The Essence of Santorini: 4-Hour Customizable VIP Private Tour
Description
Experience the charm of Santorini on a private tour to see its highlights. Traveling in a luxury, air-conditioned vehicle with an english-speaking driver you can explore the uniqueness of this Greek island by walking through the narrow streets of the traditional villages like Pyrgos, photographing the astonishing sunset of Oia, relaxing at the black sand beach or spending some time in Fira, the island’s capital, for shopping. The itinerary we have created for you has some of the places off-the-beaten-track but feel free to create your flexible route through the stations we recommend based on your interests.
Tour Options
Itinerary
The tour begins with the visit of the highest spot of the island (567 meters) located between Pyrgos and Kamari. The Mountain's name, Profitis Ilias (Prophet Elijah), is coming from the Monastery with the same name on its peak. From this vantage point, you will enjoy a striking view of the entire island, from the patchwork agricultural plains to the hilltop village of Oia. The Monastery was built in 1712 and it always had a very important role for the life of Santorini during the centuries especially as an active intellectual and patriotic influence.
Next stop the picturesque village of Pyrgos, built on the top of a hill, used to be until the early 1800 the capital of the island. The village is composed by traditional houses built around the Venetian Castle and small streets following the shape of the hill. The village has many churches, around 33and it is the perfect example to admire a typical example of Cycladic Architecture: climbing from the square up to the castle of Pyrgos the stone houses crowd more densely together and the labyrinth of narrow vaulted lanes becomes more tortuous. You will hane enough time to walk around the village.
Firostefani lies to the north of Fira, the view from this part of Santorini is spectacular, offering a different perspective of the volcano. The Church of the Three Bells in Fira on Santorini is one of the most famous, photogenic and most photographed Greek Catholic churches on the island. It is also called the Church of the Ascension of the Blessed Virgin Mary. In the mid-17th century there were two cave churches on the site of the present church. Unfortunately, they were destroyed due to the progressive lowering of the cliff. They were replaced by the church built in 1757. Since then it has been rebuilt several times. It was severely damaged in the earthquake of 1956, but was rebuilt. The church stands in an extremely picturesque location, and its dome and bell tower looking out over the caldera is one of the most photographed objects not only on Santorini, but all over Greece.
Last but not least Oia town, scenic village on the North West edge of the Santorini built along the northern edge of the Caldera at a height of between 70 and 100 meters, known throughout the world for its quiet life and fantastic views. As seen on a billion postcards, the characteristic classic view of Oia, is the bright white and blue of the church contrasting with the deep blue of the Aegean Sea in the background. Oia, is beautiful, exquisite small town and an ideal place for those seeking peace and quiet. Houses, paths, churches built up skillfully on the northern part of the island.
Highlights
What's included
Pickup Locations & Times
Pick Up Point is at the lobby or at the nearest point accessible by vehicle. For Cruise Ship travelers the Pick Up Point is at the top cable car exit, where your driver will be holding a sign with your name written on. For Airport & Ferry port travelers the Pick Up Point is at the arrivals terminal, where your driver will be holding a sign with your name written on.
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Reviews(55)
We wanted to see some of the less explored Santorini on our own and hired a van for 3 hours. Kiriakos, our driver and guide, was extremely friendly and helpful. He suggested we stop by Megalochori, which was not in our plan, and it turned out to be a find. The vehicle, impeccable. There was even fresh water and tissues. Absolutely recommended.
We arranged for a private half day tour through Santorini Golden Key Tours on a recommendation by the concierge at our previous hotel in Naxos. Dimitri picked us up at our hotel in a very comfortable Mercedes sedan and our adventure began. He was most informative, had a great sense of humour and accommodated all our requests. Seeing Santorini through his eyes made today the highlight of our vacation here in Greece. Thank you Dimitri, you’re the best. Karen & Adriana from Vancouver, Canada
Our private tour of Santorini was absolutely unforgettable! From start to finish, everything was seamless, comfortable, and personalized to our pace and interests. We began in Imerovigli, where the views over the caldera were breathtaking—peaceful, less crowded, and truly magical. Then on to Firostefani, with its charming alleys and postcard-perfect blue-domed churches. The visit to Profit Hlias, the island’s highest point, was incredible—panoramic views that stretched across all of Santorini. The traditional village of Megalochori was a highlight, with its quiet streets, hidden courtyards, and authentic atmosphere. At Akrotiri, we learn’t about Santorini’s rich history. We then made our way to the island’s unique beaches—the dramatic Red Beach with its striking cliffs, and the Black Beach, where we enjoyed a relaxing walk along the volcanic sand. Our guide was knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate about Santorini, sharing stories and insights that made each stop even more special. This tour was the perfect way to experience the beauty, history, and culture of the island in just one day. Highly recommend this personal tour—it was a five-star experience from beginning to end!
Kiriakos was the best tour guide! My mom and I had a wonderful time on the half tour of the island of Santorini. He was very knowledgeable, a great driver, and knew of all the best picture spots. The car was very clean and he was so friendly. Thank you Kiriakos for a great last day in Santorini! We covered so much and saw everything! Would recommend him to anyone looking to see the beautiful island.
It is a great experience and very comfortable , we had a great time, Sarioglou was very attentive and explained everything
The guide was punctual, the car impeccable, took us through all the attractions of the island from end to end, in addition to the explanation and flexibility with the language, gave us tips, helped us to move to the domes jumping in line, sheltered us in the shadows while he brought the car, was an excellent option to know Santorini comfortably and exclusively. Thank you dear Kiriakos.
The Enterprise and the guide were great. We had an unexpected with the cruise we were on and were very friendly and flexible. The guide was very attentive and professional.
It’s our first time visiting Santorini. We had about 2-3 hours before the booked Airbnb check-in time. So we decided to spend a short trip around the island. Kiriakos is our tour guide who gave us not only an amazing trip experience but also went beyond. He quickly planned a few suggestions including to stop by a winery that kicks in the vibe of our vacation. Thanks for such a great tour.
At the last minute we decided to do the 1/2 day Santorini Road Trip- our guide was Kiriakos. He was AMAZING! Started the tour by giving us recommended sights and then asking us what we wanted to see. He was professional, knowledgeable, and gracious. Took us to a medieval village that we otherwise would not have found! We had teenagers and grandparents on the trip and there was something for everyone. Kiriakos showed us that there is much more to Santorini then just the blue domes! Highly recommend this awesome excursion!
Kiriakos was our tour guide for our island tour..We visited the best places on the island and he was very pleasant throughout. He was very accommodating! Awesome experience with him..
