Vothonas is a small village on Santorini that punches well above its weight when it comes to wine tours. Thanks to its volcanic soil and traditional vineyards, the area offers some of the most authentic and memorable wine experiences on the island. We particularly enjoy the chance to explore underground cellars, taste rare vintages, and learn about local wine-making traditions firsthand. Among the many options, a standout is the Santorini Visit Cave Wine Museum and Wine Tasting, which combines history, culture, and excellent wine, all in an atmospheric underground setting. This mix of immersive learning and tasting makes Vothonas a perfect spot for wine lovers eager to see a different side of Santorini.
In this list, we’ve gathered the four best wine tours in Vothonas, ranging from short museum visits to comprehensive private tasting experiences. Whether you’re on a budget or celebrating a special occasion, each offers a unique way to enjoy Santorini’s wine culture. Keep reading for detailed insights into each, helping you pick the perfect tour for your trip.
1. Santorini Visit Cave Wine museum and Wine tasting
At number 1, this Cave Wine Museum Tour offers a deep dive into Santorini’s winemaking past. Built into a natural labyrinth underground, the Wine Museum Koutsogiannopoulos displays artifacts from the 1600s through the 1950s, providing a fascinating historical context. The tour includes sampling three distinct Santorini wines cultivated from pre-phylloxera vines, which is a rare glimpse into the island’s ancient grape varieties.
What makes this tour stand out is the setting itself—walking through the underground tunnels feels like stepping back in time. The friendly staff enhance the experience with informative commentary, and the included wine tasting is carefully curated to showcase local flavors. Reviewers mention the shuttle pickup as seamless and appreciate the ability to listen to audio guides at their own pace. For around $96 per person, it’s an excellent value for those interested in both history and wine.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal if you want an educational experience focused on Santorini’s wine heritage in an atmospheric setting. It suits travelers who love history, geology, and a relaxed pace.
2. Santorini: Authentic Private Wine Tasting Tour
The Private Wine Tasting Tour offers a more personalized experience, perfect for couples or small groups. Priced at $440 for up to two people, this four-hour journey takes you to three exceptional wineries, including the renowned Koutsogianopoulos wine museum, Art Space Museum, and Argyros winery—one of the oldest in Santorini.
The tour is designed for wine enthusiasts who want a deeper dive into local varieties and production methods. At each stop, you’ll sample multiple wines—up to 6 at the Art Space Museum alone—and enjoy guided tastings paired with local snacks and cheeses. The guide’s insights make complex flavors accessible, and you’ll gain a solid understanding of what makes Santorini wines so special. Reviewers appreciate the thoughtfully curated visits and the chance to explore smaller, family-run wineries. The tour’s exclusivity and depth of experience make it a premium choice.
Bottom Line: Best suited for couples or small groups seeking a tailored, in-depth wine experience. It offers excellent value for those wanting to learn as well as taste.
3. Santorini: 3 Wineries Visit with 11/12 Wines Premium Tasting
If you’re after a comprehensive look at Santorini’s wine scene, the 3 Wineries Tour hits the mark. For about $154, you’ll visit Santo Winery, Estate Argyros, and the Wine Museum Koutsogiannopoulos. You’ll taste a total of 9 different Greek wines during three private sessions, paired with local snacks. The air-conditioned minibus makes transportation easy and comfortable, with hotel pickup included.
This tour stands out with its focus on variety and education. Walking in vineyard rows, visiting a dedicated wine museum, and learning from local experts makes the experience both engaging and informative. Reviewers highlight the quality of tastings and the friendly guides’ expertise. It’s an ideal choice for travelers who want a well-rounded introduction to multiple wineries in a shorter time frame, packaged with expert commentary and a relaxed itinerary.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a broad taste of Santorini wines without multiple separate visits. It balances depth with efficiency, making it great for first-time visitors.
4. Santorini: Wine Tasting in locals wineries
Our fourth pick, the Wine Tasting in Locals Wineries, offers a flexible, immersive experience. With 3 to 4 hours, it includes visits to caved-in wineries, a luxury winery, and a wine museum—each with guided tours and tastings. The itinerary includes stops at 12 pickup points across the island, making this option especially convenient for travelers staying throughout Santorini.
Key highlights include wine production reenactments, learning from a top sommelier, and sampling local wines alongside cheese. The tour has received a 4.6/5 rating and is praised for its personalized approach and the chance to see some of the island’s most authentic wine cellars. The price varies, but the experience’s depth and variety make it a good value for those interested in both history and high-quality wine.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice if you want a comprehensive, customizable wine tour with a focus on authentic and unique winery visits.
How to Choose the Right Wine Tour in Vothonas
Choosing between these options depends on your interests and schedule. If you’re fascinated by history, the Cave Wine Museum provides a rich underground journey. For a personalized, in-depth experience, the Private Tour suits couples or small groups seeking an exclusive tasting. If variety and efficiency are your priorities, the 3 Wineries Tour offers a well-rounded introduction. Lastly, for those wanting flexibility and the chance to explore multiple smaller wineries, the Locals Wineries Tour is ideal.
Consider your budget, how much time you want to spend, and whether you prefer a guided, structured experience or a more casual, exploratory visit. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Vothonas’s wine tours offer something for every type of traveler—whether you’re interested in steeping yourself in history, enjoying an intimate tasting, or exploring multiple wineries efficiently. For a balanced mix of history and tasting, the Cave Wine Museum is a top pick. If privacy and a tailored experience appeal, the Private Tour delivers more personalized insights. For those seeking variety and a deeper dive into Santorini’s wine scene, the 3 Wineries Tour is hard to beat, while the Locals Wineries Tour caters to explorers craving authentic and flexible visits.
No matter your choice, these tours will deepen your appreciation for Santorini’s unique winemaking traditions. Book early, and prepare for a flavorful journey through one of Greece’s most celebrated wine regions.
