Santorini: Oia Blue Domes, Red Beach & Traditional Villages Tour

Summary

See Santorini’s famous blue domes, red sand beaches & quiet villages with a local

You’ll wander Oia’s iconic blue-domed lanes, sip coffee in quiet villages, climb to Profitis Ilias Monastery for sweeping island views, and dip your toes into volcanic sands at Red Beach or Perivolos. With a local guide sharing stories along flexible stops—and time for lunch or swimming—it’s Santorini as locals know it: sometimes busy, always surprising.

What’s the experience like?

We tumbled out of the van in Oia and the first thing I noticed was how the air smelled—sort of salty but with this hint of wild thyme. Our guide, Giorgos, waved us over to a spot where everyone else had their phones out. He told us about the Venetian castle ruins and pointed at the blue domes just peeking between white walls. I tried to get a photo but honestly, it’s one of those places where your eyes do a better job than your camera. There were crowds but somehow it didn’t feel rushed—maybe because Giorgos kept making jokes about his “terrible” English (it was perfect).

After that we drove south and stopped in this little village—I forget the name, but it had these narrow alleys and old houses with faded doors. We ducked into a cave house (cooler inside than outside) and sat for coffee in the square. The old men playing cards didn’t look up much, except when someone tried to order an iced latte (no luck). Later at Profitis Ilias Monastery, there was this sudden hush—wind up there is sharp, you can see all of Santorini laid out like a map. The monks had set out icons behind glass; I’m not religious but something about the light through those windows made me pause.

The beaches—Red Beach first—felt almost Martian with that rusty sand underfoot. Kids were climbing rocks and someone nearby was eating fried squid from a paper bag (I could smell it every time the breeze shifted). At Perivolos Beach we finally got to swim; water colder than expected but so clear you could see your toes even deep in. Lunch was grilled fish at one of those open-air tavernas right on the sand. Giorgos let us pick if we wanted more beach or to check out Akrotiri’s ruins or try some wine—I liked having that choice.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Santorini's key sights

• Visit Oia village and blue domes
• Stroll through southern wine village
• See Monastery of Profitis Ilias
• Hike and swim at Red Beach
• Relax and swim at Perivolos Beach

Top questions

How long does the Santorini tour last?

The tour covers several key sites around Santorini in one day; exact duration depends on chosen stops but typically lasts several hours.

Is hotel pickup included in this Santorini tour?

The tour includes pickup; check with your provider for specific locations covered.

Can I swim during this day trip?

Yes, you have spare time at Red Beach or Perivolos Beach for swimming or relaxing by the sea.

Are meals included on this Santorini day trip?

Lunch is not included but you’ll have free time at Perivolos Beach to eat at seaside restaurants of your choice.

Is the itinerary customizable?

The itinerary is flexible—you can choose between visiting Akrotiri’s excavation site or a local wine farm during your tour.

Are infants allowed on this tour?

Yes, infants and small children can join; prams/strollers are accommodated and infants must sit on an adult's lap.

What sites are visited on this Santorini tour?

You’ll visit Oia village (blue domes), a traditional southern village, Profitis Ilias Monastery, Red Beach, and Perivolos Beach.

Is public transportation available near pickup points?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby most pickup points on Santorini.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup by air-conditioned vehicle with bottled water and wet wipes provided; maps are handed out by your guide as you explore Oia’s blue domes, traditional villages, Profitis Ilias Monastery, Red Beach and Perivolos Beach—with free time for lunch or swimming before heading back.