Private Customizable Santorini Tour with Local Driver-Guide
Description
See the best of Santorini, from its historic villages to its volcanic beaches, on this private driving tour of the island. A proposed itinerary is available for visitors, though you can also customize the day’s schedule in accordance with your preferences. Choose from one of 2 options of tour durations when you book.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Optional Visit: After picking you up from a location of your choice, we’ll take you to the picturesque village of Firostefani. Enjoy a scenic stroll through its charming alleys, leading to the iconic blue-domed church—one of Santorini's most quintessential views. Along the way, you’ll also learn about the island’s unique geological formation and rich history, shaped by volcanic activity and ancient civilizations. A perfect blend of stunning sights and cultural insight.
Optional Visit: Continue your journey through the scenic countryside to the iconic village of Oia, one of the most photographed locations in Santorini. Renowned for its whitewashed buildings, the iconic blue domes, and breathtaking views over the caldera, Oia provides a perfect setting for capturing unforgettable moments and offers a truly memorable experience.
Optional visit: Imerovigli is situated at the highest and most central point of Santorini’s Caldera, offering stunning panoramic views. From here, you can capture unforgettable photos while admiring the breathtaking sights of the Volcano and Skaros Rock. It’s a perfect spot for those seeking incredible views and a peaceful atmosphere, away from the crowds.
Optional visit: On the way to the southern part of the island, we’ll stop to explore the famous Red Beach, known for its striking red volcanic cliffs and dramatic coastal scenery. Take in the panoramic views from the nearby viewpoint, and don’t miss the chance to capture stunning photos of this truly unique landscape.
Optional visit: Continue your journey to the southeastern coast of Santorini and unwind at Perissa–Perivolos Black Beach, famous for its unique volcanic sand and crystal-clear waters. This vibrant stretch of coastline is lined with charming seaside restaurants and beach bars, perfect for relaxing by the sea. In Perivolos, you'll have free time to capture stunning photos of the black sand beach, swim in the Aegean Sea, and, if you wish, enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the seaside restaurants.
Optional visit: Head to Profitis Ilias, the highest hill in Santorini, standing at 567 meters above sea level. From the summit, enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Aegean Sea. During your visit, you will have the opportunity to explore a Greek Orthodox chapel, listen to the soothing sounds of Byzantine music, and sample hand-made local products crafted by the monks.
Optional visit: This settlement is made up of small, white-painted houses with exquisite architecture, narrow alleys, towering bell towers, beautiful blue-domed chapels, and traditional underground cave houses. In this picturesque, non-touristic environment, you'll have the chance to fully immerse yourself in the authentic local culture and lifestyle.
Optional visit: Pyrgos, the oldest village on Santorini, sits atop a hill with sweeping views of the island. It’s known for its 16th-century Venetian castle, which once served as a fortress. The village’s layout is maze-like, with narrow alleys and circular roads designed for defense.
Optional visit: Discover the ancient ruins of Akrotiri, a Bronze Age settlement buried by a volcanic eruption around 1600 BCE. Known as the "Pompeii of the Aegean," the site features well-preserved buildings, vibrant frescoes, and advanced infrastructure. Protected by a modern eco-friendly roof, Akrotiri offers a fascinating look into Minoan life. Please note: At Greek ancient sites like Akrotiri, local drivers are not permitted to guide you inside, as only official Greek archaeologists are authorized to do so. However, your driver can drop you off at the entrance, allowing you to explore the site at your leisure. The entrance fee is not included and is paid on-site (optional visit).
Optional visit: The road leading to the hilltop above Emporio offers a beautiful view of Santorini’s landscape. At the top, you’ll find eight traditional windmills, standing tall against the sky, and a small whitewashed chapel perched on the cliff’s edge. This stunning spot provides breathtaking panoramic views of the island and is an ideal location for capturing pictures, especially during sunset, when the scene is bathed in warm, golden light. It’s a peaceful and scenic spot, perfect for those seeking a quieter, more picturesque side of Santorini.
Optional visit: Next, visit the historic Akrotiri Lighthouse, one of the oldest lighthouses in Greece, dating back to 1892. This charming lighthouse features a square-shaped tower rising over 10 meters above the former warden’s house. Perched on the edge of the island, it offers panoramic views of the Aegean Sea, making it a perfect spot for photos and a moment of quiet reflection.
Optional visit: End your tour with a visit to Santo Wines Winery, where you can indulge in a wine tasting experience. Santorini has a rich winemaking tradition dating back to ancient times, and at Santo Wines, you'll have the opportunity to sample the island’s unique varietals, crafted from its volcanic soil. Enjoy the stunning views and savor the flavors that reflect Santorini's deep-rooted history in winemaking—an unforgettable way to complete your island experience. Please note: Wine tasting fee is not included in the tour price and is paid separately at the winery (optional visit).
Optional visit: The Art Space Winery is a unique art center in a historic 1861 winery carved into pumice rock. It combines contemporary Greek art with Santorini's winemaking traditions. Visitors can enjoy exhibits from renowned Greek artists and taste four distinct wines, each reflecting the island’s volcanic soil. The blend of modern art and rustic charm makes it a perfect cultural stop on the island. Please note: Wine tasting fee is not included in the tour price and is paid separately at the winery (optional visit).
Optional visit: The Wine Museum Koutsogiannopoulos is a unique museum located in a 300-meter-long cave, showcasing the history of wine production in Santorini from 1660 to 1970. The maze-like corridors guide visitors through exhibits that highlight the island’s winemaking traditions. Wine tastings are held in a specially designed room, offering a chance to savor Santorini’s wines while learning about their rich heritage. It’s an immersive experience blending history, culture, and wine in a stunning natural setting. Please note: Wine tasting fee is not included in the tour price and is paid separately at the winery (optional visit).
The above itinerary is provided as an example only. The sights and attractions are suggestions and can be tailored on the day to match your personal interests. Bespoke itineraries and custom additions to your tour are also available to ensure a unique experience. Your tour will conclude when your private driver drops you off at your accommodation, cruise ship port, airport, or any other preferred location.
Highlights
What's included
Pickup Locations & Times
We offer pickup for all travelers. • Hotels & Accommodations: Pickup is available from all hotels and accommodations in Santorini. If your property is not accessible by car, we’ll arrange pickup from the nearest convenient meeting point. • Cruise Port (Old Port of Fira/Skala Pier): Meet your driver-guide at the upper cable car station, as vehicles cannot access the port. Your driver-guide will be waiting with a sign displaying your name. • Athinios Ferry Port: Pickup at the arrivals terminal. • Santorini Airport (JTR): Pickup at the arrivals terminal.
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Meeting point for cruise passengers is top of cruise port's cable car (upper station).
Reviews(421)
Theodore was our guide, and he was an absolute delight. He was incredibly knowledgeable, informative, and polite throughout the tour. The recommendation of Santo Wines, was perfect with a spectacular view. What stood out most was his thoughtfulness in accommodating my mum's needs and ensuring we took routes with as few stairs as possible. His kindness and attention to detail made the experience so much more enjoyable. I would highly recommend this tour and, if possible, ask for Theodore!
Thank you so much, Romiza, for your wonderful 5-star review! We’re truly delighted to hear that you had such a memorable experience with Theodore. It means a lot to us that his knowledge, kindness, and thoughtful attention to your mum’s needs helped make the tour more comfortable and enjoyable. Taking the time to adjust the route and minimize stairs is exactly the kind of personalized care we want every guest to receive. We’re also so happy you enjoyed the recommendation of Santo Wines and its spectacular views! Thank you for your kind words and recommendation, and for choosing Kallisti Tours. We hope to welcome you and your family back to beautiful Santorini again in the future! Warm regards, The Kallisti Tours Team
Our guide was Chris. He was so friendly, thoughtful and patient. He brought us to a wonderful restaurant on the black sand beach and an excellent winery. We even got to skip the long line for our iconic picture of the blue dome chapel in Santorini. He also brought us homemade spanakopita and lemon cakes for our mid excursion snacks. We could not have had a better time. So grateful for his hospitality and expertise. I definitely recommend this tour.
Thank you so much for your wonderful 5-star review! We’re absolutely delighted to hear that you had such a fantastic day with Chris. It’s wonderful to know that his friendliness, thoughtfulness, and patience helped make your experience so enjoyable. We’re especially happy you loved the restaurant on the black sand beach, the excellent winery, and the opportunity to capture that iconic blue dome photo without the long wait! And of course, we’re glad you enjoyed the homemade spanakopita and lemon cakes along the way. Those little local touches are all part of creating a memorable Santorini experience. Thank you for your kind recommendation and for choosing Kallisti Tours. We truly appreciate your support and hope to welcome you back to Santorini again in the future! Warm regards, The Kallisti Tours Team
Our tour was excellent with Theodore as our guide. He met us on time at the designated meeting point and had a very comfortable van for our family of 5people. He showed us everything we had asked to visit and more. He gave us time to explore the areas and gave us a wonderful recommendation for a restaurant in Pyrgos. The food was delicious! We would highly recommend this tour and Theodore as your guide!
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re delighted to hear that you and your family of five had such a great experience exploring Santorini with Theodore. It’s fantastic to know that he was able to tailor the tour to your interests, give you plenty of time to enjoy each location, and help you discover a delicious local restaurant in Pyrgos. Your kind words and recommendation mean a lot to us! Thank you for choosing Kallisti Tours, and we hope to welcome you and your family back to Santorini again in the future! Warm regards, The Kallisti Tours Team
Had an outstanding day with our guide Theo. He had extensive knowledge of the entire island including its history on many levels. His tempo, pace, and listening skills were excellent. He provided the right balance of information conveyance and quiet time to allow absorption. He was also very easy going and flexible on special requests. His good humor was appreciated as well. Highly recommend!
Thank you so much for your outstanding review! We’re truly delighted to hear that you had such a wonderful day exploring Santorini with Theo. It’s fantastic to know that you appreciated his knowledge, flexibility, good humor, and the relaxed balance of information and quiet time. We’re especially happy that he was able to tailor the experience to your preferences and special requests. Your kind words and recommendation mean a great deal to us. Thank you for choosing Kallisti Tours, and we hope to welcome you back to Santorini again in the future! Warm regards, The Kallisti Tours Team
Awesome! A must do! Our guide, Theodore, was very knowledgeable and professional. He came on time (8am) and very well prepared with cold water bottles and a box of facial tissue in his mini-van. He took us to all the key places, as advertised. Checked everything off that was on my personal list. He had private access to popular areas, thereby skipping the long lines. Not only was he a guide but a professional photographer to us, as well lol! He took us to a restaurant for lunch that served very good appetizers (that was all we ordered as we were not really hungry and just wanted the see the whole island). Our 6 hr. private tour was exceptional! Well worth it!
Dear Yetta, Thank you so much for your fantastic review! We’re thrilled to hear that your 6-hour private tour with Theodore was such an exceptional experience. It’s wonderful to know that you enjoyed visiting all the places on your list, skipping the long lines, and discovering Santorini at a relaxed pace. We’re especially happy that Theodore could also be your photographer for the day and help capture beautiful memories along the way! Your kind words and recommendation mean a great deal to us. Thank you for choosing Kallisti Tours, and we hope to welcome you back to Santorini again in the future! Warm regards, The Kallisti Tours Team
It was an awesome tour . There were 5 of us and was very personable. Theodore was our tour guide and was great . He was very informative answering all our questions. His experience was outstanding.
Thank you so much for your wonderful 5-star review! We’re delighted to hear that you and your group of five had such an awesome experience exploring Santorini with Theodore. It’s wonderful to know that you appreciated his knowledge, experience, and personable approach, as well as his willingness to answer all your questions throughout the tour. Thank you for choosing Kallisti Tours and for your kind recommendation. We hope to welcome you and your group back to Santorini again in the future! Warm regards, The Kallisti Tours Team
Our tour with Theodore was simply incredible. He was so patient and gave us options options for where to go next. The conversations made us understand the island like the locals. I wouldn't want to tour Santorini with anyone else. Skip the bus tours. This was the perfect, private tour for our small group of 5.
Dear Samantha, Thank you so much for your fantastic review! We’re truly delighted to hear that you and your group of five had such an incredible experience exploring Santorini with Theodore. It’s wonderful to know that you enjoyed the flexibility of the private tour and the conversations that helped you experience the island from a local perspective. We’re especially happy that Theodore’s patience and personalized approach made your day so enjoyable. Your kind words and recommendation mean a great deal to us. Thank you for choosing Kallisti Tours, and we hope to welcome you and your group back to Santorini again in the future! Warm regards, The Kallisti Tours Team
What a phenomenal way to see Santorini!! Our driver/tour guide, Theo, treated us like royalty. Cold waters, perfect driving and quick access to all of the best spots for remarkable photos. He never rushed us and gave us all the historical significance of the sights throughout the island. We will recommend this tour to anyone coming to Santorini.
Dear Michael, Thank you so much for your phenomenal review! We’re delighted to hear that you had such a wonderful experience exploring Santorini with Theo. It’s fantastic to know you enjoyed the personalized service, beautiful photo opportunities, and learning about the island’s history at a relaxed pace. Your kind words and recommendation mean so much to us. Thank you for choosing Kallisti Tours, and we hope to welcome you back to Santorini again in the future! Warm regards, The Kallisti Tours Team
Theodore was amazing tour guide. He personalized our tour by taking us to view the city by car due to an injury I had and he was thoughtful to take us to áreas that were walkable for my confort. He really turned the tour into a wonderful experience for my family and I. Theodore should be yourr first choice as a guide because the level if service surpass a 10 star by far. He knew the best shops ands authentic. restaurants to go too. Like the fish tavern restaurant he took us too. Thank you Theodore for a wonderful time!
Dear Patricia, Thank you so much for your wonderful review and for your incredibly kind words about Theodore. We are truly delighted to hear that your private tour was such a memorable experience for you and your family. It means a great deal to us that the tour was thoughtfully adapted to ensure your comfort while allowing you to enjoy the beauty of Santorini at your own pace. We’re also so pleased that you enjoyed discovering authentic local shops, restaurants, and the island’s unique charm along the way. Your heartfelt recommendation means the world to us. Thank you for choosing Kallisti Tours, and we hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you and your family back to Santorini again in the future! Warm regards, The Kallisti Tours Team
This tour was absolutely amazing! If you’re visiting Santorini and want to feel like you’ve truly experienced the island, this tour is a must. Theodore was exceptional from start to finish. He took incredible photos of us that we will cherish forever and knew exactly where to go to avoid the crowds while still getting the most breathtaking views. His local knowledge made all the difference, allowing us to see Santorini from a unique perspective rather than just following the typical tourist route. What really stood out was how much he genuinely cared about making our day special. He even took the time to help us secure a dinner reservation at a fantastic restaurant with a stunning sunset view. We saw so much, learned a lot, and made unforgettable memories. I highly recommend this tour and especially Theodore to anyone visiting Santorini!
Dear Lauren, Thank you so much for your incredible review! We’re truly delighted to hear that your tour was such a memorable part of your visit to Santorini. It’s wonderful to know you enjoyed discovering the island beyond the usual tourist route, capturing beautiful memories, and experiencing authentic local recommendations along the way. Creating personalized experiences that allow our guests to see the very best of Santorini is exactly what we strive for. Your kind words and recommendation mean the world to us. Thank you for choosing Kallisti Tours, and we hope to welcome you back to Santorini again in the future! Warm regards, The Kallisti Tours Team
