Naxos might be famous for its stunning beaches and ancient ruins, but it’s also a fantastic place to explore Greek wines. The island’s volcanic soil and warm climate create ideal conditions for grape growing, making Naxos a surprisingly good wine destination. We love the Wine Tasting and Tour in Saint Anna Winery for its combination of history, hands-on experience, and authentic farm-to-glass tasting. It’s perfect for those wanting a genuine glimpse into Naxos’s winemaking traditions, all with a small-group vibe.
If you’re interested in a more romantic experience, the Naxos: Wine and Mythology Sunset Tour offers a memorable mix of stunning sunset views, local wines, and storytelling about Greek gods—especially Dionysus, the ancient god of wine. For those wanting a deep dive into ancient Naxos, the Mythology & Ancient Sites Tour with Tastings & Wine combines archaeological sites with tastings, perfect for history lovers and curious wine explorers alike.
Below, you’ll find a detailed look at each top-rated wine experience, helping you decide which one suits your interests, budget, and schedule best.
1. Wine Tasting and Tour in Saint Anna Winery in Naxos
At number 1 on our list, the Wine Tasting and Tour in Saint Anna Winery takes you into a century-old family-run vineyard where tradition reigns. For about $69.77 per person, you get roughly two hours of immersive experience, including a guided tour of the vineyard’s facilities. The owner, Emmanuel, shares his passion for winemaking through engaging stories, videos, and photos of each step in the process, making it feel like a personal visit rather than a tourist trap.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on Greek winemaking traditions, combining ancient techniques with modern practices. You’ll sample several wines paired with local farm products like olives, cheeses, and tomatoes, all produced on-site. The intimate setting means more attention from your guide, plus the chance to ask plenty of questions. Reviews consistently praise the warm atmosphere and Emmanuel’s enthusiasm. One traveler wrote, “He shares a lot of his history and technicalities of winemaking,” which adds depth to the tasting.
Bottom line: If you want a personalized experience with authentic wine and local food, this tour offers superb value and a real taste of Naxos’s winemaking heritage.
2. Naxos: Wine and Mythology Sunset Tour
At number 2, the Naxos: Wine and Mythology Sunset Tour blends spectacular sunset views with storytelling. For around $86, you spend about three hours wandering through Naxos Old Town, enjoying picturesque vistas from Apollo’s Temple (Portara), and tasting local wines. This tour excels in combining cultural history and mythology—perfect for travelers who want more than just a tasting.
Your guide takes you through the narrow alleys of the old Venetian castle district, sharing stories of Greek gods, especially Dionysus, the god of wine, who is said to have been born on Naxos. The highlight is watching the sunset over the Aegean, with views that make the wine taste even better. Reviewers rave about guide Chris, who made Greek mythology come alive with his engaging storytelling.
This experience appeals to those who enjoy romantic atmospheres, rich stories, and scenic vistas. It’s less about the technical side of winemaking and more about the cultural context and stunning surroundings. Some might find it a bit pricey compared to a simple tasting, but the combination of storytelling and scenery makes it worthwhile.
Bottom line: Ideal for romantic couples or mythology enthusiasts looking for a memorable, relaxed evening under the sunset sky.
3. Naxos Mythology & Ancient Sites Tour with Tastings & Wine
The third spot goes to the Naxos Mythology & Ancient Sites Tour with Tastings & Wine, a four-hour adventure that digs into the island’s ancient history and mythology. For around $207.43, the tour provides a comprehensive experience, including visits to the temples of Demeter, Dionysus, Apollo, and the impressive Kouros statue, along with tastings of local wines and olive oil.
What makes this tour special is its focus on archaeological sites combined with local cuisine. The visit to the sanctuary of Dionysus in Iria reveals how deeply wine and religion were intertwined in ancient Greece. You’ll also explore Kaloxylos, a charming village where you can sample olive oil and local delicacies connected to myth. The guide shares stories of Greek gods and heroes, bringing the ruins to life.
This tour is best suited for history buffs, archaeology lovers, and those eager to connect ancient Greece with modern Naxos. The inclusion of two-way transfers makes it convenient, especially for travelers staying outside the main town. The main downside is the price, but the in-depth experience justifies it for those interested in a full day of learning and tasting.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers wanting a deep dive into Naxos’s ancient culture and mythology with added tastings and hassle-free transportation.
4. Naxos: Cheese and Wine Tasting with Mountain Views
This experience ranks fourth, offering a delicious blend of local cheeses and wines amid mountain scenery. Although specific reviews aren’t provided, the tour’s focus on 10 cheeses and 6 wines, all sourced locally, offers a hands-on taste of Naxos’s culinary scene. The tour combines tastings with stunning mountain views, making it a relaxing way to spend an afternoon.
Participants learn about the island’s culinary traditions from a local expert, with cheeses made from milk of free-range goats and sheep, and wines from organic vineyards. It’s a great option for those wanting a casual, foodie-focused experience that emphasizes authentic flavors in a picturesque setting.
This tour is ideal for foodies, wine lovers, and travelers seeking scenic tranquility. Its shorter duration and focus on local delicacies make it a good choice if you’re pressed for time or prefer a less structured experience. The main consideration is that it might lack the historical or mythological depth of other tours.
Bottom line: Best suited for culinary enthusiasts looking to taste Naxos’s cheeses and wines while enjoying mountain vistas.
5. Naxos: Private Wine Tasting Tour
Rounding out the list is the Naxos: Private Wine Tasting Tour, offering an intimate experience for those who want a personalized visit. For $184 per person, the tour lasts about three hours, with private hotel pickup and drop-off included.
You’ll visit a historic winery, explore lush vineyards, and taste five carefully selected local wines. The guide provides insight into traditional winemaking methods and helps you understand what makes Naxos wines special. You also get to sample delicacies from the estate’s organic gardens, making this a well-rounded tasting experience.
What makes this tour stand out is its customized approach—perfect for wine lovers who want to go at their own pace. Reviewers mention the “private tour with hotel pickup” as a major plus, especially for ease and comfort. The only downside is the higher cost compared to group tours, but the exclusivity is appealing.
Bottom line: For travelers seeking a luxurious, tailored wine experience with private transport, this tour offers the best in comfort and exclusivity.
How to Choose Your Perfect Naxos Wine Tour
When selecting the right wine tour, consider your interests and budget. If you want a hands-on farm experience, the Saint Anna Winery tour (link) delivers authentic local flavor. For romantic sunset views combined with mythology, the Sunset Tour is ideal. If history and archaeology excite you, the Ancient Sites Tour offers a deep dive into Naxos’s past. For casual food lovers, the Cheese and Wine Tasting provides a relaxed, scenic tasting. And if you prefer a private, customizable experience, the Private Wine Tasting is your best bet.
Think about your schedule, whether you want a longer exploration or a quick tasting, your budget, and if you prefer group warmth or private comfort. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred date.
Final Thoughts
Naxos offers a surprisingly diverse range of wine experiences that cater to various interests. For a genuine, hands-on insight into local winemaking, the Saint Anna Winery tour is hard to beat. If you’re dreaming of a romantic sunset with Greek myth stories, the Sunset Tour will fill that need beautifully. For those wanting an immersive mix of ancient history and tastings, the Ancient Sites Tour offers just the right amount of cultural depth.
No matter which tour you choose, booking early and deciding what kind of experience suits your style will help you make the most of your time on this charming island. Cheers to discovering a new favorite Greek wine in Naxos!
