Santorini: Akrotiri & Local Wine Tasting e-TUK Tour

This experience made our article of Top 9 Wine Tours In Fira.

Discover Santorini with the Akrotiri & Local Wine Tasting e-TUK Tour

Imagine cruising through the scenic streets of Santorini on a sleek, electric TUK TUK, feeling the island breeze and soaking up the views without the noise or fumes of traditional vehicles. For about $208 per person, this half-day private tour takes you on a journey through the island’s most notable wineries, a historic lighthouse, and a hidden beach. It’s a perfect blend of cultural insight, stunning scenery, and relaxing fun.

What we really love about this experience is how intimate and flexible it feels. With a private guide, you get personalized attention and the chance to ask questions at each stop. Plus, the eco-friendly TUK TUK adds a playful element that makes the journey memorable. On the downside, because it’s a relatively short tour, you might want to supplement it with more time exploring on your own. It’s best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, yet informative introduction to Santorini’s wineries and scenic spots.

If you’re someone who appreciates good wine, breathtaking views, and authentic local flavors—all while enjoying a comfortable ride—this tour could be just what you’re looking for. It’s ideal for those who prefer small-group, personalized experiences over large, crowded tours, and who value a mix of history, nature, and gastronomy.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Eco-Friendly Experience: Ride in a 100% electric, quiet TUK TUK, ideal for exploring without disturbing the peaceful island atmosphere.
• Historic Wineries: Visit award-winning vineyards like Boutari, producing wines since 1879, emphasizing indigenous Greek grape varieties.
• Authentic Tasting: Sample a traditional ouzo made with Assyrtiko grapes, saffron, and anise, along with local wines and spirits.
• Stunning Views: Enjoy panoramic vistas from Venetsanos Winery and the Akrotiri Lighthouse, plus a secluded beach with volcanic pebbles.
• Flexible & Private: The tour is customizable and private, allowing for a more personal experience tailored to your interests.
• Limited Alcohol Included: Note that alcoholic beverages are not included, so budget accordingly for tastings or extra drinks.

An In-Depth Look at the Santorini e-TUK Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins at well-known hotels and central locations like the Atlantis Hotel, Boheme, and Onar Hotel, making it convenient for most travelers. The electric TUK TUKs are a highlight in themselves. We loved the way they combine the charm of traditional rickshaws with modern eco-conscious technology. The ride is smooth, surprisingly quiet, and allows you to take in the scenery without the usual noise of a bus or car.

Because the tour is private, we felt free to ask questions and customize our stops slightly. The group size is small, generally just your party and guide, which makes for a more relaxed and engaging experience. The duration of the tour, approximately half a day, strikes a good balance—enough to see key sites without feeling rushed.

Visit to Boutari Winery

Our first stop was the Boutari Winery, established in 1879. This historic winery is a pillar of Greek winemaking, especially notable for focusing on indigenous grape varieties. We appreciated how knowledgeable our guide was about the local winemaking traditions and how Boutari has contributed to the island’s wine revival.

Here, you get a sense of tradition mixed with innovation. The winery’s location near Megalochori offers lovely views of the surrounding vineyards. We loved the way the staff explained their careful wine production process and the significance of the local grapes, especially the Assyrtiko.

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Canava Santorini Distillery: Ouzo and Spirits

Next, we visited Canava Santorini, run by the Lygnos family since 1974. This small distillery crafts spirits using traditional methods, and you get to see the copper stills in action. The highlight was tasting their handcrafted ouzo, made with Assyrtiko grapes, saffron, and anise, which offers a unique flavor profile different from standard ouzo.

Travelers repeatedly mention the distinct notes of saffron and anise, which add an aromatic complexity. It’s a real treat for spirits enthusiasts and those curious about local distilling techniques. The owners’ passion shines through, making this stop a highlight of the tour.

Venetsanos Winery: Views and Innovation

The Venetsanos Winery, established in 1947, is a marvel of architecture and engineering. Perched above Athinios Port, its gravity-fed design reflects both practicality and innovation—originally built to conserve energy in a time of scarcity.

The views from Venetsanos are breathtaking, overlooking the caldera with the volcano in the distance. We loved the way the winery’s structure and setting create a sense of stepping back in time, yet with a forward-thinking approach to winemaking. Sample their wines and savor the panoramic vistas—it’s a moment to pause and appreciate the landscape.

SantoWines: The Largest Cooperative

Our next stop was SantoWines, the island’s largest cooperative since 1947. With over 1,200 members, the cooperative focuses on sustainable farming and traditional cultivation. Their tasting room offers a chance to try PDO Santorini wines alongside local products.

The views from SantoWines are expansive, stretching across the vineyards and the blue Aegean beyond. Many reviews note the quality and freshness of their wines. The cooperative’s support for local farmers means you’re drinking authentic, locally produced wine—something we value highly.

Akrotiri Lighthouse and Kambia Beach

The Akrotiri Lighthouse, built in 1892, is a peaceful spot to watch the sunset and reflect on the island’s maritime history. It’s a quiet, scenic place away from busier tourist spots, with stunning views over the Aegean.

Finally, we visited Kambia Beach, a hidden gem with volcanic pebbles, clear waters, and natural shade. Although accessible via a dirt road, the beach offers a cozy atmosphere with limited sunbeds and a small taverna serving fresh seafood. It’s perfect for a quick dip and a relaxed break.

Tour Logistics and Overall Value

This tour lasts about four hours, starting in the morning or early afternoon, making it easy to fit into a day’s itinerary. The group size is kept small, enhancing the personalized feel, and the cost of $208 includes all the visits and tastings (excluding alcohol, which is optional).

While the tour does not include alcoholic beverages, the variety and quality of tastings at each stop are impressive, especially considering the historical and cultural insights offered. The flexibility of a private tour is a real advantage—if you’re interested in wine, history, or just having fun exploring on a quirky vehicle, it’s a worthwhile investment.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy local wines and spirits and want a relaxed, engaging way to explore Santorini’s scenic spots. It suits those who prefer small-group, personalized tours over large, bus-based excursions. The mix of history, nature, and tasting makes it perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting an authentic taste of the island away from the crowds. If you’re keen on eco-friendly travel and fun rides, this tour hits the right notes.

The Sum Up

The Santorini Akrotiri & Local Wine Tasting e-TUK Tour offers a wonderfully balanced glimpse into the island’s wineries, landscapes, and lighthouse history. It’s a playful, eco-conscious way to see some of the most beautiful views and sample the local flavors, all with a personal touch. The stops at historic wineries, the distillery, and the serene beach provide a well-rounded experience that’s both relaxing and enriching.

This tour is perfect for those who value authenticity and comfort, especially if you’re interested in Greek wine culture and scenic vistas. While it doesn’t include meals or extensive tastings, the quality of the visits and the intimacy of the private setting make this a smart choice for a memorable half-day outing.

If you’re seeking a fun, environmentally friendly exploration of Santorini’s wine heritage combined with stunning scenery and personalized service, this tour will not disappoint.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, as long as participants are comfortable riding on a TUK TUK and enjoy sightseeing and tasting experiences. It’s a family-friendly activity, though young children should be supervised.

Are alcoholic beverages included in the tour?
No, alcohol is not included. However, tastings are provided at each winery and distillery, and you can purchase additional drinks if desired.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately four hours, making it a perfect half-day activity that fits well into a broader itinerary.

Is this tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Since the stops involve some walking and uneven surfaces (like the beach and winery grounds), it’s best suited for those with good mobility.

Can I customize the stops or duration?
As a private tour, there’s some flexibility to tailor the experience to your interests, within reasonable limits.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a small amount of cash for souvenirs or extra drinks. Remember, alcohol tastings are extra if you want to indulge more.

This private e-TUK tour combines ecological travel, cultural insights, and scenic beauty into a compact experience that captures the spirit of Santorini. It’s a delightful way to enjoy the island’s wine heritage and stunning vistas, perfect for curious explorers seeking an authentic, fun adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: