Private Highlights tour: Discover Santorini Like a Local
Recommended by 100% of travelers
Badge of Excellence
Santorini, Greece
- 3 to 6 hours (approx.)
- Pickup offered
- Group discounts
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
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Overview
Skip rigid group schedules and explore Santorini on your terms with this private, customizable half-day tour. Visit the blue-domed churches of Oia, wander the traditional lanes of Megalochori, and take in the dramatic cliffs of Red Beach. Travel in a private vehicle with a dedicated guide, setting the pace and focusing on the sights that interest you most, with more time to enjoy key locations like Oia and Imerovigli.
- Explore at a pace that suits you with extended time at key sights
- Ride in a comfortable minivan or private car, with onboard Wi-Fi
- Check off multiple sights without having to book separate tours
- Private tour lets you direct your driver-guide for a custom experience
What's Included
- Bottled water
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Private transportation
- Professional, knowledgeable local driver-guide
- Personalized pickup and drop-off (including cruise port, hotel, or airport)
- Entrance fees to archaeological sites, museums, or attractions (if applicable)
- Meals, drinks, or personal expenses during the tour
- Cable car fees for cruise passengers ( 10€ per person each way)
- Gratuities
Meeting and Pickup
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Pickup details
Your driver will pick you up from your preferred pickup point, provided it is accessible by vehicle. Where access isn't possible, we'll arrange a convenient meeting point nearby. Pickup times vary by location: standard tour departures are 10:30 and 14:00 for guests in Fira Town, while guests staying elsewhere on the island will receive adjusted pickup times accordingly. When booking, please provide: Phone number and email Flight or ferry arrival details Name and address of your hotel If on a cruise: cruise ship name and arrival time ★ CRUISE SHIP PASSENGERS — PLEASE READ CAREFULLY ★ Santorini's cruise port has NO road access. After tendering ashore, the only way up to the town of Fira is by cable car, and queues can be very long — often over an hour when several ships are in port. For this reason, your driver cannot collect you at the port itself. You have two options: OPTION 1 — MEET AT McDONALD'S, FIRA Take the cable car up from the Old Port and meet your driver at McDonald's in Fira, our standard cruise meeting point. Please allow enough time for the cable car queue. OPTION 2 — SKIP THE CABLE CAR (RECOMMENDED) Choose the "Skip the Cable Car" option at booking and we will bring you by water transfer directly to Amoudi Bay, where your driver will be waiting to collect you. This avoids the cable car queue completely and is by far the smoothest choice for cruise guests on a tight schedule.
Itinerary
1
Three Bells of Fira
15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
2
Imerovigli
30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
3
Oia's Main Street
1 hour • Admission Ticket Free
4
Blue Domed Church Santorini
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
5
Megalochori - Traditional Village
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
6
Red Beach
15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
7
Perivolos Beach
15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Stroller accessible
- Near public transportation
- Infant seats available
- No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
- Most travelers can participate
- Cruise ship passengers must provide the following information at time of booking: ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and re-boarding time
- This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
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Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Reviews
5.0
based on 51 reviews
richard_c, Jun 2026
Niko was great. Took us everywhere. Even took us to a great spot for food on the black beach called ‘41’. Finished up with a sunset.
Response from Host, Jun 2026
Thank you very much for your wonderful review.
We are delighted to hear that you had such an enjoyable experience with Niko. It is always our goal to showcase the very best of Santorini, and we are pleased that you were able to explore so many beautiful locations around the island.
We're especially happy that you enjoyed your stop at Black Beach and the local dining experience. Finishing the day with a Santorini sunset is always something special, and we're glad it provided the perfect ending to your tour.
Thank you for choosing VIP Transfers and Tours Santorini. We truly appreciate your kind words and hope to welcome you back to Santorini again in the future.
Warm regards,
VIP Transfers and Tours Santorini
Richelle_M, May 2026
Mary was amazing!!! It was our first time in Greece. We were picked up at the Santorini Cable Car. From there, we toured the city and got to see some of the most beautiful sights EVERRR!!!
Response from Host, May 2026
Thank you so much for your amazing review.
We absolutely loved reading your excitement about discovering Santorini for the very first time. There is something truly special about seeing the island through first-time visitors, and we are so happy your experience was filled with beautiful views, unforgettable moments, and wonderful memories.
We are also very pleased that Mary helped make your day feel smooth, welcoming, and enjoyable from the very beginning of your pickup at the cable car station.
Thank you again for choosing VIP Transfers and Tours Santorini to be part of your first Greece experience. We hope this was the beginning of many more beautiful travels for you.
Warm regards,
VIP Transfers and Tours Santorini
Ruth_S, May 2026
Our private highlights tour of Santorini with George was absolutely unforgettable. He knew the top scenic spots on the island and managed to take us to places that felt both iconic and hidden at the same time. Thanks to him, we captured some of the most beautiful photos and truly felt immersed in the essence of Santorini.
George was knowledgeable, kind, and genuinely passionate about sharing the best of Santorini. The views were breathtaking, the experience felt personalized, and we never felt rushed. It was the perfect way to see the island. Highly recommended!!
Response from Host, May 2026
Thank you very much for your kind words and for taking the time to share your experience with us.
We are truly delighted to hear that your time in Santorini was so memorable and that you were able to enjoy both the island’s iconic highlights and its more hidden corners. Creating experiences that feel both authentic and personal is something our team is very passionate about.
It is especially rewarding to know that George made such a positive impression. We are proud to work with a team that shares the same dedication, knowledge, and genuine enthusiasm for showcasing Santorini in a thoughtful and engaging way.
We would be very happy to welcome you again and share even more of Santorini with you in the future.
Warm regards,
VIP Transfers and Tours Santorini
Daniel_J, Apr 2026
We had an amazing time, Katerina and Christos tailored the trip to things that would suit us. We can highly recommend the private tour. We would use them again anytime.
Response from Host, Apr 2026
Thank you so much for your wonderful review.
We are truly delighted to hear that you had such an amazing time exploring Santorini with us. It is especially rewarding to know that Katerina and Christos were able to tailor the experience exactly to your preferences—this is exactly the kind of personalized journey we strive to create for every guest.
Santorini has so many hidden gems, and it is always a pleasure for us to share them in a way that feels unique and memorable. Your kind words and recommendation mean a great deal to our entire team.
We would absolutely love to welcome you back anytime for another unforgettable experience on the island.
Warm regards,
VIP Transfers and Tours Santorini
B_P, Apr 2026
Covered the island and hit all the highlights. Perfect amount of driving and walking. Some exploring on your own.
Response from Host, Apr 2026
Thank you very much for your lovely review.
We’re so pleased to hear that you enjoyed the balance of the tour combining highlights, comfortable driving, and time to explore on your own. Creating a well paced and enriching experience is exactly what we aim for.
It’s wonderful to know you were able to see so much of the island in such an enjoyable way.
We hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you back to Santorini in the future.
Warm regards,
VIP Transfers & Tours – Santorini
Ranjan_S, Jan 2026
Very knowledgeable driver and travel in comfort. We saw the entire island and were able to take great photos
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Thank you very much for your kind feedback.
We’re delighted to hear that you enjoyed traveling comfortably around the island and that our driver’s knowledge helped you make the most of your time in Santorini. It’s wonderful to know you were able to see so much of the island and capture great photos along the way.
Thank you for choosing V.I.P. Transfers & Tours. We truly appreciate your review and hope to welcome you again in the future.
YMiranda_C, Dec 2025
My travel companion shares the same positive feedback. The driver/guide has been very helpful and with courtesy and good manners given we are seniors with age over 65. He does things well beyond our expectation, Thus we have an enjoyable tour for 5 hours. He was 30 minutes earlier waiting to greet at the airport. Durin the rides between the sightseeing spots, he provided to us very detailed and informative history and background for every sightseeing spots.
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Thank you very much for taking the time to share such thoughtful feedback.
We’re truly delighted to hear that both you and your travel companion had such a positive and enjoyable experience with V.I.P. Transfers & Tours. Providing courteous, attentive, and respectful service especially ensuring comfort and care for our guests is something we consider essential, and we’re pleased to know this was reflected throughout your tour.
It’s wonderful to hear that your driver/guide’s punctuality, professionalism, and detailed explanations enhanced your experience and made the five hour tour both informative and relaxing. Going the extra mile for our guests is exactly the standard we strive to uphold.
Thank you for choosing our company and for sharing your experience. We hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you again in the future.
Michael_G, Nov 2025
Very Nice private experience, going to all of the highlight spots but some out of the way interesting spots as well. Very relaxed no rush self paced.
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Thank you very much for sharing your feedback.
We’re delighted to hear that you enjoyed a relaxed and well-paced private experience, combining Santorini’s highlights with some lesser known, interesting spots along the way. Creating tours that feel comfortable, unhurried, and thoughtfully designed around our guests is something we take great pride in.
Thank you for choosing V.I.P. Transfers & Tours. We truly appreciate your kind words and hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you again in the future.
Justice_H, Oct 2025
This was a perfect tour of the island. Nikolas was an amazing tour guide! He was extremely knowledgeable but also a talented photographer. A MUST do activity if you stop in Santorini!!
Response from Host, Oct 2025
Thank you for your wonderful feedback!
We’re delighted to hear that your Santorini tour was such a great experience and that you enjoyed both the insights and the beautiful photo opportunities along the way. We truly appreciate the recommendation and hope to welcome you again for more unforgettable moments on the island!
Shirley_L, Oct 2025
We had Mario for the 5 hour tour. He’s accommodating and thoughtful. He took us to some off the beaten path places to avoid the crowd. Wonderful itinerary given the time restrain. Will definitely recommend him to friends and family.
Response from Host, Oct 2025
Thank you so much for your wonderful review!
We’re glad to hear you enjoyed the tour and the personalized itinerary.
We truly appreciate your recommendation and hope to welcome you back to Santorini in the future!
Issac_W, Aug 2025
We got a private tour and saw all the beautiful spots. It was just 4 of us so it was intimate and got gorgeous pictures. Was happy with this tour.
Response from Host, Aug 2025
Thank you for your kind words!
We’re delighted you enjoyed your private tour and the intimate experience of exploring Santorini’s most beautiful spots.
It’s wonderful to know you left with great memories and gorgeous pictures.
We truly appreciate your feedback and hope to see you again on another visit!
kavign, Aug 2025
We had a truly exceptional experience especially because of our guide Nicolas who really took the time to show us around Santorini. Would definitely recommend.
Response from Host, Aug 2025
We’re so glad to hear you had such a wonderful experience exploring Santorini with Nicolas. It’s great to know he made your visit memorable, and we truly appreciate your recommendation. We hope to see you again soon!
Kelly_S, Jul 2025
Best day with Nicolas! He knew all sorts of secret areas to take the most amazing photos & get us out of the crowds. Loved every minute of our tour:)
Response from Host, Jul 2025
Thank you for sharing your experience! We're so glad you enjoyed your tour and got to explore some hidden gems away from the crowds. It's always our goal to make every moment special - and it’s great to hear it was a day to remember!
Kenda_T, Jul 2025
Nikolas is the perfect private tour guide; accommodating, informative, and funny!
He asked us what we wanted to see and showed us his favorite spots. He then setup a great experience on the beach with food and umbrella base on our preferences. We only wish we had booked more time to enjoy the experience.
Response from Host, Jul 2025
Thank you for your kind words!
We're thrilled to hear that Nikolas made your tour so enjoyable and personalized. His local insight, sense of humor, and thoughtful planning really make a difference. It’s great to know he was able to tailor the experience to your interests, especially with a relaxing beach stop. We’d love to welcome you back for a longer visit next time!
ArneBlikstad_S, Jun 2025
A nice overview of the Island. A fantastic tour with visit to main attractions. The guide was informative and friendly
Response from Host, Jul 2025
Thank you for your kind words!
We're so glad you enjoyed the tour and had the chance to experience the highlights of the island.
It’s wonderful to hear your guide made the day both informative and enjoyable. We hope to welcome you back to Santorini someday!
Carol_M, Oct 2024
We hired Tosos to show us Santorini. So nice being driven around and shown all the highlights. We did a four hour tour and weren’t exhausted at the end like some walking tours. Learned lots iabout the history and geography of the regiion. Took lots of lovely photos.
Response from Host, Oct 2024
Thank you for sharing your experience!
We’re delighted to hear that your tour was both informative and enjoyable. It’s great that you were able to explore the highlights of Santorini comfortably.
We look forward to welcoming you back on your next visit to Santorini!
LapyangJoseph_L, Sep 2024
Our tour guide Angelo is fantastic! He knows the history of the island, Greece and Europe in general. Interesting story telling. Never a dull moment. He takes great pictures for us, climbing up, lying down to find great angles for us. The tour itself is 4 hours and covers the major tourist spots. Perfect for what I am looking for.
Response from Host, Sep 2024
It’s wonderful to hear you had such a great experience discovering Santorini. We are glad our guide made sure every stop was well thought out, and it sounds like the day was planned perfectly to suit your preferences. From scenic locations to fantastic local spots, the tour seems to have been a highlight of your trip. We can’t wait to welcome you back!
Tamara_R, Jul 2024
Taurus, our guide was amazing! He was knowledgeable, accommodating, and professional. We were able to get wonderful pictures, see local cities and ate at a wonderful restaurant, Mario. This is the tour you want to take!
Response from Host, Jul 2024
Thank you for your fantastic feedback!
We're delighted to hear that your guide provided an amazing experience with his knowledge, accommodation, and professionalism. It's great that you captured wonderful pictures, explored local cities, and enjoyed your meal.
We appreciate your high recommendation and hope to welcome you back for another exceptional tour!
Christine_L, Jul 2024
Angelo was a great guide. Clean car good driver. Took us to many photo worthy places whilst also getting through the crowds quickly. Very flexible and took us where we wanted. Would highly recommend and would look him up if in Santorini in the future
Response from Host, Jul 2024
Thank you so much for sharing your positive experience with Angelo!
We're delighted that you enjoyed your time exploring with him. It's wonderful to hear that his expertise and adaptability added value to your tour.
Your recommendation means a lot to us, and we look forward to the opportunity to assist you again when you return to Santorini.
Vanessa_L, Jun 2024
Katerina was lovely and knowledgeable as well. We went at our pace and learned a lot. Nothing was too much trouble
Response from Host, Jun 2024
Thank you for your wonderful review! We're delighted to hear that Katerina provided you with a lovely and knowledgeable tour experience in Santorini. It's fantastic that you were able to explore at your own pace and learn a lot during the tour.
We appreciate your feedback, and we hope to welcome you back to Santorini for more memorable experiences in the future.
IrmaL_A, Jun 2024
Vagelis our driver was excellent
He took us to many places
He was on time and recommended other places to visit after the tour
Thank you
Response from Host, Jun 2024
Thank you for your kind review! We're delighted to hear that Vagelis provided you with an excellent tour experience in Santorini. Ensuring our guests enjoy a comprehensive exploration of the island while receiving timely and helpful recommendations is always our goal.
We appreciate your feedback and hope to have the opportunity to welcome you back to Santorini for more exploration and memorable experiences in the future.
Missi_G, Jun 2024
Our tour guide George Dukas was fantastic, we told him what we wanted to see and he delivered and more, was very informative and didn’t rush us. We visited Imerovigli , Three bells of fira
Megalochori village, Heart of santorini
Black sand beach, Venetsanos winery
Prophet Elias monastery at the top of the mountain. He made reservations for us at the winery with the most breathtaking view of the Caldera. If you want a customized trip, I highly recommend this tour and if you’re lucky with George D. As your tour guide.
Response from Host, Jun 2024
Thank you for your excellent feedback! We're thrilled that our tour service exceeded your expectations in Santorini. It's wonderful to hear that the itinerary we planned for you covered all the places you wanted to see and more. We aim to provide a personalized and informative experience while ensuring you have ample time to enjoy each location without feeling rushed.
Your recommendation means a lot to us, and we look forward to welcoming you back to Santorini for more memorable tours in the future.
Randa_W, May 2024
Taking this tour was the best decision we made visiting Santorini. Tony, our tour guide knew so much about the island and customized our tour for what we wanted and he delivered that and beyond! Will definitely recommend VIP yours and Tony to anyone going to Santorini!
Response from Host, Jun 2024
Thank you for your fantastic review! We're thrilled to hear that taking our tour was the best decision you made during your visit to Santorini. It's wonderful that Tony was able to customize the tour to meet your interests and exceeded your expectations with his extensive knowledge of the island.
We appreciate your recommendation of our VIP tours and Tony to others visiting Santorini. Your kind words mean a lot to us, and we look forward to welcoming you back for more unforgettable tours in the future.
Amy_F, Apr 2024
Nikki was a wonderful guide ! He was very knowledgeable about the area and showed us many interesting things we would’ve never found on our own
Response from Host, Jun 2024
Thank you for your review!
We're delighted to hear that we provided you with a wonderful guided experience in Santorini. Nikki's knowledge of the area and ability to show you unique and interesting places off the beaten path are exactly what we strive for in our guides.
We're glad that we made your visit to Santorini special by sharing his insights and local expertise. If you ever return to the island, we'd love to arrange another memorable tour for you.
Carlos_F, Aug 2025
Amazing way to get to know the most emblematic sites of Santorini. Comfortable in an excellent vehicle and Constantines a great guide. He helped us by making things more child-friendly like the Akrotiri Archaeological Museum. We ended up on the beautiful beach of Perivolos to bathe and eat.
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Response from Host, Aug 2025
Gracias por compartir tu experiencia. Nos alegra mucho saber que disfrutaron de una manera cómoda y adaptada para toda la familia, especialmente para los niños. Terminar el día en la playa de Perivolos fue sin duda un gran cierre. ¡Esperamos poder darles la bienvenida de nuevo pronto!
From $92.83
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Private Highlights tour: Discover Santorini Like a Local
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