Santorini: Guided Wine Tour with Pickup and Snacks

If you’re thinking about adding a wine adventure to your Santorini trip, this guided winery tour might just fit the bill. It offers a chance to learn about the island’s long-standing wine tradition, taste a variety of local wines, and soak in some of the most breathtaking views Santorini has to offer. While it’s not a full-day indulgence, it’s a well-rounded experience that covers the essentials—wineries, scenery, and good company.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines the scenic beauty of Santorini’s countryside with engaging insights into Greek wine-making. Plus, the snacks and optional food pairings elevate the tasting experience, giving you a real feel for the local flavors. That said, some visitors have noted that the wine pours can be on the smaller side, which might be a consideration if you’re hoping for more generous tastings.

This tour tends to suit travelers who enjoy wine, are curious about local traditions, and appreciate stunning vistas. It’s especially great if you prefer a more intimate, guided experience rather than exploring on your own.

Key Points

• Visit 3 traditional wineries and learn their unique stories and production techniques
• Taste up to 16 different local wines, including Assyrtico, Nychteri, and Vinsanto
• Enjoy beautiful panoramic views of Prophet Elias mountain and the caldera
• Experience a mix of wine and art at the Art Space Winery Museum, carved from pumice rock
• Snacks and optional food pairings complement the wine tastings for a fuller experience
• Flexible options available for private or shared tours, with hotel pickup included

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

This tour kicks off with the convenience of hotel pickup in Thera or another designated location, making it easy to start your day without the hassle of planning transport. Once you’re in the countryside, the journey begins with Argyros Winery, one of the largest vineyards on the island. Here, you’ll learn how volcanic soil influences the taste of their wines, which is a key feature of Santorini’s wine-growing reputation. The tour usually lasts about an hour at each stop, giving plenty of time to explore the vineyards, see the production process, and taste the wines.

Next, you’ll visit the Art Space Winery Museum, a fascinating spot carved into pumice rock chambers. It’s part winery, part art gallery, showcasing artworks from contemporary Greek artists. The combination of art and wine tasting makes for a memorable experience, especially if you’re into creative spaces and unique architecture. Here, you’ll sample wines and enjoy the ambiance of chambers that are both historic and artistic.

Your final stop is Venetsanos Winery, perched above the port of Athinios. This family-run operation has been producing wine since 1947 and offers spectacular views of the caldera. You’ll get to walk through the winery, learn about its history, and sample more wines, often paired with snacks. The panoramic vistas from Venetsanos are a big highlight and perfect for photos.

The tour wraps up with a leisurely return to Thera. If you’ve opted for an upgrade, you might enjoy a 5-course meal paired with wines, featuring local dishes like grilled octopus, smoked fish, and flavorful salads or vegetarian options. This makes the experience more indulgent and is especially worth considering if you’re a foodie.

What Makes This Wine Tour Stand Out

We loved the intimate feel of the tour. With only a few stops, it avoids the rushed, crowded vibe of larger group tours. The guides, including those who speak Spanish, are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience both educational and personable. Multiple reviews mention how much fun they had chatting with the guides, who share interesting facts about Greek wines and local culture.

The views are truly spectacular. From the vineyards and the historic chambers at Art Space Winery to the caldera vistas at Venetsanos, you’ll find plenty of picture-perfect moments. If you’re a fan of scenery, this tour delivers, and the photo opportunities are abundant.

The wine selection is another highlight. With up to 16 different wines available for tasting, you get a chance to sample a good variety of local offerings. The wines are generally appreciated for their quality, with many guests remarking on how good they taste, especially considering the volcanic influence on the grapes.

The snacks and optional food pairing elevate the experience further. While some reviews note that pours are on the small side—perhaps about half a glass per tasting—this is common in wine tastings. If you’re hoping for larger servings, you might find it worth asking or opting for the meal upgrade. The food, when included, is well thought out, and vegetarians are catered to with tasty, meat-free options.

The Practicalities: Transportation, Duration, and Group Size

One of the biggest conveniences is hotel pickup and drop-off, simplifying logistics and allowing you to relax from the start. The tour lasts about 4 to 5.5 hours, which strikes a good balance—enough time to visit multiple wineries but not so long that it becomes tiring.

Group size can be small, especially if you choose the private option, which many travelers appreciate. Smaller groups mean more personalized attention, more opportunities to ask questions, and a more relaxed atmosphere overall.

The tour’s cost seems to be reasonable when considering the number of wineries visited, the quality of wines, and the scenic locations. The inclusion of snacks and the option to upgrade to a full meal add value, especially for those who want a more complete gastronomic experience.

The Reviews Say It All

Most reviews are glowing, with a rating of 4.8 out of 5 from 19 reviews. Guests often praise the knowledgeable guides and the beautiful views, which are frequently described as “spectacular” or “breathtaking.” The wine quality also receives high marks, with many commenting on how good the wines taste and how interesting the tastings are.

One reviewer noted they hoped for larger pours, but acknowledged that the guide and transport were excellent. Another appreciated the privacy and personalized attention during their private tour, highlighting how the guide shared many curiosities about the island and its wine culture.

A Spanish-speaking guest mentioned their guide Alex was “very kind and knowledgeable,” and the overall experience was “excellent,” emphasizing how the tour caters to different languages and preferences.

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Is This Tour Right for You?

If you love wine or are curious about Greek wine traditions, this tour offers a great peek behind the scenes without the fuss of a full-day commitment. It’s perfect if you value scenic views, art, and good company, and prefer a guided experience that alleviates the guesswork of exploring wineries solo.

However, if you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast looking for generous pours, you might find the tastings somewhat modest. The tour’s focus is more on the experience, scenery, and learning rather than heavy drinking. Also, if you’re returning to Santorini and already familiar with the island’s wineries, you could consider skipping this in favor of more personalized tastings or exploring independently.

This experience is well-suited for travelers who enjoy small-group settings, appreciate cultural insights, and want to savor Santorini’s winemaking heritage in a relaxed environment.

FAQ About the Santorini Wine Tour

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, hotel pickup is included from Thera and other specified locations, making the start seamless.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts between 4 and 5.5 hours, depending on the day and group size.

How many wineries are visited?
Three wineries are included, though the specific stops may vary.

What wines can I expect to taste?
You’ll sample up to 16 different wines, including Assyrtico, Nychteri, and Vinsanto.

Are food options available?
Yes, snacks are included, and an optional 5-course meal with paired wines can be added for a more substantial experience.

Can I do this tour privately?
Yes, private groups are available, which offer a more tailored and intimate experience.

What’s the scenery like?
Expect stunning views of Prophet Elias mountain, the caldera, and vineyards carved into volcanic terrain.

Are the wine pours generous?
Some guests mention the pours are on the smaller side — about half a glass per tasting — so plan accordingly.

Is this suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Vegetarian options are available in the meal upgrade; snacks are generally standard but check for specific needs.

Would this be good for families?
While not specifically geared toward children, the tour’s relaxed pace and scenic stops can be enjoyed by all ages, but it’s primarily aimed at adult guests interested in wine.

Final Thoughts

This guided wine tour in Santorini offers a blend of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and tasting pleasure that’s hard to beat for an afternoon. It’s ideal for those wanting to discover the island’s wine heritage without dedicating an entire day, especially if you enjoy small-group experiences and learning from knowledgeable guides.

While the wine pours might be modest for some, the overall experience—stunning views, interesting wineries, and tasty snacks—provides good value. For wine lovers, art enthusiasts, or travelers seeking a relaxed way to explore Santorini’s countryside, this tour fits the bill nicely.

If you’re after a memorable, scenic, and educational outing that complements your island adventure, this wine tour could be a delightful addition to your trip. Just remember to dress warmly if visiting in cooler months and consider upgrading to the meal for a more indulgent treat.

You can check availability for your dates here: