Polykala Distillery: 128 years of history & liqueur tasting.

Planning a trip to Athens and looking for a unique, authentic experience that gives you a taste of Greece’s traditional craftsmanship? The Polykala Distillery tour offers just that—an eye-opening peek into a family-owned operation that’s been perfecting its craft for over a century. Whether you’re a spirits enthusiast or just curious about local traditions, this tour can be both enjoyable and surprisingly informative.

We particularly like how personal and intimate the experience feels, with small group sizes and passionate guides, plus the chance to take home a 100ml bottle of your favorite liqueur. On the flip side, a possible snag is that the tour can be unexpectedly closed, which has been a frustration for some travelers. So, if your schedule is tight, it’s best to confirm availability in advance.

This experience is ideal if you’re after a quick, authentic glimpse into Greek distilling, love tasting local flavors, or simply want a laid-back activity that leaves you with a little souvenir. It’s perfect for those who appreciate craftsmanship, history, and a relaxed pace. Let’s break down what you can expect from the tour.

Key Points

• Authentic Greek heritage: Learn about 128 years of family tradition at the distillery.
• Tasting and hands-on learning: Sample up to three different liqueurs and get tips on making cocktails.
• Small group intimacy: With a max of 10 travelers, you’ll get personal attention.
• Good value for the price: At around $16, with a free 100ml bottle included.
• Concise experience: Lasts approximately 30-40 minutes, leaving plenty of time to explore Athens afterward.
• Potential for disappointment: The distillery can be unexpectedly closed, so check ahead.

A Closer Look at the Tour

What the Tour Includes

The Polykala distillery offers a short and sweet experience that allows you to dive into Greece’s tradition of liqueur-making without taking up your whole day. Starting at the Kleisthenous 7 meeting point, friendly guides, Nina or Rena, will welcome you and fill you in on the story of their family business, which has been around for over a century.

This initial stop is quick—around 10 minutes—but it’s a warm introduction that sets the tone for what’s to come. You’ll learn about the history behind the brand, how these liqueurs are crafted, and what makes their recipes special. The fact that the guides are described as passionate and informative adds a lot of value to this part of the experience, making even the brief intro engaging.

The Main Distillery Experience

Next, you’ll head to the core of the tour—the distillery itself. Here, the focus is on explaining how the liqueurs are made, including ingredients and techniques passed down through generations. The guide elaborates on the distillation process and the secret recipes that keep the distillery relevant after 128 years.

Most travelers seem to appreciate the authenticity of the experience. One reviewer called it “a pleasure to learn about” the family’s pride, and another mentioned how the tasting was “delicious,” especially noting the quality ingredients used. While the tour lasts about 30 minutes, it’s enough to leave you with a good understanding of Greek distilling traditions, plus a few tips on homemade cocktail mixing.

Liqueur Tasting and Shopping

The highlight for many is the liqueur tasting, which features up to three flavors. You’ll get to sample the products in a refined setting, and many mention that the drinks are delicious — “the liquor is delicious,” as one reviewer puts it. You’ll also have the opportunity to purchase bottles of their elegant liqueurs, making this a nice souvenir or gift for friends back home.

As part of your ticket, you’ll also receive a 100ml bottle of the liqueur of your choice—a thoughtful keepsake that adds to the tour’s value. The shop offers plenty of options, so it’s easy to find a flavor you love.

Final Thoughts on the Experience

Since the tour is relatively short, it’s a great way to fill a small window in your day. If you’re keen on exploring Athens without committing to longer, more involved tours, this is a perfect choice. It’s especially suited for those who love tasting local specialties and learning about craft traditions firsthand.

The Practical Details

Location and Meeting Point

The tour begins at Kleisthenous 7 in Athens, conveniently close to public transportation. The tour is designed for small groups—a maximum of 10 travelers—which helps keep things personalized and relaxed. The experience ends right back at the start point, making logistics simple.

Duration and Cost

Pricing is very reasonable at around $16.20 per person. Considering you get a guided tour, tasting, and a free 100ml bottle, the value is quite good. The entire tour lasts about 30 to 40 minutes, giving you plenty of time to explore other parts of Athens afterward.

Booking and Cancellation

Most travelers book the tour about 74 days in advance, indicating some planning is wise. It’s easy to secure your spot with a mobile ticket, and cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience—perfect if your plans shift unexpectedly.

What the Reviews Say

While overall, the tour enjoys a high rating of 4.7 out of 5, there are a couple of hiccups. Some travelers encountered unexpected closures, which was frustrating, especially if you’ve made the trip specifically for this tour. For example, one reviewer was disappointed because the distillery was closed upon arrival, which highlights the importance of confirming in advance.

On the bright side, many reviews praise the knowledgeable and passionate guides, with comments like “Anna was very informative” and “Nina’s warm welcome.” Guests also mention how delicious the samples are and appreciate the great value for the money.

Authenticity and Personal Touch

Some reviews emphasize how family pride shines through in the presentation, making it more than just a tasting—it’s a storytelling experience. One guest noted how “they told me all the family history,” which helps the experience feel genuine and meaningful.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This tour is best suited for those who want a quick, authentic taste of Greek spirits without spending hours on a single activity. It’s a good fit for travelers who enjoy trying local flavors, learning about small family businesses, and picking up souvenirs directly from the producers.

If you’re seeking a fast-paced, social experience with friendly guides and quality drinks, you’ll likely enjoy this. However, if you’re a big fan of detailed, long-form distillery tours, this may feel a bit rushed.

While the small chance of closure might cause inconvenience, booking in advance and confirming availability can help mitigate this. This is a charming, approachable way to connect with Greek tradition, enjoy some delicious liqueurs, and leave with a small memento of your trip.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
This experience involves tasting alcohol, so it’s not ideal for children or those with medical conditions that restrict alcohol consumption. It’s designed for most travelers of legal drinking age.

How long does the tour last?
The experience takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes, making it easy to fit into a busy day of sightseeing.

What do I get in my ticket?
Your ticket includes a guided tour of the distillery, a tasting of up to three liqueurs, and a free 100ml bottle of your chosen flavor to take home.

Can I buy bottles during the visit?
Yes, there are plenty of elegant bottles for sale at the shop, so you can pick up some souvenirs or gifts.

What happens if the distillery is closed when I arrive?
This has been reported by some travelers. To avoid disappointment, it’s best to confirm your booking and check for any notices of closures before your visit.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
Yes, the tour is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, which helps maintain a cozy, personal atmosphere.

In summary, the Polykala distillery experience offers a brief but meaningful look into Greek liqueurs with friendly guides, tasty samples, and a memorable small-group vibe. It’s especially worthwhile for those with an interest in local traditions, craft spirits, or simply wanting a relaxed activity during their Athens trip. Just keep an eye on potential closures, and you’ll likely find it a worthwhile addition to your journey.