The Saronic Gulf Islands are a prime spot for wine lovers eager to explore Greece’s volcanic terroir. Santorini, in particular, stands out for its distinctive volcanic wines and scenic vineyards. Tours like the Santorini Wine Roads Tour with Wine Tastings Morning & Sunset combine the chance to taste local varieties with insights into traditional vine-growing methods. What makes these experiences especially appealing is the intimacy—most tours cap groups at ten, ensuring you get personalized attention and behind-the-scenes access. Whether you’re watching the sunset while sipping wine or learning about indigenous grapes, these tours promise a genuine taste of Santorini’s unique wine culture.
This list includes a variety of options: from half-day group tours to private sunset experiences and small-group tastings in authentic wineries. Each offers a different way to enjoy Santorini’s rich wine heritage, along with local foods and breathtaking views. Whether you prefer a casual tasting, a private sunset cruise, or a culinary journey, there’s something here to suit your style. Now, let’s explore the top four wine tours in the Saronic Gulf Islands, starting with the highly rated Santorini Wine Roads Tour.
1. Santorini Wine Roads Tour with Wine Tastings Morning & Sunset
This highly-rated tour offers an excellent introduction to Santorini’s volcanic wines in an intimate setting—groups are limited to 10 people. Over approximately four hours, you’ll visit three family-owned wineries, each with its own character. The tour includes 12-14 tastings, from barrel samples to finished wines, paired with local nibbles. The highlight is the choice between a morning or sunset journey—both offering a chance to savor Santorini’s wines amid stunning scenery.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on local grapes like Assyrtiko, and the chance to hear directly from winemakers about their craft. The guide, Hercules, is praised for making the experience engaging and informative, with reviews noting the passion and knowledge shared. Guests have raved about the “fabulous scenery, wine, and enthusiasm” of the guide, making it a top choice for those wanting a balanced mix of education and leisure. The price is around $174 per person, offering good value given the comprehensive tastings and personal experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wine enthusiasts who value small-group intimacy, local stories, and scenic tastings—whether in the morning or at sunset.
2. Private Sunset Wine Tour with 3 Wineries and Tapas
At number two, the Private Sunset Wine Tour with 3 Wineries and Tapas elevates the experience with a personalized approach. For about four hours, this tour takes you to three traditional wineries, including Estate Argyros, where you’ll explore vineyards and learn about Santorini’s unique viniculture from a certified sommelier. The tour also visits the Gavalas Winery, with insights into three generations of winemaking, and concludes at Santo Wines, the island’s largest winery, with a spectacular sunset view.
The highlight here is the combined tasting of 12 wines, including Assyrtiko and Vinsanto, paired with Greek cheeses and local snacks. The personalized attention and scenic stops make this a favorite among couples and small groups seeking a more tailored experience. Guests rave about guide Stratos, who’s praised for her local knowledge and friendly style. The tour costs around $288 per person, which reflects the private, exclusive nature and the high-quality tastings included.
Bottom Line: Ideal for wine lovers who want a private, relaxed, and culturally rich experience, especially at sunset with great food pairings.
3. Discover Local Santorini Wine & Tasting
For those who prefer a more personal, less structured experience, the Discover Local Santorini Wine & Tasting offers a private driver and guided visit to several authentic wineries in a comfortable Mercedes minibus. This tour, lasting about four and a half hours, includes 12-13 tastings at local wineries like Anhydrous Winery and Estate Argyros.
What makes this tour special is the focus on small, authentic producers and local stories. Travelers enjoy the ease of hotel pickup and drop-off, plus the chance to learn about winemaking techniques and the land’s influence on the wines. The tour’s price is around $173, making it a good option for those seeking quality without a large group or high cost. The reviews highlight the guide’s helpfulness and the intimate feel of the visits.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers wanting an authentic taste of Santorini’s wine scene with personalized attention and cultural insights.
4. Santorini Food & Wine Tour: Eat and Taste Like a Local
Our final pick, the Santorini Food & Wine Tour, combines wine tastings with culinary delights. Over roughly five hours, you’ll visit two wineries—Anhydrous and Estate Argyros—sampling eight local wines and tasting authentic Greek cuisine at a seaside taverna. The tour also includes visits to less-visited beaches, like Monolithos, adding a scenic and relaxed vibe.
This experience is ideal for those who want to combine gastronomy with wine, enjoying a full sensory immersion into Santorini’s flavors. The tour provides door-to-door service, removing the hassle of transportation, and is flexible enough for private groups or small parties. The $215 price reflects the combination of wine, food, and comfort, which makes it a solid value for a half-day experience.
Reviewers appreciate the local wines and the chance to try Assyrtiko in a setting that feels authentic and leisurely. If you’re into food and wine pairings and want a relaxed, immersive experience, this is a top choice.
Bottom Line: Excellent for foodies and wine lovers who want a comprehensive, laid-back day sampling local flavors with scenic stops.
How to Choose the Right Wine Tour in Santorini
Picking the best wine tour depends on your interests and travel style. If you want a small-group experience with a focus on storytelling, the Santorini Wine Roads Tour is a solid pick. For a more personalized sunset experience with wine and tapas, the private tour offers exclusivity and stunning views.
If you prefer authentic local visits with a relaxed vibe, the Discover Local Santorini Wine & Tasting provides an intimate, flexible way to explore. Meanwhile, the Santorini Food & Wine Tour is perfect if you want a culinary twist with your wine tastings.
Practical considerations include budget, group size, and interest in food. Tours vary from around $173 to $288, so plan according to how much time and money you want to invest. Booking early is wise, especially in high season, to secure your spot.
To sum it up, the Saronic Gulf Islands offer a rich array of wine experiences—from intimate tastings in family-run wineries to scenic sunset tours. For a small-group exploration of Santorini’s volcanic wines, the Wine Roads Tour is a top choice. If you’re after a private, sunset experience with excellent food pairings, the Sunset Wine & Tapas tour fits perfectly. For authentic local visits, the Discover Local Santorini Wine & Tasting offers a relaxed, personal approach. And for a culinary-focused journey, the Food & Wine Tour combines the best of both worlds.
With so many options, it pays to plan ahead. Whether you’re a dedicated oenophile, a foodie, or just looking to enjoy Santorini’s stunning vistas with a glass in hand, these tours will help you savor the island’s unique flavors. Book early, and enjoy a memorable wine-tasting adventure in Greece’s most iconic island.
