From Athens: Wine Roads Private Tour with Wine Tasting

A Wine and Heritage Day From Athens: Exploring Central Greece’s Historic and Viticultural Treasures

If you’re looking to combine the best of ancient history with the pleasures of Greek wine, this private tour from Athens offers a compelling blend. For $335 per person, you’ll spend about nine hours traveling comfortably through some of Greece’s most renowned sites, including the Corinth Canal, Ancient Corinth, the Temple of Apollo, and the charming city of Nafplio. The highlight, of course, is the visit to a top-rated winery in Nemea, where you’ll taste some of Greece’s finest wines while enjoying spectacular views of the Nemean Valley.

What we really love about this experience is the way it balances historic exploration with relaxing wine tasting, making it perfect for travelers who crave a deeper connection to Greece’s past and present. The small-group setting (or private option) means you can enjoy personalized attention and flexibility. Another plus: the scenic driving route along the coast, with views of seaside villages and Salamis Island, makes the journey itself a memorable part of the day.

However, one consideration is the full itinerary and travel time—with so many stops packed into nine hours, it’s a busy day. If a slower pace or more time at each site appeals more to you, this might feel a bit rushed. This tour suits those eager to see key archaeological highlights, explore authentic Greek towns, and indulge in quality wine in one day.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary including archaeological sites, scenic drives, and wine tasting.
• Small group or private options for a personalized experience.
• Expert drivers with deep historical knowledge (though not licensed guides on-site).
• Includes transportation, wine tasting, and bottled water—all in one package.
• Ideal for history buffs and wine lovers craving a full-day adventure.
• Comfortable private vehicle ensures a smooth, hassle-free journey.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive Into the Experience

Starting From Athens: The Journey Begins

We’re picked up at our hotel or accommodation, easing away from Athens’ hustle into a more tranquil landscape. The drive along the coast is stunning, offering glimpses of quaint seaside villages and the island of Salamis, known for its historical naval battle. This scenic route sets a relaxed tone for the day ahead, making the journey part of the adventure rather than just transportation.

Corinth Canal: A Marvel of Engineering

Our first stop is the Corinth Canal, where we get about 15 minutes to snap photos of this impressive waterway. Opened in 1892, it slices through the Isthmus of Corinth, connecting the Saronic Gulf with the Corinthian Sea. We stand on the pedestrian bridge, marveling at the narrow canal below—a feat that still impresses visitors today. The short stop feels just right; enough time to appreciate the engineering without losing momentum.

Ancient Corinth and Temple of Apollo

Next, we wander through Ancient Corinth, where a self-guided tour of approximately 30 minutes invites us to explore the Roman Agora, the Temple of Apollo, and the historic site of Acrocorinth. Our guide, or driver, offers contextual insights—like how this was once a major hub for commerce and religion. The Temple of Apollo, one of Greece’s earliest Doric temples, is a highlight, providing a tangible link to Greece’s architectural evolution. We love the way ruins here are both evocative and accessible, with enough remaining structure to spark imagination.

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Acrocorinth: A Climb with Panoramic Rewards

A quick 15-minute stop at Acrocorinth offers breathtaking views and a chance to stretch our legs. The fortress atop the hill once guarded the city and offers a sweeping vista of the surrounding landscape. It’s a photo-worthy moment that captures the strategic importance of this site—a perfect snapshot of Greece’s layered history.

Exploring Nemea’s Wines and Wineries

Our journey continues inland to Ancient Nemea, a region famous for wine production dating back to antiquity. The 20-minute self-guided tour here takes us to the archaeological site, including the stadium, still remarkably well-preserved, with its tunnel and running track making us feel like athletes of ancient times. The site’s significance isn’t just historical; it’s also a living tradition, with modern wineries thriving in the area.

The highlight of the day is visiting one of Greece’s best wineries, where a guided 45-minute tour introduces us to the grape yards, barrels, and the meticulous process of wine-making. The tasting that follows includes some of their finest varieties, with the stunning Nemean Valley as a backdrop. We loved the way the guide explained the process, turning what might seem like a routine cellar visit into an engaging story about Greece’s wine heritage.

Discovering Nafplio’s Charm

After wine tasting, we head to Nafplio, often referred to as Greece’s most scenic town. We’re given about 50 minutes to wander its picturesque streets, lined with Venetian, neoclassical, and oriental architecture. The old city feels like walking through a living postcard—narrow alleyways, vibrant bougainvillea, and cozy cafés.

Final Stop at Akronafplia

Before heading back, we visit Acronafplia, a castle offering panoramic views over Nafplio and the sea. It’s a great photo spot and a fitting end to our day of exploring, history, and indulgence.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour covers most essentials: private luxury transportation, professional drivers with deep historical knowledge (though they’re not licensed guides on-site), wine tasting, and bottled water. The pick-up and drop-off at your hotel or Airbnb add convenience, making it easy to relax and focus on the experience.

Extras like entrance fees ($25 for non-EU travelers over 6 years old, slightly less for EU citizens) and optional licensed guides for an additional fee ($380) are available if you want deeper insights at archaeological sites. Lunch, which is not included, is best enjoyed in Nafplio’s seaside taverns, where you can savor fresh seafood or traditional Greek fare.

Value and Practicality

At $335, this tour offers a well-rounded day that combines cultural exploration, scenic beauty, and authentic wine tasting. Compared to visiting these sites individually, the guided transportation and organized itinerary save you time and effort—especially useful if you’re short on days or prefer a structured experience. The private group option or small-group setting enhances comfort and allows for some flexibility.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This outing is perfect for history enthusiasts, wine lovers, and travelers seeking an immersive, full-day experience without the hassle of planning. It’s ideal if you like a balanced itinerary—not too rushed, but packed with highlights. If you want to avoid crowded tours or prefer a more personalized touch, the private option ensures a tailored experience. Keep in mind that the day is busy, so if you prefer a leisurely pace or more time at each site, you might find it a little packed.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, starting and ending in Athens, with scheduled stops along the way.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses private luxury vehicles, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride on well-maintained roads.

Are there options for guided site tours?
The main tour includes self-guided visits at archaeological sites, but a licensed guide can be booked for an additional fee if available.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers transportation, wine tasting, bottled water, and the services of professional drivers with historical knowledge.

Can I customize the experience?
While the itinerary is structured, you can request a licensed guide for deeper site insights at an extra cost.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly?
Yes, it’s accessible and includes some walking and standing, but consider mobility levels for the historical sites and walking in Nafplio.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a camera. A small amount of cash for entrance fees or souvenirs might also be handy.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included; you’ll have time to enjoy a meal in Nafplio, where many seaside taverns serve excellent Greek cuisine.

Final Thoughts

This From Athens: Wine Roads Private Tour with Wine Tasting is a well-crafted blend of archaeology, scenic drives, and wine tasting—a perfect way to deepen your understanding of Greece beyond Athens’ city limits. The carefully chosen stops allow you to experience both ancient and modern Greece, with a focus on authenticity and comfort.

The day’s structure ensures you see key highlights without feeling overwhelmed, while the personalized or small-group setting makes the experience more intimate. The inclusion of a top-quality winery offers a glimpse into Greece’s proud wine-making tradition, which has been cultivated for thousands of years.

Whether you’re a history buff eager to walk where ancient athletes competed or a wine enthusiast wanting to sample Greece’s best vintages, this tour offers a practical and rewarding way to spend a day. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate a well-organized, hassle-free experience that combines cultural discovery with leisure.

In summary, this tour offers excellent value for its price, blending history, scenic beauty, and wine into one memorable day. Just prepare yourself for a full schedule and a lot of beautiful sights packed into one trip.

Interested in similar experiences? Check out options like the Athens-Mycenae-Epidaurus tour or full-day private trips to Olympia. Each offers a different slice of Greece’s legendary past and vibrant present, tailored to your interests.

You can check availability for your dates here: