Santorini: Private Custom Tour, Akrotiri & Monastery Views

Summary

Oia sunsets, Akrotiri ruins and monastery views by private car

You’ll wander whitewashed villages with a local guide, climb up to Santorini’s highest monastery for sweeping island views, explore ancient Akrotiri’s ruins, taste volcanic wines among twisting vines, and find quiet corners far from crowds—all with private pickup and flexible stops that feel personal every step of the way.

What’s the experience like?

Somewhere between the sound of sandals on stone and the sharp smell of wild thyme, I realized how much you can actually feel a place like Santorini. Our driver, Nikos, met us right outside our hotel—he had this easy way of talking about the island, like he’d lived every story. We started in Oia. It’s as white and blue as all those photos, but honestly it’s the little things—like a cat weaving between my legs while I tried (and failed) to pronounce “kalimera.” Nikos just grinned and pointed out a shortcut away from the crowds for a quieter look at the caldera. The air was salty and warm even before noon.

We zigzagged up to the Monastery of Profitis Ilias next. The road gets narrow and twisty near the top—my stomach noticed. At 567 meters, you can see pretty much everything: vineyards patchworking the hills, Skaros Rock jutting out like some old shipwreck, even a bit of haze over the volcano crater. One of the monks offered us these tiny sweet figs they grow themselves (I’m still thinking about that taste). There was this silence up there that felt different—like even the wind slowed down.

After that we wandered through Pyrgos village with its labyrinthine alleys and crumbling Venetian castle walls. A local woman waved from her doorstep; I tried to say hello in Greek but probably butchered it—she just laughed and waved me inside for a quick look at her courtyard garden. Lunch was at a little farm-to-table spot near Red Beach—eggplant dip so smoky I wanted to ask for seconds but got distracted by volcanic rock formations glowing red in the sun.

We finished with a Santorini wine tasting at one of those family-run vineyards where you can smell earth and sea in every glass. Our guide explained how the grapes curl low to survive wind off the caldera—it makes sense when you’re standing there, dust on your shoes, glass in hand. We could’ve kept going for hours (the tour is flexible), but I liked ending with that last light over black sand at Vlychada Beach. So yeah—I didn’t expect to feel so attached after just one day trip around Santorini from Fira or Oia, but here we are.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Santorini's highlights and views

• Visit famous photogenic village
• See blue-domed churches
• Discover hidden photo spots
• Enjoy unique sunset views
• Visit highest Caldera viewpoint
• Admire panoramic Skaros Rock views
• Climb to island's highest peak
• Explore monastery and local products
• Walk Venetian castle and narrow streets
• Meet local people
• Tour ancient Minoan archaeological site
• Visit lighthouse and volcanic rock formations
• Relax at Red Beach
• Lunch at farm-to-table restaurant
• Taste Santorini wines at vineyard
• Learn grape cultivation and winemaking
• Visit black sand volcanic beach
• Take break at Theros Wave Bar

Top questions

How long does this private Santorini tour last?

The standard duration is 5 hours; extra hours can be added for an additional fee.

Are hotel pickups included on this custom Santorini tour?

Yes, private transportation with pickup is included anywhere on Santorini.

What are some highlights on this day trip from Fira or Oia?

You’ll visit Oia village, Monastery of Profitis Ilias, Pyrgos castle area, Akrotiri archaeological site, Red Beach area for lunch, and a local winery.

Is lunch provided during the tour?

You’ll stop at a farm-to-table restaurant near Red Beach for lunch; cost is not specified but time is set aside for it.

Can I customize which attractions we visit?

Yes—you choose activities from a list and arrange your own itinerary with recommendations from your guide.

Is this tour suitable for families or infants?

Yes; specialized infant seats are available upon request.

What vehicles are used for transportation?

SUVs (Volvo/Nissan) or Mercedes vans are used depending on group size; all vehicles are air-conditioned.

Are entry fees included in this private tour?

The inclusions mention transport and snacks but do not specify entry fees; check when booking if these are covered.

What’s included

Your day includes private hotel pickup anywhere on Santorini in an air-conditioned vehicle (SUV or van), WiFi onboard so you can share photos instantly, bottled water and snacks along the way, plus plenty of time with your local guide who’ll help shape each stop to match your interests before dropping you back off wherever you choose.