How to Plan Your Full Day Private Tour of Santorini

Santorini, with its idyllic beauty and tranquil ambiance, is an exquisite holiday destination in Greece. One of the most popular excursions in Santorini is a full-day customizable private tour. This attraction-packed tour is an ideal way to explore the highlights of the island in one day while relaxing and enjoying the stunning landscape. In this guide, we’ll show you how to plan your full-day private tour in Santorini, covering everything from itinerary options to transportation.

Overview

Santorini, often referred to as the ‘Crown Jewel of the Aegean,’ is a volcanic island located in the Cyclades group of Greek islands. With its picturesque villages, stunning beaches, and breathtaking views of the caldera, Santorini welcomes millions of tourists every year. A private tour with a licensed guide is an excellent way to see all the major cultural and natural sites on the island in a single day. Here are some highlights of the tour: – A customized full-day itinerary with your own private guide and driver. – Travel in comfort and style in your private vehicle. – Enjoy panoramic views overlooking the caldera from multiple locations. – Visit famous landmarks, such as Oia and Fira, with your guide. – Stop at the island’s red or black-sand volcanic beaches. – Taste local wines and enjoy a relaxing lunch or dinner at traditional Greek taverns. – Front-door pickup and drop-off from your hotel or cruise port.

Itinerary Options

When you book the tour on Viator, you get to choose from many customization options. You can either pick one of the suggested itineraries or create your own. Here are some of the most popular itinerary options:

Option 1: The Classic Santorini Tour

This option includes visits to some of the most popular sites in the island, such as the picturesque village of Oia, the historic Akrotiri archaeological site, the charming village of Megalochori, the traditional wineries of Santorini, and the famous caldera views.

Option 2: The Hidden Gems Tour

This tour is perfect for those who want to explore the lesser-known but equally beautiful spots on the island. It includes visits to the charming village of Pyrgos, the impressive Monastery of Prophet Elias, the charming village of Emborio, and the hidden beaches of the island.

Option 3: The Taste of Santorini Tour

This tour is tailored to foodies and wine lovers, as it includes visits to some of the best wineries on the island, authentic Greek taverns, and traditional bakeries. You’ll get to taste some of the most authentic local gastronomic delicacies and pair them with the island’s renowned wines.

Transportation

One of the best things about this private tour is that you have your own private vehicle and driver at your disposal. Whether you’re traveling with family or friends, you can sit back in comfort and enjoy the stunning views while your driver takes you from one site to another. Your experienced guide will provide you with information about the island’s history, culture, and traditions, making the journey even more enjoyable.

How to Book the Tour

Booking the Santorini full-day customizable private tour with Viator is easy. Click on this link, select your preferred tour option, and the desired date and time. You can choose to have pickup and drop-off at your hotel, cruise port, or any other destination of choice. If you have any custom requests or questions, you can always contact the tour organizer through the website.

Book Your Tour Now

A full-day customizable private tour in Santorini is an excellent way to soak up the beautiful scenery and explore the island at your pace. With a private guide and driver, you get to see all the highlights of the island and even discover hidden gems that you might have missed otherwise. Choose from one of the suggested itineraries, or customize your own by including your preferred sites and activities. Book the tour now and create unforgettable memories on this majestic island in Greece.

Frequently Asked Questions about Santorini

Santorini is known for its picturesque white-washed buildings, blue domes, stunning sunsets, and breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. This Greek island is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, with millions of visitors every year. If you’re considering visiting Santorini, you may have some questions. Here are some frequently asked questions about Santorini:

1. When is the best time to visit Santorini?

The best time to visit Santorini is from April to early November, as the temperature is mild and pleasant during this time. July and August are the peak months, and the island can be quite crowded. If you’re looking for a quieter experience, consider visiting in the shoulder season, September-October is a great time to beat the crowds while still enjoying warm weather.

2. How do I get to Santorini?

Santorini has its own airport, which is serviced by several airlines. You can also reach the island by ferry or catamaran, which depart regularly from the Athens port of Piraeus, as well as from other nearby islands in the Cyclades. A high-speed ferry ride from Piraeus takes around 4-5 hours.

3. What are the best things to see and do in Santorini?

There are several things to see and do in Santorini. Here are some of the most popular ones: – Visit Oia to see the iconic white-washed buildings and blue domes. – Check out the Ancient City of Akrotiri, which was destroyed by a volcanic eruption. – Go hiking from Fira to Oia, enjoying mountainside views overlooking the sea. – Watch the stunning sunset views from the towns of Oia, Imerovigli and Fira. – Go swimming in one of the many black sand beaches that are unique to Santorini. – Visit one of the many wineries on the island to taste local wines.

4. What is the food like in Santorini?

Santorini offers an abundance of fresh Mediterranean cuisine, with an emphasis on seafood, grilled vegetables and salads, and feta cheese. Traditional Greek dishes such as moussaka, souvlaki, and saganaki are also popular. Locally-produced wines such as Assyrtiko varietals pair well with the island’s cuisine. You will find plenty of restaurants and cafes serving local and international cuisine.

5. What is the currency in Santorini?

Greece’s currency is the Euro (EUR). Most businesses including tourist shops and restaurants, accept credit/debit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, American Express, as well as cash payments.

6. Can I rent a car in Santorini?

Yes, you can rent a car in Santorini. It is one of the most popular modes of transportation on the island, and it allows you to explore at your own pace. You’ll find several car rental companies dotted around the island. Do note though, that the roads are narrow winding and steep – and especially challenging around the popular town of Oia.

7. What is the weather like in Santorini?

Santorini enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters. The temperature reaches its peak between June and September, with the mercury often rising above 30°C. If you’re sensitive to heat, it is better to visit between April and May or late September to early November when temperatures are cooler.

8. What are the best beaches in Santorini?

Santorini is famous for its black and red sand beaches, surrounded by cliffs and crystal clear turquoise water. Here are some of the recommended ones: – Perissa beach is the longest black sand beach in Santorini and is located on the south-east coast of the island. – Red Beach (Kokkini beach) is known for its red cliffs that contrast with the turquoise water. – Kamari Beach is the second-largest resort of Santorini and is located on the south-eastern side of the island.

9. How many days do I need to explore Santorini?

You can explore Santorini in a few days, but with so many activities, attractions and beaches to visit, you may want to spend a week or more to fully experience what the island has to offer both in the daytime and at night.

10. What is the famous Santorini sunset?

The famous Santorini sunset can be seen from the towns of Oia, Imerovigli, and Fira. Oia is one of the most popular spots to see the sunset, with crowds gathering at the castle ruins and waterfront cafes. One of the best places to watch the sunset is the small port of Ammoudi Bay, below Oia village. People gather to watch the sun slowly set behind the horizon until it disappears completely – taking pictures and enjoying the moment.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Santorini

Santorini is one of the most popular islands in Greece for a good reason. Known for its stunning vistas, picturesque villages, and stunning beaches, the island offers something for every kind of traveler. Here’s a guide on how to make the most of your time as a tourist in Santorini.

1. Explore Oia Village

Oia is one of the most popular villages in Santorini and is known for its stunning sunsets and picturesque white and blue houses. Take a stroll through the narrow alleys lined with shops and cafes, and make sure to stop by the Church of Panagia. Head to the western side of the village to catch one of the most stunning sunsets in the world.

2. Visit Ancient Akrotiri

Ancient Akrotiri is a must-visit for history buffs. The site was first inhabited in the 4th millennium BCE and was destroyed by the eruption of the Santorini volcano in 1627 BCE. Excavations started in 1967, and today you can see ruins of a Minoan Bronze Age settlement, including well-preserved frescoes, pottery, and artifacts.

3. Swim at Perissa Beach

Perissa beach is the best-known beach in Santorini, located on the southeast coast of the island. This black sand beach stretches for over 7 km and is lined with umbrellas and sunbeds. There are plenty of water sports activities you can enjoy, including jet skiing and windsurfing.

4. Go Wine Tasting

Santorini is known for its volcanic soils, which give its wines a unique taste. Some of the best wineries to check out include Santo Wines, Venetsanos Winery, and Estate Argyros. Make sure to try the Vinsanto wine, which is made from grapes that have been dried in the sun.

5. Hike from Fira to Oia

If you’re up for a scenic hike, the trail from Fira to Oia is a must-do. This 10-km path offers breathtaking views of the caldera, volcanic islands, and the Aegean Sea. The trail takes around three hours, and you’ll pass through several villages along the way.

6. Take a Dip in the Hot Springs

The natural hot springs in Santorini are located in a small islet called Palea Kameni, which is located in the caldera. The sulfur-rich waters are said to be therapeutic and help relieve stress and fatigue. You can get there by boat, and make sure to wear a swimsuit that you don’t mind getting stained by the minerals.

7. Enjoy Local Cuisine

Santorini offers a rich variety of local dishes that you must try during your stay. Some of the must-try dishes include fava, tomato keftedes, white aubergine, and the famous Santorini salad. For dessert, try the traditional almond cookies called melitinia and the sweet tomato paste called glyko koutaliou.

8. Visit the Red Beach

Red Beach is another must-visit destination for beach lovers. This beach is famous for its red and black volcanic rocks and is surrounded by stunning cliffs. The water is crystal clear, and there are plenty of sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent.

Book Your Tour Now

Santorini offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and picturesque villages. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach or explore ancient history, Santorini has something for everyone. Use this guide to help you plan your itinerary during your stay on the island.