Experience the Soul of Santorini’s Winemaking at the Wine Museum and Family Winery
If you’re visiting Santorini and want to taste its most authentic side, this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the island’s wine traditions. For around an hour to two hours, you’ll explore the unique underground Wine Museum housed in ancient cellars, then proceed to a family-run winery with four generations of expertise. The experience includes a guided tour with an audio guide available in 22 languages, and a wine tasting of four or more local varieties, with knowledgeable staff leading the way.
What we love about this experience is the chance to walk through centuries-old wine cellars carved into the rock—cool, atmospheric, and packed with history—as well as the opportunity to sample distinctive wines like Assyrtiko and Kamaritis. These are not your everyday wines, but rather special local creations with a story to tell, making this a memorable stop for wine lovers or curious travelers.
One possible consideration is that the tour might feel a bit compact if you’re eager to spend more time exploring or tasting; however, the included free time allows for personal discovery. This tour suits visitors keen on history, culture, and good wine, especially those who appreciate authentic experiences in a manageable timeframe.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Authentic underground setting: The wine museum is housed in 300-meter-long caves, creating a cool, atmospheric environment.
- Rich wine history: Learn about Santorini’s winemaking from the 1600s onwards through beautifully curated exhibits.
- Diverse wine tasting: Sample four or more local wines, including Assyrtiko and orange wine, in a dedicated tasting area.
- Multilingual audio guide: Explore at your own pace with a guide available in 22 languages.
- Family heritage: Visit a winery run by four generations of winemakers, blending tradition with modern craft.
- Authentic insights: Reviews highlight the personable, knowledgeable guides and the quality of wines served.
An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience
Starting Point: The Entrance at Koutsoyiannopoulos Wine Museum
The tour begins at the main entrance of the Koutsoyiannopoulos Wine Museum, conveniently located just 4 km from Fira, near the airport. You’ll find it easily accessible via taxi or the local bus heading toward Kamari or the airport. This proximity makes it a practical stop, especially if you’re already exploring the southern parts of the island.
Exploring the Wine Museum: A Journey into the Past
Once inside, you’ll step into a carved labyrinth of tunnels stretching 300 meters, eight meters below ground. The cool temperature helps preserve the atmosphere of the ancient cellars, giving you a real sense of what it must have been like for past vintners. The exhibits include rare machinery, tools, and displays that trace centuries of winemaking on Santorini.
What makes this part special is the way the exhibits are curated to tell a story—not just about the wines, but about the lives of those who made them. As one review nicely put it, the museum is “very informative,” with a lot of family history and winemaking traditions showcased through beautifully detailed displays and even some animated installations that bring the past to life.
More Great Tours NearbyAudio Guide: Making History Accessible
The self-guided audio tour available in 14 languages or the guidebook in 22 languages makes this experience accessible to a broad range of visitors. Travelers mention that the audio guide is easy to use and enhances understanding of the exhibits, whether you’re a history buff or just curious about local traditions.
The Winery: Four Generations of Winemaking
After the museum, you’ll head to the family winery operated by the Koutsoyannopoulos family, where tradition meets craftsmanship. The wine tasting takes place in a dedicated area that’s both intimate and professional. Expect to sample a variety of wines: white Assyrtiko, orange wine, red Ambelones, and Kamaritis, a sweet red wine—each offering a different taste of Santorini’s terroir.
Reviewers rave about the quality of the wines and the engaging guide Anastasia, who explains each variety in detail. One said, “the wine tasting was very detailed,” and travelers consistently mention the friendly, knowledgeable staff who make the process enjoyable rather than pushy.
Tasting Experience: More Than Just Drinking
The tasting isn’t rushed, and the staff encourages questions, making it a fun, educational part of the visit. For those with children or non-drinkers, non-alcoholic beverages are available, which makes this experience comfortable for families. Visitors have noted that the wines are of high quality and a good value, especially considering the historic setting and expert guidance.
Free Time and Flexibility
Although the museum and tasting are structured, there’s enough free time to explore further, take photos, or simply soak up the ambiance. One review noted that they appreciated being able to go at their own pace and that the venue offers plenty of photo opportunities.
The Practicalities: What You Need to Know
Cost and Value
For the price—generally around €17 per person for the “bronze” experience—the tour offers excellent value. It combines museum access, a guided audio tour, and a wine tasting, giving a well-rounded glimpse into Santorini’s wine culture without breaking the bank.
Duration and Logistics
Allow 1 to 2 hours for the entire experience, making it ideal for fitting into a day of sightseeing. The tour operates from a set of available start times—check availability beforehand. Since the activity ends back at the starting point, it’s easy to plan your next activity or meal nearby.
Accessibility and Tips
The tour is not wheelchair accessible, so travelers with mobility issues might need to consider that. Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, and be prepared to walk through the underground caves. No smoking, pets (except assistance dogs), or outside food and drinks are permitted inside the museum.
Transportation Tips
If you’re staying in Fira, consider taking a taxi or bus—the museum is close but not walkable from the main town. The bus route toward Kamari or the airport stops nearby, making it fairly easy to reach.
What Our Reviewers Say
Visitors consistently highlight the knowledgeable guides, especially mentioning Eri and Margarita, who make the experience lively and informative. Comments like “the interactive tour was easy to understand,” and “the staff was very helpful,” show how well the staff support this small-scale, family-run operation.
Many reviews mention the quality of wines, with some saying that the tasting was “very good” and the wines “delicious.” The underground museum’s atmosphere and exhibits receive praise for their authenticity and storytelling.
Some travelers point out that additional snacks—like breadsticks, dip, or dark chocolate—enhance the tasting, making it more satisfying. Others note the beautiful setting and the fun of seeing authentic tools and machinery used over the centuries.
In Summary: Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is perfect for wine enthusiasts eager to explore Santorini’s unique varietals and traditional methods. It’s also suited for history lovers who want to understand the cultural significance of winemaking on the island. If you’re traveling with family, the relaxed pace and non-alcoholic options make it family-friendly.
However, if you have mobility issues or prefer outdoor vineyard visits, you might find the underground tour less accessible. The focus here is on the historical underground cellars and wine tasting experience, making it ideal for those wanting a deep dive into Santorini’s viniculture without the need for extended outdoor activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the tour suitable for children?
Children under 18 are offered non-alcoholic beverages during the wine tasting, making it a family-friendly option. They can enjoy exploring the museum and participating in the experience.
How long does the entire experience last?
Expect to spend about 1 to 2 hours, including exploring the museum, listening to the audio guide, and enjoying the wine tasting.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s wise to reserve your spot ahead of time, especially during peak seasons. You can cancel up to 24 hours prior for a full refund, offering flexibility in your plans.
Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, as it involves walking through underground caves with uneven surfaces.
What wines are included in the tasting?
You’ll sample at least four wines: an Assyrtiko (white), an Orange Wine (white), an Ambelones (red), and a Kamaritis (dessert red).
Does the tour include transportation?
No, transportation isn’t included. You will need to arrange your own travel to the museum, which is close to Fira but requires a taxi or bus.
Can I buy wine or souvenirs during the tour?
Yes, there’s a shop where you can purchase wines, souvenirs, and gifts, often using credit or cash.
Final Thoughts
This tour offers a rare peek into Santorini’s winemaking heritage within a stunning underground setting. It balances history, culture, and taste in a way that feels intimate and authentic—not overly touristy. Whether you’re a wine lover, a history buff, or simply curious about local traditions, you’ll find this experience rewarding.
For those who appreciate friendly guides, excellent wines, and atmospheric surroundings, this is a splendid way to connect with Santorini’s soul. It’s especially well-suited for visitors wanting a manageable, educational, and tasty side of the island that can easily fit into a half-day outing.
If you’re after authenticity, good value, and a memorable glimpse into Greek wine culture, this tour is worth your time—and you’ll leave with stories, new tastes, and maybe a bottle or two to share back home.
You can check availability for your dates here: