number three combines sightseeing with wine tasting—a perfect choice if you want to relax with some local flavors. For about $621 per group (up to 2 people), this 6-hour private tour cruises around the island in a luxury Mercedes minibus, offering a more intimate experience. The tour includes stops at iconic viewpoints, like Oia, Imerovigli, and Firostefani, where you can soak in endless panoramic views of the Caldera.
The highlight is the visit to Koutsogiannopoulos Wine Museum, where you’ll learn about local wine-making and sample regional varieties. Your guide will also show you Megalochori, a traditional settlement, and take you to Red and Black beaches for photos and a walk. With a focus on authentic local experiences, this tour is well-reviewed, with one traveler noting, “Arthur was fantastic and took us to spots only the locals know about.”
This tour suits visitors who want a more relaxed pace with a blend of sightseeing and wine, especially if wine tasting is on your bucket list. It’s perfect for couples or small groups seeking a more intimate experience.
Bottom line: A balanced mix of iconic sights and wine tasting makes this tour ideal for lovers of good food and a slower, more authentic exploration.
How to Choose the Best Full-Day Tour in Santorini
Choosing the right tour depends on your budget, interests, and schedule. If you prefer a personalized experience and want to customize your day, the private Half or Full-Day Private Island Tour offers flexibility and local insight. For those who want to see everything in detail with minimal effort, the Best of Santorini Full-Day Private Guided Tour provides a thorough overview. Wine lovers should consider the Discover Santorini with Wine Tasting, which combines scenic views with delicious local wines.
Think about your physical activity level and whether you want a relaxed or more comprehensive experience. Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred time slot and guide.
Final thoughts
Santorini offers a variety of full-day tours that cater to different interests and travel styles. For a personalized, flexible experience, the private tour options are hard to beat. If you’re after a rundown, the guided full-day tour provides a structured adventure with expert commentary. Wine enthusiasts will enjoy the blend of scenic sightseeing and wine tasting, making for a relaxed but memorable day.
No matter which you choose, booking your tour ahead of time will ensure you make the most of your time on this stunning island. With these options, you’re set to enjoy Santorini’s best sights, flavors, and views—crafted just for you.