Santorini: Private Highlights Tour with Oia, Pyrgos & Beach

Summary

First time in Santorini? See Oia, Pyrgos & Kamari with a local

You’ll feel Santorini’s volcanic air on your skin as you stand above Pyrgos village, taste salt on Kamari’s black sand beach, and watch golden light spill over Oia’s rooftops with your local guide nearby. This private tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off so you can focus on soaking up every moment.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the wind to smell like salt and wild thyme when we stepped out of the van near Pyrgos. Our guide, Eleni, was already waving us over to a spot where you could see almost all of Santorini at once — five islands scattered like puzzle pieces. She pointed out where the volcano had split everything apart ages ago. I kept thinking about how people here just live with that history under their feet, like it’s nothing special.

Pyrgos itself felt quieter than I thought it would — just a few old men playing cards outside a café and some cats eyeing us from doorways. Eleni showed us how the houses are built right into the hillside, white walls catching that weird blue light you only get here. She told us about her grandmother’s stories from when the castle was still half-standing. It made me wish I could’ve seen it then. We wandered up narrow steps (watch your head if you’re tall), and she laughed when I tried to read a Greek street sign out loud — not my proudest moment.

Kamari Beach was next. The sand is black and kind of sticky between your toes — not what I expected at all, but it felt good after walking so much. Some kids were splashing in the water while their parents drank coffee under faded umbrellas. Eleni handed us cold bottled water and pointed out a bakery where her cousin works (I still regret not grabbing something sweet). We stopped at one of those blue-domed churches for photos — honestly, it looks even more unreal in person than in pictures.

Oia was our last stop, and by then the light was turning gold over the caldera. There were crowds, sure, but somehow it didn’t matter because everyone seemed caught up in the same quiet awe. We found some ruins of an old Venetian castle; Eleni gave us a minute to just stand there and look out over everything. It’s strange how quickly four hours goes by when you’re actually living it instead of just ticking off sights. I keep thinking about that view even now — you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Santorini highlights and village tour

• Enjoy panoramic island view
• Explore traditional village Pyrgos
• Walk on Kamari black sand beach
• Visit famous blue domed church
• Explore Venetian castle ruins in Oia

Top questions

How long does the Santorini private tour last?

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

Does this tour include Oia village?

Yes, Oia is included as one of the main stops on this private tour.

Is hotel pickup included for this Santorini day trip?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are both included in your booking.

Will we visit Kamari Beach during the tour?

Yes, Kamari Beach is part of the itinerary—you can walk on its black sand or dip your toes in the sea.

Are entrance fees or taxes included?

All taxes, fees, and handling charges are included in the price.

Is this tour suitable for cruise ship passengers?

Yes, but cruise ship guests need to provide ship details when booking.

Are there options for infants or people with limited mobility?

The tour offers specialized infant seats and is suitable for all fitness levels.

Is public transportation available near meeting points?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby if needed.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off anywhere on Santorini, a friendly local guide who shares stories along every stop, private transport for just your group, bottled water whenever you need it, plus all taxes and handling fees—so you really don’t have to worry about logistics at all.