Private Santorini City Tour & Native Driver

What's included

What you'll see and do

1. Firostefani

   (Optional) Firostefani offers the same breathtaking view of the Caldera as from the capital. Still, in a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere, this makes it a great option to stay, as it is only a 15-minute walk from the center of Fira, meaning you can plunge into the nightlife from the central city. But still, get some peace. The coastal path between Firostefani and Fira is a beautiful and popular walk, especially in the early morning or evening when it is not too hot. There are many restaurants, bars, and shops in the village itself, mainly along the main street, so even if you don't plan to leave the resort, you have everything you need right on the doorstep; it would be a little vain to have Fira so close and not go there at least once. We recommend Firostefani to couples who want to visit the Caldera but also want a quiet and relaxing holiday. However, it is unsuitable for children, as it is a 20-minute drive from the beach, and toddlers have little entertainment.

   15 minutes here

2. Imerovigli

   Since the time of Byzantium, Imerovigli, one of the most impressive villages of Santorini, has stood on the highest point of the caldera. It is believed that the early settlement of Skaros was built in 1207 by the Venetian James Varotsi, who was granted Santorini after the conquest of Constantinople by the Crusaders in 1204. The modern village towers over an impressive volcano about 300 meters above sea level. It is about 2 km northwest of Fira on the road to Oia. In addition to the paved road, the village is connected to the capital of Santorini by a path offering endless views of the unique volcanic landscape. Today, Imerovigli is one of the most developed tourist destinations in Santorini, with first-class hotels, restaurants, and other shops. Tens of thousands of people visit it worldwide every year.

   30 minutes here

3. Oia

   Go first to the island's northern part and embrace the best of Oia village. It is unique, with the most spectacular sunset (afternoon), iconic blue domes of churches, and panoramic views. One of the most photographed places in Greece, Oia is located on top of an impressive cliff and offers spectacular views of the volcano.

   75 minutes here

4. Monastery of Profitis Ilias

   Go up to the monastery of the prophet Elijah and enjoy the most spectacular view from the island's highest point. From this vantage point, you can enjoy stunning views of the Aegean coast. The name of the mountain Profitis Ilias (Prophet Elijah) comes from the monastery of the same name on its top, built in 1711. In this stunning and peaceful setting, you can also taste the wine and local products prepared by the monks who live in the monastery.

   20 minutes here

5. Megalochori - Traditional Village

   The sights of Megalochori are two impressive churches standing on the village's central square. The Church of the Introduction of the Blessed Virgin Mary, with a wooden iconostasis and Byzantine icons of the Russian school and the church of Agia Anargiri, celebrates July 1, the day a big holiday takes place in the village. The village has been mentioned in written sources since the mid-17th century. It also appears on the map of 1801. Findings on the broader area indicate that it has been inhabited since the early Cycladic and Late Cycladic periods.

   30 minutes here

6. Emporio

   (Optional) The village of Emporio is the largest settlement on Santorini and is located 12 km from Fira. Unlike the cosmopolitan settlements of Fira and Oia, which are above the caldera, Emporio is situated at the foot of the mountain of Prophet Elias. Emporio is a Greek word meaning trade. It refers to the village's importance for the island's economy in ancient times, as it was the center of trade affairs." Thanks to its well-preserved characteristic architecture, the settlement exudes a medieval aura. The village resembles a fortress, as it was built to protect its inhabitants from marauding pirates. All the buildings were purposely built side by side so the locals could better defend their homes. When piracy ceased to be a threat, the village expanded and adopted its current layout. In the heart of Emporio is Kasteli, a unique castle town with walls made of cement and volcanic substances.

   40 minutes here

7. Red Beach

   Red Beach is an impressive, colorful beach. Its name eloquently describes what visitors encounter when approaching it. Towering red rocks in the background and reddish sand with black pebbles on the coast create a unique landscape and testify to the island's volcanic activity. The best view of the beach opens when you approach and leave. From the top of the cliff, there is a stunning view of the beach, an excellent place to take photos.

   20 minutes here

8. Akrotiri Archaeological Site

   (Optional) Visit the Akrotiri ruins by yourself and discover the Minoan era of Santorini. The Akrotiri Archaeological Site is open to visitors in a large, bright, and spacious building. The ash layer covering the city was 40 meters thick in places, so it took a lot of painstaking excavation and removal of a considerable amount of rock to descend to the original street level. A path leads down through some reconstructed houses, where you can see details such as the original Minoan toilet and a stone bath.

   30 minutes here · Admission not included

9. Estate Argyros

   (Optional) During the tour, you will enjoy the best Santorini gastronomy and taste Greek dishes and wines. You will be introduced to the best places in Santorini, demonstrating the depth of the island's gastronomic and wine culture. You will explore the secrets and recipes passed down from generation to generation, learn about their historical significance, and tour the famous wineries of the family estate. Combine Santorini's food and wine Greek menu in a fantastic restaurant where you will enjoy local cuisine and wine. At the same time, you will learn about Santorini's food and wine culture with tips on Greek gastronomy. This experience is perfect for gourmets, adventurers, wine lovers, and anyone who wants to experience the whole gastronomic experience of Santorini.

   40 minutes here · Admission not included

10. Kamari Beach

    The village of Kamari in Santorini is built on the seashore, on one of the most beautiful beaches on the east coast. It is located 9 kilometers from Fira and is located next to the airport, on the one hand, and next to the mountain of Meat - on the other. It is one of the largest villages in Santorini, with about 1300 inhabitants, while the beach is considered by many to be the most popular beach on the island. This is one of the most "modern" villages since significant reconstruction began after the devastating earthquake of 1956 when many residents of Episkopi-Gonia moved here to live. Within walking distance, on the top of Mount Mesta, are the ruins of ancient Tyre, which today is one of the two greatest archaeological sites of the island, along with the prehistoric settlement of Akrotiri. You can get to the ancient Shooting Gallery by climbing on a donkey. The ruins of the old seaside town And I, which was once the harbor of Ancient Tyre, are today in the sea around this area.

    75 minutes here

11. Fira

    (Optional) Fira has been the capital of Santorini since the 18th century and is the most cosmopolitan settlement on the island. Before that, the capital was Skaros in Imerovigli, which used to be one of the citadels of the island. When Skaros was gradually abandoned, the inhabitants moved to Fira, which was then founded as the new capital. The city is located in the middle of the western part of the island, directly above the caldera and opposite the volcano, overlooking the sunset. It is a city of picturesque alleys, whitewashed houses carved at the foot of the caldera, numerous corners with breathtaking views, rich history, and enchanting beauty. The volcano is visible from any point, and the sunsets are fascinating.

    30 minutes here

Where it starts and ends

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

Santorini Tours & Guides

Know before you go

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Photos

Traveler reviews

20 verified traveler reviews for Private Santorini City Tour & Native Driver. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.