Santorini: Private Tailor-Made Island Tour & Flexible Stops

Summary

See Santorini your way with a private driver, from Oia to secret beaches and old villages

You’ll wander whitewashed alleys in Pyrgos, taste homemade wine at a hilltop monastery, dig your toes into black sand at Perissa Beach, and let a local guide shape your day around what actually matters to you. Every moment is flexible—so you can chase sunsets or linger over lunch without watching the clock.

What’s the experience like?

Hands gripping the steering wheel, our driver—Nikos—just grinned when I asked if we could stop for coffee in Pyrgos instead of heading straight to Oia. “Of course, this is your day,” he said, and that’s how it felt the whole time. The air was thick with jasmine as we squeezed through alleyways barely wider than my suitcase back at the hotel. I tried to order a Greek coffee and probably butchered the pronunciation; the lady behind the counter just smiled and handed me something dark and strong enough to wake up the volcano itself.

We’d planned nothing too rigid for our private Santorini tour—just a rough list: maybe Akrotiri if we had time, definitely Red Beach because I’d seen photos of those cliffs. Nikos knew every shortcut and every story. At the Monastery of Profitis Ilias, he pointed out vineyards curling down toward the sea and told us about monks making wine on windy afternoons. The view from up there was wild—hazy blue all around—and I remember thinking how quiet it got when you stepped away from the parking lot. Sometimes you just stand there, not saying much.

Lunch happened because Nikos insisted we try fava at a family farm near Akrotiri (“You can’t leave without tasting this!”). The table was sticky from old wine spills; sun-dried tomatoes tasted like they’d been pulled right out of the earth that morning. We laughed about how volcanic soil makes everything sweeter—or maybe it’s just being on holiday that does it. By afternoon, we were walking black sand at Perissa Beach with our shoes dangling from one hand and no real plan except maybe catching sunset in Oia if we weren’t too tired. We never rushed; nobody hurried us along.

I still think about that last hour in Oia—everyone waiting for sunset but somehow it didn’t feel crowded when you’re tucked into a quiet corner with someone who knows where to go. The light on those blue domes isn’t something you can really photograph (I tried anyway). If you want a day trip in Santorini that feels like yours—not just another checklist—you’ll probably get what I mean.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Santorini's authentic highlights

• Visit Oia village and viewpoints
• Admire Caldera views at central point
• Stop at Fira village balcony
• Explore traditional white painted houses
• Visit lighthouse for panoramic views
• See Red Beach volcanic landscape
• Relax at Perissa Beach
• Visit Monastery of Profitis Ilias
• Wander Pyrgos village alleys
• Explore Venetian fortified settlement
• Tour Akrotiri Archaeological Site
• Taste local products at family farm
• View windmills near Emporio village
• Tour tomato museum and taste products
• Wine tasting at modern winery
• Visit art center in old winery
• Wine tasting at Venetsanos winery
• Explore natural wine museum cave
• Tour Ftelos Brewery and taste beers

Top questions

How long does a private Santorini tailor-made tour last?

The duration depends on your preferences but typically lasts several hours up to a full day—it’s fully customizable.

Is hotel pickup included in this Santorini private tour?

Yes, pickup and drop-off are included from your hotel, port, or airport.

Can I visit both Oia and Akrotiri on this day trip?

Yes, you can include both Oia and Akrotiri in your itinerary if time allows—they’re optional stops.

Are food or wine tastings part of this private tour?

You can request stops at local farms or wineries for tastings; these are optional based on your interests.

Is this tour suitable for families with children?

Yes, families are welcome—infant seats are available and strollers can be accommodated.

Does the tour include entry fees to attractions?

No, entry fees are not included unless specified; discuss with your guide which sites require tickets.

Can cruise ship passengers book this Santorini private tour?

Yes, cruise ship passengers can book; provide ship details when booking for smooth pickup arrangements.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel or port pickup and drop-off by deluxe air-conditioned van, bottled water throughout the ride, live commentary from an experienced local driver-guide who’ll help shape your route as you go—and maps if you want them. All transportation is private so you set the pace before heading back whenever you’re ready.