
The VIP Experience: A Full-Day Private Tour
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 85 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is The VIP Experience: A Full-Day Private Tour worth booking?
The VIP Experience: A Full-Day Private Tour is a 6-hour experience in Santorini, Greece, from $155 per person. It scores 81 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 5/5 rating across 85 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 81 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (85)
- Duration
- 6 hours
- From
- $155 per person
For travelers with just a few hours to explore Santorini, it can be tough to figure out what to see, since this picturesque island is packed with must-see attractions. See the best that Santorini has to offer on this private highlights tour. With a personal guide to whisk you around, you can see more in just one day from the popular village of Santorini Oia to red sand beaches and prehistoric archaeological ruins.
What you get
About this experience
For travelers with just a few hours to explore Santorini, it can be tough to figure out what to see, since this picturesque island is packed with must-see attractions. See the best that Santorini has to offer on this private highlights tour. With a personal guide to whisk you around, you can see more in just one day from the popular village of Santorini Oia to red sand beaches and prehistoric archaeological ruins.
What's included
Included
- Private transportation
- On-board WiFi
- Bottled water
- All Fees and Taxes
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Local English speaking Professional driver
Not included
- Lunch
- Entrance fees to Akrotiri Archaeological Site (€ 20)
What you'll see and do
Oia
Our first stop will be the village of Oia, the most famous village of Santorini on the north side of the island. At this unique place, visitors can admire the historical houses which have been built in niches inside the volcanic bedrock and the blue-roofed churches. Moreover, the adorable views from this location will make you feel relaxed and will give you the chance to take the first photos for your album.
60 minutes here
Firostefani
Next stop on our tour-schedule is the village of Firostefani, the “crown of Fira”, which owes its name to its elevated position. The stunning views of Fira and the volcano from the village will stay in your memory for good. We will go on for a photo shooting visit of the famous Blue Domed Church, an iconic church that has adorned the cover of so many guidebooks of Santorini.
30 minutes here
Monastery of Profitis Ilias
Another unforgettable experience is awaiting at Profitis Ilias, once we reach the summit of Mountain Profitis Ilias (Prophet Elijah), the highest point of Santorini at an altitude of 600 meters above sea level. Here, we will explore the area of the homonymous historical monastery and take more photographs of the panoramic view from this amazing vantage point.
20 minutes here
Pyrgos
The village of Pyrgos, which is located at the foot of Mountain Profitis Ilias, will be the first traditional village of our tour. This place offers us trademark panoramic views of both sides of Santorini, while it retains features of the Venetian rule. Moreover, the traditional Cycladic houses and pathways placed all around the old Venetian castle make Pyrgos Village a place not to be missed.
30 minutes here
Red Beach
The red beach in Akrotiri is undoubtedly worth a visit, given that it is a rare sight, probably unique in the whole world, where red is the dominant color. It is surrounded by steep red hills that create a captivating, wild landscape. If you stand on the top, you will see huge volcanic rocks located in the sea, small pebbles and sand of various colors, mainly red, all over the beach, and attractive dark blue waters.
30 minutes here
Akrotiri Archaeological Site
Akrotiri village is home to two historical treasures that are the main attractions of the village. One of them is the archaeological site of Akrotiri, a very important prehistoric city of the Aegean sea that is completely worth a visit. You can walk through it and see frescoes, artifacts, furniture, modern drainage systems, and even multi-story buildings from the bronze age.
60 minutes here · Admission not included
Akrotiri Lighthouse
This beautiful structure makes a really good target to walk to. You will be rewarded with fabulous views over the Aegean Sea and surrounding islands.
20 minutes here · Admission included
Perissa Black Sand Beach
At this point of our tour it will be our pleasure to take you for a swim at the dazzling crystal clear waters of the famous Black Beach (also known as Perissa) if you wish. This seaside area actually forms the tip of the long black sand beach of Perivolos and is, without a doubt, the busiest and most remarkable beach of Santorini.
60 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Santorini
After disembarking from your boat follow the disembarkation procedure for cruise ships and go to the cable car which will give you a ride up to the main town of Fira. Meet your driver at the top cable car exit, where he will be holding a sign with your name written on it.
Hotel pickup
Pickup is available for selected locations. Pickup begins about 30 minutes before departure.
Ends at
After disembarking from your boat follow the disembarkation procedure for cruise ships and go to the cable car which will give you a ride up to the main town of Fira. Meet your driver at the top cable car exit, where he will be holding a sign with your name written on it.
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 12 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Santo Luxury Escape
Know before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 85 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
7 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
The guide
6 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Photo opportunities
4 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Food and drink
4 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Pace and timing
3 mentionsSeveral reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.
Good for families
2 mentionsReviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.
Traveler reviews
85 verified traveler reviews for The VIP Experience: A Full-Day Private Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
A more authentic Santorini tour
Nikos did a great job tailoring the tour for our group of 7 and using his local experience to provide a tour that felt authentic and avoided many of the crowded tourist spots. Lunch was perfect, location was amazing and food and service was great at the Farm to Table restaurant. Van was also comfortable and clean and he is a safe driver. Highly recommended!
Response from the operator: Thank you so so much for your lovely words 🙏
via Tripadvisor
The Real Santorini
I wanted to thank you and Vasili for a wonderful tour today. It was perfect and exactly what we we wanted to experience - the true Santorini. Vasilis was a perfect guide - taking us of course to some of the main sights but focused on the history of Greece and the island. He started by asking us what we wanted to see and do, a true personalized itinerary. He also spent time taking us to beautiful places and little corners and spots perhaps unknown by most tourists. He also shared so much of his family history on the island - just incredible. It was great to spend the day with someone who actually knows the history here and is so passionate about his home! We also loved our little 'beach break' to see the Black Sand beach and enjoy a simple traditional Greek spot. We could not have asked for a better day. Please extend our sincere thanks and appreciation to him. Highly recommend. You will not be disappointed.
Response from the operator: Thank you so so much miss Vanessa for your lovely words.! It was our pleasure for meeting you and show you our beautiful island.!
via Tripadvisor
Don't overthink it, just book it!
We opened our holiday by spending our first day on tour with Santo Luxury Escape! We wanted to learn the lay of the land since we would have a car the rest of the week, it was better than expected! Our family of four rode in comfort and felt very safe riding around the narrow, winding roads. Not only did we witness the insane postcard views but we also learned much about the history of Santorini, from an 11th generation local! So priceless! We followed our guide through the towns' narrow alleys, and walked right by the photo lines in Oia because our guide knew the better photo ops ;) We had a wonderful lunch at a local spot on the sea, and dipped our feet in afterwards. We concluded our tour with a wine flight at Santo Wines, which was a perfect time to have some wine while we had a driver 😉 And that wasn't even everything we accomplished. Don't bypass if you really want to learn more about Santorini! July 2026.
Response from the operator: Thank you so so much for your lovely words 🙏
via Tripadvisor
A great day touring the island of Santorini
We had a wonderful day exploring the entire island of Santorini with an expert. Vasilis did a fabulous job sharing his island with us. He can tailor the tour to your liking too.
Response from the operator: Thank you so so much for your lovely words 🙏
via Tripadvisor
Great Tour. Great Tour Guide
We took this tour with Vasilis. He is an excellent tour guide and was very knowledgeable about all aspects of Santorini.. He took us two places that we never would’ve seen on our own.. would highly recommend this tour and ask for Vasilis. You will not be disappointed.
Response from the operator: Thank you so so much for your lovely words 🙏
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 6 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $155 to $350
- Hotel pickup
- Available for selected locations
- Booked in 30 days
- 30
- Verdict
- Exceptional
Why this scores 81
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
The VIP Experience: A Full-Day Private Tour: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Santorini.
How much does The VIP Experience: A Full-Day Private Tour cost?
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Prices start at $155 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 The VIP Experience: A Full-Day Private Tour take?
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Plan for about 6 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 The VIP Experience: A Full-Day Private Tour worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 81 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 85 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Santorini, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule The VIP Experience: A Full-Day Private Tour?
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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 The VIP Experience: A Full-Day Private Tour suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 6-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book The VIP Experience: A Full-Day Private Tour?
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Around 30 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 6-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does The VIP Experience: A Full-Day Private Tour 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 The VIP Experience: A Full-Day Private Tour?
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Included: Private transportation; On-board WiFi; Bottled water; All Fees and Taxes; and In-vehicle air conditioning. Not included: Lunch; and Entrance fees to Akrotiri Archaeological Site (€ 20). Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does The VIP Experience: A Full-Day Private Tour include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered, or you can meet at the start point instead from 437 listed pickup locations in and around Santorini. Be ready about 30 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is The VIP Experience: A Full-Day Private Tour 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 The VIP Experience: A Full-Day Private Tour?
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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 The VIP Experience: A Full-Day Private Tour wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Specialized infant seats are available. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to The VIP Experience: A Full-Day Private Tour 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 The VIP Experience: A Full-Day Private Tour?
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Across 85 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include knowledge and storytelling, the guide, photo opportunities. Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted. One thing to know: Several reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.
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