Day Trip to Santorini From Athens

Traveling from Athens to Santorini in a single day sounds ambitious—yet, with this private tour, it’s entirely doable and surprisingly rewarding. We’ve looked into this experience so you can decide if it’s right for your Greece itinerary. From the moment we read about it, three things immediately jumped out: the focus on personalized service, the blend of iconic sights with local hidden gems, and the inclusion of a wine tasting at a family-run vineyard.

But, there’s always a trade-off. The main concern could be the tight schedule—fitting a full day of sightseeing, wine, and travel into just six hours on the island. This tour is best suited for travelers who love structured yet flexible experiences and don’t mind a bit of travel time. If you’re after a relaxed, unhurried exploration, you might want to consider spending more days in Santorini instead.

Good To Know:

• Customizable private experience offers flexibility and personal attention.
• Iconic sights include Oia, Red Beach, and the Black Beach, with scenic views on the way.
• Wine tasting at a centuries-old family winery adds a local flavor.
• Hassle-free transfers between Athens and Santorini make logistics easier.
• Timing is tight—about 6 hours on the island, so pace is brisk.
• Ideal for travelers with limited time wanting a taste of Santorini’s highlights.

How the Tour Works: From Athens to Santorini

This full-day adventure kicks off early in Athens, with private transfers from your hotel to Athens airport. The cost of your flight isn’t included unless you opt for the package that includes flights, but the tour’s logistics are designed to be as smooth as possible. After a quick 45-minute flight, you’ll land in Santorini and meet your dedicated local driver/guide, who will take care of the rest.

The guided tour is conducted in a deluxe, air-conditioned minivan, ideal for comfort during the drive. The experience’s strength lies in the ability to customize your itinerary based on your interests, but the core stops include some of the most photographed and loved parts of Santorini. The day wraps up with your return flight to Athens and transfer back to your hotel—an efficient way to see the best of the island without the hassle of planning individual transfers.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary in Detail: Managing Expectations

Early Morning Start and Flight

Book a flight to arrive in Santorini around 11 am, giving you six hours of exploration before returning to Athens. The early start means you’ll be on the move, but it’s the only way to see Santorini in a single day.

The First Stop: Oia

Your first destination is the legendary Oia village, famed for its white-washed buildings, blue-domed churches, and stunning caldera views. The guide will lead you through the narrow winding streets, pointing out perfect photo spots and sharing stories about the town’s history. You’ll have some free time to explore on your own, take photos, or browse local shops.

Authentic traveler insight: Philip, one of the reviewers, praised guide Argyris for his passion and wealth of knowledge, especially about the island’s culture and geography. His friendly demeanor made the experience even more engaging.

Moving South: Megalochori and Scenic Drives

Next, the route takes you through remote villages like Megalochori, a quiet spot with traditional architecture and tiered bell towers. This is a chance to see a less touristy side of Santorini and soak in the atmosphere of local life.

You’ll drive past vineyards and rugged terrain, giving you a taste of the island’s volcanic landscape. The journey is scenic—expect panoramic views and photo opportunities everywhere.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Wine Tasting at a Family-Owned Winery

One of the highlights is a visit to a three-century-old family winery. You’ll taste four different wines, complemented by local cheeses and rusks, in a setting that feels authentic and welcoming. The guide, who is knowledgeable about local wine production, will explain the unique qualities of Santorini wines—particularly its volcanic soil influences.

Insight from reviews: The wine tasting was described as “excellent,” with travelers appreciating the personal touch of a family-owned operation. It’s a perfect break from sightseeing and allows you to connect with local traditions.

The Red and Black Beaches

No trip to Santorini is complete without a visit to its famous beaches. The tour includes stops at Red Beach, renowned for its striking red volcanic cliffs, and Perivolos’ black sand beach, known for its lively seaside restaurants and laid-back vibe.

While you won’t have unlimited beach time, these stops provide fantastic photo ops and a chance to feel the island’s volcanic energy.

Prophet Elias Monastery and Panoramic Views

Driving up the island’s highest point, the Prophet Elias Monastery at 565 meters offers sweeping views over the caldera. Monks welcome visitors, and you might find local products available for purchase. It’s a peaceful spot to soak in the landscape and reflect on the day.

Return to Athens

After a full day of exploring, you’ll be driven back to Santorini Airport for your flight to Athens. From there, a transfer will take you to your hotel, with an estimated return around 8 pm.

The Experience: What You’ll Love

Personalized attention makes this tour stand out. Unlike large group excursions, your guide is dedicated to making your day flexible, adjusting stops if needed. The guide’s local knowledge isn’t just about sights but also about culture, history, and the best local spots—something that’s clear from reviews praising guides like Argyris.

The focus on wine tasting adds an enjoyable, sensory dimension. Tasting four different wines paired with local cheeses isn’t just a treat but also an education, especially if you’re interested in Greek wine production.

Scenic drives and iconic sights are the backbone of the tour. Expect plenty of photo stops, from the famous blue-domed churches of Oia to the volcanic cliffs of Red Beach. It’s a whirlwind, yes, but packed with highlights.

Hassle-free logistics are a major plus. Private transfers, coordinated flights, and a knowledgeable guide mean you can relax and enjoy rather than stress over transportation.

What to Keep in Mind

The tight schedule is the main consideration. You’ll have around six hours on the island—enough for the highlights, but not for a leisurely exploration. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or plan to stay longer in Santorini, consider a multi-day visit instead.

Flights are not included in the base price, which might seem like an extra step, but this allows you to choose flight times that suit your schedule. The tour is also designed to be flexible, so if your flight timings change slightly, the guide can accommodate.

Travelers should be prepared for some walking, stairs, and slopes—especially in towns like Oia and Megalochori. The tour is suitable for most, but those with mobility challenges should consider this.

The Value: Is It Worth It?

At $960 per group, the tour offers a comprehensive experience for a single-day trip, with private transfers, a knowledgeable guide, and wine tasting included. When you factor in the convenience, expert guidance, and the curated stops, this price becomes justifiable—especially for travelers short on time or seeking a curated experience.

You get to see Santorini’s main sights without the hassle of planning multiple logistics or booking separate tours. The inclusion of wine tasting at a centuries-old family winery adds a unique and memorable touch not always found on quick trips.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour is ideal for time-constrained travelers eager to tick off Santorini’s most iconic sights in a day. It’s perfect for those who appreciate personalized service and local expertise—especially if wine tasting and cultural insights appeal to you.

If you’re someone who enjoys structured, guided experiences with the comfort of private transport, this tour won’t disappoint. However, if you prefer a slow, unhurried exploration or want to spend longer relaxing on the beaches, consider extending your stay in Santorini or opting for a multi-day adventure.

Final Thoughts

This private day trip from Athens makes it possible to experience Santorini’s famous beauty and charm without the need for overnight stays. The focus on personalized attention, local wine, and iconic sights ensures a memorable day that balances sightseeing with authentic flavor.

While the schedule is packed, the guided approach means you won’t miss key highlights, and the private transfers make logistics straightforward. For those on a tight timeline or looking for a curated, hassle-free experience, this tour offers excellent value for a full day of exploration.

In essence, it’s a perfect choice if you want a snapshot of Santorini’s magic—guided by a passionate local—and are comfortable with a brisk pace.

FAQ

Is the flight from Athens to Santorini included?
No, the flight isn’t included in the base price unless you choose the option that packages flights with the tour. You’ll need to book your own flights to align with the suggested schedule.

How long do we stay in Santorini?
You’ll have approximately six hours on the island, enough to visit key sights like Oia, Red Beach, and enjoy wine tasting.

What’s included in the wine tasting?
You’ll sample four different wines at a family-run winery, coupled with some local cheeses and rusks, guided by an expert who explains the island’s wine culture.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Mostly, yes. Some walking and stairs are involved, especially in towns like Oia. Travelers should have moderate physical fitness, but the guide will accommodate different needs when possible.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour is flexible and personalized, so if you have specific interests or sights you want to prioritize, the guide can often adjust the stops.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, and comfortable shoes for walking. Sunscreen and sunglasses are also recommended, depending on the weather.

This comprehensive, immersive day trip offers an efficient way to get a taste of Santorini’s beauty, culture, and flavors—all in one well-organized package. Whether it’s your first visit or a quick taste, it’s a memorable way to experience one of Greece’s most beloved islands.

You can check if your dates are available here: