Santorini isn’t just about postcard-perfect sunsets and white-washed buildings; it’s also a destination ripe with exceptional dining experiences. Whether you want a wine tasting directly in the vineyards, a sunset cruise with a gourmet dinner, or a lively Greek night with traditional music, Santorini offers a variety of ways to indulge your senses. We particularly love Santorini Wine Stories: Sunset Tour with Tasting & Dinner for its intimate vineyard visits and delicious multi-course meal—it’s a perfect blend of tasting and storytelling. For a more luxurious splash, the Luxury Santorini Sunset Cruise offers a seamless, elegant day on the water with stunning views and premium drinks. Whether you’re a wine lover, a sunset chaser, or a cultural enthusiast, Santorini has a memorable food experience waiting.
What makes Santorini special for dining is its combination of local wines, seafood, and spectacular scenery. The island’s volcanic soil creates distinct wines like Assyrtiko, which pair beautifully with fresh seafood and local delicacies. Many tours include visits to renowned wineries or traditional tavernas, but the region’s waters also invite you on boat trips that combine sightseeing with gourmet meals. Here’s a look at the top dining experiences that promise to satisfy every craving.
Below, you’ll find a curated list of the best wine tours, cruises, private dinners, and cultural shows that make Santorini a foodie’s paradise.
1. Santorini Wine Stories: Sunset Tour with Tasting & Dinner
This highly-rated 5-star tour offers an immersive experience into Santorini’s unique wines. It includes visits to three traditional wineries where you’ll explore the cellars and walk through the vineyards. The tour is especially notable for its focus on how the island’s volcanic soil influences the flavors of Assyrtiko, Nykteri, and Vinsanto. Alongside tasting 10 different wines, you will enjoy local cheeses and snacks, making it a delicious journey for your palate.
What sets this tour apart is the blend of education and tasting, guided by a sommelier who shares fascinating insights into the island’s terroir. The sunset view from the final winery adds a magical touch. The five-hour experience is perfect for wine lovers eager to learn about Santorini’s wine-making traditions without sacrificing good food. Reviewers love the guide’s knowledge and the multi-course dinner, calling it “a great meal with spectacular sunset views.”
Bottom line: Ideal for those who want an informative, relaxed wine experience paired with memorable scenery and a fine meal.
2. Luxury Santorini Sunset Cruise: Dinner, BBQ, Open Bar, Transfers
At number 2, this 5-hour cruise transports you from Vlychada port on a sleek catamaran to some of Santorini’s iconic beaches and volcanic hot springs. The cruise is perfect for those who want a luxury water-based dining experience. As you sail past Red Beach, White Beach, and Indian Rocks, the crew prepares a delicious onboard BBQ with drinks from the open bar. You’ll have time to swim and snorkel at Mesa Pigadia Beach, then visit the sulfur springs for a natural soak.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of sightseeing and comfort. The reviews mention the staff’s friendliness and the quality of the food, with many saying this cruise “delivers spectacular views and a relaxing atmosphere.” The sunset from the boat is especially ravishing, with plenty of photo opportunities. The inclusive hotel transfer makes it easy to relax and enjoy the day.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who want a luxury, all-in-one experience—sailing, swimming, good food, and stunning sunsets—all in one smooth package.
3. Santorini Private Sunset Sailing Tour with Dinner, Drinks & Transfer included
For those seeking ultimate privacy and exclusivity, this private 44-foot yacht is hard to beat. It accommodates up to 10 guests, making it perfect for couples or small groups. The crew provides a full dinner, an open bar, and transfers from your hotel. You’ll cruise past Red Beach, White Beach, Palea Kameni, and Thirassia, stopping to swim at the calm waters of Thirassia Island.
Guests love the personalized service and the chance to customize their experience. Price-wise, it’s an investment, but reviews confirm it’s “worth every penny for a special occasion.” Watching the sunset from this boat feels intimate and special, and the dinner is crafted to match the views—fresh, well-prepared, and generous.
Bottom line: Perfect for honeymooners or anyone celebrating a special moment who values privacy, comfort, and personalized service.
4. Santorini: Sunset Sea Kayak with Light Dinner
If you prefer an active experience combined with great food, this sea kayak adventure is ideal. It starts with hotel pickup, then heads to the Black Beach, where you paddle east along the caldera, taking in spectacular views of Indian Bay, Aspronisi, and Thirasia. The included picnic on the beach, along with snorkelling in the clear waters, makes this a fun and refreshing choice.
What makes this tour special is the blend of adventure and cuisine—you kayak, snorkel, and then relax with a light dinner. Many reviewers mention how breathtaking the sunset is, especially when viewed from the water. The guide Panos or Alex offers local insights and keeps the experience engaging.
Bottom line: Ideal for active travelers who want scenic views, a splash of adventure, and a relaxed dinner by the sea.
5. Santorini Sunset Sailing Cruise: Dinner, BBQ, Open Bar, Transfers
Similar to the number 2 cruise but slightly shorter, this 5-hour sailing experience explores the caldera and surrounding beaches. The itinerary includes swimming at Red Beach, a sulfur springs visit, and relaxing at Mesa Pigadia Beach. You’ll enjoy an onboard Greek dinner and drinks while watching the sunset.
Reviews highlight the friendly crew and delicious food, with many saying it’s the perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing. The cruise’s relaxed atmosphere and beautiful scenery make it suitable for families and couples alike.
Bottom line: A great choice for those who want a well-rounded, affordable water experience with good food and stunning views.
6. Private Sunset Cruise with Full Greek Dinner
This private 5-hour cruise offers a romantic setting with a full Greek dinner onboard. You’ll visit Red Beach, Akrotiri, White Beach, and the volcano, with the option to dip into hot springs. The crew provides snorkeling gear, towels, and jackets, making it comfortable and convenient.
Guests love the personalized service and the opportunity to customize stops. The dinner, which includes Greek specialties and drinks, is described as delicious and plentiful. The reviews rave about the crew’s friendliness and the memorable sunset views.
Bottom line: Best suited for couples or groups wanting privacy, tailored stops, and a full Greek feast on the water.
7. Santorini Caldera Sunset Sailing Cruise with Dinner and Wine
This full-day sailing tour takes you around Santorini’s volcano, hot springs, and Thirassia, ending with a spectacular sunset over Oia. It includes a guided volcano hike, swimming, and a dinner with wine onboard, making it a comprehensive experience.
Guests comment on how the balance of activities—hiking, swimming, relaxing—works well. The informative guide and well-organized schedule make it a good fit for active travelers who want to see a lot and eat well. It’s pricier, but the variety justifies the cost.
Bottom line: For those who want a full-day, multi-activity adventure on the water with great food and spectacular scenery.
8. Traditional Greek Night live Music & Dinner Show in Santorini
For a lively, cultural evening, this 3-hour show features live music, folk dances, and a buffet dinner of Greek classics. The atmosphere is fun and lively, with performers in traditional costumes. The unlimited wine makes it even more festive.
Reviewers mention the engagement of the dancers and the authentic food. It’s perfect for those wanting an evening of entertainment and regional cuisine, especially if you enjoy socializing and dancing. It’s affordable, and the energetic vibe is contagious.
Bottom line: Great for travelers looking for an interactive, lively night with food, drink, and cultural flair.
9. Santorini: Romantic Sunset Caldera Cruise with Dinner
A more laid-back option for romantic couples, this 4-hour cruise offers panoramic views and a buffet dinner while watching the sunset over the caldera. It’s less active than some cruises but still offers stunning scenery and a cozy atmosphere.
Many reviews appreciate the peaceful vibe and beautiful vistas, though some mention the food could be improved. It’s best suited for couples seeking a relaxed, scenic experience rather than adventure.
Bottom line: Ideal for a romantic, low-key evening with good views and decent food.
10. Santorini 5 Hour Private Oia Tour & Lunch/Dinner at a Local Farm
This small-group private tour combines Oia’s iconic beauty with a visit to a local farm. You’ll tour the farm, sample local dishes, and learn about Santorini’s agricultural traditions. Later, visit the Artemis Karamolegos Winery for tastings.
Reviews highlight the personalized service and the delicious farm-to-table meal. The tour is intimate and flexible, perfect for those who want to combine sightseeing with authentic food. The cap of just eight travelers ensures a relaxed, engaging experience.
Bottom line: Excellent for those who love local food, small-group tours, and a mix of sightseeing and culinary discovery.
11. Santorini Private 10 Wine Tastings with Dinner & Oia Sunset
Combining wine tastings at two wineries and dining with a view of the sunset, this private tour is a wine connoisseur’s dream. You’ll sample volcanic wines and enjoy a Greek lunch, all with personalized service.
Guests rave about the knowledgeable guide and the fabulous sunset from Oia. It’s suited for those who want a luxurious, intimate experience with a focus on wine and regional cuisine.
Bottom line: Perfect for couples and wine lovers wanting an exclusive, detailed tasting combined with scenic views.
12. Santorini Private Romantic Tour with Dinner & Wine Tasting
Designed for romantic getaways, this tour takes you to Oia, Fira, and Santo Wines. It includes wine tasting, panoramic views, and a deluxe dinner. You’ll get some of the best photo ops and a chance to enjoy quiet, intimate moments.
Reviews praise the personalized service and beautiful views. The deluxe dinner and small group size make it ideal for couples looking for a special evening.
Bottom line: Best suited for couples seeking romance, privacy, and an elegant experience.
13. Santorini: Night Hike, Wine Tasting, and Greek Dinner
For a unique twist, this evening hike combines spectacular views of the Caldera with wine tasting and a traditional dinner. You’ll watch the sunset from a hilltop, then enjoy regional dishes and local wines. The guided night hike is the only official one on the island, offering a tranquil perspective away from daytime crowds.
Reviewers mention the spectacular scenery and delicious meal as highlights. It’s excellent for active travelers who also appreciate good food and a peaceful atmosphere.
Bottom line: Ideal for adventurous couples and active travelers wanting a blend of hiking, culture, and culinary delights.
14. Private Sightseeing Tour with Dinner at Sunset
This deluxe private tour offers a personalized itinerary with stops at Oia, Prophet Elias Monastery, and Perissa Beach. It concludes with a deluxe dinner at Santo Wines with carefully selected local wines. The flexibility makes it suitable for those wanting a custom experience.
Reviews highlight the attention to detail and beautiful scenery. It’s well-suited for travelers who appreciate private, tailored sightseeing combined with top-quality cuisine.
Bottom line: Perfect for those seeking a luxury, customizable experience with scenic and culinary highlights.
15. Santorini Sunset Dinner Cruise Including Nea Kameni Visit
This 8-hour cruise combines volcano visits, hot springs, and a dinner with wine onboard. It includes free time at Nea Kameni for exploring the volcano, as well as beach visits. The comprehensive itinerary makes it great for travelers wanting a full day on the water.
Reviewers mention the amazing hot springs and delicious food as highlights, though some note the long duration might not suit everyone. It’s ideal for adventurous, curious travelers.
Bottom line: Best for those wanting a full-day, activity-rich cruise with multiple stops, good food, and scenic views.
How to Choose Your Perfect Santorini Dining Experience
Picking between these options depends on your interests, budget, and travel style. For a relaxed, educational wine tour, the Santorini Wine Stories is hard to beat. If you want to combine luxury and scenery, the Luxury Santorini Sunset Cruise offers a seamless experience. Those celebrating special moments may prefer a private yacht like the Private Sunset Sailing Tour, while active travelers might love the Sunset Sea Kayak for its blend of adventure and scenic beauty.
Budget-conscious travelers can consider the lively Greek Night dinner show, which combines entertainment and food at an affordable price. For those wanting a full-day experience, the Caldera sunset cruise with dinner and volcano visit provides a comprehensive adventure.
When booking, consider seasonality—summer offers longer days and more options—and book early to secure your preferred time. For those with limited time, small-group tours or private experiences help maximize your time and comfort.
Final Thoughts
Santorini’s dining options are as diverse as the island itself. For a taste of local wines, the Sunset Tour with Tasting & Dinner is hard to beat. For romantic sunset views, a private cruise or the Sunset Caldera Cruise with Dinner delivers unforgettable moments. Adventurers and active travelers will appreciate kayaking or hiking combined with local food, while those seeking lively entertainment can enjoy traditional Greek nights.
No matter your preference, booking early is key to securing the best spots, especially during peak season. Use this guide to match your style and make your Santorini culinary adventure one to remember.
