Santorini: Wine tasting in 3 Wineries and a Greek Meal group

Santorini: Wine tasting in 3 Wineries and a Greek Meal group offers a compelling way to experience the island’s renowned wine culture combined with authentic Greek cuisine. For those curious about local flavors and eager to learn about Santorini’s unique wine-making traditions, this tour promises a blend of history, flavor, and scenic beauty. It’s especially appealing if you’re a wine enthusiast or simply enjoy good food paired with storytelling from knowledgeable guides.

Two things we really like about this experience are the guided tastings at three different wineries, which give a comprehensive look at Santorini’s wines—from traditional Assyrtiko to dessert wines—and the multi-course Greek meal designed by top local chefs that finishes the day on a delicious note. The tour’s structure ensures that you’ll get a good sense of the island’s wine scene without feeling rushed.

A possible consideration is that the third winery visit is replaced by a restaurant outside of the peak season (November to April), which might slightly alter the experience if you’re visiting in the off-season. Also, the tour duration of five hours means you’ll be on your feet quite a bit, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a moderate pace and some walking.

This tour is a great fit for adults who enjoy wine and food, especially if you want a curated, informative experience that combines tasting, learning, and enjoying a traditional Greek meal. If you’re traveling with friends or a solo traveler eager to expand your palate and knowledge, this could be a highlight.

Key Points

• Comprehensive wine experience: Visit three wineries, each offering different wines and insights into Santorini’s wine-making styles.
• Expert-guided tastings: Learn about wines from knowledgeable guides and sommeliers.
• Authentic Greek meal: End with a 5-course meal, emphasizing local ingredients and presentation.
• Beautiful setting: Enjoy the picturesque vineyards and, in summer, a sunset at the caldera.
• All-inclusive price: Covers transportation, tastings, entrance fees, and meals, offering convenience and value.
• Seasonal adjustments: In off-peak months, the third winery is replaced by a restaurant, which might change the atmosphere slightly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Tour: What to Expect

The Itinerary and Setting

The tour kicks off with a pickup from one of six convenient locations across Santorini—Perissa Beach, Oia, Vothonas, Akrotiri, Imerovigli, or Thera—making it flexible for different accommodation arrangements. Once aboard, the journey toward wine country begins, and you quickly realize how compact and accessible Santorini’s vineyards are.

Winery 1: Traditional Flavors and Tasting

Your first stop introduces you to Santorini’s indigenous wines with four varieties to sample: Assyrtiko, Aidani, Nychteri, and a dessert wine like Mezzo or Vinsanta. We loved how the tasting is paired with Greek goat cheese and rusks, which helps balance the wines and gives a true taste of local produce. Expect a relaxed environment where your guide shares insights into the history and characteristics of these wines, making it more than just sipping—it’s about understanding what makes Santorini wines special.

Winery 2: A Closer Look

The second winery offers a short tour of the estate’s vineyards and production area, allowing you to see where the grapes are grown and how they’re transformed into wine. This is particularly interesting because it helps explain why Santorini’s wines, especially Assyrtiko, are so distinctive—grown in volcanic soils and cultivated with particular techniques. Afterward, you’ll taste 3-4 wines, along with an assortment of snacks that enhance the tasting experience. The guide here is quite knowledgeable, adding context and answering questions thoughtfully.

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Winery 3 (or a Restaurant): A Fitting Finish

The last winery visit (or a restaurant in the off-season months) offers another four wines paired with food, culminating with a multi-course Greek degustation menu designed by a top chef. The presentation emphasizes local ingredients and contemporary style, making the meal both a feast for the senses and a cultural experience. For many, this is the highlight—combining wine with thoughtfully curated dishes and enjoying it all in a setting that celebrates Greek hospitality.

In summer, the tour might end with a sunset stop at the caldera, offering some of the best views on the island—a perfect way to soak in Santorini’s beauty before heading back to your hotel or villa.

Practical Aspects

The entire experience lasts around five hours, making it manageable even for those with tight schedules. The group size tends to be small, ensuring personalized attention. Included are hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking driver, a local guide, and all fees for tastings and entrance to wineries. You’ll want to keep an eye on your wine budget afterward, as additional orders are not included.

What Travelers Say

Many reviews highlight the friendly, knowledgeable guides who make the experience engaging and informative. Comments like “the guide was so passionate about the wines and the island” are common, and many appreciate the variety of wines sampled—from crisp Assyrtiko to sweet dessert wines.

Some mention that the food pairing was a pleasant surprise, with “delicious, thoughtfully prepared dishes” complementing each wine. Others note that the seating and ambiance at the final restaurant or winery setting adds a relaxing, festive atmosphere.

However, a few travelers mention that the tour can feel a bit rushed, especially if you’re a slow sipper or want to linger longer at each stop. Also, the seasonality of the third winery or restaurant switch might slightly alter the overall vibe, but the core tasting experience remains solid.

Analyzing the Value

At $169 per person, this tour offers a lot: multiple tastings, expert guidance, a full meal, and transportation. For wine lovers, it’s an economical way to sample a broad spectrum of Santorini’s wines without the hassle of organizing individual tastings. The inclusions—entrance fees, food, and drinks—simplify the planning, making it a convenient choice.

If you’re someone who enjoys learning as much as tasting, the guided aspect enhances the experience. Plus, the scenic vineyard visits are a bonus, especially during the summer months when you might enjoy a sunset or panoramic views.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits adults with an interest in wine, food, and Greek culture. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer a structured, informative outing rather than independent wine-hopping. It’s also a good choice for those who want to combine tasting with a sit-down meal, especially if they enjoy pairing wines with local dishes.

While not explicitly tailored for families or children, the focus on wine tasting and a multi-course meal makes it less suitable for young kids. It’s perfect for couples, friends, or solo travelers eager to deepen their appreciation of Santorini’s culinary traditions.

Final Thoughts

If you’re heading to Santorini and want to understand the island through its wines and flavors, this tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable experience. You’ll visit three distinct wineries, each with its own character, and finish with a memorable Greek meal that captures the essence of local cuisine.

The guides and sommeliers involved genuinely enhance the journey, making it educational yet relaxed. The scenic vineyard settings and optional sunset add to the appeal, especially if you’re a visual person who loves a good backdrop.

While it’s not the cheapest activity on the island, the combination of tastings, insight, and food makes it a worthwhile investment for wine aficionados and curious travelers alike. Be prepared for a fun, flavorful afternoon that leaves you with new knowledge—and possibly a few bottles to bring home.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off from six locations across Santorini, making it straightforward to join from your accommodation.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs about five hours, from pickup to return, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Are all tastings included in the price?
Yes, the wine tasting fees are covered, along with entrance fees and taxes, so you won’t need to worry about extra charges during the tour.

What seasons is the tour available?
The wine and food experience is available from mid-April to the end of October, with the third winery replaced by a restaurant outside this period.

Can I buy additional wine during the tour?
Extra wine or food isn’t included in the package, so if you’re tempted, you can purchase extra at the wineries or the restaurant.

Is the meal suitable for all dietary preferences?
The menu is designed by a top chef focusing on local, fresh produce. For specific dietary needs, it’s best to check in advance.

What’s the best way to dress?
Comfortable casual clothing is fine, especially if you plan to walk around vineyards or enjoy the scenic views. Layers are advisable in case of temperature changes.

Can I go on this tour if I don’t drink alcohol?
This tour is centered around wine tasting, so it might not be suitable if you abstain. However, you could still enjoy the scenery and food, but check with the operator about alternatives.

Is this experience family-friendly?
It’s mainly designed for adults interested in wine and dining. It’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly, so younger children might not find it as engaging.

All in all, this Santorini wine tour has a lot to offer those eager to explore the island’s viticulture and savor a delicious Greek meal, all in a well-organized, friendly setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: