Megalochori stands out as a charming village in Santorini not just for its narrow streets and traditional charm but also for its thriving wine scene. Unlike more touristy spots, Megalochori offers authentic wineries, many of which are tucked into caves or old buildings, giving visitors a sense of stepping back in time. The area’s unique volcanic soil and climate produce wines that are both distinctive and memorable. Whether you’re after a luxury tasting, a scenic sunset experience, or a private tour exploring local villages, Megalochori’s wine tours have something to suit different tastes and interests.
Our favorite options include immersive experiences like the Santorini: Wine Tasting with Local Guide, which combines expert-led tastings with visits to historic wineries, and the Private Santorini Wine Journey: 2 Top Wineries & Local Lunch, perfect for those looking for a more personal touch. For sunset lovers, the Santorini: Explore the Island’s Beauty & Sunset Wine Tasting offers a picturesque way to end your day with wine and views.
1. Santorini: Wine Tasting with Local Guide
At number 1, we find the Santorini: Wine Tasting with Local Guide, which is perfect for those who want an all-encompassing, educational experience. For around $144 per person, you’ll explore caved-in wineries, learn from a top sommelier, and see the wine museum where reenactments of wine production bring history to life. The tour’s highlight is visiting a luxury winery and traveling in a comfortable, air-conditioned Mercedes-benz van, making the journey as enjoyable as the tastings.
The itinerary covers visits to three different locations with guided tours, tastings, and shopping opportunities. You’ll start with a pickup from any of nine locations around Santorini, including Thera, Oia, and Kamari. The tour offers a deep dive into the island’s winemaking tradition, illustrated by a history lesson from the expert sommelier. This tour is best suited for wine enthusiasts who want a comprehensive, luxury experience that balances education with taste. The only drawback? The duration limits the amount of time at each winery, but it’s a rich, quality-focused trip.
Bottom line: If you want a taste of luxury and learning, this tour balances both perfectly.
$144 per person
2. Private Santorini Wine Journey: 2 Top Wineries & Local Lunch
Number 2 on our list is the Private Santorini Wine Journey: 2 Top Wineries & Local Lunch. For around 4 hours, this tour offers a very personalized experience—ideal if you prefer a more intimate, flexible day out. Starting from Thera, you’ll visit Estate Argyros, a well-known winery where you’ll enjoy a 2-hour guided tasting. Then, you’ll head to Venetsanos Winery for a 4-course lunch paired with local wines, all while enjoying stunning caldera views.
This tour’s appeal lies in combining wine tasting with local cuisine and scenic vistas. The small-group or private setting ensures you get tailored attention, and the combination of wine and food makes it a full sensory experience. Many reviewers praise the quality of wine and the delicious lunch, describing it as “a perfect way to spend half a day.” It’s best suited for foodies and those wanting a relaxed, upscale experience without rushing.
Bottom line: If you’re after personalized service and a gourmet lunch paired with top wines, this private tour is hard to beat.
3. Santorini: Explore the Island’s Beauty & Sunset Wine Tasting
Number 3 combines sightseeing with wine tasting at sunset—a perfect choice for travelers seeking scenic beauty with a relaxed, cultural experience. The Santorini: Explore the Island’s Beauty & Sunset Wine Tasting spans about 6 hours, covering villages like Oia, Firostefani, and Megalochori. You’ll visit the highest point on the island at Prophet Elias, then relax with a wine tasting at a local winery as the sun sets over the caldera.
What makes this tour special is the combination of villages, spectacular views, and the romantic sunset. Your guide will share insights into local life, and you’ll have free time for shopping and exploring. The highlight is the wine tasting at sunset, which is a truly memorable experience and perfect for romantic couples or anyone wanting a full day of sightseeing and tasting.
This tour is best for those who want a comprehensive island experience with a focus on scenery and culture. The long duration means you’ll see many sights, but it might be tiring for those with limited mobility or tight schedules.
Bottom line: For a mix of exploration, beautiful views, and wine, this tour hits the spot.
4. Santorini: Private Sunset Tour with Wine Tasting and Dinner
Up next, the Santorini: Private Sunset Tour with Wine Tasting and Dinner offers a romantic, all-inclusive experience. At $311 per person, it’s a luxury option designed for couples or small groups wanting a special evening. The tour includes visits to Santo Wines for a cliffside wine tasting, a seaside dinner in a traditional tavern, and a beautiful sunset in Megalochori.
What sets this apart is the private setting and the combination of wine, local cuisine, and sunset views. The guide helps you explore hidden corners of the island, away from crowds, and captures some memorable photos. Guests often comment on the knowledgeable hosts and the peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for romantic getaways.
While more expensive, this tour offers value in exclusivity and a full evening of sensory delights. It’s geared toward luxury travelers who want a memorable, intimate experience with a touch of elegance.
Bottom line: If romance and privacy top your list, this sunset, dinner, and wine combo will not disappoint.
$311 per person
5. Santorini: Pyrgos and Megalochori Villages with Wine Tasting
Number 5 is a private tour that focuses on local village life—Pyrgos and Megalochori. At just $508 for a group, it’s ideal for travelers who want a more authentic, relaxed experience. The tour includes visits to traditional villages, where you can wander narrow streets, enjoy local dishes, and taste regional wines.
This tour is unique in its emphasis on local, off-the-beaten-path spots rather than heavily touristy areas. It’s perfect for those who enjoy culture and want to avoid the crowds. The light meal and wine tasting make it a good half-day option, especially if you appreciate local food and small-group intimacy.
Reviewers mention that the tour provides a behind-the-scenes look at local life, which is quite different from the typical winery visits. It suits adventurous travelers eager for an authentic village experience.
Bottom line: For those interested in local culture and small-group exploration, this tour offers a rewarding day.
$508 per group up to 1
6. Santorini Wine & History Tour with 3 Expert Sommeliers
Rounding out the list, the Santorini Wine & History Tour with 3 Expert Sommeliers is a specialized experience. Over 4 hours, you’ll visit three wineries with a sommeliers’ team guiding the tasting. Expect to sample 4 wines at each location, paired with premium cheeses.
What makes this tour unique is the deep dive into the island’s wine-making traditions through the eyes of three different sommeliers, each bringing their own expertise. This is perfect for culinary enthusiasts who want to learn about traditional winemaking methods and taste a variety of local wines. The guided visits make it a focused, educational experience that balances tasting with knowledge.
Reviewers appreciate the personalized guidance and the variety of wines. The tour is suited for those eager to understand Santorini’s wine culture in depth and is especially good for food and wine lovers.
Bottom line: If you want a specialist-led tour that combines education and tasting, this is a top choice.
How to Choose Your Perfect Wine Tour in Megalochori
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, interests, and time available. For a luxury experience with a focus on education, number 1 (the Wine Tasting with Local Guide) offers great value. If you prefer an intimate, personalized day with food, number 2 (Private Santorini Wine Journey) is ideal. For those wanting scenery and sunset views, number 3 (Explore the Island’s Beauty & Sunset) is hard to beat.
Couples seeking a romantic, private evening should look at number 4 (Sunset Sunset with Dinner). Travelers interested in local villages and authentic culture will appreciate number 5, the Pyrgos and Megalochori Villages. Finally, those who love deep knowledge and tasting should consider number 6 (Wine & History with Sommeliers).
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular times like sunset or private tours. Think about your main interests—whether it’s luxury, local culture, or scenic views—and choose a tour that matches your style.
In summary, Megalochori’s wine tours offer a range of experiences from luxury tastings to cultural explorations and sunset adventures. Whether you’re after an educational experience, a romantic evening, or a day of villages and local flavor, there’s a tour for you. Consider your preferences, check availability, and secure your spot early—Santorini’s wines won’t wait!