Private Athens By Night Food Tour & Wine Tasting of 5 Varieties

A Night to Remember in Athens: Private Food and Wine Tour & Tastings

Exploring Athens after sunset offers a different face of this city—more atmospheric, lively, and bursting with flavors. This private four-hour night tour takes you through some of the city’s most iconic neighborhoods, including Monastiraki, Syntagma, and Plaka, with a local guide leading the way. For $284.38 per person, you’ll visit three carefully selected eateries, participate in a wine tasting of five Greek varieties, and enjoy a full dinner, all while soaking up Athens’ illuminated monuments and lively street life.

Two standout features of this experience are the expertly curated tastings—from street-food classics to refined wines—and the opportunity to learn about Greek culture and food traditions in a relaxed, friendly setting. The tour’s focus on authentic local spots rather than tourist traps means you’re genuinely experiencing Athens as locals do. It also offers a wonderful balance of walking, tasting, and storytelling, making it perfect for food lovers, wine enthusiasts, and those wanting a comprehensive introduction to the city’s evening vibe.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour starts in the early evening, so arriving hungry and ready to indulge is a good idea. Also, as the tour involves a fair amount of walking and standing, it’s best suited for those with comfortable footwear and moderate mobility. This experience particularly suits travelers who enjoy immersive cultural moments, delicious food, and authentic local ambiance rather than just sightseeing.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Focus on local eateries and spots popular with residents.
• Comprehensive Tastings: Includes Greek street food, cheese, olive oil, wine, and desserts.
• Expert Guides: Guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and eager to share insights.
• Cultural Depth: Learn about Greek wine, cuisine, and local customs.
• Great Value: Over enough food for dinner, with all taxes included.
• Best for Food & Wine Lovers: Perfect for those wanting an immersive, delicious evening.

A Detailed Look at the Athens Night Food Tour & Wine Tasting

Walking through Athens after dark reveals a city alive with energy and flavor. This private tour, around four hours long, is designed to showcase the best of Greek cuisine and wines in an authentic setting. You’ll be joined by a local guide—whose knowledge and enthusiasm make all the difference—and taken to some of the city’s favorite local spots.

Starting Point: Syntagma Square

Your evening begins in the heart of Athens, at Syntagma Square. Watching the illuminated Greek Parliament building sets a festive mood, and your guide, perhaps Eugenia or Melpo, will set the tone with friendly storytelling. From here, the adventure begins, blending sightseeing with tastings.

First Stop: Monastiraki for Street Food

The lively Monastiraki neighborhood is famous for its bustling flea market and street life. You’ll start with a souvlaki—a Greek classic—where you can choose your preferred meat or vegetarian option. What’s great about this stop is how local it feels; it’s a spot where Athenians grab a quick, delicious snack. Several reviews highlight this as a highlight, with one reviewer noting, “be sure you are hungry!” because the portions and quality are substantial.

Expect a cozy, informal atmosphere, with your guide explaining how the souvlaki is a staple in Greek fast food. The authenticity and simplicity of this dish set the table for the rest of the evening.

Second Stop: Syntagma Wine Tasting

After your street food, a short walk takes you to a wine bar in the Syntagma district. Here, you’ll sample four Greek wines, each paired with fine cheeses. This part of the tour is especially appreciated, as it offers a taste of Greece’s diverse wine culture—from crisp whites to robust reds. Multiple reviews praise guides like Constantine and Maia for their insightful commentary, making the wine tasting both educational and enjoyable. One reviewer mentioned, “the wine is unbelievable, as expected, and the experience is even better.”

This is an ideal segment for wine lovers or those curious about Greece’s viticultural heritage. The relaxed setting also encourages questions and conversations, adding depth to your understanding of the local wine scene.

Third Stop: Plaka Olive Oil and Mastiha Tasting

Next, wander into the historic Plaka district, with its charming, labyrinthine streets. Here, you’ll learn about Greek olive oil varieties—a key ingredient in Greek cuisine—and taste different types, discovering their uses in everything from salads to cooking. You’ll also have the chance to sample mastiha, a traditional Greek liqueur flavored with resin from the mastic tree, noted for its distinctive aroma and taste.

Guests often find these tastings eye-opening, as one review mentions, “we got to taste many things that were totally new to us,” highlighting how this segment broadens one’s palate and understanding of Greek food traditions.

Main Course Dinner: Syntagma and Ella’s Tavern

Returning to Syntagma, you’ll sit down for a full dinner—your choice of main course, Greek salad, and appetizers. The meal is served at a local tavern, with friendly service and authentic dishes. The tour includes traditional spirits—such as ouzo or tsipouro—to accompany your meal.

Several reviewers, like Glenn, noted that by the evening’s end, they were “stuffed and could not fit another thing in.” The quality of the food and the generous portions make this a true value, especially considering that all tastings and the dinner are included in the price.

Sweet Finish: Gelato in Syntagma

To cap off your evening, indulge in Greek gelato, savoring the creamy textures and fruity flavors in the bustling Syntagma area. It’s a perfect way to relax and reflect on the evening’s culinary journey before heading back to your accommodation.

Overall Experience: What Guests Love

Reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides—noting how guides like Eugenia, Maia, and Maria made the experience memorable with their stories and warmth. The diverse tastings, from street food to wine, cheese, and desserts, balance well with the walking, making the tour both fun and filling. Many mention how this tour is a great way to start a trip, offering valuable insights into local customs and flavors.

Some guests note the importance of arriving hungry, as the tour provides enough food for dinner. Others appreciate the local, less touristy spots that give an authentic taste of Athens. The fact that the tour is private means you can tailor the experience slightly, ask questions freely, and enjoy the company of your group.

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration is timing—starting in the early evening means you’ll want to arrive ready to eat, and the walking can be moderate to brisk at times. If you’re not fond of walking or standing for long periods, this might be less ideal. Plus, some reviews suggest trying to do the wine tasting earlier, as it might pair better before a heavy dinner.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits foodies, wine lovers, and those eager to explore Athens’ local neighborhoods in a relaxed setting. It’s also excellent for first-time visitors who want a comprehensive introduction to Greek culinary customs, culture, and city highlights. If you’re traveling with a partner, friends, or family and want a personalized, memorable night out, this tour hits the spot.

Final Thoughts

This private Athens by Night Food Tour & Wine Tasting offers a delightful blend of authentic cuisine, local wine, and city sights under the stars. The guides’ passion and knowledge elevate the experience, making it more than just a tasting—it’s an introduction to the soul of Athens.

You’ll walk away with a full belly, new insights, and a deeper appreciation of Greek food and culture. It’s especially ideal if you’re keen on sampling local favorites, learning about Greek wine, and enjoying an evening in a city that truly comes alive after dark.

For those seeking a well-paced, genuine, and delicious introduction to Athens, this tour is hard to beat. Just remember to come hungry, wear comfortable shoes, and prepare for a lively, flavorful night out.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, substitutions can be provided for vegetarians, so inform the guide when booking.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately four hours, starting in the early evening and ending back at the meeting point.

Where does the tour begin and end?
It starts at Syntagma Square and concludes in the same area, making it easy to reach by public transport.

Is the tour private or group?
This is a private experience, so only your group will participate, ensuring a personalized vibe.

Are all tastings included?
Yes, all Greek specialties, wine, and desserts are included, more than enough for dinner.

Can children participate?
Children are allowed but must be accompanied by an adult; the minimum drinking age is 18.

What’s the best way to prepare?
Arrive hungry and wear comfortable shoes for walking. Mention dietary restrictions in advance.

What about transportation?
Public transportation options are nearby, as the meeting point is centrally located.

Is the wine tasting suitable for all?
Most guests enjoy it, but if you dislike wine or alcohol, you might prefer to skip or limit this part.

How do I cancel if my plans change?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the experience for a full refund.

In summary, this night-time culinary journey in Athens offers a well-rounded, authentic experience that combines delicious food, fine wine, and vibrant city views. It’s perfect for those wanting to kick off their Greek adventure with a tasty, culturally enriching evening.