Santorini: ATV Quad Bike Tour with Lunch and Pickup

Thinking about exploring Santorini beyond the usual viewpoints and crowded streets? This ATV Quad Bike Tour with Lunch and Pickup offers a fantastic way to see the island’s hidden gems, all while enjoying a bit of adrenaline and authentic Greek hospitality. From scenic beaches to traditional villages, this tour is designed for those craving a more personal, off-the-beaten-path experience.

What makes this tour stand out? We love the variety of terrains you’ll ride through, the chance to visit lesser-known beaches like Vlichada, and the opportunity to indulge in a generous, authentic Greek lunch. The guides are consistently praised for their friendly, expert approach—making even first-time ATV drivers feel comfortable. One thing to consider: the tour is weather-dependent, so a rainy day might mean rescheduling or cancellation. Still, for adventurous travelers wanting a mix of scenic views, local insights, and fun, this experience hits the mark.

This tour is best suited for active travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures, scenic photography, and authentic local cuisine. It’s perfect if you want to see parts of Santorini that few travelers get to experience, and you’re comfortable riding a quad bike for a few hours. Pregnant women, people with back or heart issues should avoid it.**

Good To Know

• Scenic and varied terrains provide a dynamic riding experience
• Small group size (limited to 4 participants) means personalized attention
• Guides are knowledgeable and friendly, offering local insights and safety tips
• Includes a hearty Greek lunch, often praised for its authenticity and generous portions
• Pickup and safety gear are included, making the experience hassle-free
• Weather can impact the tour, so flexibility is essential

You can check if your dates are available here:

An Authentic Way to Explore Santorini

When we think of Santorini, images of caldera views, iconic windmills, and charming villages come to mind. This ATV tour flips the script by allowing you to dive into the island’s less-traveled corners. It’s a sampler platter of scenic vistas, volcanic cliffs, and local culture—all delivered with a dose of adventure.

The tour begins with a pickup from Fira, the main hub for visitors. From there, you’ll be introduced to your 450cc quad bike, along with a safety briefing and instructions tailored for beginners or those new to riding. It’s clear from reviews that safety is a priority, with guides like Pavlo and Alex taking the time to explain everything thoroughly and assist with photos along the way. One guest shared, “our guide was very kind and fun,” making the ride feel more like a friendly exploration than a strenuous task.

The Ride: Exploring Santorini’s Hidden Corners

Once you’re comfortable, the tour kicks off across a variety of terrains—dirt paths, village streets, and scenic overlooks. One of the most celebrated stops is Vlichada Beach, known for its dramatic volcanic cliffs and black sands. Riders often mention how unique and photogenic this spot is, with one reviewer noting, “the views were incredible and the food was SO yummy.”

Another highlight is the chance to see the famous windmills of Emporio, which appear more authentic and less touristy than those near Oia. The guides do a superb job of sharing local stories and history, making each stop not just a photo opportunity but an insight into island life. As one reviewer put it, “our guide did a great job guiding us around the island and helping with pictures and island history.”

The tour also offers views of the volcano and caldera, but what sets this apart is how close you get to the landscape. Unlike bus tours, riding an ATV allows you to slow down and really take in the surroundings—whether it’s the smell of sea air or the sight of rugged volcanic formations.

Visiting Black Sand and Vlichada Beaches

Santorini’s beaches are some of the most iconic scenes on the island, but this tour emphasizes the lesser-visited spots. The Black Sand Beach is a must-see, with its dark volcanic sands contrasting sharply with the bright Aegean sea. Riders often remark on the unique feel of the sand beneath their feet at these beaches, which is a refreshing change from the more crowded, bus-accessible beaches.

Vlichada Beach tends to be a favorite among travelers for its volcanic cliffs and quiet atmosphere. Many reviews mention how the tour takes you to this stunning location for some well-earned relaxation and photo opportunities. One guest said, “the ride through the hillside, dirt roads, and streets of Santorini was an empowering experience with breathtaking views to soak in.”

A Delicious Greek Lunch

A big part of the appeal is the lunch included in the tour. Expect a hearty meal of fresh, local ingredients served at a well-chosen restaurant. Guests speak highly of the generous portions and authentic flavors. It’s not just a quick bite—it’s a full, satisfying meal that caps off the adventure perfectly.

Several reviews emphasize how much they enjoyed the food and drink options—ranging from local wines to ouzo- or rakı-based drinks—and how the meal felt like a genuine taste of Greece. One guest mentioned, “the lunch was amazing and huge! We left full and happy,” which is a rare bonus on active tours.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Tour Duration and Logistics

The entire experience lasts around three hours, including pickup and the ride itself. The timing is set for a mid-day start, with pickups from Fira at 12:00 pm. Guests should be ready to be picked up promptly, as the van only waits for five minutes.

The small group size—limited to just four travelers—ensures personalized attention and safety, especially for those new to ATVs. The guides speak English and Greek, and their friendly, professional approach has earned many glowing reviews.

Cost-wise, at $177 per person, the tour offers good value considering the included transportation, equipment, guided commentary, and a filling lunch. Guests consistently mention that the experience felt worth every penny for the chance to see a different side of Santorini on an adrenaline-fueled adventure.

What to Bring and Considerations

To fully enjoy the tour, bring your passport or ID, driver’s license, sunglasses, sunscreen, and weather-appropriate clothing. Remember, the minimum age to drive is 21, and children must be accompanied by an adult.

Weather plays a crucial role—if conditions are poor, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled. Guides will assess your riding ability before starting; if someone isn’t deemed safe, a 50% refund applies. Pregnant women, people with back or heart issues, or anyone uncomfortable on motorbikes should probably pass on this experience.

Authentic Experiences and Extra Insights

One reviewer pointed out how the guides take you to local spots, like small villages and hidden beaches, away from the tourist crowds. This creates a more genuine experience, with the added bonus of engaging conversations about local traditions and the island’s history.

Many guests appreciate the knowledge and friendliness of guides like Pavlo, Alex, and Kyriakos, who go beyond just leading the ride to share stories and help with photos. As one guest shared, “Alex was awesome! He was great at explaining the history of the island and we had a blast.” It’s this personal touch that elevates the tour from a simple ride to a memorable adventure.

The Sum Up

This ATV Quad Bike Tour with Lunch in Santorini offers an excellent way for active travelers to explore the island’s less-visible corners. It combines scenic rides over volcanic landscapes, visits to quiet beaches, and a hearty Greek meal—all with the safety and support of experienced guides.

The small-group format ensures a personalized experience, making it especially appealing for those who prefer more intimate adventures. The inclusion of lunch, safety gear, and pickup makes this a convenient and cost-effective option for those eager to see a different side of Santorini.

If you’re seeking a mix of thrill, culture, and stunning views, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s best suited for adventurous, independent-minded travelers who want to get off the beaten path and enjoy authentic local flavors along the way.

Is the tour suitable for first-time ATV riders?
Yes. The guides provide a safety briefing and instructions, and many reviews mention how helpful and patient guides are in making newcomers comfortable.

What is included in the price?
The price covers pickup from Fira, the ATV/Quad bike, safety gear, a guided tour, fuel, bottled water, and a generous Greek lunch.

How long does the tour last?
The total experience is about three hours, including pickup, riding, and lunch.

Can I participate if I don’t have a driver’s license?
No, the minimum age to drive is 21, and you must bring a valid driver’s license for the activity.

What should I bring with me?
Bring passport or ID, driver’s license, sunglasses, sunscreen, weather-appropriate clothing, and your credit card for the deposit.

Are there any restrictions?
Pregnant women, people with back or heart problems should avoid this activity. The guides also evaluate abilities before starting.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; in case of bad weather, it may be canceled or rescheduled.

Are children allowed?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, but only drivers 21 and over can operate the ATV.

Where does the tour go?
You’ll explore beaches like Black Sand Beach and Vlichada, see the windmills of Emporio, and enjoy views of the volcano and caldera.

How is the food?
Guests rave about the authentic Greek lunch, often mentioning the large portions and delicious flavor, perfect to refuel after the ride.

This Santorini ATV Tour combines adventure, stunning scenery, and authentic eats, making it a memorable way to see the island off the tourist trail. Perfect for those craving a thrill and a taste of local life—just be prepared for a fun, dirt-road ride through some of Santorini’s most beautiful spots.

You can check if your dates are available here: