Private Group Visit to Akrotiri & 3 Wineries with Tastings

An Authentic Taste of Santorini: Private Visit to Akrotiri & Wineries

Picture yourself wandering through ancient ruins by yourself, imagining a thriving Bronze Age city frozen in time by volcanic ash. Now add in visits to three different local wineries with personalized tastings of 12 distinct wines, from crisp Assyrtiko to sweet Vinsanto—this is what you get with the Private Group Visit to Akrotiri & 3 Wineries with Tastings. For around $282 per person, this 4.5-hour experience offers a blend of history, culture, and wine, perfect for those wanting a deeper connection with Santorini beyond the usual postcard scenes.

What makes this tour stand out is its customized approach and intimate size, usually limited to just four people. We loved the way it balances self-guided exploration at Akrotiri with guided visits to carefully selected wineries, providing both historical context and wine insights. The personal touch—thanks to guides like Michael, Fotsios, or George—means you get tailored recommendations and authentic stories behind each winery.

One potential consideration: the entrance fee to Akrotiri isn’t included in the price—costing €12 per person—so plan for that extra expense. Also, since the guide cannot lead you inside the ruins, you’ll be exploring independently, which is perfect if you enjoy self-paced sightseeing. This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate history and wine in equal measure, and those who love a small-group, personalized experience that feels more like visiting friends than joining a large tour bus.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Intimate Group Size: Limited to four people, offering personalized attention
• Historical and Cultural Depth: Self-guided exploration of Akrotiri’s fascinating Bronze Age ruins
• Wine Expertise: Visits to three wineries with guided tastings and insights into local viticulture
• Diverse Wine Selection: Sample 12 wines including Assyrtiko, Nykteri, and Vinsanto
• Flexible & Convenient: Pickup and drop-off at your preferred location with transportation included
• Cost-Effective for Quality: A well-rounded experience blending history, scenery, and wine for a fair price

Exploring the Ruins of Akrotiri

Once you step into the Akrotiri archaeological site, you’ll immediately sense its significance. Unlike many guided tours, this experience doesn’t include a guide inside, so you’ll have the freedom to wander at your own pace. You’ll admire elaborate drainage systems, multi-storied buildings, and beautiful wall paintings preserved beneath layers of volcanic ash—an eerie but captivating glimpse into a world halted 3,600 years ago.

Reviews highlight that while the guide can’t guide you inside, this independence is actually a bonus for many. Joanne recalls that “we appreciated the self-guided visit, which allowed us to take our time and really absorb the atmosphere.” Plus, the ruins’ vastness means you can revisit certain sections or simply enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding caldera while contemplating ancient life.

For those keen on Greek history, the site also offers a tangible connection to the long-standing tradition of winemaking in Santorini, dating back to the 3rd millennium BC. The volcanic ash, which preserved the city, also influences the island’s unique viticulture, making the wines from this region some of the most distinctive in Greece.

The Wineries: A Tasting Journey

Following your archaeological exploration, the tour continues with visits to three carefully chosen wineries. Each offers a different vibe—one traditional, another modern, and a third that combines history and art. This variety enriches the experience, giving you insight into Santorini’s diverse wine culture.

The wineries are known for their personalized approach. Kelly mentions that Fotsios was “energetic and enthusiastic,” making the tastings memorable and engaging. Expect to learn about local viticulture traditions and the history behind each style of wine. Your guide’s expertise ensures you understand what makes each wine special, from the crispness of Assyrtiko to the rich sweetness of Vinsanto.

The tasting sessions are designed to be both educational and enjoyable, with mini-glasses served during a tutorial that covers the basics of Greek wine. Brian appreciated the expertise of the guides and felt that the experience was “first class” — a sentiment echoed by many. The wines are carefully selected to showcase the island’s terroir and innovative winemaking approaches.

Many reviews also mention the welcoming vibe at each winery, with hosts eager to share their passion. The contrast between traditional and modern wineries offers a well-rounded perspective—whether you prefer a historic setting or a contemporary atmosphere, you’ll find it here.

The Experience: What It Feels Like

Throughout the tour, transportation is in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan, and pickup is arranged from your accommodation or key points like the Fira town cable car, JTR airport, or Athinios port. The small group size ensures a personalized experience, allowing guides to tailor the stops according to your interests.

The 4.5-hour duration strikes a good balance—enough time to explore the ruins, visit three wineries, and enjoy generous tastings without feeling rushed. The pace is relaxed, giving you time to savor each wine and soak in the scenery.

Many travelers have raved about the guides’ enthusiasm and local knowledge. Joanne fondly recalls their guide Michael’s effort to customize the experience, making sure they visited a winery they requested. Kelly emphasizes that Fotsios’s energy made the trip “memorable,” and Amy highlights George’s attentiveness, including taking them to excellent local restaurants afterward.

While the tour doesn’t include food or additional drinks, the wine tastings themselves are generous and varied, providing a good value for the price. You’ll also gain a deeper appreciation for how volcanic soils influence wine flavors—a subtle but significant aspect of Santorini’s winemaking.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for history buffs who want to see Akrotiri without the crowds or guided inside. It’s perfect for wine lovers eager to sample a variety of Greek wines with expert guidance. The small-group setting makes it especially suited for couples, friends, or small families who appreciate a personalized touch.

It’s also a good fit if you enjoy self-paced sightseeing and want to avoid large tour buses; the independence at Akrotiri combined with guided tastings offers the best of both worlds. However, if you prefer a fully guided tour inside ruins or more inclusive food options, this might not be the best fit.

The Sum Up

The Private Group Visit to Akrotiri & 3 Wineries offers a compelling mix of history, culture, and wine—all tailored to small groups for a more intimate experience. You’ll love the opportunity to roam the ancient ruins independently, soaking up the atmosphere at your own pace. The visits to three different wineries, each with distinct styles and welcoming hosts, give you a comprehensive taste of Santorini’s winemaking traditions and innovations.

This tour provides excellent value for travelers who prioritize authentic experiences and personalized attention. The knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and delicious wines make it well worth the expense, especially for those who want a deeper connection to the island’s past and present.

If you enjoy learning about history, sampling unique wines, and small-group adventures, this tour will satisfy your curiosity and palate alike. It strikes a good balance—informative, engaging, and relaxed—making it a memorable highlight of any trip to Santorini.

FAQ

Is the Akrotiri entrance fee included?
No, the €12 entrance fee is not included in the tour price, so plan accordingly.

Can I explore the ruins on my own?
Yes, the tour allows you to visit Akrotiri independently since guides cannot guide inside the site. This gives you freedom to take your time.

How many wines will I taste?
You’ll sample 12 different wines during the tastings at the three wineries.

What type of transportation is used?
Transportation is in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan, with pickup and drop-off at your preferred location.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 18 must be accompanied by a parent, but unaccompanied minors are not allowed.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour can be tailored to your interests, especially if you book with guides like Michael or others mentioned in reviews.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, a camera, and clothes suitable for outdoor walking are recommended.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

This tour combines history, local culture, and wine in a relaxed, personalized way. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a wine connoisseur, or simply seeking a memorable day on Santorini, it offers a thoughtful blend of experiences that will deepen your appreciation of this remarkable island.

You can check availability for your dates here: