Santorini Oia & Beaches with Local Guide Private Car

Summary

Oia Blue Domes & Red Beach Day with Santorini Local

Step into Santorini’s sunlit villages and volcanic beaches with a local guide who knows every shortcut and story. Wander Oia’s alleys, see postcard-blue domes, feel black sand under your feet at Perissa Beach, and end with wine tasting at a family-run winery — all in a private car with flexible stops you’ll remember long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the way the light hit the white walls in Oia — almost too bright to look at, but then you get used to it. Our driver, Nikos, waved us over with a grin and pointed out a bakery where he said his grandmother still buys bread. I tried to say “kalimera” and probably messed it up (he laughed politely). We wandered through those winding lanes, blue domes popping up between rooftops. There was this smell of coffee and sunscreen everywhere. I kept stopping for photos even though I knew none would really catch how it felt standing there.

We made our way to Firostefani for that famous blue dome — the one from all the postcards. It was quieter than I expected; just a couple of cats sunning themselves on a wall and some older women chatting in Greek nearby. Nikos told us about his childhood here, how he’d sneak down to the cliffs after school. The wind picked up as we drove toward Red Beach — you could taste salt in the air before you even saw the water. The cliffs looked almost unreal, deep red against that crazy blue sea.

Perissa Beach was next — black sand that gets hot fast under your feet (I learned that quick). We didn’t swim but just stood there for a while watching kids chase each other near the shoreline. At some point Nikos handed us cold bottles of water from his cooler and told us about how volcanic eruptions shaped everything around us. He seemed proud but not showy about it; just matter-of-fact, like this wild landscape is part of him.

We ended at a small winery tucked behind some olive trees. The owner poured us glasses of white wine and showed us how they still use old baskets for harvesting grapes — my hands smelled like earth after touching them. I didn’t expect to feel so relaxed by then, but something about sitting in that quiet courtyard made me want to stay longer than we had time for. Even now, when I think about Santorini, it’s those little moments that come back first.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Santorini Highlights Tour

• Visit Oia village and blue dome churches
• See famous blue dome postcard view
• Explore Red Beach
• Walk through traditional village
• Relax at Perissa black sandy beach

Top questions

How long does the private Santorini tour last?

The tour lasts approximately 4 hours from pickup to drop-off.

Which places are included on this Santorini highlights tour?

You’ll visit Oia village, Firostefani’s blue dome church, Red Beach, Perissa Beach (black sand), and a local winery.

Is pickup included in this Santorini private tour?

Yes, pickup is included for your group at your accommodation or agreed location.

Can the itinerary be customized during the tour?

Yes, tours can be tailored based on your interests or you can follow the standard route.

Is this tour suitable for families with children?

Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult; infant seats are available if needed.

Are vehicles air-conditioned?

Yes, all vehicles used are comfortable and air-conditioned.

Is this Santorini day trip wheelchair accessible?

The tour is wheelchair accessible; please mention any specific needs when booking.

How many people can join this private Santorini experience?

The price covers up to 4 persons per booking in one vehicle.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel or agreed-point pickup in a private air-conditioned car with an English-speaking local driver-guide who’ll share stories along the way; stops at Oia village, Firostefani’s blue dome church, Red Beach’s dramatic cliffs, Perissa’s black sand beach; plus time at a traditional winery for tasting before returning relaxed and full of new memories.