Santorini Private Wine Tour with Local Expert & Sunset

Santorini Private Wine Tour with Local Expert & Sunset: A Thoughtful Look

If you’re considering a guided wine experience in Santorini, this private tour with a local expert offers a balanced mix of wine tasting, scenic views, and authentic island charm. It’s designed for those who want a personal, unrushed experience away from busy crowds, with a focus on small-group intimacy and insightful storytelling.

What really draws us to this tour are the visits to three boutique wineries—each with its own character—and the chance to taste 12 different wines, from crisp Assyrtiko to the legendary Vinsanto. Plus, the sunset finale at a less touristy spot promises a memorable end to your day. A potential downside? The tour’s duration of 4 to 6 hours might feel a bit tight if you’re looking for a leisurely, all-day experience, and it’s not suitable for children under 18.

This experience is perfect for wine lovers, couples, friends, or curious travelers craving a more genuine, personal look at Santorini’s wine scene. If you enjoy storytelling, scenic vistas, and authentic tastes, this could be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private guiding ensures tailored insights and flexible pacing.
• Authentic Winery Visits: Explore three carefully selected boutique wineries with atmosphere and character.
• In-Depth Tasting: Sample a wide range of wines, paired with local cheeses, snacks, and small bites.
• Scenic Sunset: End with a breathtaking view far from crowds, perfect for unwinding.
• Additional Beers: A bonus visit to a local brewery makes for a well-rounded taste of the island’s beverage scene.
• Comfort & Convenience: Transport is in a modern Mercedes-Benz, making the day comfortable and smooth.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

This private wine tour offers a chance to truly get to know Santorini through its wines and landscapes—something that’s often hard to find on larger, bus-style tours. Right from the start, you’ll be picked up from your hotel in Fira, and the journey begins with a quick 10-minute drive to your first stop. The transport is in a modern, air-conditioned Mercedes-Benz, which helps keep the mood relaxed and comfortable.

Visiting the Wineries

The tour includes visits to three different wineries, each with its own story and style. The first, Art Space Winery, is known for its unique approach—possibly blending art and wine, as the name hints. Here, you’ll spend about an hour, wandering atmospheric cellars and learning about Santorini’s volcanic terroir while tasting locally crafted wines.

Next, you’ll head to Gaia Wines, another hour-long stop where you’ll sample organic wines like Assyrtiko, a crisp, mineral-driven white that’s a staple here. The guide will share insider stories—about the struggles and joys of local winemakers—that bring each tasting to life.

The final winery is Venetsanos Winery, where you’ll stay about 80 minutes. This spot is famous for its scenic views and stunning vantage point, perfect for your sunset moment. You’ll taste a selection of wines, including some of the more sophisticated Nykteri and Vinsanto, the sweet, aromatic dessert wine. Alongside the tastings, you’ll enjoy local cheeses and small bites, adding to the pleasure of the experience.

Tasting and Pairings

The 12 tastings are thoughtfully curated. From light, refreshing whites to more complex reds and sweet Vinsanto, you’ll get a good sense of what makes Santorini wines special. The guide offers explanations about how the volcanic soil influences the wines, helping you appreciate their uniqueness. The pairing with local cheeses, snacks, and a platter of tapas elevates the experience beyond just drinking wine — it’s about understanding a part of the island’s culinary culture.

Sunset and Scenic Views

One of the tour’s highlights is watching the sunset at Venetsanos or a more hidden spot only locals frequent, away from the crowds. Our sources mention that this part of the experience is particularly memorable. You’re encouraged to relax with a glass of wine and soak in the stunning views across the caldera, a perfect end to a day of tasting and exploration.

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The Bonus Brewery Visit

For those interested, there’s an optional stop at a local brewery—either Ftelos or Santorini Brewing Company—adding three beers to your day. It’s a great way to experience a different side of the island’s beverage scene, especially if you’re not just into wine.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently praise the scenic views as a major highlight—many mention the sunset spot as a “breathtaking” finish. The guide’s knowledge is often described as passionate and engaging, making the tasting sessions feel more personal and insightful. One reviewer notes, “We loved the way the guide shared insider stories about the wineries and the island’s history. It made each sip even more special.”

Some comments note that the duration can feel tight if you want more time at each stop, but overall, most found it a comfortably paced experience. The small group size adds to the intimate vibe, with many feeling that it’s a more authentic way to experience Santorini’s wine culture.

A few reviews mention the price — $248 per person — might seem high compared to larger group tours, but many agree that the personalized service, private guide, and exclusive visits make it worth it for those seeking a premium experience.

Practical Details & Considerations

• Duration: 4 to 6 hours, which is perfect for a half-day activity but not ideal if you want a slow, unhurried day.
• Price: At $248 per person, this is on the more expensive side but reflects the private, tailored nature of the tour.
• Transport: Your ride is in a modern Mercedes-Benz, ensuring comfort on Santorini’s often winding roads.
• Inclusions: 12 wine tastings, local cheeses/snacks, mineral water, and a platter of local tapas.
• Exclusions: Lunch or dinner — plan to eat before or after the tour.
• Suitability: Not suitable for children under 18, so it’s an adult-focused experience.
• Language: Offered in English and Spanish, with a knowledgeable guide ready to answer questions.

Who Will Get the Most Out of This Tour?

If you love wine and want a personalized, authentic experience, this tour is a great pick. It suits couples looking for romance, friends wanting a fun shared activity, or even small groups of friends or family (adults) who appreciate storytelling and scenic views. It’s particularly good if you’re seeking to escape the crowds and explore Santorini’s wine scene from a local’s perspective.

However, if you’re on a tight schedule or prefer a more leisurely pace that takes the entire day, you might find the 4-6 hour window a bit rushed. Also, if you’re traveling with children under 18, this one’s off the table.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is this tour suitable for children?
  No, it’s designed for adults over 18 due to wine tastings and alcohol consumption.

• What’s included in the price?
  You get a professional guide, transport in a Mercedes-Benz, 12 wine tastings, local cheeses and snacks, mineral water, and a platter of local tapas at the last winery.

• Can I cancel if my plans change?
  Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

• How long does the tour last?
  It typically runs between 4 and 6 hours, depending on the day and pace.

• Are the wineries easily accessible?
  Yes, they are located within a short drive from Thera, with transport provided.

• What wines will I taste?
  Expect a variety including Assyrtiko, Nykteri, Vinsanto, and possibly other local varieties.

• Is lunch included?
  No, but a platter of local tapas and snacks are included at the last winery.

• Is the sunset spot crowded?
  No, the tour is designed to take you to a quieter, more scenic sunset location away from tourist crowds.

• Can I add a brewery visit?
  Yes, there’s an optional visit to Ftelos or Santorini Brewing Company to taste three beers.

• Is the experience offered in languages other than English and Spanish?
  The available languages are English and Spanish, so check ahead if you need a specific language.

In all, this private Santorini wine tour offers a well-rounded, enriching experience that combines wine, scenery, and local culture. It’s a fantastic choice if you’re eager to taste authentic wines, learn from passionate guides, and see the island’s stunning sunset views—without the hassle of large tour groups. If these elements appeal to you, it’s likely to be a memorable part of your Santorini adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: