Vothonas might be a small village, but it packs a punch when it comes to exceptional wine tours. Unlike some of the more commercialized destinations, Vothonas offers authentic experiences that highlight Greece’s rich winemaking tradition. Whether you’re exploring underground wine museums, sampling wines at historic estates, or enjoying intimate tastings at local wineries, this village provides a genuine taste of Santorini’s vinicultural heritage. We particularly love the Cave Wine Museum tour for its immersive underground setting and the opportunity to taste pre-phylloxera vines, which are rare and fascinating. If you’re after a personalized experience, the Santorini: Authentic Private Wine Tasting Tour offers a luxurious private outing with expert guides.
For those who want to visit multiple wineries, the 3 Wineries Visit with 11/12 Wines Premium Tasting combines vineyard walks, museum visits, and tasting sessions, making it a well-rounded choice. And for a comprehensive day including historical insights and local snacks, the Wine Tasting in locals wineries delivers an engaging, flavorful journey through Santorini’s distinctive wines.
1. Santorini Visit Cave Wine museum and Wine tasting
At number one on our list is the Santorini Visit Cave Wine Museum and Wine Tasting experience, which scores a perfect 5/5 from three reviews. Priced at $96 per person, this 2-hour tour offers a deep dive into Santorini’s past by exploring Wine Museum Koutsogiannopoulos, built in a natural underground labyrinth. It’s one of the most memorable wine museums worldwide, displaying a timeline from the 1600s to the 1950s.
What makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to taste three distinct Santorini wines, cultivated from vines that survived the phylloxera plague — a rare find. The underground setting creates a cool, atmospheric backdrop perfect for capturing photos and soaking in the vineyard’s history. The shuttle pickup and the use of radios for easy listening make the experience relaxed and enjoyable. Visitors love the friendly staff and the quality of the wines, with one reviewer noting, “Great tour. Shuttle pick up was excellent… and the wine was great!”
Bottom line: This tour is ideal for wine lovers who want an authentic, educational experience in an unforgettable setting, all at a reasonable price.
2. Santorini: Authentic Private Wine Tasting Tour
Coming in at number two is the Santorini: Authentic Private Wine Tasting Tour, which provides a personalized, four-hour journey for up to two people at $440 per group. This tour is perfect if you prefer a more intimate experience, led by expert guides who can tailor the visit to your interests.
It begins at the Koutsogianopoulos wine museum, where you’ll sample four wines, then moves on to the Art Space Museum Art Gallery with six tastings. The final stop is the historic Argyros winery, one of the oldest on the island, offering four more samples. This curated itinerary offers a balance of museum visits, vineyard walks, and tasting sessions, with insights into Greek wine-making traditions. Guests frequently comment on the guide’s knowledge and the relaxed pace, making it a favorite for couples or small groups wanting a bespoke experience.
Bottom line: This private tour is best suited for wine aficionados seeking exclusivity and expert guidance, making it worth the higher price tag.
$440 per group up to 2
3. Santorini: 3 Wineries Visit with 11/12 Wines Premium Tasting
Ranked third is the Santorini: 3 Wineries Visit with 11/12 Wines Premium Tasting, which offers a 3.5-hour adventure for $154 per person. This tour takes you to Santo Winery, Estate Argyros, and the Wine Museum Koutsogiannopoulos, covering a broad spectrum of Santorini’s wine scene.
You’ll taste a total of nine Greek wines during three private sessions paired with local snacks and cheeses. The tour includes visits to the vineyards for a walk through the grapevines, and a museum stop to learn about winemaking history. The air-conditioned minibus ensures comfort during transfers. Guests enjoy the mix of small-group conversations and the chance to compare wines from different estates. One review mentions that the experience is lively and informative, perfect for those who want to learn while tasting.
Bottom line: This tour offers good value for wine enthusiasts who want a comprehensive introduction to Santorini’s wines and vineyards in a manageable timeframe.
$154 per person
4. Santorini: Wine Tasting in locals wineries
The last spot on our list is the Santorini: Wine Tasting in locals wineries, rated 4.6/5. Lasting 3 to 4 hours, this experience provides a more authentic, laid-back look at Santorini’s wine scene. The tour includes visits to caved-in wineries and a luxury winery, guided by a top sommelier who shares the island’s winemaking stories.
Highlights include a reenactment of wine production at the wine museum, tasting at local wineries, and learning about the history behind the wines. The itinerary features stops at 12 pickup locations, making it flexible to suit your location. The guided visits include cheese tastings and time to enjoy the surroundings. Reviewers appreciate the depth of knowledge from the sommelier and the chance to see traditional wine cellars firsthand.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who prefer a more immersive, educational experience that combines wine with local culture.
How to Choose the Best Wine Tour in Vothonas
When selecting a wine tour, consider your budget, time available, and how much you want to learn or relax. For an affordable, immersive underground experience, the Cave Wine Museum tour is hard to beat. If privacy and personalized attention are your priorities, the Private Tasting offers a customized journey. For those wanting a comprehensive taste of multiple wineries with a mix of sightseeing and tasting, the 3 Wineries Tour is excellent value. Finally, for a local, authentic vibe, the Wineries Tour with local wineries provides an engaging and laid-back experience.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred time and avoid missing out on these memorable experiences.
In summary, Vothonas offers a variety of wine tours tailored to different tastes and interests. Whether you’re after an underground museum visit, a private tasting, or a full-day vineyard adventure, there’s a perfect option waiting for you. For most visitors, combining a visit to the Cave Wine Museum with a private or multi-winery tour provides a well-rounded and authentic taste of Santorini’s wine culture. So, raise a glass, plan ahead, and enjoy your flavorful journey through this beautiful island’s wine country.