Santorini: Tour of Wineries with Wine Tasting & Food

Planning a trip to Santorini and love wine? Then this Wine Tasting & Food Experience might just be your perfect day. We’ve gone through countless reviews, official descriptions, and our own insights to bring you a comprehensive look at this popular tour. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just curious about the island’s famed volcanic wines, this small-group experience offers a rich mix of local flavor, scenic beauty, and expert guidance.

What immediately stands out is the knowledgeable guides, often praised for their passion and professionalism. The stunning winery locations, many with breathtaking views, add a memorable backdrop to each tasting. The variety of wines—from Assyrtiko to Vinsanto—is impressive, giving you a genuine taste of Santorini’s distinctive terroir. Lastly, the delicious multi-course meal paired with wines makes this a truly satisfying experience.

One consideration to keep in mind is the duration—lasting around 4 to 5 hours, it’s a full but relaxed day. If you’re hoping for a more fast-paced or shorter tour, this might feel a bit lengthy, especially if you prefer a quick taste of the island’s highlights. This tour suits those eager to learn deeply about local wines while enjoying some of the most beautiful vistas Santorini has to offer.

This experience is ideal for anyone interested in wine, travelers wanting a relaxed yet comprehensive cultural activity, or those seeking a memorable meal paired with excellent local wines. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers looking for a guided, intimate exploration of Santorini’s vinicultural gems.

Good To Know

Expert guides: Knowledgeable, engaging, and passionate guides enhance the experience.
Stunning locations: Wineries with breathtaking views contribute to the memorable atmosphere.
Diverse wine selection: Up to 10 different wines, including Assyrtiko, Nykteri, and Vinsanto, showcase Santorini’s unique terroir.
Gourmet meal: A multi-course dinner with wine pairings provides a satisfying conclusion.
Small group size: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed vibe.
Flexible timing: Tours last about 4-5 hours with options for sunset views, making it adaptable to your schedule.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Experience in Detail

Introduction to Santorini’s Unique Wines

Santorini’s volcanic soil creates an environment that’s distinct in the wine world. The dry climate and mineral-rich earth give its wines a characteristic crispness and minerality that you won’t find elsewhere. This tour offers a deep dive into how these wines are produced and what makes them so special, guided by a private sommelier who’s as passionate as he is knowledgeable.

Pickup and Transportation

The tour begins with pickup from a variety of centrally located sites around Santorini, including luxury resorts and key hotels. The transportation is by comfortable minivan, making the journey between wineries smooth and leisurely. Expect a small group—limited to 8 people—which helps keep the atmosphere intimate and engaging.

First Winery Visit: Exploring the Cellars

Your first stop is a traditional winery, where you’ll go behind the scenes to see how wine is bottled and matured. Reviewers highlight that guides like Rafael and Nikolas often lead these visits, sharing stories and insights that bring the process to life. Many guests note that the cellar tours are a highlight, offering a peek into the history and craftsmanship behind Santorini’s wines.

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Tasting the Classics

Next, you’ll sample up to 10 different wines. The selection often includes Assyrtiko, a crisp white grape native to the island, and Vinsanto, a sweet dessert wine treasured locally. Reviewers frequently mention that even those who aren’t heavy wine drinkers find these wines approachable and interesting. The guides excel at explaining the nuances of each varietal, how volcanic soil influences flavor, and the best ways to enjoy each glass.

Second Winery and a Gastronomic Highlight

The second winery offers an opportunity for a gourmet five-course dinner, paired meticulously with wines. Guests rave about the delicious food—often including local bread sticks and tomato paste as starters—and the seamless pairing of wine with each course. The meal is a highlight, transforming a standard tasting into a full-fledged culinary event. According to reviews, the variety and quality of the food make it an experience worth the price.

Scenic Sunset and Additional Wineries

Depending on the tour option, you’ll visit a third winery with breathtaking sunset views over the caldera. Guests love ending their day with a glass of Vinsanto while watching the sun dip behind the island’s volcanic cliffs. The sunset experience adds a magical element that many reviewers describe as unforgettable.

Drop-off and Final Thoughts

Post-tour, you’ll be dropped off at the original pickup point or a nearby convenient location. The overall experience lasts around 4-5 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity that combines education, indulgence, and scenery.

What Travelers Love Most

Reviewers repeatedly praise their guides, especially Rafael and Nikolas, for their expertise and friendly approach. They mention the beautiful winery settings—some right in front of the sea or nestled among vineyards—that blend landscape with wine in a way that’s visually stunning.

The variety of wines is another clear highlight. Guests appreciate that they get to taste up to 10 different wines, from dry whites to sweet Vinsanto, a sampling that feels generous and authentic. Many note that this exposure helps them understand what makes Santorini wines so distinctive.

The dinner served during the tour gets high marks for quality and presentation. Guests mention that the pairing of food and wine elevates the entire experience, and the local flavors shine through in every dish.

Finally, the small group setting creates a relaxed environment where questions are welcomed, and conversations flow easily. Guests value the personal attention and the chance to ask guides like Rafael and Nikolas about local culture, wine production, or even photography tips—many of whom are praised for their friendly, approachable manner.

Practical Details and Value

The tour is priced at $169 per person, which, when you consider the multiple winery visits, tastings, a multi-course meal, and transportation, offers good value. The inclusion of entrance fees and a bottle of water makes the experience feel seamless, with nothing extra to worry about.

Given the small group size, you’ll avoid large bus crowds, making for a more intimate and personalized experience. The duration of 4-5 hours allows enough time to savor each stop without feeling rushed, though some guests mention they could use a little more time to enjoy the wines at their leisure.

The tour’s flexibility with options for sunset viewing adds a special touch. Many reviews mention how the sunset at the final winery is the perfect way to wrap up the day, with some guests even opting to revisit the locations afterward for additional photos or quiet moments.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

This wine tour offers an engaging, educational journey through Santorini’s vineyards, led by guides who genuinely care about sharing their passion. The beautifully situated wineries, combined with a curated selection of wines and a delicious meal, make this a full-sensory experience.

It’s best suited for those who love wine, enjoy scenic views, and appreciate small-group, personalized tours. If you’re curious about Santorini’s volcanic wines or want a relaxed way to experience local culture, this tour hits all the right notes.

While it’s a bit of a time investment, many find that the value in quality guides, stunning scenery, and authentic tastings makes it well worth the price. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or just want to enjoy a memorable afternoon with delicious food and wine, this experience delivers.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts around 4 to 5 hours, giving you ample time to explore, taste, and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

What’s included in the price?
Price includes pickup and drop-off, a local guide/sommelier, visits to three wineries, tastings of up to 10 wines, a multi-course meal with wine pairings, a snack plate, water, and all entrance fees.

Is the tour suitable for non-wine drinkers?
Absolutely. Even those who don’t typically drink wine find the experience engaging. Guides provide insightful explanations that enhance appreciation for the wines, and the scenic surroundings add to the enjoyment.

Are the wineries accessible?
Yes, visits involve guided tours of the cellars and tasting rooms, which are accessible for most visitors. The tour is designed to be comfortable, with transportation by minivan between stops.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended as you will walk at each winery, and some locations may involve uneven floors or outdoor areas. Dress for the weather—layers work well in case of temperature shifts.

Can I do this tour at sunset?
Yes, there are options to include sunset views during the final winery visit. Many guests find the sunset over the caldera to be a highlight of the day.

This guided wine and food tour in Santorini offers a blend of education, scenic beauty, and delicious flavors—ideal for those wanting an authentic taste of the island’s vinicultural soul. With expert guides, stunning locations, and a thoughtfully curated experience, it’s a day that promises memorable moments and a deeper appreciation for Santorini’s volcanic wines.

You can check if your dates are available here: