Santorini: Private Sightseeing Tour with Local Guide

If you’re planning a trip to Greece’s famous island of Santorini, chances are you want more than just a generic check-the-box itinerary. That’s where a Private Sightseeing Tour with a Local Guide like Brothers Travel really shines. This tour promises a tailored experience, blending iconic sights with hidden gems, all led by a knowledgeable local—perfect for travelers craving authentic insights and flexible plans.

From stunning vistas of the caldera to charming villages and secret beaches, this tour highlights what makes Santorini unique. It’s especially good if you love personalized attention, want to skip the crowds, or simply prefer a relaxed pace to enjoy the scenery. A small cave: at around $122 per person, it’s a fair price for a private, customized day with a local expert—so long as you’re ready for a full day’s adventure.

What we love about this experience:

• The personalized approach with a local guide who knows the island inside-out
• The opportunity to capture incredible photos at famous and lesser-known sites
• The inclusion of breathtaking viewpoints like Prophet Elias and Ammoudi Bay
• The flexible itinerary that can be tailored to your interests

You can check if your dates are available here:

One consideration:

• The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues, those uncomfortable at high altitudes, or children under six. It’s a full-day, active experience, so keep that in mind if you prefer a more relaxed or accessible outing.

Who is this best suited for?

This experience works beautifully for travelers who want to see Santorini beyond the tourist crowds, enjoy authentic local insight, and capture memorable photos. If you’re a couple, a small family, or a group of friends looking for a flexible, private adventure, this tour is a great pick.

Good To Know

Private & Personalized: Led by a knowledgeable local guide, the tour is tailored to your interests.

Iconic & Hidden Sights: Visit famous spots like Blue Domes and Ammoudi Bay, plus lesser-known areas like Megalochori.

Flexible Duration: Ranges from 3 to 7 hours, so you can choose how in-depth your experience is.

Comfort & Convenience: Includes hotel or airport pickup with air-conditioned transport; no worries about navigating the roads yourself.

Photographer’s Dream: Guides often help with capturing the best shots, making sure you leave with stunning memories.

Great Value: At $122 per person, it offers a comprehensive, private experience that can rival more expensive group tours.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Starting with the Famous Blue Domes in Oia

The tour kicks off at the Blue Domes of Oia, probably the most recognizable image of Santorini. Our guides have a knack for timing, often arriving early enough to beat the crowds, so you can snap photos of the iconic architecture framed against the sky. Guests have raved about guides like George, who knows all the best angles and even takes plenty of photos for you—imagine having a professional photographer at your disposal for the day.

Exploring the Old Fortress at Oia Castle

Next, the tour takes you to the historic Oia Castle—a spot that offers sweeping views over the caldera and a glimpse into the island’s past. Here, your guide shares snippets of local history, adding context to your photos and making the experience more meaningful. It’s a great way to appreciate why this spot remains a favorite for sunset watchers and photo enthusiasts alike.

A Picturesque Stop at Ammoudi Bay

From there, you’ll head down to Ammoudi Bay, a charming fishing harbor known for its crystal-clear waters and fresh seafood. This is often a highlight for visitors, especially those who love scenic spots. Guides often suggest a quick photo session here, especially if the sunset is casting a golden glow. The bay’s proximity to the island’s interior means you get a taste of authentic life away from the crowds.

Ascending to Prophet Elias for Views

One of the tour’s standout moments is reaching Prophet Elias, the highest point on the island at 550 meters. The 360-degree vistas are breathtaking—think sweeping views of the caldera, neighboring islands, and the volcanic landscape. According to reviews, guides like George or Mike are true pros at finding the best photo spots and sharing local insights, enhancing the experience beyond just sightseeing.

Walking through Megalochori Village

For a change of pace, the tour takes you into Megalochori, a vibrant village brimming with traditional architecture and quaint streets. Guests love wandering its alleys, discovering hidden cafes, and soaking in the authentic island atmosphere. The guides often include a visit to a local cave with historical significance, giving you a deeper sense of the island’s cultural fabric.

Visiting the Red Beach and Old Lighthouse

The adventure continues on the Akrotiri Peninsula, home to the striking Red Beach. The vivid red cliffs and sand are unlike anything else on the island, making it a favorite for photographers and nature lovers. Guides usually suggest capturing the scene here with plenty of time for photos. Nearby, you can also see the old lighthouse, a maritime relic that rounds out the island’s scenic diversity.

End of the Day and Drop-off

The tour wraps up with a comfortable return to your hotel or preferred location, leaving you with a collection of unforgettable images and stories. Guests frequently comment on how seamless the entire process is—pickups, driving, stops, and drop-offs are handled effortlessly, thanks to guides like Mike and George who prioritize guest comfort and satisfaction.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

Duration & Flexibility

The tour lasts between 3 to 7 hours, allowing for a quick half-day overview or a more leisurely exploration. You can check availability for specific starting times, making it easy to fit into your overall travel plan.

Transportation & Comfort

Transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle, comfortable and easy to hop in and out of at each stop. If you’re arriving at the port or airport, the pickup is included, with guides holding a sign with your name. This makes logistics simple, especially after a long journey or during a tight cruise schedule.

Cost & Value

At $122 per person, this private tour offers great value considering the personalized experience, professional guide, and flexible itinerary. It’s a small investment for a day packed with iconic sights, local stories, and excellent photo opportunities—many guests feel it exceeds their expectations compared to larger group tours.

What to Bring

Bring sunglasses and comfortable clothes, as you’ll be spending lots of time outdoors. Footwear should be suitable for walking on uneven streets and natural terrain.

Accessibility & Suitability

This tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility issues, those with altitude sickness, children under six, pregnant women, or elderly travelers over 95. Make sure you’re comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and some walking.

Cancellation & Payment

Flexible booking options include free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind. You can reserve now and pay later, which is convenient if your plans are still evolving.

Authentic Guest Experiences

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledge and friendliness of guides like Mike and George. Many mention how guides work with spontaneous changes and take the time to personalize the experience—whether that’s adjusting stops or helping capture perfect photos. Several guests highlight how guides avoided the busiest spots, allowing them to enjoy the sights with fewer crowds.

One reviewer even appreciated the local insights shared about the island’s history and lifestyle, saying, “George knew all the alleyways and roads to deliver the best Santorini has to offer.” Guests also loved the luxurious, air-conditioned vehicle and the extra touches like drinks and treats, making the day feel special and comfortable.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This private Santorini tour offers a well-balanced mix of famous sights, lesser-known treasures, and expert local insight—all in a flexible, comfortable setting. It is especially suited for travelers who value personalized attention, want to get away from touristy crowds, and love capturing stunning photos. The knowledgeable guides, like George and Mike, significantly enhance the experience by sharing insider tips and making the day fun and engaging.

While it may not be ideal for those with physical limitations or very young children, if you’re after a customized, insightful exploration of Santorini that maximizes your time and photo opportunities, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The duration ranges from 3 to 7 hours, depending on your preferences. You can check availability for specific starting times when booking.

What locations does the tour cover?
It includes key sights like the Blue Domes of Oia, Ammoudi Bay, Prophet Elias, Megalochori village, Red Beach, and the old lighthouse.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle is included, with hotel, port, or airport pickup and drop-off.

Can I customize the tour?
Absolutely. Guides like George are known for their flexibility and often tailor stops based on guest interests.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 6, especially those with mobility issues or who are sensitive to high altitudes.

What’s the cost?
At $122 per person, it offers a good balance of private, personalized service and value, considering the comprehensive itinerary.

In brief, this private Santorini tour presents a fantastic way to explore the island’s highlights with expert guides, stunning scenery, and ample photo opportunities—all tailored to your interests. Whether you’re after iconic sights or hidden corners, it’s a trip that promises memorable moments in this breathtaking Greek destination.

You can check if your dates are available here: