Beyond its famous views, Santorini offers a wealth of luxury experiences and unique activities that can turn a great trip into an unforgettable one. Whether you’re a couple on your honeymoon, adventure seekers, or culture enthusiasts, the island has something special in store. To inspire your itinerary, we’ve compiled the top tourist programs and experiences in Santorini – each one elevated for the luxury traveler looking for the very best.
A private catamaran sailing near Santorini’s volcanic islets. Exploring the island by sea at sunset is one of Santorini’s most magical experiences.
1. Private Caldera Cruise & Sunset Sail
No visit to Santorini is complete without experiencing the caldera from the water. One of the top experiences here is a catamaran or yacht cruise around the island, and for our clients we recommend a private or small-group luxury sailing. By day, set sail to explore hidden coves, the volcanic hot springs, and Red and White Beaches – you can swim and snorkel in the crystal-clear Aegean at your leisure. By evening, the captain will position the boat perfectly for sunset.
Watching the sun dip below the horizon from a boat, champagne flute in hand, is an almost surreal delight. You’ll have the option of a gourmet onboard barbecue or catered dinner, and many luxury sunset cruises even feature an open bar with Santorini wines. This intimate experience is incredibly popular for couples (what could be more romantic than a sunset at sea?), but also great for small groups of friends or family looking for a memorable outing. From the water, you’ll see the full drama of Santorini’s cliffs and villages – a perspective you simply can’t get on land. We’ll arrange a top-tier vessel with excellent crew, ensuring your time on the Aegean is as comfortable as it is magical.
2. Wine Tasting Tour in Santorini’s Wineries
Santorini’s wine heritage dates back thousands of years, and tasting these unique wines is a must-do. We organize private wine tours that whisk you via chauffeur to some of the island’s best wineries – think estate vineyards with caldera views. You’ll learn about the ancient Assyrtiko grape and Santorini’s volcanic terroir, which produces some of the most exceptional wines in Greece (and beyond)
At each stop, enjoy VIP tastings of crisp whites and the famous sweet Vinsanto, often paired with local cheeses. Not only will you savor incredible flavors, you’ll do so in stunning settings – perhaps in a vineyard at sunset or in a cellar cave lit by candles. One winery even has a terrace directly on the cliff edge, offering a breathtaking backdrop to swirl and sip. For wine aficionados, we can include a session with an oenologist or even a food-pairing gourmet lunch. By the end of the day, you’ll understand Santorini’s wine culture deeply (and likely have a few bottles to take home!). This experience combines education, indulgence, and scenery – truly a highlight for many visitors.
3. Guided Tour of Akrotiri & Ancient Thera
Dive into Santorini’s rich history with a private guided tour of its top archaeological sites. Start at Akrotiri, the Minoan Bronze-Age city preserved by the volcanic eruption. With a knowledgeable guide, you’ll wander through the roofs of 3,500-year-old buildings, see vibrant fresco fragments, and hear stories of this once-thriving port town (often linked to the legend of Atlantis). Akrotiri’s ruins – a city frozen in time under ash – are often compared to Pompeii and are a must-see for history buffs.
After Akrotiri, your driver will take you to Ancient Thera, perched atop a mountain near Kamari. This site offers ruins from Greece’s Classical era (including temples, an agora, and theater) plus panoramic views of the coastline. We take care of all logistics: skip-the-line entry, a top-rated licensed guide fluent in your language, and comfortable transport. Rounding out the trip might be a stop at the nearby Museum of Prehistoric Thera in Fira to see artifacts like the famous wall paintings from Akrotiri. By engaging with Santorini’s past, you’ll gain a new appreciation for the island beyond its pretty facade. It’s an enriching experience that we make accessible and engaging – perfect for families or couples who love culture.
4. Fira-to-Oia Hike with Private Guide & Picnic
For active travelers, one of the world’s most awe-inspiring hikesawaits in Santorini. The trail from Fira to Oia (about 10 km) follows the rim of the caldera, treating you to continuous views of sea and sky. We elevate this experience by providing a private hiking guide who knows the route’s secrets – from the best vantage points for photos to hidden chapels along the way. You can start early in the morning (to beat the heat and have the path mostly to yourselves) or in late afternoon for cooler temps.
We’ll arrange transfers to the trailhead and have a luxury picnic ready at a scenic midpoint, perhaps in Imerovigli. Imagine taking a break with fresh fruits, Greek pastries, and cold beverages while gazing at the volcano and distant islands. As you approach Oia by foot, the sense of accomplishment and the views are exhilarating. The hike is moderate, with some steep sections, but our guide will go at your pace. If you prefer a shorter walk, we can customize the route. Walking Santorini’s caldera edge is something you’ll never forget – it’s exercise, adventure, and unparalleled scenery in one. And don’t worry, we’ll have a car waiting in Oia to whisk you back to your hotel (unless you choose to stay for shopping or dinner). For those who prefer not to hike, a scenic drive with stops at these viewpoints can be arranged as an alternative – still gorgeous, but the hike truly lets you feel Santorini’s grandeur.
5. Luxury Spa and Wellness Day
After days of exploration, consider indulging in Santorini’s wellness offerings. The island is home to several boutique spas and wellness centers – some carved into caves, others with infinity pools overlooking the caldera. We can book you a private couples’ spa experience that might include treatments using local ingredients like volcanic mud or olive oil. One signature therapy is a wine-infused massage (Antioxidant-rich from the grape must!). Following your massages and perhaps a rejuvenating facial, enjoy a soak in a jacuzzi perched on the cliff edge, champagne in hand. Another idea: start the day with a private yoga session at sunrise on your hotel terrace, led by a top instructor, then move into a spa circuit (steam room, sauna, plunge pool) to relax your muscles.
Wellness days are all about re-centering and pampering yourself. Many of our honeymoon clients rave about the spa morning we arrange followed by a lazy afternoon by their infinity pool – it’s the perfect balance to tours and activities. Santorini’s tranquil energy and natural products provide a unique spa experience that soothes body and soul.
6. Santorini Cooking Class & Cultural Experience
For a more hands-on dive into local culture, try a private cooking class set in a picturesque location. You’ll join a local chef at a charming village home or farm. Tour the organic garden, pick some fresh produce, and learn to cook traditional Santorinian and Greek dishes – think tomato fritters (made from the island’s famed sweet tomatoes), fava bean puree, stuffed vine leaves, or fresh-caught fish with lemon and herbs. As you cook, you’ll hear stories of island life and food traditions passed down through generations. Once ready, sit down to feast on the meal you’ve created, under a pergola with vines overhead. It’s an immersive experience that connects you with Santorini’s culture through taste and story. We often pair this with a short walking tour of a village like Megalochori or Emborio to see the real Santorini beyond the tourist hotspots. You’ll leave not only satisfied, but also equipped with new recipes and a deeper appreciation for the island’s heritage.
7. Horseback Riding on Eros Beach
For a romantic and slightly adventurous outing, consider a sunset horseback ride along Santorini’s unique beaches. One highly recommended option is horseback riding at Eros Beach, known for its otherworldly sand formations and secluded vibe. We’ll arrange a private ride – just you, your partner, and an experienced guide – through winding paths that lead to the beach’s stretch of black sand. Riding along the shoreline at dusk, with waves lapping at the horses’ hooves and the sky turning colors, is pure magic. This is an intimate way to experience Santorini’s nature.
It’s suitable even for beginners; the guides will match you with gentle horses and provide instruction. We’ve had couples use this as a surprise activity (even one or two proposals happened here!) and families enjoy it as well. It’s something different from the usual tourist fare and leaves you feeling a true connection with the island’s quieter side. Plus, those photos of you on horseback with Santorini’s cliffs in the background will be priceless souvenirs.
8. Scuba Diving or Snorkeling in the Caldera
The Aegean waters around Santorini hold fascinating dive sites – volcanic reefs, underwater lava formations, and even a wreck or two. If you’re dive certified (or want an introductory dive), we can set up a private scuba excursion with a top dive center. Explore the undersea world where volcanic activity shaped surreal rock structures; you might spot colorful fish, barracuda, or sea turtles gliding through the clear water. One popular site is around the Nea Kameni volcano islet, where you literally dive into the caldera. For those who prefer to stay at the surface, a guided snorkeling trip can be equally enjoyable – there are sea caves and rocky coastlines teeming with marine life to discover. Santorini isn’t a tropical reef, but it offers a distinct underwater experience – where else can you say you swam inside a volcano’s caldera? We ensure any water activity is done with utmost safety and personal attention, and can combine it with a leisurely boat day. Perhaps dive in the morning and then enjoy a picnic on Thirassia Island (Santorini’s quiet neighbor) afterward. It’s one more way to appreciate Santorini’s natural diversity.
9. Professional Photo Shoot – Capture the Memories
You’re in one of the most photogenic places on earth, so why not commemorate it? We can arrange a professional photo shoot for you around Santorini’s iconic spots. This isn’t just any photo shoot – we work with some of the island’s best photographers who know how to avoid the crowds and get those envy-inducing shots. It can be a fun experience in itself: you’ll visit blue-domed churches, marble alleys, and secret viewpoints, essentially getting a tour while posing for fantastic pictures. Many honeymooners or anniversary couples love this, as it produces frame-worthy photos of them in Santorini without relying on selfies. For an extra touch, we can provide a stylist or flowing dresses (like the “flying dress”) to add drama. Families, too, find this worthwhile for capturing precious moments. By the end, not only do you have a great time, but you’ll receive stunning images – a tangible memory of your Santorini adventure curated in style.
10. Explore Santorini’s Art and Shopping Scenes
Rounding out the top experiences, don’t miss indulging in Santorini’s boutique shopping and art galleries. We offer a guided shopping stroll through Oia or Fira, where a personal shopper can take you to the best spots for handmade gold jewelry, one-of-a-kind art, stylish resort wear, and local crafts. Santorini is known for its jewelry designers and ceramic artists; you might find the perfect piece to bring home as a memento. We also recommend visiting a gallery like Mati Art Gallery in Fira or the many eclectic art houses in Oia. Some hidden gems include a workshop where you can see Byzantine-style icons being painted, or a store selling products made from Santorini’s volcanic pumice. If you’re interested in local products, we can arrange a stop at a family-owned farm shop for items like capers, tomato paste, and Santorini’s unique fava bean. This luxury shopping tour ensures you discover authentic treasures, not just tourist souvenirs, and it can be tailored to your tastes. It’s a leisurely, pleasurable way to spend a late afternoon, capped perhaps by a sunset cocktail once you’re laden with chic shopping bags.
Each of these experiences showcases Santorini beyond the typical postcard viewpoint, allowing you to truly live the island’s magic. We take pride in crafting these programs with a luxury twist – private, personalized, and top quality – so that you can immerse yourself in Santorini’s wonders without worry. Whether it’s sailing into the sunset, tasting rare wines, or uncovering ancient history, let us curate your Santorini adventures for an enriching and elegant journey.Contact us to discuss your wishes, and we’ll handle all the arrangements to transform them into reality. With our insider knowledge and dedication to excellence, you’ll enjoy the very best of Santorini’s tours and activities, making memories to last a lifetime.
Ready to embark on these extraordinary Santorini experiences? Reach out to our team today – we’ll tailor every program to your preferences, ensuring your Santorini getaway is nothing short of spectacular. From intimate moments to grand adventures, we’re here to make your Santorini luxury travel dreams come true. Bon voyage!
