Santorini: Private Full-Day Tour Oia, Akrotiri & Winery Pickup

Oia sunsets, ancient Akrotiri & volcanic beaches in one island day

You’ll wander marble lanes in Oia, gaze out from Profitis Ilias Monastery, explore Akrotiri’s ancient ruins, sink your toes into volcanic sand at Perivolos Beach, and sample local wines above the caldera — all with an easy pickup and a guide who feels more like a friend by sunset.

What’s included

Your private full-day tour includes pickup and drop-off from any hotel or villa in Santorini, bottled water throughout the journey, comfortable transport by air-conditioned minivan just for your group, plus both an expert driver and a friendly local guide to share stories along every stop — from ancient Akrotiri to sunset wine tasting before heading home again.

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Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Santorini full-day sightseeing tour

• Visit Imerovigli village and cathedral
• Stop at caldera edge for views
• Explore Oia's narrow marble streets
• Visit Prophet Ilias Monastery summit
• Explore Megalochori traditional village
• Walk Pyrgos village and Venetian castle
• Wander Emporio village and see windmills
• Discover Akrotiri ruins independently
• Visit Red Beach and take photos
• Relax or swim at Perissa-Perivolos black beach
• Enjoy wine tasting at Venetsanos winery

The Experience

I nearly missed our guide waving at us outside the hotel — I was distracted by the smell of baking bread from somewhere down the street. Turns out that’s how our Santorini day trip started: not with fanfare, but with a smile and a “Kalimera!” from Eleni. She drove us through Firostefani first, where the blue domes really do look painted on, and then up to Imerovigli. The wind was sharp on the cliffs; my hair did its own thing. Eleni pointed out how the hotels cling to the caldera like white sugar cubes. I tried to take a photo but honestly, it doesn’t capture that feeling of standing there — you know?

We wandered Pyrgos next, which used to be Santorini’s capital (I didn’t know that). The alleys twist around old stone houses and cats nap in doorways. At Profitis Ilias Monastery, we could see all of Santorini spread below us — vineyards patchworked between black lava fields. There’s this faint smell of thyme and wild herbs up there. Eleni told us monks still live here; she said one sometimes bakes almond cookies for visitors but today he was “busy with God,” she joked.

I’d been curious about Akrotiri since reading about it — walking through those ancient ruins felt strange in a good way, like eavesdropping on people who lived thousands of years ago. The air inside is cool and dusty; you can see painted walls and clay pots just sitting there behind ropes. After that we stopped at Red Beach, which actually glows deep rust-red under the sun. Sand gets everywhere (I’m still finding it in my shoes). Lunch was optional at Perivolos Beach — grilled fish so fresh it almost flinched when I squeezed lemon over it.

Last stop: Venetsanos winery perched right above the sea. We sat outside with three little glasses lined up for tasting, watching boats drift below while cicadas buzzed somewhere nearby. Greek wine tastes different here — maybe it’s the view or maybe just vacation magic. I still think about that last sip as we rode back to our hotel, salt-sticky and sun-tired but kind of wishing the day wasn’t over yet.

Top questions

How long is the private Santorini full-day tour?

The tour covers a full day with multiple stops across Santorini including Oia, Akrotiri ruins, beaches, villages, and a winery.

Is hotel pickup included for this Santorini sightseeing tour?

Yes, pickup and drop-off from all hotels and villas in Santorini are included.

Does this tour visit Akrotiri archaeological site?

Yes, you will visit Akrotiri ruins where you can explore at your own pace.

Are food or drinks included during the day trip?

Bottled water is included; lunch is optional at Perivolos Beach (own expense), and wine tasting is offered at Venetsanos or Agyros estate.

Which beaches are visited on this private tour?

The itinerary includes Red Beach and Perivolos (Black Sand) Beach for exploring or swimming.

Is there time for swimming during the tour?

You’ll have free time at Perivolos Beach where swimming is possible if you wish.

What villages are included besides Oia?

The tour also visits Imerovigli, Pyrgos village or Megalochori traditional village, and Emporio.

Who leads the private Santorini sightseeing tour?

A professional English-speaking driver plus a local knowledgeable guide accompany you throughout the day.