Wine Tour Athens to visit 2 of the most Award-Winning Wineries

A Private Wine Tour in Athens: Visiting Two Award-Winning Wineries

Imagine leaving the bustling streets of Athens behind for a few hours to explore the peaceful vineyards where Greece’s top wines are born. For $269.82 per person, this 6-hour private tour offers a chance to visit two standout wineries in the picturesque area of Spata, just a short drive from the city center. With a friendly driver and knowledgeable guides, you’ll experience the art of Greek winemaking firsthand, tasting everything from Malagouzia to Assyrtiko and Cabernet Sauvignon, all while enjoying authentic Greek bites.

What we particularly love about this experience is how it combines modern architectural ingenuity with traditional winery charm. The first stop is a bio-climatic winery recognized for its innovative design, perfectly blending sustainability and style. Then, the visit to a historic winery dating back to 1875 offers a glimpse into Greece’s long-standing winemaking traditions. Plus, the opportunity to purchase your favorite bottles at the end makes this a memorable, tangible souvenir.

One potential consideration is the additional cost of tastings—around $20-25 per person at each winery—which, while reasonable, adds to the overall price. Also, since this is a private tour, it’s best suited for those who value personalized attention and a flexible schedule.

This tour suits wine enthusiasts, travelers eager to learn about Greek viticulture, and anyone wanting a scenic escape with delicious tastings. It’s especially ideal if you’re interested in authentic experiences, beautiful scenery, and knowledgeable guides who are passionate about Greek wines.

Key Points

• Exclusive Private Experience: Only your group participates, ensuring personalized service.
• Two Award-Winning Wineries: From innovative architecture to traditional charm.
• Authentic Tastings & Food: Sample Greek wines paired with local bites like pies, rusks, and cheeses.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Insights into winemaking process and Greek wine traditions.
• Flexible & Convenient: Pickup and drop-off included, with options to purchase wines.
• Cost Consideration: Tasting fees are extra, but the overall experience offers excellent value.

Exploring the Details of Your Athens Wine Tour

This 6-hour private tour is designed to give you a well-rounded look into Greece’s wine scene, set against the beautiful backdrop of the Attica region. Starting with a pick-up from your hotel or cruise ship, the journey begins with a scenic drive along the Athens coastline, giving you a quick taste of the Athenian Riviera before heading inland to the vineyards.

The First Stop: Markopoulo Mesogeas

Your first destination is a bio-climatic winery located in Markopoulo, an architectural marvel recognized at the 2008 Architecture Awards by the Hellenic Institute of Architecture. We loved the way the design harmoniously fits into its surroundings—think sleek, eco-friendly, and modern, yet respectful of traditional roots.

Inside, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at wine production — from the fermentation tanks in the basement to the bottling and aging rooms. This visit not only offers a chance to see how Greek wines are crafted but also provides an educational perspective—perfect for those curious about sustainability in winemaking. The staff is eager to share their passion and explain the unique qualities of grapes like Malagouzia and Assyrtiko.

The Second Stop: Nikolou Winery

Next, you’ll visit a winery that embodies Greek tradition, with roots tracing back to 1875. This family-run operation boasts preserved folk architecture—think stone walls and grand arches—that immediately transport you back in time. Here, the focus is on age-old techniques and handcrafted wines.

You’ll sample a variety of wines including Malagouzia, Assyrtiko, and Cabernet Sauvignon, accompanied by local delicacies such as rusks, traditional pies, and cheeses. The tasting area is relaxed and welcoming, offering a genuine insight into Greek wine culture. We loved the authenticity of this stop, where tradition still holds sway.

Visiting the Wineries’ Shops

After the tastings, you can browse the on-site shops to buy your favorite bottles—perfect souvenirs or gifts to share with friends back home. Many visitors find this a highlight, as the wines are often exclusive and hard to find elsewhere.

Final Return

Your driver will then take you back to Athens, ensuring a comfortable and convenient end to your day. The entire experience is carefully curated to blend education, relaxation, and a taste of Greece’s winemaking craftsmanship.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The combination of innovative and traditional wineries is a key feature that appeals to a broad range of travelers. The first’s modern design and eco-conscious approach make it fascinating for those interested in architecture and sustainability, while the historic winery offers a glimpse into Greek heritage. Both stops are led by staff eager to share their knowledge, making the tasting sessions not just about drinking wine but understanding its story.

On top of that, the scenic setting near the coast adds a relaxed, picturesque backdrop—ideal for a leisurely day away from the city hustle. The inclusion of Greek food pairings enhances the experience, allowing you to savor the local flavors alongside the wines.

The private nature of the tour means more flexibility and personalized interaction, which many travelers find invaluable. Plus, the pickup and drop-off service ensures you won’t have to worry about transportation logistics, especially if you’re staying in Athens or on a cruise.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $269.82 per person, this tour offers good value, especially considering the private transportation, the guided visits, and the tastings—though the latter are separate at about $20-25 each. If you’re a wine lover or simply curious about Greek wine traditions, the cost is justified by the quality of the experience and the exclusive access to two award-winning wineries.

Keep in mind that this is a full-day activity, so it’s best suited for those who want a dedicated, relaxed afternoon of wine discovery. For travelers who enjoy learning about local specialties in a friendly, intimate setting, this tour delivers.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This Tour?

This Athens wine tour is ideal for enthusiasts eager to explore Greece’s wine-making landscape beyond just souvenir bottles. It’s perfect if you appreciate modern architecture combined with traditional charm and want to discover wines that are recognized internationally. The inclusion of local Greek dishes adds a flavorful touch, making it a well-rounded cultural experience.

Travelers who enjoy a personalized, relaxed pace will love having a private driver and guides tailored to your interests. It’s also a good choice for those who want a scenic escape with plenty of photo opportunities and authentic tastings.

However, if you’re strictly budget-conscious or prefer self-guided visits, this may be more than you need. Also, those not keen on paying extra for tastings or who prefer group tours might want to consider other options.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
It’s approximately 6 hours, including transportation, visits, and tastings.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, a private car with an English-speaking driver is included for pickup, drop-off, and sightseeing at the wineries.

Are tastings included in the price?
No, tastings cost an additional $20-25 per person at each winery, payable on-site.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, only your group will participate, ensuring personalized attention.

Can I buy wines during the tour?
Absolutely, both wineries have shops where you can purchase bottles to take home.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for walking and possibly some outdoor time, especially near the vineyards.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, including service animals, but check if mobility is a concern for winery visits.

In summary, this private Athens wine tour offers a rare glimpse into Greece’s winemaking excellence, combining innovative architecture and traditional charm. It’s a rewarding experience for those who enjoy wine, culture, and scenic beauty, all wrapped into a well-organized, personal package.