Top Sights of Santorini with Wine Tasting and Sunset in Oia

Discovering Santorini: A Complete Guide to the Top Sights with Wine and Sunset

Santorini is one of those destinations that instantly sparks the imagination—its volcanic landscape, charming villages, and legendary sunsets make it a must-visit. This full-day guided tour, priced at just over $79 per person, offers a well-rounded look at the island’s highlights, from panoramic viewpoints to hidden villages. With about 8 hours of exploring, you’ll visit the highest point on the island, wander through charming villages like Pyrgos and Emporio, relax on the famous black sand beach, and end your day marveling at the sunset in Oia.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are the opportunity to enjoy an authentic wine tasting session featuring local grape varieties and the chance to watch the sunset in Oia—both authentic Santorini experiences that are hard to beat. The tour also offers plenty of free time, which means you can go swimming, take photos, or simply soak in the scenery without feeling rushed.

One possible drawback is that the tour duration can vary depending on the season, especially as days get shorter. Some travelers, like Marlena, noted that the sunset in late November was earlier, which shortened that magical part of the experience. Still, this is a fairly balanced itinerary that suits travelers who want to see many of the island’s highlights without renting a car or planning the logistics themselves.

If you’re looking for a comprehensive, relaxed way to see Santorini’s top sights and enjoy local flavor, this tour is a solid choice—especially if you prefer guided comfort and want to learn about the island from knowledgeable guides.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Highlights: Covers the island’s best viewpoints, villages, beaches, and sunset.
• Authentic Experiences: Includes a private wine tasting of local grapes and traditional villages.
• Flexible Free Time: Allows for swimming, shopping, or relaxing at each stop.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Suzanna are praised for their informative and respectful approach.
• Value for Money: For around $80, you’re getting transportation, a guide, wine tasting, and multiple memorable stops.
• Seasonal Considerations: Sunset timing can vary, especially late in the season, affecting the length of the Oia visit.

An In-Depth Look at the Top Sights of Santorini with Wine and Sunset

The Convenience of a Guided Tour

For many travelers, the biggest benefit of joining a tour like this is the ease of transportation and the assurance of seeing the highlights without the stress of planning every detail. The luxury coach and included pickup mean your day starts smoothly, and with a small group—maximum 35 people—you get a more personal experience than a large bus trip. The live guide, often praised for their knowledge, makes the journey informative and engaging, explaining the island’s volcanic history and local culture along the way.

First Stop: Profitis Ilias

Your day begins with a drive to Profitis Ilias, the highest point on Santorini. From here, the panoramic views are breathtaking—stretching across the entire island and over the deep blue of the Aegean Sea. You’ll learn about Santorini’s volcanic past, which is essential to understanding its unique landscape. This spot is a favorite for photos, and the brief 15-minute stop is perfect for stretching your legs and soaking in the view.

Exploring Pyrgos Kallistis

Next, you visit Pyrgos, often described as a “hidden gem.” Wander through winding alleys lined with classic white houses, blue-domed churches, and small shops. This village is a wonderful snapshot of traditional Cycladic life. Climbing up to the old castle offers sweeping views and a sense of stepping back in time. Reviewers like Kelly appreciated the chance to explore a less-touristy part of Santorini, giving a more authentic feel.

The Fortress of Emporio

Your next stop at Emporio introduces you to a medieval, Venetian fortress. Strolling through its narrow streets with their quirks and arches feels like walking onto a movie set—think “Mamma Mia”. The village’s picturesque charm keeps visitors captivated by the intricate doorways, colorful windows, and ancient stonework. It’s a quiet but visually striking part of the island.

Relaxing at Perissa Black Sand Beach

After the cultural sightseeing, it’s time to unwind at Perissa Beach, famous for its dark volcanic sand. Here, you’ll have about two hours—ample time to take a dip in the sea or grab lunch at a taverna facing the water. Reviewers such as Belinda enjoyed the chance to relax, swim, and enjoy the beach atmosphere. The black sand’s heat can be intense, so bring flip-flops or water shoes if you plan to walk bare-foot.

Tasting Santorini Wine

A highlight for many is the private wine tasting session, featuring three wines made from local grape varieties. The guide explains the winemaking process, adding context to the tasting. Kelly described it as “great wine tasting,” and others appreciated the opportunity to sample authentic flavors of the island’s viticulture. This segment offers a delicious break in the day, with the chance to learn about a renowned local product.

The Sunset in Oia

The final major stop is Oia, world-famous for its blue-domed churches and stunning cliffside setting. You’ll have around three hours—more than enough time to explore, shop, or just relax with a drink. As the day ends, everyone gathers at the castle area for the incredible sunset. Witnessing the sun dip below the horizon, casting golden hues over the whitewashed buildings, is a quintessential Santorini moment. Kelly noted that the sunset was a “feature” of the trip, and many reviewers emphasized how special this sight is.

Returning and Reflecting

After sunset, your coach will return you to your hotel, bringing a relaxed end to a full day. The tour’s timing and pace keep the day enjoyable without feeling overly rushed, though some travelers pointed out that the sunset’s timing may vary depending on the season.

What the Tour Means for You

This tour offers a balanced combination of sightseeing, tasting, and relaxing, making it ideal for those who want a rundown without the hassle of self-driving or navigating public transportation. The stops at quaint villages, the beach, and the sunset in Oia are all authentic experiences that showcase the character of Santorini.

While the price is reasonable, the value comes from the knowledgeable guides, the variety of sites, and the included wine tasting. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy learning about local culture through guided commentary and appreciate having a set itinerary that hits all the major highlights.

Considerations

Keep in mind that seasonal changes can impact how long you spend in Oia and the timing of sunset. Some reviews note that late in the season, sunset viewing might be shorter or at different times. Also, food and drinks are not included, so you may want to budget for meals or snacks at the beach or in Oia.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for first-time visitors wanting a structured, informative day that hits the most scenic points on Santorini. It’s also great for those who prefer guided comfort, with opportunities to relax, swim, and enjoy local wines. If you’re interested in authentic villages and stunning vistas but don’t want the hassle of planning every detail, this tour suits you well.

Travelers who appreciate small group sizes and guided narratives will find this especially rewarding. It’s a good choice for those who want a rundown without rushing, and who love ending the day with a memorable sunset.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your hotel, making it easy to start your day without additional transportation worries.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, from around 11:30 am to early evening, including stops and free time.

Does the tour include food?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there is ample free time for lunch at the beach or in Oia.

What’s the focus of the wine tasting?
You’ll taste three wines made from local grape varieties, with explanations about the winemaking process.

How much free time do I get at each stop?
You’ll generally have enough time to walk around, take photos, relax, or go swimming—specific times vary by stop.

Can I expect the sunset in Oia to be included?
Yes, the sunset is a highlight, with about three hours in Oia to enjoy views, take photos, or explore.

Final Thoughts

This Top Sights of Santorini tour offers a thoughtful, well-rounded approach to experiencing the island’s best features. It balances cultural insights, breathtaking scenery, and local flavor, making it an excellent choice for first-time visitors or those with limited time. With knowledgeable guides, a scenic route, and authentic experiences like wine tasting, it captures the essence of Santorini without feeling rushed.

The slight seasonal variations mean you should plan accordingly—especially if catching the sunset in Oia is a priority. It’s also best suited for travelers who enjoy guided tours that blend sightseeing with relaxed moments for swimming or shopping. For around $80, you get a memorable day full of iconic sights, delicious wine, and a sunset that will stay with you long after you leave.

In summary, this tour is a smart, value-packed way to see the best of Santorini, especially if you prefer the comfort of guided travel with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the island’s beauty and flavors. Whether you’re a first-timer or someone looking to tick off major highlights in a single day, you’ll come away with a richer appreciation of this stunning Greek island.