Santorini: Private Island Tour with Oia, Akrotiri & Beaches

Summary

Oia domes, Akrotiri ruins and black sand beaches in one private day

You’ll wander through Oia’s iconic blue-domed churches with a local guide, taste homemade wine in Megalochori’s shady square, stand above Santorini at Prophet Ilias Monastery, and feel volcanic sand between your toes at Perissa Beach. This private tour lets you shape your own day trip around Santorini while hearing stories only locals know—leaving you with more than just pretty photos.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered if those blue domes in Santorini really look like the photos? I did too — until our guide Maria pulled over just outside Oia and I found myself squinting at that white-and-blue puzzle in real sunlight. The air smelled faintly of sea salt and sunscreen, and there was this quiet hum from a nearby café. Maria told us about her grandmother’s wedding here (she pointed out the church), which made me see the place less like a postcard and more like someone’s home. We wandered through Oia’s winding paths, dodging selfie sticks and stopping for an espresso that tasted slightly burnt but honestly, it fit the moment.

Driving up to Prophet Ilias Monastery, the road twisted so much my ears popped. At the top, the wind was strong enough to nearly knock my hat off — not that I minded, because you can see almost all of Santorini from up there. Maria handed us some loukoumi (I probably pronounced it wrong; she laughed anyway) and we just stood there chewing quietly. The view stretched from Perissa’s black sand all the way to the volcano. You know that feeling when you’re somewhere high up and everything else feels small? That.

We made a quick stop in Megalochori — not on my original list, but Maria insisted (“You’ll regret it if you skip!”). Locals sat under plane trees playing cards; one old man waved us over to try his homemade wine (tasted like raisins and sunshine). The village felt lived-in, not staged for tourists. Later at Red Beach near Akrotiri, I tried to brush volcanic dust off my sandals but gave up — it gets everywhere. The cliffs glowed rusty red against impossible blue water. On our way back, Perissa Beach was quiet except for kids chasing each other along the black sand; it stuck between my toes for hours after.

I didn’t expect to care so much about an island I’d only seen on Instagram before this day trip in Santorini. It wasn’t perfect — traffic jams near Fira, sunburn on my neck — but something about seeing these places with someone who actually lives here made it stick with me longer than any photo could.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Santorini's iconic sites

• Visit Firostefani village
• Walk coastal path to Fira
• Explore Imerovigli village
• Tour Oia village and blue domes
• Visit Monastery of Prophet Ilias
• Discover Megalochori village
• See Red Beach at Akrotiri
• Visit archaeological site of Akrotiri
• Relax at Perissa black sand beach

Top questions

How long does the private Santorini tour last?

The tour lasts approximately 6 hours.

Is pickup included for cruise ship travelers?

Yes, pickup is available at the Fira cable car exit upper station for cruise passengers.

Which beaches are visited during this Santorini day trip?

The tour includes stops at Red Beach near Akrotiri and Perissa Beach with its black volcanic sand.

Can I customize the itinerary on this private tour?

Yes, you can create your own itinerary or ask your guide for recommendations during your private tour.

Are entry fees included in the price?

All fees and taxes are included in the tour price.

What historical sites are visited on this Santorini tour?

The itinerary can include Akrotiri archaeological site and Prophet Ilias Monastery.

Is this tour suitable for families or small groups?

This private experience is ideal for couples, families, honeymooners or small groups seeking exclusivity.

What type of vehicle is used for transport?

A luxury air-conditioned vehicle is provided for transport around Santorini.

What’s included

Your day includes custom transport in an air-conditioned vehicle with bottled water provided throughout. Pickup and drop-off are arranged at any car-accessible location in Santorini—even right by the Fira cable car station if you’re coming from a cruise ship. All entry fees and taxes are covered so you don’t have to worry about extra costs. A local English-speaking guide leads your journey—sharing stories as you go—and specialized infant seats or stroller access can be arranged if needed.