Polykala Distillery: 128 years of history & liqueur tasting.

Experience a Taste of Greek Heritage at Polykala Distillery in Athens

If you’re seeking to add a sweet, spirit-filled chapter to your Athens adventure, the Polykala Distillery offers a brief but memorable glimpse into 128 years of family-crafted liqueurs. Located in the heart of Athens, this tour costs around $16.20 per person and lasts approximately 30 to 40 minutes, making it a perfect quick stop between sightseeing or as a relaxing break after exploring the city’s historic sites.

What we love about this experience is the chance to learn directly from the family behind the recipes, complemented by a hands-on tasting of up to three flavors, and the opportunity to take home a small bottle of your favorite liqueur—all for a modest price. Plus, the shop offers a wide selection of elegant bottles for purchase, perfect as authentic souvenirs.

One thing to keep in mind is that this is a short, intimate experience—so if you’re looking for in-depth distillery tours or more extensive tastings, this might feel a little light. However, if you enjoy quick, authentic insights into local traditions and flavors, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a compact, engaging experience without taking up too much of their day.

If you’re curious about Greek spirits, love discovering family-run businesses, or simply want a fun, affordable way to sample local flavors, this tour will likely appeal to you. It’s also a great fit if you’re traveling with a small group or family, given the limited size (up to 10 travelers) and personalized touch.

Key Points

• Authentic family-run experience with a history spanning 128 years
• Tasting of up to three liqueurs and a small bottle to take home
• Learn the craft of making Greek liqueurs and how to mix cocktails
• Short and sweet—perfect for filling a brief window in your travel schedule
• Affordable value at around $16.20, including the tasting and bottle
• Personalized service with guides like Nina or Rena, who share the family’s stories

A Detailed Look at the Polykala Distillery Tour

The Location and Meeting Point

The tour begins at Kleisthenous 7 in Athens, a central spot easily accessible by public transportation. Given its proximity to key city sights, it’s convenient to squeeze into a busy sightseeing day. The meeting point is straightforward, and the experience is designed for small groups—max ten people—ensuring a more personalized feel.

The Short but Engaging Itinerary

The experience is divided into two main stops:

Stop 1: Kleisthenous 7
Here, Nina or Rena welcomes you warmly, sharing the family’s history and setting the tone for what’s to come. This brief intro—about 10 minutes—serves as a personal welcome and a peek into the family’s legacy. The reviews rave about how friendly and knowledgeable these guides are, often making visitors feel like part of the family.

Stop 2: The Polykala Distillery
This is where the magic of liqueur making unfolds over about 30 minutes. Guides explain how their recipes are crafted—what ingredients go into each bottle, the traditional methods still used, and how their process has stayed consistent through generations. The focus on family pride and authenticity shines through here, making the tasting even more meaningful.

What You’ll Experience and Learn

• Insight into the distillation process: You’ll understand how the family’s recipes have been preserved for over a century, and what makes their liqueurs special.
• Cocktail tips: Guides demonstrate how to mix your own drinks at home, adding a fun, practical element.
• Tasting session: Up to three flavors are sampled, each offering unique profiles—sweet, herbal, or fruit-based. Several reviews mention how delicious the samples are, with many describing the liquors as “classy” and “delicious.”
• Take-home gift: Each guest receives a 100ml bottle of their chosen liqueur, letting you enjoy a taste of Greece long after your visit.

The Shop and Additional Purchases

The distillery shop offers plenty of elegant bottles to buy, from small gift-sized bottles to larger keepsakes. Many visitors find these a perfect souvenir, especially since you get to taste the family’s recipes firsthand. Prices are reasonable, and the quality of presentation makes for a charming keepsake.

The Authentic Atmosphere

Despite some reports of closed doors at times—likely due to local holidays or unexpected closures—the overall experience is described as warm, welcoming, and intimate. Reviewers like Jeremy mention, “From the warm welcome from Nina to the classy showroom to the delicious samples, this is one of the finest memories I will have of Greece.” It’s clear that personal connection and authentic storytelling elevate the visit.

Practical Aspects and Considerations

• Duration: The entire experience is just under an hour, making it very manageable even for busy travelers.
• Price: At just over $16, it’s a bargain for the quality of storytelling, tasting, and souvenir.
• Booking: It’s recommended to book well in advance—around 74 days on average—since spots fill up quickly.
• Weather and Accessibility: The tour is outdoors/indoor, but good weather is preferred. The location near public transit makes it accessible, though travelers with medical conditions should weigh their comfort with alcohol tasting.

The Real Reviews: What Travelers Say

The majority of visitors rate this experience highly—averaging 4.7 stars out of 5—and most recommend it confidently. Jeremy’s glowing review highlights the friendly guides and delicious liquors, while others praise the excellent value and informative staff like Anna, who shared the distillation process with passion.

However, a few travelers have encountered issues—like the distillery being closed unexpectedly. These seem to be exceptions rather than the rule, and the provider offers refunds if cancellations occur.

Why This Tour Matters

This experience isn’t just about tasting alcohol; it’s about connecting with a family’s tradition and learning a craft that’s been preserved through generations. It’s an authentic glimpse into Greek culture, flavored with stories and personal touches that large, impersonal tours can’t match.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy short, meaningful cultural experiences. It suits those curious about family-run businesses, Greek spirits, or local traditions. It’s also perfect for small groups or travelers who want a nice, affordable souvenir. Keep in mind it’s a light experience—more about storytelling and tasting than in-depth distillery operations—so if you’re after a comprehensive tour, this might feel brief.

The Sum Up

The Polykala Distillery tour offers a charming, accessible way to taste authentic Greek liqueurs and learn about a family’s 128-year-old tradition. The guides’ warmth and knowledge, combined with the delicious samples and small bottle to take home, make this a delightful highlight in Athens. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate authentic stories, quality craftsmanship, and a quick dose of local flavor—all at a very reasonable price.

While it’s a brief experience, it’s packed with personality and authenticity. If you’re after a relaxed, intimate peek into Greece’s spirited side, this tour is an excellent choice. Just remember to book early and be prepared for possible closures—like any small family business, sometimes the unexpected happens.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Since it involves tasting alcohol, it’s generally for adults. Travelers with medical conditions or those sensitive to alcohol should consider this beforehand.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 30 to 40 minutes, making it a quick and easy addition to your day in Athens.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket includes a guided tour, the tasting of up to three liqueurs, and a 100ml bottle of your preferred flavor to take home.

Can I buy more bottles at the shop?
Yes, many elegant bottles are available for purchase, and prices are reasonable. It’s a nice way to bring home a piece of Greek craftsmanship.

What if the distillery is closed when I arrive?
Sometimes closures occur, often due to holidays or unforeseen circumstances. The provider offers refunds and flexible rescheduling if needed.

Is the tour accessible by public transport?
Yes, the meeting point is near public transit options, making it easy to reach from different parts of Athens.

How many people typically attend?
The maximum group size is 10 travelers, which helps ensure a personalized experience.

In the end, this tour combines history, family pride, and delicious flavors into a compact, memorable experience. It’s a great way to taste Greece’s spirits, hear heartfelt stories, and take home a handmade souvenir—all without breaking the bank.