While Santorini’s beaches and caldera views are world-famous, the island’s true soul is best revealed through its ancient ruins, hidden villages, and magical sunsets. The Oia Sunset and Traditional Villages – Full-Day Tour by TPO.Travel offers a comprehensive and unforgettable way to explore these treasures in comfort and style.
From Minoan marvels and volcanic landscapes to whitewashed villages and the iconic sunset in Oia, this immersive full-day experience takes you beyond the ordinary. With the expertise of professional local guides, luxury transportation, and carefully curated stops, it’s a journey into the heart of Santorini’s culture and history.
Itinerary Highlights – Explore the Hidden Heart of Santorini
Akrotiri Archaeological Site – Santorini’s Pompeii
The day begins with a visit to Akrotiri, the island’s most important archaeological site. Often referred to as the “Pompeii of the Aegean,” this prehistoric city was buried under volcanic ash around 1600 BC, preserving streets, homes, pottery, and advanced infrastructure like multi-story buildings and drainage systems.
As you walk through this remarkably intact Minoan settlement, your guide will recount the stories of an advanced civilization that once flourished here. While the entrance fee is not included, the insights and rare visuals make Akrotiri an unmissable stop for history lovers.
Emporeio – A Traditional Village Frozen in Time
Next, journey to the serene and lesser-known village of Emporeio, one of the oldest settlements on the island. Its narrow, winding alleys, whitewashed houses, and medieval Kasteli (castle) offer a beautiful contrast to Santorini’s more tourist-heavy areas.
You’ll have free time to explore at your own pace. Stroll past traditional homes, discover hidden chapels, and perhaps stop at a quiet café to sample Greek coffee or homemade pastries. Emporeio is where timeless Santorini still lives.
Volcanic Beaches and Scenic Stops
The tour continues with a scenic drive to Perivolos or Red Beach, depending on the day’s route and weather. Here, you’ll enjoy free time for relaxation, beachside dining (optional), or a quick swim in the clear Aegean waters. These volcanic beaches—famous for their black or red sands—highlight the geological uniqueness of Santorini.
Along the way, your guide will point out panoramic viewpoints and explain the island’s fascinating topography, shaped by one of the most powerful volcanic eruptions in history.
Optional Wine Tasting – Savor Santorini’s Flavors
Depending on availability and timing, some versions of the tour may include a stop at a local winery for a tasting of Santorini’s famous Assyrtiko wines. These crisp, mineral-rich wines are produced from grapes grown in volcanic soil, making them truly unique to the region.
You’ll learn about the island’s ancient wine-making methods, including the rare “basket vine” technique that protects grapes from strong Aegean winds. Wine tastings are optional and often not included in the tour price, but well worth it for connoisseurs.
Oia Sunset – The Grand Finale
No Santorini experience is complete without witnessing the sunset in Oia, one of the most iconic sunset spots in the world. Perched atop cliffs on the island’s northwestern tip, Oia is famed for its blue-domed churches, whitewashed homes, and stunning views of the caldera.
Your final stop will be at the Kastro of Oia, the ruins of a Venetian castle that now serve as a popular viewing point. As the sun dips below the Aegean Sea and paints the village in warm orange and pink hues, you’ll understand why people from around the world gather here daily for this moment.
Seamless Travel with TPO.Travel
From hotel pickup in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle to organized stopovers at each destination, TPO.Travel ensures your journey across Santorini is both smooth and enriching. You’ll be guided by professionals with deep local knowledge and storytelling skills, while your transport needs are handled with the utmost care and punctuality.
TPO.Travel offers transportation and sightseeing tours across Europe, as well as worldwide hotel bookings, giving travelers full support from start to finish.
What Travel Agents Around the World Say
Javier Morales – Luxury Travel Consultant, Spain
“TPO.Travel’s Oia Sunset Tour is one of the best full-day experiences in the Cyclades. My clients love the diversity—from ancient ruins to beach stops and of course, the majestic Oia sunset. Everything is managed professionally, from pickup to drop-off. It’s my top recommendation for first-time visitors to Santorini.”
Helen Dimitriou – Greece Destination Specialist, Australia
“This tour captures the essence of Santorini. The visit to Akrotiri is always a standout for culture-focused travelers, while the free time in Emporeio offers a quiet, authentic counterpoint. And sunset in Oia never fails. TPO.Travel executes the logistics perfectly—always reliable, always enriching.”
Martin Varga – Experiential Travel Designer, Czech Republic
“Santorini isn’t just about beauty—it’s about history and culture too, and this tour blends both. TPO.Travel does a great job balancing structured exploration with relaxed discovery. Their guides are top-notch, and my clients especially appreciate the smooth ride, cool vehicle, and the perfect timing for Oia’s golden hour.”
Santorini Tour That Touches the Soul
The Oia Sunset and Traditional Villages Full-Day Tour with TPO.Travel offers more than just sightseeing—it’s a curated passage through time, culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. From the mystery of Akrotiri and the silence of Emporeio to the stunning finale in Oia, every moment is designed to help you connect more deeply with the island’s spirit.
If you’re seeking a tour that combines rich storytelling, authentic village charm, volcanic landscapes, and an iconic sunset—all in one day—this is the experience for you.
Let TPO.Travel guide you through the timeless heart of Santorini.