Athens: Greek Wines Tasting with Sommelier and Acropolis Views

This wine tasting experience in Athens promises more than just sips from a glass. From what we’ve gathered, it’s a beautifully curated blend of local Greek wines, expert insights, and unbeatable views of the Acropolis. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply want to add a touch of elegance to your trip, this tour offers an authentic taste of Greece’s modern wine scene.

What really shines here? First, the knowledgeable sommelier, George Spyrou, who makes the entire experience both educational and fun. Then, the spectacular scenery—imagine sipping wine with a sunset backdrop of the Parthenon. Lastly, the chance to try rare Greek grapes like Roditis, Limnio, and Mandilaras, giving you a taste of Greece’s diverse viticultural heritage.

A potential point to consider is the duration—at around 1 hour 30 minutes, it’s a relatively quick experience, so if you’re after an in-depth wine tour, you might want to pair this with other activities. This tour is perfect for travelers who appreciate good wine, stunning cityscapes, and insightful commentary, especially if your time in Athens is limited.

If you’re looking to explore Greece’s wine culture in a setting that’s intimate, engaging, and visually spectacular, this tasting is a smart choice. It’s especially suited for those who want a relaxed, premium experience with a dash of local flavor.

Key Points

• Expert-led experience with a highly regarded sommelier
• Rare Greek wines from local wineries, including unique grape varieties
• Spectacular views of the Acropolis and sunset ambiance
• Paired with Greek tapas, enhancing the tasting experience
• Private setting, creating an intimate, personalized vibe
• Great value for the quality of wine, insight, and scenery

Why This Experience Stands Out

Our impression of this wine tasting is that it’s a well-balanced mix of education, scenery, and authenticity. For just over $66 per person, you’re getting access to rare wines you likely wouldn’t find on a typical tourist route**, paired with expert guidance and a view that makes every sip even more memorable.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour is centered around a beautifully located restaurant just below the Acropolis, offering prime views of the Parthenon. It begins at 6:00 pm, which means you’ll catch the sunset if you arrive early enough—a detail many reviewers find magical, especially as the ancient monument lights up at dusk.

The welcoming host, George Spyrou, kicks off with a brief overview of Greece’s wine map. This is more than just a cursory talk; George’s knowledge shines through as he explains the major wine regions of Greece and the grapes that define them. This overview helps set the context for the wines you’ll taste later, turning a simple tasting into a mini Greek wine geography lesson.

Once seated, the focus turns to sampling handpicked wines from local wineries. Expect to try varieties like Roditis, Limnio, Kidonitsa, Muscat, and Mandilaras—each offering a different window into Greece’s extensive winemaking traditions. According to reviews, George’s selections are carefully curated, meaning you’re likely to taste wines that are both rare and representative of Greece’s modern wine movement.

Food pairing is an integral part of the experience, with Greek tapas served alongside the wines. These are sourced from local producers, and reviewers mention the cheese, bread, and small bites as being just right—complementing the wines without overpowering them. One guest pointed out that the food pairing was “well done,” adding to the overall value.

The Hospitality and Knowledge of the Guide

Reviewers consistently praise George’s knowledge and friendliness. One reviewer, John, remarked that George is “very kind, knowledgeable and able to answer any questions about the wine,” which contributes greatly to the personal feel of the experience. Another guest, Christina, appreciated George’s engagement, especially when their group was small, making it feel like a private event.

The reviews also highlight that George manages both the restaurant and the tasting, which sometimes causes slight pauses or pulls during the experience, but overall, guests find this manageable and appreciate the personal attention.

The Views and Atmosphere

Beyond the wines and food, the setting itself is a star. Sitting outdoors or near large windows, with the Parthenon illuminated in the evening, elevates the entire experience. Several reviews describe the sunset as “magical” and the view as “amazing,” making it ideal for romantic evenings or memorable moments.

Guests also mention the ambience of the restaurant, which is described as “beautiful,” “friendly,” and “relaxing.” The combination of spectacular scenery and good wine creates an atmosphere that both casual and connoisseur travelers will appreciate.

Practical Details: What Travelers Need to Know

The tour is a private experience, meaning only your group participates, which ensures a tailored, less crowded atmosphere. It starts at Hill Athens Rooftop Restaurant located at Apostolou Pavlou 27, within easy reach of public transport—vital for those without a car.

With a duration of about 1 hour 30 minutes, the experience is a manageable addition to your evening. The cost of $66.84 per person provides access to multiple wines, expert insights, and delicious snacks, making it quite reasonable considering the quality.

What’s included? You get wine tastings, Greek tapas, and a guided experience led by a knowledgeable sommelier. Not included is dinner, which makes this perfect for those who want a light, wine-focused activity rather than a full meal.

Reviewers mention that the pours are generous—some even say “heavy”—so don’t plan to drive afterward. The experience is suitable for most travelers, with most reviews noting it’s accessible and engaging.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tasting is ideal for wine lovers wanting to explore Greece’s lesser-known grapes, couples seeking a romantic evening, and groups of friends looking for a relaxed, social activity. It’s also a great choice for those who value spectacular views and local culture in a small, intimate setting.

If you’re after an educational experience with plenty of tastings and insights, this tour delivers. Conversely, if you prefer a full dinner or a longer, more immersive wine journey, you might want to look for other options.

The Sum Up

This Athens wine tasting, led by the talented George Spyrou, offers a unique chance to sip Greek wines while enjoying some of the city’s most iconic views. The combination of rare wines, knowledgeable guidance, and breathtaking scenery makes it a standout activity, particularly for those seeking a relaxed yet enriching evening.

The experience’s affordability coupled with the high quality of the wines and the intimate atmosphere makes it a very good value. Plus, the opportunity to learn about Greece’s diverse grapes and regions from a trusted expert adds significant depth to your visit.

Best suited for wine enthusiasts, romantic couples, and anyone who appreciates good scenery and authentic local flavors, this tasting will likely be a highlight of your Athens trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers or those with dietary restrictions?
The focus is on wine and Greek tapas, so if you don’t drink or have specific dietary needs, it’s best to check directly with the provider. Usually, the experience is centered around tasting, but they may accommodate requests for non-alcoholic options.

How long does the wine tasting last?
The experience lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, making it a perfect short activity for an evening in Athens.

What is the starting point of the tour?
It begins at Hill Athens Rooftop Restaurant, located at Apostolou Pavlou 27, which is near public transportation.

Are the wines local?
Yes, all wines are from handpicked local wineries, including some rare and unusual varieties like Roditis and Limnio.

Is the experience private?
Yes, this is a private activity, so only your group participates, ensuring a personalized and relaxed setting.

Can I expect to learn about Greek wine regions?
Absolutely. George begins with an overview of Greece’s wine map, explaining major regions and grapes, helping you understand what makes Greek wine unique.

Is food included?
Yes, Greek tapas from local producers are served alongside the wines, enhancing the tasting experience without turning it into a full meal.

This wine tasting in Athens offers a delightful mix of scenic beauty, authentic Greek wines, and expert guidance. It’s a wonderful choice if you want a memorable, relaxed evening that combines culture, cuisine, and a touch of elegance.