Santorini: Wine tasting in 3 Wineries and a Greek Meal group

If you’re visiting Santorini and you have even a passing interest in wine or local cuisine, this tour offers something special. It’s a well-rounded experience that combines visits to three different wineries, each with its own character—ranging from traditional to modern—and culminates in a delicious multi-course Greek dinner crafted by a top local chef. The entire experience lasts about five hours, making it a manageable yet enriching outing.

What I love about this tour is the chance to sample indigenous wines like Assyrtiko and Aidani—wines with roots stretching back to ancient Greece—and to learn how Santorini’s volcanic soil influences the flavors. Plus, the guided tastings are led by knowledgeable experts, who share stories and insights that turn a simple tasting into a real education. The dinner afterwards, featuring local ingredients and wine pairings, feels like a fitting reward for the day’s adventure.

However, a word of caution: this tour is quite popular, and at $169 per person, it’s an investment in a curated experience. If you’re a wine enthusiast or a foodie, that’s probably money well spent. For those who prefer a more flexible or private experience, it might be worth exploring other options. Also, note that the meal at the winery is seasonal, available from April to October, which is good to keep in mind if you’re travelling outside those months; then the third stop is replaced by a restaurant.

This experience offers a blend of education, delicious food, and scenic wine tastings—all guided by friendly, knowledgeable professionals. It’s ideal for curious travelers who want a taste of authentic Santorini in a well-organized setting.

Key points / Takeaways

• Authentic local wines: Tasting indigenous varieties like Assyrtiko and Nychteri helps you understand why Santorini’s wines are so unique.
• Expert-guided experience: Knowledgeable guides enhance your understanding of the wine-making process and local traditions.
• Variety of wineries: Each winery offers a different perspective—traditional, modern, organic—adding depth to your wine journey.
• Seasonal dining: The multi-course Greek meal highlights fresh local ingredients and pairs perfectly with Santorini wines.
• Beautiful scenery and sunset options: The tour ends with the possibility of catching the sunset over the caldera, a memorable finish.
• Convenient logistics: Hotel pickup and drop-off, plus small group sizes, make the experience comfortable and personal.

Exploring the Santorini Wine & Food Tour in Detail

Starting the Day: Convenient Pickup from Multiple Locations

The tour begins with pickup from six different spots around Santorini, including Oia, Fira, Perissa Beach, Imerovigli, Akrotiri, and Vothonas. This flexibility means you can join the adventure no matter where you’re staying. The guides ask you to arrive about 10 minutes early; drivers usually wait no longer than ten minutes past the scheduled time. Once everyone is on board, you’ll be transported in a comfortable vehicle, often with friendly, English-speaking guides who start sharing snippets about Santorini’s wine culture even before arriving at the wineries.

First Winery: Discovering Tradition Through Tasting

The first stop is a traditional winery where you’ll sample four wines: Assyrtiko, Aidani, Nychteri, and a dessert wine like Mezzo or Vinsanta. These wines are local gems, often organic, with flavors influenced by the volcanic soil. This is an excellent introduction, especially if you’re new to Greek wines. Accompanying the tasting are Greek goat cheese and rusks, which provide a savory contrast. Guests often mention how friendly and knowledgeable the staff are, making the experience approachable rather than intimidating.

Second Winery: Learning and Savoring

The second visit offers a short tour of the estate vineyards and production area. Here, you’ll get a glimpse of how Santorini’s distinctive grapes are cultivated in such a challenging landscape—think steep slopes and volcanic ash. The guide might give you a presentation about what makes these vineyards unique, helping you connect the dots between terroir and taste. Expect to try 3-4 wines alongside some local snacks and delicacies. Several reviews mention the sommelier’s passion and clear explanations, which elevate the tasting from simple sipping to a genuine learning experience.

Third Winery or Restaurant: Feast and Finish

The final stop varies depending on the season. From mid-April to October, you visit a winery where you’ll enjoy a multi-course Greek degustation menu carefully designed by a top chef. The food emphasizes local fresh produce and pairs beautifully with the wines you’ve sampled. The presentation is described as contemporary, but the flavors are deeply rooted in tradition. Guests often say the meal is a highlight, with some noting the generous servings and high-quality ingredients.

Between bites and sips, you can relax and take in the scenery, perhaps even catching a sunset if time permits. The tour concludes with drop-off at your hotel or villa. If you’re visiting later in the year, the third stop is replaced with a restaurant, but the focus on local cuisine and wines remains.

The Value of this Experience

At $169 per person, you’re paying for an all-inclusive, guided, and curated experience that covers transportation, tasting fees, and a superb meal. If you’re someone who appreciates learning about local wines and cuisine without the hassle of organizing multiple tastings independently, this tour offers excellent value. It’s also quite social, ideal for single travelers or couples looking to meet others.

However, keep in mind that it’s a group experience, so if you prefer privacy or a more leisurely pace, it might be worth considering private options. Also, the duration—about five hours—fits well into most day plans, but you might find it a bit rushed if you’re looking to relax more freely.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for wine lovers, foodies, and curious travelers eager to learn about Santorini’s unique grape varieties and culinary traditions. It’s also ideal if you want a structured, guided outing that covers multiple wineries, saving you the guesswork. Families with older children, couples, or small groups will find the pacing just right, with enough time to savor each stop without feeling hurried.

Additional Notes on Logistics and Comfort

The hotel pickup and drop-off are included, which adds a lot of convenience. The guides and drivers are friendly and eager to share their knowledge, making the tour feel personal rather than commercial. The group sizes tend to be small, which encourages interaction and makes for a more memorable experience.

Remember, the wine and food list can vary seasonally, and the meal is only available from April to October. Outside these months, the third winery is replaced by a restaurant, still offering good food and local wines.

Final Thoughts: Is This the Right Tour for You?

If you’re looking for a well-organized, informative, and tasty way to explore Santorini’s wine scene, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s a chance to sample distinctive indigenous wines, learn from passionate guides, and enjoy a delicious Greek feast in a beautiful setting. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate quality food and drink and want to experience the island’s flavors without the stress of navigating alone.

For those who value authenticity, expert guidance, and a comprehensive introduction to Santorini’s wine culture, this tour provides a fantastic blend of education and enjoyment. While it’s a bit on the pricier side, the inclusive nature of the experience—covering tastings, transportation, and a meal—makes it a worthwhile investment for many visitors.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking driver, local guide, wine tastings at three wineries, entrance fees, taxes, and a multi-course Greek meal with food pairings.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 5 hours, with timings depending on the booking schedule. Check the availability for exact start times.

Are the wineries traditional or modern?
The tour visits a mix of traditional and modern wineries, offering varied perspectives on Santorini’s wine-making craft.

Is the meal at the winery seasonal?
Yes, the multi-course meal is available from mid-April to the end of October. Outside this period, the third stop is replaced by a restaurant.

What wines will I taste?
You’ll sample indigenous wines like Assyrtiko, Aidani, Nychteri, and a dessert wine such as Mezzo or Vinsanta, with seasonal variations possible.

Can I join if I don’t drink alcohol?
While the focus is on wine, the guide may be able to provide non-alcoholic options or alternative tastings. Check with the operator ahead of booking.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, especially for older children and teenagers interested in wine or Greek cuisine. The relaxed pace makes it family-friendly.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking in vineyard areas and winery tours are recommended. Sun protection is advised in summer months.

In sum, this Santorini wine and food tour offers an engaging, flavorful, and beautifully organized way to explore the island’s authentic tastes. It’s a top choice for travelers wanting an immersive experience without sacrificing comfort or convenience.