Private Half-Day Sightseeing Ride in Santorini

You will then be taken to explore the different little villages on the island of Santorini, so you can get a feel for the ones you may want to spend a day exploring. Your first stop will be the largest village on the island, Emporio. The small whitewashed houses, narrow alleys and the resident's unique dialect make this quaint village truly special. Here you will have the opportunity to visit the wonderful windmills, learn about their rich history, and enjoy the panoramic views of Santorini. Up on the hill just behind the village of Emporio, you can also find the amazing ruins of both Goulas and Kasteli, a fortress from the fascinating Byzantine period, which you may choose to explore if you have the time before your check-in.

The next village your driver will take you to is the old capital of Santorini, Pyrgos. This hillside village is a wonderful display of traditional architecture, galleries, vineyards and picturesque churches. If you choose to go back to this lovely village after your Welcome ride, you will be able to have a fascinating guided tour of the Venetian Castle, or enjoy a fresh cup of coffee overlooking the neoclassical mansion of Zannos Melathron.

Your driver will then take you north towards the village of Imerovigli. On your way you will have a quick stop in Firostefani to see the famous Blue Dome Church, for an iconic Santorini photo op. Once you arrive at the clifftop village of Imerovigli, your driver will take you to a very famous rock named Skaros, which was used as a vantage point to search for pirates.

Continuing north through the beautiful Santorini countryside, you will then have the chance to explore the last village of the day, Oia. This village was built in the caldera rim, and is the most photographed region of the entire island. Famous for its traditional architecture and unbelievable sunsets, the village of Oia has been the inspiration for many artists and poets throughout the years. If you have time, be sure to check out the little stores and houses built into the niches of volcanic rock, and take in the breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea.

If the views from the windmills in Emporio weren't enough for you, then you are sure to love the ones from the highest mountain in Santorini, Prophet Elias. This mountain stands 2,000 feet above sea level, and from its peak you have breathtaking, 360 degree views of the entire island. If you still have a little time left, your driver will take you to visit the lovely little Greek monastery that is perched on the very summit of Prophet Elias. 

After a long morning of exploring all the villages and highlights of Santorini, you can take a moment to relax, and enjoy some of the best Greek wines at one of the traditional Wineries on the island. You can also visit the Venetsanos Winery, built in 1947 by the Venetsanos family, making it the first industrial winery on the island. If you decide to return to the Venetsanos Winery, you will be able to try a variety of dry white wines and Vinsanto or a sweet dessert wine, while learning about the secrets of winemaking, unique to the island of Santorini. 

As the day draws to a close, you will then return to your air-conditioned Welcome car, and your driver will return you safely to your accommodation, or to any of the points seen throughout your ride.