Thessaloniki is often celebrated for its vibrant street life, historic sites, and mouthwatering cuisine, but it’s also a fantastic base for wine enthusiasts. The region’s proximity to renowned vineyards and the diversity of local wineries make it an ideal spot for wine tours. Whether you’re interested in deep-diving into the winemaking process at a large, historic winery or sampling Greek wines at cozy city winebars, Thessaloniki offers a range of experiences. We particularly enjoyed the Wine Tasting Experience from Thessaloniki, which combines a guided visit to one of Greece’s largest wineries with an educational tour and tastings—perfect if you want more than just a sip.
What makes Thessaloniki stand out is its mix of urban wine tastings and full-day excursions into the Macedonian countryside. You can spend a few hours sampling local reds and whites at stylish winebars or dedicate a full day exploring historic sites and historic vineyards outside the city. This list includes options like intimate city tours, comprehensive multi-site visits, private luxury trips, and even combined cultural excursions—all accessible and tailored to different interests and schedules.
Here’s a quick look at the types of tours covered below:
– City-based small-group tastings with local appetizers
– Full-day visits to Pella, Edessa, and Naousa wine regions
– Private luxury trips tasting Xinomavro wines amid lakes and mountains
– Unique experiences combining wine, mythology, and local food
– Special themed tours, including museum visits and cave explorations
Now, let’s explore each of these memorable wine adventures in detail.
1. Wine Tasting Experience from Thessaloniki
At number 1, the Wine Tasting Experience from Thessaloniki offers a comprehensive look into Greek winemaking. This 3-hour journey includes a visit to one of North Greece’s largest and most respected wineries. You’ll explore the winery’s museum, learn about traditional and modern winemaking techniques, and sample some of their finest wines. The tour is led by experts who share stories about the region’s rich wine heritage, making it both educational and enjoyable. Guests frequently praise the host Dora for her flexibility and depth of knowledge, creating a personal and engaging experience. The price of around $113 per person reflects the high quality, private transport, and in-depth tastings involved.
This tour is ideal for those wanting a full immersive experience with a guided expert, historical context, and a chance to taste top-tier wines without leaving Thessaloniki. The 5-star reviews underscore the warmth of the host and the quality of the wines. The trip also offers a glimpse into Greece’s winemaking traditions, making it a top pick for serious wine lovers.
Bottom Line: Great for those seeking an in-depth, guided winery visit combined with rich history and tastings in a relaxed setting.
2. Thessaloniki Small-Group Wine Tasting Tour with Appetizers
At number 2, this small-group city wine tour offers a vibrant, fun way to sample Greece’s wines amidst the charm of Thessaloniki’s best winebars. Over roughly 2.5 hours, you’ll visit three different venues, each with its own style and atmosphere. Along the way, you’ll taste around six wines—white, red, and rosé—and enjoy traditional Greek meze at each stop, perfectly paired with your drinks. The intimate group size ensures personalized service and plenty of interaction.
Reviewers rave about guide Katrina’s knowledge of both wine and local culture, making the experience feel like a lively, friendly get-together. The price of about $86 per person balances affordability with a diverse tasting experience, ideal for those who want a social, city-centered tour. The tour’s flexibility and focus on city winebars make it perfect for travelers who prefer a relaxed, social atmosphere.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want to enjoy Greek wines and food in Thessaloniki’s lively winebars with a friendly guide.
3. From Thessaloniki: Pella-Edessa-Naousa wine tasting
Number 3 on the list takes you on a full-day journey through central Macedonia’s most scenic and historic wine regions. For around $73, this day trip visits Pella, the ancient Macedonian capital and Alexander the Great’s birthplace, then heads to Edessa, famous for its waterfalls, before ending in Naousa for wine tasting. The tour includes visits to archaeological sites, a walk through the waterfalls, and a traditional winery experience. Highlights include exploring Pella’s ancient ruins, viewing the Balkans’ largest waterfalls, and sampling local wines in a picturesque setting.
Guests love how this tour combines history, natural beauty, and wine into one day, with a flexible itinerary and informative guides. The 9-hour duration appeals to travelers eager for a comprehensive experience of Macedonia’s countryside and culture. It is especially suited for history buffs and those wanting a full immersion into the region’s heritage.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for history and nature lovers who want to combine sightseeing with authentic Macedonian wines.
4. Private Tour in Lake and Gastronomic Delight with Xinomavro Wine
Number 4 is a luxury private tour that focuses on the stunning lakes of Amyntaio and the region’s renowned Xinomavro wines. Over 6 to 8 hours, you’ll visit three lakes—Vegoritida, Petron, and Zazari—each offering natural beauty and birdlife, with plenty of time to relax and take photos. After exploring the lakes, you’ll head to Amyntaio’s top vineyards, where you’ll indulge in tastings of award-winning wines at Naoumidis, Thomas, and Kontosoros.
This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a luxurious, personalized day with a focus on natural scenery and high-quality wine. The private nature allows for flexible pacing and deeper engagement. Guests mention that the combination of lakes, great local food, and top-tier wines makes it a memorable outing. The cost is higher, but the exclusivity and scenic variety justify the price for special occasions or couples seeking a romantic escape.
Bottom Line: Best suited for couples or small groups looking for a private, scenic, and gastronomic experience in Western Macedonia.
5. Thessaloniki: Small-Group Wine Tasting Tour with Appetizers
Number 5 offers a city-based wine tasting experience in Thessaloniki, ideal for those who want a shorter, relaxed introduction to Greek wines. Over 2.5 hours, you’ll visit three local wine bars, tasting around six wines including whites, reds, and rosés. Each venue is carefully chosen to showcase the best of Thessaloniki’s wine scene, paired with Greek meze.
Reviewers often mention guide Katrina’s engaging style and the friendly atmosphere at the venues. The $86 per person price provides a good balance of quality and affordability, perfect for travelers with limited time who want to enjoy city life and wine in a short, enjoyable outing.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those looking for a quick, social, and authentic wine experience in Thessaloniki’s city center.
6. From Thessaloniki: Pozar Baths & Wine Tasting
Number 6 combines relaxation and exploration with a thermal bath experience and wine tasting. About 7 hours long, this tour includes a soak in the thermal springs of Pozar, a visit to Edessa’s waterfalls, and a wine tasting at a local vineyard. The journey offers a chance to unwind, enjoy scenic views, and taste regional wines such as those from the Gerovassiliou estate.
Guests enjoy the combination of spa-like relaxation with wine and nature, making it a great option for travelers who want a bit of everything. The tour’s length and variety make it suitable for a full-day trip, but those with limited mobility should consider the walking involved. It’s especially popular among those seeking both well-being and gastronomy.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a mix of thermal springs, waterfalls, and wine in a scenic setting.
7. Local wines – food – mythology – secrets
Number 7 is a short, intimate experience focusing on Greek wines, food, and mythology. Hosted in a cozy shop, this 1.5-hour tour offers an authentic taste of local wine culture, paired with stories about Greek mythology and culinary secrets. It’s ideal for those who want a personal, friendly environment and a chance to learn about Greece’s wine heritage from passionate amateurs.
Reviewers highlight the warm atmosphere and engaging storytelling. At $82.61 per person, it’s a good option for travelers wanting a more relaxed, conversational experience, especially if they’re also interested in Greek food and stories.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who prefer a personal, cultural overview of Greek wines in a cozy setting.
8. Potamos Beach & Wine Experience: Private Day Trip
Number 8 offers a half-day private trip combining a relaxing beach visit and wine tasting at Gerovassiliou Winery. For $198, you’ll enjoy a quiet morning at Potamos Beach with calm waters, then head to the winery for a tasting of five wines with vineyard views. This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a combination of relaxing beach time and wine without a long day.
Guests note the peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity to unwind by the sea before indulging in wine tasting. The private aspect makes it suited for couples or small groups looking for a personalized experience. It’s perfect for a midday escape from the city.
Bottom Line: A relaxing choice for those who want both beach and wine without a full-day commitment.
9. Thessaloniki to Naoussa, Wine Tasting Tour – Private Day Trip
Number 9 takes you on a full-day private tour of Naoussa’s vineyards, renowned as the “land of Xinomavro.” Starting early, you’ll explore waterfalls of Metamorfosis and then visit top wineries like Kir-Yianni and Ktima Founti. The focus is on Xinomavro, Greece’s famous red grape, with ample tastings and opportunities to learn about winemaking techniques. This 10-hour experience is perfect for serious wine lovers wanting a deep dive into Macedonia’s wine culture.
Reviews praise the personalized service, with guides sharing detailed insights about local wines and the region’s history. This trip suits those with a dedicated interest in Greek reds, especially Xinomavro, and who enjoy a leisurely, immersive experience.
Bottom Line: Best for connoisseurs seeking an in-depth exploration of Naoussa’s renowned wine scene in an exclusive setting.
10. Private Day Trip to Petralona Cave and Afytos with Wine Tasting
Number 10 combines natural wonders and wine in a full-day private excursion. It includes a visit to Petralona Cave, famous for archaeological discoveries and impressive stalactites, then time in Afytos for leisure and a local winery. The tour balances cultural exploration, stunning scenery, and wine tasting at Tzikas Winery. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy geology, history, and good wine in one seamless day.
Reviewers mention the amazing cave and the personalized approach, which makes this a flexible and engaging experience. The 9-hour duration makes it suitable for those keen on a full, varied day of sightseeing and tasting.
Bottom Line: Perfect for curious travelers interested in geology, culture, and wine in one trip.
11. Private Wine & Museum Tour at Gerovassiliou Winery
Number 11 features an exclusive visit to the Gerovassiliou Winery’s private wine museum. For about $1,914 per group, up to two people, this 4-hour tour includes a guided walk through vineyards and the museum showcasing vintage wine artifacts, plus tastings of six premium wines. It offers an intimate look at Greece’s wine evolution combined with scenic countryside views.
Guests have raved about the personalized attention and the opportunity to sample some of Greece’s finest wines in a private setting. This experience is best suited for serious collectors or those seeking a luxurious, curated wine adventure.
Bottom Line: An exceptional, private experience for wine aficionados wanting an exclusive behind-the-scenes look.
12. Thessaloniki: Naousa Wine Region Private Day Tour
Finally, number 12 is a private tour tailored for wine connoisseurs. Visiting Naousa’s top wineries like Kir-Yianni and Founti, you’ll enjoy private tastings of Xinomavro and other local varieties. The 8-hour tour emphasizes learning winemaking secrets and exploring the stunning vineyard landscapes. The cost is $565 per group up to 8 people, making it an excellent choice for those wanting a personalized, in-depth experience.
Reviews highlight the expert guides and the chance to taste rare wines in beautiful settings. This tour is ideal for travelers looking for a luxury, educational experience focused on premium Greek wines.
Bottom Line: Suitable for wine lovers seeking an exclusive, detailed exploration of Naousa’s best wineries.
How to Choose the Best Wine Tour in Thessaloniki
When selecting your ideal wine adventure, consider your budget, time, and what aspects of wine you’re most curious about. If you prefer a full-day cultural experience combined with sightseeing, the Pella-Edessa-Naousa trip offers both history and wine in one go. For those wanting a luxury, private outing, the Lake and Gastronomic tour delivers scenic beauty and exclusivity.
Budget travelers or first-timers might enjoy the small city winebar tour, which combines city exploration with wine and food. If you’re a serious wine enthusiast, the private museum tour provides a rare, behind-the-scenes look at Greek wine history.
Booking early is advisable, especially for private or full-day trips, and consider the season—spring and early summer offer ideal weather and vineyard views. Remember, many tours include transportation, so check if your plans align with the pickup locations and times.
Thessaloniki’s wine tours offer a wonderful variety of experiences—from lively city tastings to private vineyard visits. Whether you’re after a quick introduction or an in-depth exploration, there’s something for every wine lover. For a memorable trip, choose an experience that matches your interests and schedule, and don’t forget to reserve ahead to secure your spot. Cheers to discovering Greece’s finest wines!
