Santorini: Shared Wine Tasting and Culinary Experience

When it comes to vacationing in Greece, Santorini often steals the spotlight with its iconic sunsets and dramatic volcanic landscapes. But for wine lovers, this island is a treasure trove of unique flavors and stories waiting to be uncovered. While many visitors simply sip wine at a restaurant, this shared wine tasting and culinary tour offers a more intimate, behind-the-scenes look at Santorini’s renowned wineries, guided by a passionate local host named Markos.

From exploring volcanic vineyards to savoring poured-out secrets of Assyrtiko and Vinsanto, this tour promises a genuine taste of the island’s vinicultural soul. Three things we particularly like? The chance to visit two different wineries with guided tours, the delicious local food pairings, and the engaging storytelling by Markos himself. A possible drawback? The tour is quite structured and lasts four hours, so if you’re after a more freeform experience, this might feel a bit scheduled.

This experience is perfect for travelers who want to combine cultural insight, authentic wines, and scenic views in a small, friendly group. If you love discovering local traditions through food and drink, and enjoy making new friends along the way, this tour could be a highlight of your Santorini trip.

Key Points

• Authentic wine experience: Visit two distinctive wineries with guided tours.
• Local culture: Discover Santorini’s winemaking traditions through stories and insider tips.
• Taste the classics: Sample 10-12 glasses of iconic wines like Assyrtiko, Nykteri, and Vinsanto.
• Delicious pairings: Enjoy local delicacies and small food tastings with your wine.
• Scenic drives: Pass through stunning volcanic landscapes and hidden villages.
• Small-group intimacy: Limited to 6 participants for personalized service.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Insider Look at the Santorini Wine Tour

This tour offers more than just wine tasting; it’s a well-rounded exploration of Santorini’s vinicultural heritage combined with a dash of local culture. Led by Markos, a friendly and knowledgeable driver-host, you’ll be chauffeured in a modern, eco-friendly vehicle, giving you a comfortable ride between stops while soaking in the island’s striking volcanic vistas. With only six participants per group, the experience feels intimate, allowing for personalized attention and ample opportunity to ask questions.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins with a convenient pickup from one of two locations: either the Cable Car of Santorini or Caldera Yachting. These starting points position you close to the island’s main attractions, meaning you won’t waste precious time traveling. After pickup, the first winery visit begins with an in-depth guided tour and wine tasting session lasting about an hour. Here, a local wine representative introduces you to Santorini’s signature varieties, like the crisp, mineral-driven Assyrtiko.

You’ll learn how the island’s volcanic soil influences the wines’ distinctive character—think minerality, freshness, and complexity. Many guests mention that the guide’s storytelling makes the experience more immersive. One reviewer notes, “Markos shared fascinating stories about local winemaking that made the wines taste even better.” During this visit, you’ll also get a chance to sample local food delicacies, which perfectly complement the wines.

Next, a scenic 30-minute drive takes you through Santorini’s rugged, volcanic landscape to a different vineyard. This second stop offers a guided tour again, with tastings that include Nykteri and Vinsanto, the sweet, aromatic dessert wine that’s a real treat. The small group size ensures you get plenty of time to ask questions and savor each sip.

The Charm of Santorini’s Villages and Vistas

After the winery visits, the tour includes a scenic drive through a traditional village, where you can stretch your legs and absorb local life. Guests often appreciate this stop for the chance to walk around and take photos of the quaint houses set against a backdrop of volcanic hills. You’ll have about 30 minutes to explore at your leisure—perfect for a quick browse, snapping photos, or just soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.

The final part of the tour is a 30-minute drive back to your original pickup point. Along the way, Markos often shares personal anecdotes and tips for your remaining Santorini stay, making the experience feel even more authentic and tailored.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

More Great Tours Nearby

Authenticity and Local Insight

The presence of Markos as a storyteller and guide is a significant advantage. Many reviews highlight how his passion for Santorini’s wines and traditions shines through, bringing the experience alive. “He’s not just a driver,” one guest said, “he’s a storyteller who made us feel like we were visiting a friend’s vineyard.”

Quality of Wineries

Guests consistently mention the quality of the wineries visited—each offers a different perspective on local wine production. You might find that the first winery emphasizes modern techniques and offers a rundown, while the second showcases traditional methods and rare wines like Vinsanto.

Food and Wine Pairings

The inclusion of local food is a thoughtful touch. Expect small tastings of local cheeses, olives, or other delicacies that enhance the wine experience. Many mention how these pairings elevate the tasting, making each glass more memorable.

Scenic Beauty

The views of Santorini’s volcanic formations and the charming villages provide a stunning backdrop. Guests often comment on how the scenery adds richness to the tasting experience, making every sip even more special.

Value for Money

While the tour costs, in general, will be reflective of private guided experiences, the inclusion of multiple tastings, guided tours, local food, and transportation makes it a solid value—especially considering the small group size and personalized service.

What To Keep in Mind

Although most guests find the tour highly rewarding, it is scheduled for about four hours, which means it’s quite structured. If you prefer a completely freeform, relaxed day, this might feel a little intensive. Also, this experience isn’t suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with food allergies, so plan accordingly.

The tour operates in German, which might be a consideration if you’re not comfortable with that language, though the storytelling is generally accessible and engaging. You’ll want to wear comfortable shoes for walking and bring essentials like sunscreen, a camera, and water.

Pricing and Booking

The tour is priced to reflect its small-group, personalized nature. It includes all taxes, tasting fees, and food, providing a seamless experience with no hidden extras. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season, and offers the flexibility of canceling up to 24 hours prior for a full refund.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is particularly well-suited for wine enthusiasts eager to learn about Santorini’s unique varieties. It’s also ideal for travelers seeking a personal connection with local culture through stories, food, and scenic drives. If you enjoy small-group experiences and want a mix of sightseeing, tasting, and cultural insights, this will check your boxes.

However, if you prefer independent, unstructured exploration or are on a tight budget, you might find this tour less flexible. But for those who want a thoughtfully curated, intimate journey into Santorini’s wine world, it’s a top choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts about four hours, providing a relaxed yet rundown of Santorini’s wineries and scenery.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at either the Cable Car of Santorini or Caldera Yachting, making it convenient depending on your location.

What is included in the price?
Your guide Markos, transportation in a modern, eco-friendly vehicle, visits to two wineries with guided tours, tastings of 10-12 glasses of wine, food pairings, and all taxes are included.

Can I customize the experience?
The tour is structured, but the small group size allows for some flexibility in questions and interaction. Check with the provider if you have specific requests.

Is the tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
No, it’s not suitable for pregnant women or children due to alcohol consumption and the nature of the activities.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, a camera, and water are recommended for a comfortable day.

Is this experience available in languages other than German?
Currently, it operates with a live guide in German, so some understanding of the language would enhance the experience.

Wrapping Up

In summary, this Santorini wine and culinary tour offers a well-balanced blend of authentic wine tasting, scenic drives, and cultural storytelling. The small-group format ensures personalized attention, and the inclusion of local delicacies makes each stop a delight. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting to deepen their appreciation of Santorini’s winemaking heritage while enjoying the island’s stunning landscapes.

If you’re after an engaging, immersive experience that combines education, delicious food, and breathtaking views, this tour hits the mark—especially if you appreciate a local touch and intimate surroundings.

This experience is best for curious wine lovers, culture seekers, and small-group travelers who value quality and authenticity. It’s a carefully curated way to experience Santorini beyond the typical postcard views, adding flavor and depth to your island adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: