Santorini Private Daytime Wine Tour with Certified Sommelier

If you’re dreaming of sipping volcanic wines amid breathtaking scenery, the Santorini Private Daytime Wine Tour might just be what you need. This carefully curated experience promises a half-day of exploring the island’s top wineries, tasting indigenous varieties like Assyrtiko and Vinsanto, and learning about the island’s rich vinicultural traditions from a certified sommelier.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the personalized attention—it’s a private experience, so you get tailored insights and a flexible schedule. Second, the insider view into wine-making, with visits to some of Santorini’s most distinctive estates. Third, the combination of tasting and scenic views, making it not just a learning experience but a visual feast. That said, since it’s a half-day tour, those wanting a more extended wine adventure might find it a little brief.

One thing to consider: the tour involves visiting several wineries, and availability can vary depending on weather and opening hours. This means some estates might not always be on the itinerary, but rest assured, the experience remains high-quality and intimate. This tour is ideal for wine lovers, couples, or anyone eager to experience Santorini beyond the usual sunsets and beaches.

Good To Know

• Private and personalized tour with a certified sommelier
• Visit three top wineries showcasing Santorini’s volcanic terroir
• Taste 12+ wines including Assyrtiko, Vinsanto, and local varieties
• Learn about wine production and indigenous grapes from experts
• Enjoy stunning views and local bites like Cycladic cheese
• Flexible pickup and drop-off from multiple locations on the island

You can check if your dates are available here:

What to Expect from the Santorini Private Wine Tour

This tour is designed to delight all your senses during a 5-hour journey across some of the island’s most revered vineyards. You’ll get to taste a selection of 12+ wines, each telling a story of volcanic soil, sea breeze, and tradition. From the moment you’re picked up from your hotel or a designated meeting point, the adventure begins with a scenic drive that sets the scene for a day of discovery.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start with pickup options from eight locations including Pyrgos Kallistis, Oia, Imerovigli, and Santorini Airport. This flexibility makes it easier to fit into your travel schedule. Once onboard, your guide—an experienced sommelier—will share the history of Santorini’s wine culture and what makes its terroir so special.

You’ll visit three wineries carefully selected to showcase the island’s diverse approach to winemaking. The tour includes estates like Anhydrous Winery, Gavalas Winery, and Gaia Winery, among others. Each has a unique story and style, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of Santorini’s vinicultural landscape.

Exploring the Wineries

Anhydrous Winery: Volcanic and Mineral-rich Wines

The name “Anhydrous” means “without water” in Greek, which hints at its focus on pure, intense flavors. This estate creates wines that reflect the volcanic rocks and sea breeze, producing wines characterized by smoky minerals and high acidity. Here, you’ll experience how the island’s earth and sea influence the final product, making for a deeply authentic tasting.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Gavalas Winery: A Family Tradition

Gavalas Winery has been in operation for generations and is now in its fourth family decade. The estate specializes in producing authentic wines from volcanic soils, which is a key selling point for those interested in pure, terroir-driven wines. The knowledgeable guides will share insights into traditional practices that have been passed down, allowing you to taste the fruits of a long-standing heritage.

Gaia Winery: From Tomato Factory to Modern Winery

Situated on the east coast, Gaia Winery is notable for its unique location—housed in a former tomato factory built in the early 1900s. Now, it’s a sleek, high-tech facility producing high-quality wines. The blend of old and new offers a fascinating contrast and a chance to experience how modern technology can enhance traditional wine styles.

Additional Wineries (Depending on Availability)

Other stops may include Venetsanos Winery, famous for its views over the caldera, or Estate Argyros, which owns over 120 hectares of vineyards. Each estate offers a different perspective—whether it’s organic practices, historic roots, or cutting-edge technology.

The Tasting Experience

At each estate, your sommelier guide will walk you through the wine-making process, focusing on indigenous varieties. Expect to sample 12+ wines ranging from crisp, mineral-forward whites to sweet Vinsanto desserts. The tastings are complemented by a pairing of local cheeses and bites, elevating the experience and helping you appreciate the wines’ complexity.

Reviewers highlight how Yiannis, the guide, personalizes the tasting. One reviewer noted, “Yiannis adjusted the tastings based on our preferences,” which meant we enjoyed a tailored experience. Another loved how the guide shared behind-the-scenes insights, making the visit more than just sipping wine.

Scenic Views and Local Bites

Santorini’s landscape is integral to the experience. During the tour, you’ll enjoy brief scenic drives between wineries, with ample opportunities to capture photos of the iconic caldera, vineyards against volcanic cliffs, and traditional villages. The inclusion of local bites like Cycladic cheese enhances the tasting, making it a well-rounded cultural experience.

Practical Details

This tour is private, meaning it’s exclusive and flexible. The pickup options cover a broad range of locations, including Megalochori, Akrotiri, Oia, and the airport, which is convenient for most travelers. The tour lasts around 5 hours, a perfect length for a relaxed yet comprehensive experience.

Costing $305 per person, the price reflects the personalized nature, quality of wineries visited, and expert guidance. The fee includes pickup and drop-off, tastings, a wine and food pairing, and scenic driving—offering good value for an immersive experience.

The tour is wheelchair accessible and can be booked with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility. Payment can be reserved in advance with the option to pay later, making planning easier.

Reviews and Authentic Feedback

The glowing reviews reinforce the tour’s quality. Rebekka called it a “fabulous experience”, praising Yiannis for his knowledge and the behind-the-scenes access. She noted that the tastings were well curated and personalized to her preferences, and she found it even better than tastings in Napa.

Evan shared that Yiannis was “the best guide”, emphasizing his personable approach and deep knowledge of both wine and Santorini’s history. His enthusiasm made the experience unforgettable, and he even booked a second tour with Yiannis—highlighting the guide’s ability to connect and elevate the experience.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wine aficionados eager to explore indigenous Greek varieties and learn from a professional sommelier. It’s also suited for couples or small groups seeking an intimate, personalized day filled with scenic beauty and authentic tastings. If you’re curious about how volcanic soils influence wine flavors or want insider knowledge about Santorini’s best wineries, this tour delivers.

For travelers who value guidance and context, the detailed explanations and behind-the-scenes visits will add richness to their understanding of local wine culture. And if you’re short on time but want an in-depth taste of Santorini’s wines, this half-day option ticks all the boxes.

The Sum Up

The Santorini Private Daytime Wine Tour offers a compelling blend of expert guidance, stunning scenery, and authentic wine experiences. Its personalized approach makes it stand out in a crowded market, providing real insight into the island’s unique viticulture. The carefully selected wineries and knowledgeable guides ensure you leave with more than just a few tasting notes—you gain a genuine appreciation for Santorini’s volcanic wines.

While the price might seem steep for a half-day experience, the quality, intimacy, and expert insights justify the cost. This tour is best suited for curious wine lovers, couples celebrating a special occasion, or anyone wanting a deeper connection to Santorini beyond its famous sunsets.

If you’re seeking a memorable, educational, and delicious adventure in Santorini, this tour fits the bill perfectly.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 5 hours, including visits to three wineries, tastings, and scenic drives.

Where do I get picked up?
Pickup is available from eight locations on the island, including Pyrgos Kallistis, Oia, Imerovigli, and the airport.

Is the tour private?
Yes, it’s designed for private groups, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers pickup and drop-off, guidance from a certified sommelier, more than 12 wine tastings, a wine pairing with local bites, and a scenic tour.

Are there any additional costs?
Cable car tickets for cruise ship travelers are not included. Other than that, everything else—tastings, transportation, guide—is covered.

Can I customize the wineries visited?
If you have specific winery preferences, let the organizers know, and they will do their best to accommodate.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair friendly.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Do I need to pay upfront?
You can reserve your spot now and pay later, offering you flexibility in planning.

This private wine journey combines all the ingredients for a memorable day: excellent wines, scenic views, expert guidance, and authentic craftsmanship. It’s an ideal way to deepen your appreciation for Santorini’s volcanic terroir and enjoy a relaxed, educational experience away from crowds.

You can check if your dates are available here: