Greece Wine Roads: Athens, Nemea and Santorini

Greece Wine Roads: Athens, Nemea, and Santorini offers a unique blend of culture, scenery, and, of course, wine. For about $3,355 per person, you get five days of guided exploration that takes you from the historic streets of Athens to the lush vineyards of the Peloponnese, culminating in the breathtaking vistas of Santorini. With private transportation, hotel stays in four-star accommodations, and visits to five top wineries, this tour is designed for those who appreciate authentic experiences and a good glass of wine.

Two features we particularly love are the carefully curated stops at local wineries—where you’ll sample up to 48 wines in total—and the seamless logistics that let you enjoy Greece without the stress of planning. Plus, the inclusion of ferry rides and internal flights makes it a comfortable way to see some of Greece’s most celebrated wine regions in a short time.

One potential consideration is the price point, which might be steep for budget travelers, but considering the personalized attention and the quality of experiences, most will find it offers very good value. This tour is especially suited for wine lovers, travelers who enjoy a mix of scenic drives and culture, and those who want a hassle-free way to sample Greece’s wine heritage while soaking in stunning landscapes.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: From hotel stays and transportation to winery visits and tastings, most essentials are covered.
• Authentic Greek Wines: Focus on native varieties like Assyrtiko, Agiorgitiko, and Moschofilero, offering a taste of Greece’s unique viticulture.
• Comfort and Convenience: Private luxury vehicles, organized ferry trips, and well-chosen accommodations make for a smooth trip.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides enhance each visit, sharing insights into Greek wine and culture.
• Scenic Stops: From the Corinth Canal to Santorini caldera, every stop offers picture-perfect moments.
• Authentic Food Pairings: Tasting sessions include snacks, cold cuts, and cheese to complement the wines.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Practicality of a Well-Organized Itinerary

This tour is designed for travelers who value a well-structured plan that maximizes sightseeing and tasting without feeling rushed. Starting in Athens, you’re picked up from your hotel and transported in a private, air-conditioned vehicle—no group shuffling or crowded buses here, which means a more personal experience. The first day is primarily about settling in and getting familiar with the surroundings, so you can set a relaxed tone for the adventures ahead.

Day 2: Exploring Nemea and the Peloponnese’s Winemaking Heart

The highlight of this day is the visit to Nemea, which is Greece’s most prominent red-wine appellation—mainly from Agiorgitiko, a native grape. The area’s mountainous terrain and fertile valleys have nurtured wine production for centuries, producing everything from robust dry reds to sweeter styles. It’s a part of Greece that many visitors overlook, making it a real find.

The drive from Athens offers lovely scenery, and a stop at the Corinth Canal provides a perfect photo opportunity—imagine standing on the bridge, watching ships pass below with the Peloponnese on one side and Central Greece and the Aegean on the other. The guide’s commentary adds context, helping you appreciate the geological marvel and its importance for Greece’s maritime history.

At the wineries, you’ll taste up to 4-5 wines at each place, paired with snacks, cheese, and cold cuts, which elevates the tasting experience beyond just drinking wine. Reviews praise guides like Mikaella, who are “very knowledgeable,” making each visit both educational and enjoyable. After a full day of wine discovery, the journey ends with a return to Athens, giving you time to unwind.

Day 3 & 4: Santorini’s Unique Charm and Wine Heritage

Traveling to Santorini involves a ferry ride from Piraeus, which, in itself, is a fun part of the trip. Once on the island, you’ll settle into a boutique four-star hotel and have the afternoon free to explore Fira’s iconic alleyways—white-washed buildings, blue-domed churches, and stunning views of the caldera create a postcard backdrop at every turn.

Santorini’s volcanic soils give rise to Assyrtiko, a grape that produces crisp, minerally wines with exceptional character. The tastings at local wineries are a highlight, often set against the backdrop of volcanic landscapes. The Gavalas Winery tour, for example, includes walking through volcanic vineyards—a rare opportunity to see the island’s terroir firsthand. The tasting of up to 12 wines here is complemented by regional vinsanto, a sweet dessert wine, and local tapas, adding depth to your experience.

The sunset at Santo Wines is renowned for good reason—many reviews mention the “most beautiful sunset in the world.” It’s a fitting end to a day of wine and wonder. The next day is free for wandering, offering a chance to soak up the island’s relaxed vibe, explore tiny villages, or revisit favorite vistas.

The Sunset Wine Tour: A Perfect Closure

In the late afternoon, you’ll join a guided sunset wine tour that takes you to multiple family-owned wineries. The journey through dry fields and volcanic vineyards highlights how the unique climate and soil shape Santorini wines. Visiting Gavalas Winery and Santo Wines offers a diverse tasting experience—up to 16 wines in total—plus stunning views of the caldera at sunset.

Guests rave about the open-air tastings, which combine delicious local wines with scenic vistas. As one reviewer put it, “this was a fantastic and very simple way to explore some gorgeous spots in Greece while also enjoying excellent wines and tapas.”

Day 5: Farewell to Santorini and Return Home

The final morning is for enjoying a relaxed breakfast with the famous Santorini scenery. Your transfer to the airport is straightforward, and the trip back to Athens involves a short flight, included in the package—adding to the ease of this well-orchestrated experience.

The Experience Value and Who It’s Perfect For

This tour offers strong value for wine lovers eager to taste Greece’s native varieties in their authentic settings. The all-inclusive package—covering hotel stays, private transport, ferry tickets, winery visits, tastings, and flights—means you won’t need to worry about logistics or extra costs, allowing you to focus on enjoying each moment.

It’s especially ideal for those who appreciate expert guides who can share stories and insights, making each winery visit more meaningful. The carefully chosen accommodations and scenic routes enhance the overall experience, providing comfort and picturesque views.

While the price may seem high, the combination of seamless logistics, exclusive winery access, and in-depth tastings makes it a worthwhile splurge. If you’re looking for a luxurious yet authentic way to explore Greece’s wine regions, this tour hits all the right notes.

Travelers who enjoy a mix of scenic drives, cultural insights, and wine tasting will find themselves immersed in Greece’s genuine flavor—both in the glass and in the landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Since the legal drinking age in Greece is 18, this tour is best suited for adults who enjoy wine and cultural experiences.

Are the hotel accommodations comfortable?
Yes, the tour includes 4-star hotels in both Athens and Santorini, offering a good standard of comfort and convenience.

Is transportation private?
Absolutely. All transfers, including airport pickups, ferry rides, and winery visits, are in private luxury air-conditioned vehicles.

How many wineries will we visit?
You’ll visit a total of five wineries, with four to five wine tastings at each, providing plenty of opportunity to sample diverse Greek wines.

What varieties of wine will I taste?
Expect to taste native Greek varieties such as Assyrtiko, Agiorgitiko, Moschofilero, Mandilaria, and Malagouzia, plus regional vinsanto.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is included at your hotels, and tastings often come with snacks, cheese, and cold cuts, but other meals are at your discretion.

Can I customize the itinerary?
This is a private tour, so there’s some flexibility to adapt certain stops or timing based on your preferences.

How long are the ferry and flight segments?
The ferry from Piraeus to Santorini takes about 45 minutes, and the flight from Santorini to Athens is approximately 45 minutes.

What is the best time to take this tour?
While not specified, Greece’s wineries and scenery shine best from spring to early fall, when weather is warm and dry.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to six days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within this window are subject to partial or no refunds, depending on timing.

In sum, the Greece Wine Roads tour is a well-crafted experience that combines scenic beauty, cultural richness, and exceptional wine tasting. It’s perfect for travelers who want to indulge in Greece’s viticultural heritage without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. Whether you’re a dedicated oenophile or simply love discovering new places with a glass in hand, this trip offers a thoughtfully balanced journey into Greece’s finest wine regions.