Maximize your Santorini experience with our expertly crafted 6-hour private tour, showcasing the island’s most famous landmarks, stunning caldera views, and authentic local experiences. Travel in style and comfort with a luxury air-conditioned vehicle and a friendly, knowledgeable guide who will ensure every moment of your journey is unforgettable.
This personalized Santorini tour is perfect for travelers with limited time, cruise ship visitors, or those looking for a compact yet comprehensive exploration of the island’s most iconic spots.
Tour Overview (6 Hours of Pure Adventure)
- Stop 1: Oia Village & Caldera Views (1,5 Hour)
- Stop 2: Imerovigli – The Balcony of the Aegean (45 Minutes)
- Stop 3: Pyrgos Village and Prophet Elias Monastery (1 hour and 15 Minutes)
- Stop 4: Black Sand Beach (30 Minutes)
- Stop 5: Red Beach (30 Minutes)
- Stop 6: Akrotiri Prehistoric city (45 Minutes)
- Stop 7: Lighthouse (30 Minutes)
- Scenic Drives, Photo Stops & Return (15 Minutes)
Detailed Itinerary
🕐 Stop 1: Oia Village & Caldera Views (1 Hour)
Start your journey with a visit to the world-famous Oia Village, one of the most photographed spots in the world. Known for its whitewashed buildings, iconic blue-domed churches, and spectacular sunset views, Oia is a true highlight of any Santorini tour.
- What to See: Walk along the marble-paved alleys, browse boutique shops selling handmade souvenirs, and visit the legendary Oia Castle for the best panoramic views of the Aegean Sea.
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- Optional: Take a quick detour to Ammoudi Bay, a charming fishing port known for its waterfront seafood tavernas and picturesque views.
🕑 Stop 2: Imerovigli – The Balcony of the Aegean (30 Minutes)
Next, head to Imerovigli, known as the "Balcony of the Aegean" for its unmatched views of the Santorini Caldera, Skaros Rock, and the endless blue of the Aegean Sea. This peaceful village is famous for its luxurious cliffside hotels, infinity pools, and private terraces with panoramic views.
- What to See: Walk the scenic path along the cliff’s edge, take in the view of the blue-domed churches, and admire the beauty of Skaros Rock, a massive rock formation with historical significance.
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- Photo Tip: This is one of the best photo spots on the island, offering the perfect backdrop of whitewashed buildings against the deep blue sea.
🕒 Stop 3: Pyrgos Village and Prophet Elias Monastery (1hour and 15 Minutes)
For the next stop, you will visit two equally incredible destinations:
- Pyrgos Village – A traditional hilltop village with authentic Cycladic architecture, narrow streets, and panoramic views of Santorini. Explore the village’s medieval castle, walk through quiet alleys, and enjoy a glimpse of local island life. If time allows, visit a nearby winery (like Santo Wines) for a taste of the island’s famous wines.
- Prophet Elias Monastery – Located at the island's highest point, Mount Profitis Ilias, this site offers 360-degree panoramic views of Santorini's caldera, villages, and coastline. Built in 1711, the monastery is a peaceful retreat, where visitors can purchase locally produced wine, honey, and other artisanal products.
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- Tip: For those who love history and culture, Pyrgos Village is a great option, while the monastery is best for panoramic views and spiritual reflection.
🕓 Stop 4: Black Sand Beach (30 Minutes)
Your adventure ends with a relaxing visit to Santorini’s Black Sand Beach, one of the island's most unique natural attractions. This volcanic beach, made of black sand and pebbles, offers a one-of-a-kind experience. Enjoy a stroll along the shoreline, relax at a seaside cafe, or take a quick dip in the Aegean Sea.
- Where to Visit: Visit either Perivolos Beach or Perissa Beach, both known for their beach clubs, water sports, and vibrant atmosphere.
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- Optional: Relax at one of the beachfront tavernas or enjoy fresh seafood while soaking up the sun.
🕓 Stop 5: Red Beach (30 Minutes)
Red Beach is one of Santorini's most striking and unique natural attractions, famous for its dramatic red cliffs and volcanic sands. Located near the village of Akrotiri, the beach offers a stunning contrast of vibrant red, black and white hues against the turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea. It's a must visit spot for nature lovers and photographers.
- What to See: The sand is a mix of red and black volcanic pebbles, a result of ancient volcanic eruptions. The beach is accessible via a short hike from the parking area, adding to the adventure. The path offers stunning views of the cliffs and sea.
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- Optional: The crystal-clear waters are ideal for swimming and snorkeling, allowing visitors to explore the underwater volcanic formations.
Stop 6: Akrotiri Prehistoric city (45 Minutes)
Akrotiri, often referred to as the “Pompeii of the Aegean,” is one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece. This well-preserved Bronze Age settlement, buried under volcanic ash after the massive eruption of Thera around 1600 BCE, offers a fascinating glimpse into the advanced civilization that flourished on Santorini during the Minoan period.
- What to See: Advanced urban planning, multi-story buildings, drainage systems, and vibrant frescoes. The city was remarkably preserved by volcanic ash, similar to Pompeii, protecting it from natural decay. No human remains have been discovered at Akrotiri, suggesting that the inhabitants evacuated before the eruption.
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- Optional: Hire a licensed tour guide for deep and detailed explanation. (1,5 hours duration)
Stop 7: Lighthouse (30 Minutes)
The Lighthouse of Santorini, also known as the Akrotiri Lighthouse, is one of the oldest and most picturesque lighthouses in Greece. Located on the southwestern tip of Santorini, near the village of Akrotiri, it stands as a symbol of maritime history and offers breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea.
- What to See: Built in 1892 by a French trading company, the lighthouse has been guiding ships for over a century. It is one of the first lighthouses built in Greece and remains operational to this day.
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- Optional: It’s an ideal spot for sunset viewing, providing a quieter alternative to Oia.
🕔 Drive Back & Scenic Photo Stops (15 Minutes)
As you make your way back, enjoy scenic drives along Santorini’s coastline. Your driver can make impromptu stops for incredible photo opportunities, capturing the island’s stunning landscapes, vineyards, and whitewashed villages.