Megalochori is a charming village on Santorini that offers more than just postcard-perfect scenery. Its narrow streets, traditional architecture, and quiet vibe make it a perfect spot to explore on a guided tour. Unlike busier towns like Fira and Oia, Megalochori invites travelers to experience authentic island life, with fewer crowds and more opportunities for genuine moments. We especially like tours that combine visits to iconic spots with local flavor—such as the Half Day Tour that takes you through Fira, Firostefani, and Megalochori or the Spend The Day With A Local experience, which offers a deep dive into the island’s hidden corners. For travelers interested in photography, the High Places Photo Safari is particularly appealing, blending scenic views with insider tips for the perfect shot. Each of these tours offers a different way to get under the skin of Megalochori and Santorini itself.
Quick Overview
Our list features four standout options: a flexible Half Day Tour in Santorini, a Photo Safari for picture lovers, a Standard Private Tour for customizable sightseeing, and a full-day Spend With A Local experience for those seeking a personal, immersive day. Each one offers a unique perspective—from quick highlights to in-depth local encounters. Now, let’s dive into what makes each tour special.
1. Santorini: Half day tour Morning or afternoon
At number 1, this half-day tour offers a well-balanced mix of major sights and authentic village strolls. Starting at around $169 per person, it lasts about 4 hours and is highly flexible, allowing you to tailor the experience to your preferences. The tour covers Fira, where you can walk through its narrow passages and snap photos with the iconic Blue Dome, and then visits Firostefani for a quick photo stop at the famous three bells. The highlight is exploring Megalochori, a traditional village with quiet, winding streets that feel like stepping back in time. The tour also includes a visit to Profitis Ilias Church, the highest point on Santorini, offering sweeping views of the island.
What makes this tour stand out is its flexibility—if you want more time at a particular spot or a relaxed pace, the guide can accommodate. The reviews praise the guide’s ability to adjust the itinerary and the intimate nature of the trip. One reviewer notes, “We were able to make most out of our half-day trip thanks to the guide’s flexibility.” It’s ideal for travelers short on time but eager to experience the essence of Santorini with a local touch.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a personalized, flexible half-day tour that hits the top spots and allows for spontaneous stops, this is your best bet.
2. Santorini Photo Safari High Places
Next on our list is the Photo Safari, perfect for those who want to combine sightseeing with capturing high-quality photos. Priced at $175 per person, this 4-hour tour takes you from well-known attractions to lesser-known viewpoints—ideal for photography enthusiasts who want stunning shots of Santorini’s landscapes.
The tour includes a walk along a red sand beach, visits to rustic windmills, and a climb up to a hilltop monastery. What makes it special is the focus on photography, giving personalized tips and access to spots that most visitors overlook. You get picked up and dropped off outside your hotel, making it convenient and comfortable for small groups or couples.
This tour is unique because it blends scenic beauty with practical photography advice. It’s best suited for travelers who love taking pictures and want to improve their skills while seeing Santorini’s hidden layers. Because the itinerary is curated for high-quality photo opportunities, you’ll come away with images that truly capture the island’s essence.
Bottom Line: If you’re passionate about photography and want a relaxed, personalized experience that takes you to iconic and scenic high points, this safari is an excellent choice.
$175 per person
3. Santorini: Standard Private Tour
Positioned at number 3, the Standard Private Tour offers a flexible 4.5-hour exploration of some of Santorini’s most celebrated locations for up to four people at $327 per group. This tour is perfect for couples or small families seeking a custom experience that prioritizes your interests.
The itinerary includes Oia, known for its stunning sunsets and picturesque alleys, as well as Megalochori, Black Sandy Beach, and Red Beach. The guide tailors the time spent at each site to your preferences, whether you want to linger longer in Oia or explore quieter spots around the beaches. The tour offers a more private, intimate way to see Santorini, with a guide who shares insights about the local landscape and culture.
Guests who have taken this tour praise the flexibility and the beautiful scenery. One reviewer notes, “We loved how we could spend extra time in places that interested us most, and the guide was very knowledgeable.” It’s a great fit for travelers who want a more personalized, yet comprehensive, day on the island.
Bottom Line: For those seeking a private, flexible tour that covers top locations and offers personalized pacing, this private experience delivers excellent value.
$327 per group up to 4
4. Santorini: Spend The Day With A Local
Finally, at number 4, the Spend The Day With A Local is a full 6-hour private tour costing $508 per group. Designed for those who want to go beyond the usual highlights, this experience gets you into famous and lesser-known sites alike, all with a local guide who knows the ins and outs of Santorini.
This tour includes a visit to Oia, the Prophet Elias Monastery, and the traditional Megalochori village. It also features stops at an art gallery, a local winery, and a family-run restaurant. The guide, Lefteris, is praised for his professionalism and knowledge, making the experience both fun and deeply informative. One review states, “He took us around Santorini, explaining everything and making the tour interesting,” which shows how personalized and engaging this tour can be.
Since it covers a variety of locations, including art spaces and local eateries, it’s perfect for travelers wanting an immersive experience and a taste of authentic island life. Although longer and pricier, many feel it’s outstanding value for a full day of tailored, insider access.
Bottom Line: If you’re interested in a deep, personal tour that goes beyond the typical, this full-day experience is worth the investment.
$508 per group up to 4
How to Choose the Right Tour in Megalochori
When picking your ideal tour, consider your budget, how much time you want to spend, and your interests. If you’re pressed for time but want a quick, flexible overview, the Half Day Tour offers a great balance. For photography buffs, the Photo Safari provides a tailored, picture-perfect experience. Those seeking more personal attention or a private itinerary will appreciate the Standard Private Tour, while travelers who want a full, immersive day should look at Spend The Day With A Local.
Think about whether you prefer relaxing at scenic viewpoints, exploring local villages, or getting insider tips on art and wine. Booking early is advised, especially in peak season, to ensure availability and secure your preferred time slot.
In summary, Megalochori offers a range of memorable tour options for all travel styles. Whether you’re after a quick overview, a photo-focused adventure, or an in-depth local experience, there’s a perfect fit waiting. For most visitors, combining a guided tour with some free exploration makes for a truly authentic Santorini visit. To ensure your trip is smooth and enjoyable, consider booking your tours well in advance and tailor your choice based on what excites you most about this beautiful island.