Private Wine Tasting Experience of Greek Awarded Wines at Athens Wine Suburb

A Friendly Look at the Private Greek Wine Tasting Tour Near Athens

Thinking about exploring Greece’s wine scene beyond just sipping at local tavernas? This private wine tasting experience promises a relaxed, informative look into some of Greece’s most acclaimed wines, combined with scenic visits outside Athens. From what we’ve seen, this tour offers a good balance of expert-guided tastings, historical insights, and beautiful surroundings—perfect if you’re into wine or curious about Greek traditions.

What we especially like about this experience is how personalized it feels—you’re not just part of a large group, but with your own private driver and guides. Plus, visiting two distinct wineries and a wine museum gives you a layered understanding of Greece’s winemaking journey. On the flip side, keep in mind that this is a half-day tour—so if you’re after a more comprehensive or full-day experience, you might need to look elsewhere. It’s ideally suited for those who want a focused, high-quality introduction to Greek wines without the hassle of planning everything themselves.

If you’re a traveler who appreciates learning about local traditions, enjoys sampling award-winning wines, and prefers a comfortable, guided experience, this tour is a solid pick. Families and couples alike find it accessible, and the scenic coastal drive adds a nice touch. Just remember, if you’re craving a big day of sightseeing or a full-blown culinary adventure, this experience might be more limited in scope.

Key Points

• Personalized experience: Private transport, guides, and tastings tailored to your group.
• Two wineries & a museum: Explore different styles and learn about traditional Greek wine-making.
• Award-winning wines: Taste labels recognized internationally, like the Schinopefko Retsina and Pixie Rosé.
• Educational & enjoyable: Guided tastings and museum visits provide context to each pour.
• Scenic & relaxed: Outside Athens, with beautiful views and a leisurely pace.
• Cost & duration: About 4 hours for roughly $206 per person, offering good value for a private experience.

What to Expect from This Wine Tour

If you’re imagining a typical wine tasting, this tour takes that idea and elevates it with a focus on Greek wine heritage. Starting with a pickup at your hotel or preferred location in Athens, the private vehicle whisks you away toward the countryside, away from the city buzz and into the heart of Greece’s winemaking regions. The drive itself offers an initial taste of the landscape—think rolling hills, lush vineyards, and the promise of tasting something special.

Stop 1: Markou Vineyards

Your first stop is at Markou Vineyards, which is notable for its award-winning labels. Here, you’ll taste three wines that have gained recognition internationally, including the Schinopefko Retsina, which snagged a Silver award at the PAR Wine Award International 2017. The other two are a dry rosé named Pixie, rated highly in 2017, and a savvatiano white, also with high marks. If you’re into cheese and bakery items, the tasting is paired with Greek and global cheeses—making the experience more than just wine.

What makes this stop interesting isn’t just the wines but the historical context. The visit to the wine museum, included in the tour, is a highlight. Here, you get a glimpse of Greece’s traditional winemaking methods through photographs and old machinery from the 19th century. It’s a window into how wine was made centuries ago, giving you a deeper appreciation of how far Greek winemaking has come.

Stop 2: Domaine Vassiliou & Nemeion Estate

Next, you head to Domaine Vassiliou, where George Vassiliou, the third generation winemaker, continues his family’s legacy. Located in Koropi (Attica) and Nemea (Peloponnese), these wineries produce wines from native Greek grape varieties with a focus on quality. The Vassiliou family has been making wine since 1905, exporting globally, and this stop is a chance to taste wines produced with a passion for tradition and excellence.

The tour here is about getting to know Greek indigenous varieties and understanding the commitment behind producing high-quality wines. It’s a quieter, more intimate setting where you can ask questions and better appreciate what makes Greek wines unique.

The Practicalities: Transportation, Cost, and Duration

This tour lasts about 4 hours, which is a comfortable length for a half-day escape from Athens. The transportation is included, and it’s in an air-conditioned executive car or minivan, which means you can relax and enjoy the scenery without any fuss. The price is approximately $206.35 per person, a fair rate considering the private aspect, guided tastings, museum visit, and transportation.

One standout: almost all reviews emphasize the value of the knowledgeable guides and friendly driver. They make the experience feel tailored, engaging, and stress-free. The tastings include Greek and global cheeses and bakery, adding a tasty regional touch to the wine experience.

Is it worth the price?

Given the inclusion of award-winning wines, museum visits, private transport, and expert-guided tastings, most find it a worthwhile investment. If you’re really into wine or want a relaxed, educational trip outside Athens, it’s a solid choice.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Several reviewers highlight how the guides are very knowledgeable—they teach about Greek wine history and traditions without being dry or overly technical. One reviewer remarked, “The oenologists were very informative and taught us about the history of winemaking in Greece,” reflecting how educational and engaging the experience can be.

Others loved the scenic drive along the coast and the breathtaking views at the Temple of Poseidon, which can be combined with or enjoyed before/after the tour if you extend your day.

The wines themselves seem to impress most guests, with comments such as “The entire experience was top notch. The staff, the driver, the experience—and of course the wine,” indicating quality across the board.

Who Should Consider This?

This tour is ideal for wine enthusiasts, culture lovers, and anyone wanting a relaxed, private experience with Greek wines. It suits those who prefer guided, educational tastings over large crowds. Families or couples looking for a special taste of Greece’s wine heritage will find it a satisfying outing.

If you’re after a full-day adventure or a deep dive into Greek cuisine, you might want to pair this with other experiences, but as a standalone, it’s a rewarding half-day trip.

Final Thoughts

This private wine tour near Athens offers a charming, intimate way to experience Greece’s award-winning wines and winemaking traditions. The combination of expert-guided tastings, historic museum visits, and stunning countryside makes it a well-rounded experience. Its focus on quality, education, and comfort means it’s especially suitable for travelers who want a premium, stress-free taste of Greece’s vinicultural scene.

While it’s not the cheapest option, many find that the personalized touch, the high-quality wines, and the scenic drive justify the cost. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just curious about Greek wine, this tour provides a meaningful, enjoyable escape from the city—and a chance to taste some of Greece’s best labels.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
This experience is primarily designed for adults interested in wine, so it might not be ideal for young children. However, older teens with an interest in wine and history could enjoy the museum and scenic drives.

What’s included in the price?
Your tour includes private transportation, guided tastings of award-winning Greek wines, Greek and global cheeses and bakery, and a visit to the wine museum. An optional lunch stop at the Temple of Poseidon is available at an extra cost.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 4 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity that won’t eat up your entire schedule.

Are the wines tasted at the wineries the same as sold commercially?
The wines you taste are award-winning labels, often recognized internationally, and are representative of what you can buy in stores or export.

Do I need to book far in advance?
Most travelers book about 84 days in advance, indicating it’s popular but not overly difficult to secure a spot if you plan ahead.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour features air-conditioned executive cars or minivans, ensuring a comfortable ride between Athens, wineries, and the museum.

If you’re dreaming of a relaxed, educational, and flavorful escape into Greece’s wine world, this private tour might just be the perfect fit. It combines history, scenery, and top-quality wines into a package that’s both enjoyable and easy to fit into your Athens itinerary.