Santorini Best of Custom Tour with Local Guide & Pick-Up

Exploring Santorini with a Customizable Private Tour

Our review focuses on a highly-rated Santorini Best of Custom Tour with Local Guide & Pick-Up, which promises a personalized way to experience this iconic Greek island. While we haven’t taken this tour ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it offers a flexible, authentic, and comfortable way to see Santorini’s highlights.

What immediately catches the eye is the ability to tailor your day according to your interests—whether it’s the famous sunsets in Oia, the volcanic beaches, or the archaeological sites. The private nature of the tour ensures intimacy and flexibility, so you can spend as much or as little time at each spot as you like. Plus, with hotel or port pick-up, convenience is built right into the experience.

We love that this tour includes a luxury vehicle and an experienced local guide, making navigation and interpretation effortless. The cost of $145 per person seems reasonable given the personalized approach, high-end transport, and the chance to visit up to five different locations in just five hours. However, it’s worth considering that entrance fees, food, drinks, and wine tastings are separate costs, which can add up depending on your interests.

This experience is ideal for couples, small groups, or families who want to explore Santorini on their own terms without the hassle of self-driving or rigid group schedules. If you value authentic insights, scenic views, and the ability to customize your day, this tour might be just right.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Personalized experience: You get to choose your favorite sights, making the day uniquely yours.
• Comfort and convenience: Pickup and drop-off from your hotel, airport, or port simplifies logistics.
• Expert local guide: Knowledgeable guides like Manos enhance your understanding of the island’s highlights.
• Scenic vistas: Panoramic views from the highest point and the “Heart of Santorini” are highlights.
• Cultural and natural diversity: From volcanic beaches and archaeological sites to charming villages.
• Additional costs: Wine tastings, food, entrance fees, and cable car tickets are not included.

A Closer Look at What to Expect

This tour is designed to match your interests, which means flexibility is key. You can select up to five destinations from a list of the island’s top sights. This setup appeals to travelers who prefer a custom itinerary rather than a fixed schedule, allowing you to prioritize the experiences that matter most.

The Pick-Up and Drop-Off

The tour begins in Thera (Fira), the island’s bustling capital. If you’re staying in a hotel with vehicle access, the guide will pick you up directly. Otherwise, you’ll meet at a convenient nearby location. For cruise passengers, the pick-up point is right outside the top of the cable car in Fira, with the guide holding a sign with your name. This seamless arrangement ensures you won’t lose precious sightseeing time trying to find your guide.

The Route and Sights

The itinerary is entirely flexible, but here are some popular options:

• Oia: Known worldwide for its stunning sunsets and blue-domed churches, this charming village is a must-see. The narrow streets, whitewashed buildings, and panoramic views make it perfect for wandering and photography.
• Fira: The lively capital offers a bustling atmosphere, incredible caldera views, and local shops. It’s a great spot to soak in the island’s vibe.
• Red Beach & Black Sand Beach: Experience Santorini’s volcanic shores, with Red Beach’s striking red cliffs providing an unforgettable backdrop, and the black sands offering a unique beach experience.
• Akrotiri Archaeological Site: Often called the “Pompeii of the Aegean,” this ancient Minoan city preserved by volcanic ash offers a fascinating glimpse into the island’s past.
• The Lighthouse of Akrotiri: Offers spectacular sea views and a peaceful spot for photos.
• Heart of Santorini: A romantic, scenic spot ideal for photos and soaking in the island’s beauty.
• Koutsogiannopoulos Winery: If you’re into local wines, this vineyard offers tastings that showcase Santorini’s unique viticulture.
• Lost Atlantis Museum: For those curious about myth and legend, this site adds a touch of mystery.
• Monastery of Prophet Elias: The highest point on the island, offering sweeping views and a serene atmosphere.
• Megalochori Village: A traditional village with historic architecture, wine caves, and local charm.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Experience

One reviewer describes their guide, Manos, as making the day special by “showing us places we wouldn’t have seen on our own” and even taking them to a gorgeous restaurant at Black Beach. This highlights the added value of having a knowledgeable local guiding your day—you’re not just ticking off sights but experiencing the island more authentically.

Transport and Duration

The luxury vehicle ensures a comfortable ride between stops, smoothing out the sometimes winding roads. The entire tour lasts around 5 hours, which is enough time to visit several sites without feeling rushed. Keep in mind that entrance fees, food, and drinks are additional, so budget accordingly if you want to indulge at wineries or cafes.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys personalized experiences, local insights, and scenic vistas, this tour is a solid choice. It’s perfect for couples seeking a romantic day, families wanting a flexible schedule, or small groups wanting a more intimate look at Santorini. The ability to select your favorite spots means you won’t waste time on things that don’t interest you.

However, travelers who prefer a fixed schedule or are on a tight budget might find the extra cost of optional activities like wine tastings or entrance fees adds up. Also, since mobility scooters aren’t permitted, it’s best suited for travelers comfortable walking or using regular mobility.

Practical Details and Tips

• Price: At $145 per person, the value hinges on the customization and comfort. For a private, guided experience with luxury transport, it’s a competitive rate.
• Duration: Five hours allows for a good number of stops, but be prepared for a full day of exploration if you include multiple highlights.
• What to Bring: Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended—Santorini’s streets can be uneven, and the sun can be strong.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility scooters.
• Cancellation: Free up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if your plans change.
• Languages: Guided in English, ensuring clear communication.
• Booking: Reserve and pay later, offering flexibility for travel planning.

Authentic Insights from Other Travelers

Many reviewers mention guide Manos by name, emphasizing his knowledge and friendly attitude. One noted that their guide “showed us places on Santorini that we wouldn’t have seen if left to ourselves,” highlighting how a local guide adds depth to the experience.

The reviews also praise the stunning views and good food—a combination that makes the trip memorable. One traveler specifically enjoyed a fabulous restaurant at Black Beach, describing the food as “absolutely gorgeous” and “to die for.”

The Sum Up

This Santorini private tour offers a flexible, intimate way to discover the island’s most iconic sights at your own pace. The combination of luxury transport, expert guiding, and customizable stops makes it an excellent choice for those eager to explore without the rush or rigidity of larger group tours.

It’s particularly suited for travelers who want authentic insights, stunning photo opportunities, and the freedom to focus on what truly interests them. While the additional costs for entrance fees and food aren’t included, the overall value—especially for a private experience—is compelling.

If you’re seeking a personalized, comfortable, and scenic way to enjoy Santorini, this tour ticks most boxes. Just be sure to plan ahead for optional costs and pack comfortable shoes for wandering the beautiful streets and beaches.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for cruise ship passengers?
Yes, pickup is from the exit of the top of the cable car in Fira, making it convenient for cruise travelers. Just provide your ship’s name when booking.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. You can choose from a list of top sights, and the guide will tailor the day to your preferences.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees, food, drinks, and wine tastings are paid separately.

What’s the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, giving you enough time to visit multiple sites.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour includes a luxury vehicle, ensuring a smooth and pleasant ride.

Do I need to provide my hotel details?
Yes, upon booking, you’ll need to share your hotel name or meeting point details.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, clothes, sunscreen, and a camera are recommended.

Is this tour suitable for children or mobility-impaired guests?
It’s not suitable for mobility scooters or wheelchair users, and children should be comfortable walking.

What is the price for this tour?
It costs $145 per person, which includes the private guide and luxury transport.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

This private, customizable tour of Santorini provides a fantastic way to explore at your own pace, combining comfort, authenticity, and unforgettable views. Perfect for those looking to craft their ideal island experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: