Private Customizable Santorini Tour with Local Driver-Guide
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 437 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Private Customizable Santorini Tour with Local Driver-Guide worth booking?
Private Customizable Santorini Tour with Local Driver-Guide is a 3-hour experience in Santorini, Greece, from $45 per person. It scores 90 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 5/5 rating across 437 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 90 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (437)
- Duration
- 3 hours
- From
- $45 per person
See the best of Santorini, from its historic villages to its volcanic beaches, on this private driving tour of the island. A proposed itinerary is available for visitors, though you can also customize the day’s schedule in accordance with your preferences. Choose from one of 2 options of tour durations when you book.
What you get
About this experience
See the best of Santorini, from its historic villages to its volcanic beaches, on this private driving tour of the island. A proposed itinerary is available for visitors, though you can also customize the day’s schedule in accordance with your preferences. Choose from one of 2 options of tour durations when you book.
What's included
Included
- Private driver-guide (local expert with insider knowledge of Santorini)
- Convenient hotel, port, or airport pickup and drop-off anywhere in Santorini
- Private transport in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle across Santorini
- Complimentary bottled water
Not included
- Entrance fees to museums (optional, based on your preferences)
- Meals, beverages, and wine tastings
- Tips and gratuities (optional, at your discretion)
What you'll see and do
Three Bells of Fira
Optional Visit: After picking you up from a location of your choice, we’ll take you to the picturesque village of Firostefani. Enjoy a scenic stroll through its charming alleys, leading to the iconic blue-domed church—one of Santorini's most quintessential views. Along the way, you’ll also learn about the island’s unique geological formation and rich history, shaped by volcanic activity and ancient civilizations. A perfect blend of stunning sights and cultural insight.
15 minutes here
Sunset in Oia
Optional Visit: Continue your journey through the scenic countryside to the iconic village of Oia, one of the most photographed locations in Santorini. Renowned for its whitewashed buildings, the iconic blue domes, and breathtaking views over the caldera, Oia provides a perfect setting for capturing unforgettable moments and offers a truly memorable experience.
60 minutes here
Imerovigli view
Optional visit: Imerovigli is situated at the highest and most central point of Santorini’s Caldera, offering stunning panoramic views. From here, you can capture unforgettable photos while admiring the breathtaking sights of the Volcano and Skaros Rock. It’s a perfect spot for those seeking incredible views and a peaceful atmosphere, away from the crowds.
25 minutes here
Red Beach
Optional visit: On the way to the southern part of the island, we’ll stop to explore the famous Red Beach, known for its striking red volcanic cliffs and dramatic coastal scenery. Take in the panoramic views from the nearby viewpoint, and don’t miss the chance to capture stunning photos of this truly unique landscape.
15 minutes here
Perissa Black Sand Beach
Optional visit: Continue your journey to the southeastern coast of Santorini and unwind at Perissa–Perivolos Black Beach, famous for its unique volcanic sand and crystal-clear waters. This vibrant stretch of coastline is lined with charming seaside restaurants and beach bars, perfect for relaxing by the sea. In Perivolos, you'll have free time to capture stunning photos of the black sand beach, swim in the Aegean Sea, and, if you wish, enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the seaside restaurants.
60 minutes here
Monastery of Profitis Ilias
Optional visit: Head to Profitis Ilias, the highest hill in Santorini, standing at 567 meters above sea level. From the summit, enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Aegean Sea. During your visit, you will have the opportunity to explore a Greek Orthodox chapel, listen to the soothing sounds of Byzantine music, and sample hand-made local products crafted by the monks.
20 minutes here
Megalochori - Traditional Village
Optional visit: This settlement is made up of small, white-painted houses with exquisite architecture, narrow alleys, towering bell towers, beautiful blue-domed chapels, and traditional underground cave houses. In this picturesque, non-touristic environment, you'll have the chance to fully immerse yourself in the authentic local culture and lifestyle.
30 minutes here
Pyrgos
Optional visit: Pyrgos, the oldest village on Santorini, sits atop a hill with sweeping views of the island. It’s known for its 16th-century Venetian castle, which once served as a fortress. The village’s layout is maze-like, with narrow alleys and circular roads designed for defense.
29 minutes here
Akrotiri Archaeological Site
Optional visit: Discover the ancient ruins of Akrotiri, a Bronze Age settlement buried by a volcanic eruption around 1600 BCE. Known as the "Pompeii of the Aegean," the site features well-preserved buildings, vibrant frescoes, and advanced infrastructure. Protected by a modern eco-friendly roof, Akrotiri offers a fascinating look into Minoan life. Please note: At Greek ancient sites like Akrotiri, local drivers are not permitted to guide you inside, as only official Greek archaeologists are authorized to do so. However, your driver can drop you off at the entrance, allowing you to explore the site at your leisure. The entrance fee is not included and is paid on-site (optional visit).
45 minutes here
Windmills of Emporio
Optional visit: The road leading to the hilltop above Emporio offers a beautiful view of Santorini’s landscape. At the top, you’ll find eight traditional windmills, standing tall against the sky, and a small whitewashed chapel perched on the cliff’s edge. This stunning spot provides breathtaking panoramic views of the island and is an ideal location for capturing pictures, especially during sunset, when the scene is bathed in warm, golden light. It’s a peaceful and scenic spot, perfect for those seeking a quieter, more picturesque side of Santorini.
15 minutes here
Lighthouse
Optional visit: Next, visit the historic Akrotiri Lighthouse, one of the oldest lighthouses in Greece, dating back to 1892. This charming lighthouse features a square-shaped tower rising over 10 meters above the former warden’s house. Perched on the edge of the island, it offers panoramic views of the Aegean Sea, making it a perfect spot for photos and a moment of quiet reflection.
15 minutes here
Santo Wines
Optional visit: End your tour with a visit to Santo Wines Winery, where you can indulge in a wine tasting experience. Santorini has a rich winemaking tradition dating back to ancient times, and at Santo Wines, you'll have the opportunity to sample the island’s unique varietals, crafted from its volcanic soil. Enjoy the stunning views and savor the flavors that reflect Santorini's deep-rooted history in winemaking—an unforgettable way to complete your island experience. Please note: Wine tasting fee is not included in the tour price and is paid separately at the winery (optional visit).
45 minutes here
Art Space
Optional visit: The Art Space Winery is a unique art center in a historic 1861 winery carved into pumice rock. It combines contemporary Greek art with Santorini's winemaking traditions. Visitors can enjoy exhibits from renowned Greek artists and taste four distinct wines, each reflecting the island’s volcanic soil. The blend of modern art and rustic charm makes it a perfect cultural stop on the island. Please note: Wine tasting fee is not included in the tour price and is paid separately at the winery (optional visit).
45 minutes here
Wine Museum Koutsogiannopoulos
Optional visit: The Wine Museum Koutsogiannopoulos is a unique museum located in a 300-meter-long cave, showcasing the history of wine production in Santorini from 1660 to 1970. The maze-like corridors guide visitors through exhibits that highlight the island’s winemaking traditions. Wine tastings are held in a specially designed room, offering a chance to savor Santorini’s wines while learning about their rich heritage. It’s an immersive experience blending history, culture, and wine in a stunning natural setting. Please note: Wine tasting fee is not included in the tour price and is paid separately at the winery (optional visit).
60 minutes here
Santorini
The above itinerary is provided as an example only. The sights and attractions are suggestions and can be tailored on the day to match your personal interests. Bespoke itineraries and custom additions to your tour are also available to ensure a unique experience. Your tour will conclude when your private driver drops you off at your accommodation, cruise ship port, airport, or any other preferred location.
1 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers.
Options you can book
4-Hour Private Customized Tour
4-hour private tour with a local driver-guide. Flexible departure time tailored to your schedule. Pickup included
Private
Pickup included
8-Hour Private Customized Tour
8-hour private tour with a local driver-guide. Flexible departure time tailored to your schedule. Pickup included
7-Hour Private Customized Tour
7-hour private tour with a local driver-guide. Flexible departure time tailored to your schedule. Pickup included
6-Hour Private Customized Tour
6-hour private tour with a local driver-guide. Flexible departure time tailored to your schedule. Pickup included
3-Hour Private Customized Tour
Visit Oia and the Three Blue Domes, photo stop at Three Bells of Fira — all in a scenic 3-hour guided tour. Pickup included
5-Hour Private Customized Tour
5-hour private tour with a local driver-guide. Flexible departure time tailored to your schedule. Pickup included
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- KALLISTI TOURS
Know before you go
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Meeting point for cruise passengers is top of cruise port's cable car (upper station).
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 434 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
9 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
6 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Photo opportunities
6 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Pace and timing
3 mentionsSeveral reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.
Small groups
3 mentionsThe group size is repeatedly described as intimate rather than packed.
Physical effort
2 mentionsExpect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.
Traveler reviews
434 verified traveler reviews for Private Customizable Santorini Tour with Local Driver-Guide. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
An Unforgettable Santorini Experience…. Theodore Is One of a Kind!
When you book a tour with Theodore, you’re not just getting an exceptional tour guide. You’re getting so much more! He’s a fantastic photographer, a wonderful source of restaurant and shopping recommendations, an incredible planner, and someone who seems to have ten senses working all at once! He notices things before you do, anticipates what you might need, and somehow manages to take care of everything so effortlessly. It’s honestly impressive! Theodore made our experience in Santorini truly exceptional! He was incredibly courteous, accommodating, knowledgeable, and genuinely kind. From the very beginning, it was clear that his priority was making sure we had the best possible experience. He took the time to get to know us, understand our interests, and tailored the entire tour around us. Whenever we wanted to change plans, he adjusted the itinerary without hesitation, always making everything feel easy and relaxed. One thing that especially impressed us was his attention to our safety and comfort. Theodore knows Santorini like the back of his hand, literally down to knowing which steps to watch out for! Nothing seems to escape his attention. He took us to breathtaking viewpoints, and beautiful places we probably never would have discovered on our own. Whether we wanted a wonderful restaurant to sit down and enjoy a meal or just somewhere to grab a quick bite, he always knew exactly where to go. His recommendations were fantastic! And then there’s his photography! Theodore has an amazing eye for pictures. He knows the perfect spots, the best angles, and how to capture beautiful moments!! But what makes Theodore truly special goes beyond his knowledge and talents. It’s his genuine thoughtfulness, kindness, patience, and the way he makes you feel completely taken care of. He pays attention to the smallest details without ever making you feel rushed or overwhelmed. With Theadore, you know you’re in the best hands!! We couldn’t have asked for a better guide or a more memorable day in Santorini. Theodore is one of those rare people who genuinely goes above and beyond, and you can tell he loves what he does. If you’re visiting Santorini, do yourself a favor and book Theodore! You won’t just get an amazing tour guide, you’ll get an entire experience that exceeds your expectations. We cannot recommend him highly enough!
via Tripadvisor
Couple vacations
Theodore was an excellent tour guide! Very accommodating, knowledgeable and friendly . We had so much fun and truly enjoyed our Santorini tour. Highly recommended him for an unforgettable experience.
via Tripadvisor
We credit our guide with the success of our trip to Santorini!
Theodore was truly excellent! He provided indepth knowledge of Island history and culture. He was very accommodating to our physical needs. Theodore's van is clean, well kept and his driving skills in this twisty turny island are amazing. He answered all of our questions thoroughly and with insight. I highly recommend him!
Response from the operator: Thank you so much Janet, for your wonderful 5-star review! We’re truly delighted to hear that Theodore played such an important role in making your trip to Santorini a success. It’s wonderful to know that you appreciated his in-depth knowledge of the island’s history and culture, his thoughtful attention to your physical needs, and his ability to answer all your questions with care and insight. We’re also happy that you felt comfortable and safe throughout the journey, navigating Santorini’s winding roads takes skill and experience! Thank you for your kind recommendation and for choosing Kallisti Tours. Your feedback means a great deal to us, and we hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you back to beautiful Santorini again in the future. Warm regards, The Kallisti Tours Team
via Tripadvisor
The best possible tour in Santorini!!!
Theodore was an amazing guide from start to finish! The process was so easy from booking to pre-trip communication to meetup to customization to timing our return to ensure the most from our visit, this company has it down to an art form! Do not hesitate to book your Santorini tour with this company!!!
Response from the operator: Thank you so much Debra, for your wonderful 5-star review! We’re absolutely delighted to hear that Theodore made your Santorini experience so enjoyable from start to finish. It means so much to know that you found every part of the experience smooth and easy, from the booking and pre-trip communication to the meetup, personalized itinerary, and timing of your return. We always strive to make everything seamless so our guests can relax and make the most of their time on our beautiful island. Thank you for your enthusiastic recommendation and for choosing Kallisti Tours! We truly appreciate your trust and hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you back to Santorini again in the future. Warm regards, The Kallisti Tours Team
via Tripadvisor
Theodore is awesome!!!!
★★★★★ An Amazing Way to Experience Santorini! Theodore was our guide and driver for the day, and he made our time in Santorini absolutely wonderful. In just five hours, he helped us experience so much of his beautiful island and took us to places we never would have discovered on our own. He was incredibly knowledgeable and shared so much about Santorini’s history, culture, and everyday life. We never felt rushed, and the entire tour felt very personal and relaxed. One of the best surprises was that Theodore also became our personal photographer! He knew exactly where to stop for the most beautiful views and took so many wonderful photos of us throughout the day, which gave us memories we’ll have forever. Most importantly, Theodore was genuinely kind, patient, and a pleasure to spend the day with. You can tell he truly loves Santorini and enjoys sharing it with visitors. We highly recommend Theodore to anyone visiting Santorini who wants a private, informative, and memorable experience. He made our day on the island extra special!
Response from the operator: Thank you so much Michelle, for your wonderful 5-star review! We’re absolutely delighted to hear that Theodore made your time in Santorini so special and helped you discover so much of the island in just five hours. It’s wonderful to know that you enjoyed his stories about Santorini’s history, culture, and everyday life, while also appreciating the relaxed and personal pace of your tour. We’re especially happy that his photography added an extra touch to your experience and gave you beautiful memories to take home. Your kind words about Theodore’s warmth, patience, and genuine love for Santorini mean so much to us. Thank you for choosing Kallisti Tours and for your heartfelt recommendation. We hope to welcome you back to our beautiful island again someday! Warm regards, The Kallisti Tours Team
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 3 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $45 to $600
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 153
- Verdict
- Exceptional
Who runs this experience
Operated by KALLISTI TOURS, who run 3 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 69.0.
See everything KALLISTI TOURS runsWhy this scores 90
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Private Customizable Santorini Tour with Local Driver-Guide: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Santorini.
How much does Private Customizable Santorini Tour with Local Driver-Guide cost?
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Prices start at $45 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Santorini usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Private Customizable Santorini Tour with Local Driver-Guide take?
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Plan for about 3 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Santorini is not rushed.
Is Private Customizable Santorini Tour with Local Driver-Guide worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 90 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 437 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most highly reviewed in Santorini, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Private Customizable Santorini Tour with Local Driver-Guide?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Private Customizable Santorini Tour with Local Driver-Guide suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 3-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Private Customizable Santorini Tour with Local Driver-Guide?
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Around 153 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Santorini can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Santorini and add a light layer if any part of the 3-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Private Customizable Santorini Tour with Local Driver-Guide start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Santorini within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Santorini?
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On Outty we rank every Santorini experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Half Day Premium Catamaran Cruise in Santorini including Oia, Private Santorini Tailor Made - Choice of the Guest!, Private Tailor-Made Santorini Land Tour with a Local Driver. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Santorini?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Santorini?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Private Customizable Santorini Tour with Local Driver-Guide?
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Included: Private driver-guide (local expert with insider knowledge of Santorini); Convenient hotel, port, or airport pickup and drop-off anywhere in Santorini; Private transport in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle across Santorini; and Complimentary bottled water. Not included: Entrance fees to museums (optional, based on your preferences); Meals, beverages, and wine tastings; and Tips and gratuities (optional, at your discretion). Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Private Customizable Santorini Tour with Local Driver-Guide include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 551 listed pickup locations in and around Santorini. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is Private Customizable Santorini Tour with Local Driver-Guide offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Private Customizable Santorini Tour with Local Driver-Guide?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Private Customizable Santorini Tour with Local Driver-Guide wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; and Specialized infant seats are available. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Private Customizable Santorini Tour with Local Driver-Guide if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Santorini. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about Private Customizable Santorini Tour with Local Driver-Guide?
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Across 437 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, photo opportunities. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Several reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.
What booking options are available for Private Customizable Santorini Tour with Local Driver-Guide?
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There are 7 options to choose from, including 4-Hour Private Customized Tour, Private, 8-Hour Private Customized Tour, 7-Hour Private Customized Tour. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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