The Saronic Gulf Islands are a fantastic destination for wine enthusiasts. Known for their volcanic soils and unique grape varieties, the islands produce wines that stand out in Greece. Whether you’re after a relaxed tasting, an informative tour, or a sunset experience, the islands offer a variety of options. We particularly like tours that combine authentic local winemaking with beautiful scenery and personalized service, like the Santorini Wine Roads Tour with Wine Tastings Morning & Sunset — which caps at just 10 people for a truly intimate experience. For those who want a full immersion, the Private Sunset Wine Tour with 3 Wineries and Tapas offers a personalized journey with carefully curated tastings during Santorini’s stunning sunset hours.
If you’re planning your wine adventures, this guide will help you choose among the best offerings, tailored for different interests and budgets. From small-group explorations to private tours with local guides, the options here showcase the diversity of wine experiences in the islands. Now, let’s dive into each of these top-rated tours.
1. Santorini Wine Roads Tour with Wine Tastings Morning & Sunset
This highly-rated half-day tour (rated 5.0/5 from 88 reviews) offers a relaxed yet in-depth look at Santorini’s volcanic wines. With an approximate duration of 4 hours, you’ll visit three family-owned wineries — each with its own story and style. The tour includes 12–14 tastings, which could be wines straight from the barrel or classic bottlings, paired with local nibbles. The small group size (no more than 10 people) guarantees personalized attention, making it perfect for wine lovers who enjoy a more intimate experience.
You can choose between a morning or sunset tour, both offering stunning views and a chance to learn about Santorini’s indigenous grapes and innovative vine-growing methods. The wineries visited typically include renowned family-run establishments, where you’ll hear about their unique cultivation techniques and production secrets. The sunset option offers the added bonus of enjoying your last tastings while watching the sun dip below the caldera — a memorable finish.
Bottom line: This tour offers a concentrated yet relaxed experience of Santorini wine culture, excellent for those who want to taste a broad selection without rushing. The small size and knowledgeable guides ensure you’ll leave with a new appreciation of the island’s volcanic wines.
2. Private Sunset Wine Tour with 3 Wineries and Tapas
At number 2, the Private Sunset Wine Tour is perfect if you want a more personalized, luxurious experience. This 4-hour journey, rated 5.0/5 from 28 reviews, takes you to three carefully chosen wineries, including Estate Argyros, Gavalas Winery (or similar), and Santo Wines. The focus here is on curated tastings of 12 different wines, paired with Greek cheeses and savory snacks, all while enjoying Santorini’s legendary sunset views.
The tour is exclusive, with a private guide and a private vehicle, allowing flexibility in your schedule and stops. The visit to Estate Argyros offers insights into three styles of wine and a chance to learn about traditional and modern Greek winemaking techniques. The visit to Santo Wines, the island’s largest winery, features a relaxed tasting with a glass of sparkling wine as the sun sets over the caldera — an iconic moment.
Guests praise the knowledgeable guides and the ability to customize the experience. One reviewer highlighted how the guide “made this an amazing adventure” with visits to water-facing venues and modern tasting rooms. This trip is ideal for couples or small groups seeking a romantic, in-depth experience with the highest level of comfort.
Bottom line: If you value exclusivity and tailored experiences, this sunset tour delivers in both intimacy and scenic beauty, making it a memorable highlight of your visit.
3. Discover Local Santorini Wine & Tasting
For travelers seeking a more personalized, less touristic approach, the Discover Local Santorini Wine & Tasting offers a private, small-group experience. Rated 5.0/5 from 5 reviews, this tour involves hotel pickup and drop-off and transportation in a comfortable Mercedes minibus. Over about 4.5 hours, you’ll visit several authentic wineries, including Anhydrous Winery and Estate Argyros, tasting 12–13 wines along the way.
This tour emphasizes learning about the elements that influence Santorini wines, like volcano ash, salt, and arid land. Your guide is well-versed in local wine history, sharing insights into each winery’s story and the nuances of Greek viticulture. The stops include Anhydrous Winery, where the winemaker experiments with ancient techniques, and Estate Argyros, established in 1903, where you can explore the family’s long-standing tradition.
Guests appreciate the relaxed pace and the opportunity to ask questions. One reviewer noted how “Mary was an amazing guide” and how each winery was “unique and gorgeous.” The tour suits those who want an in-depth, authentic look at Santorini’s wine scene without the crowds.
Bottom line: Perfect for wine aficionados interested in Greek wine’s terroir and tradition, especially those who prefer a private experience with expert insights.
4. Santorini Food & Wine Tour: Eat and Taste Like a Local
Our final pick, the Santorini Food & Wine Tour, combines tastings of local wines with the island’s culinary delights. Rated 5.0/5 from just 1 review, this tour lasts around 4.5 to 5 hours and includes door-to-door hotel pickup. You’ll visit Anhydrous Winery and Estate Argyros for wine tastings, sampling up to eight local wines, and enjoy a traditional Greek dinner in a Perivolos Beach taverna.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of food and wine, allowing you to explore Santorini’s gastronomy alongside its viticulture. The tour includes visits to less-visited spots like Monolithos Beach, offering a more relaxed, less crowded experience. The wines are reflective of the arid volcanic land and include Assyrtiko and Vinsanto varieties.
This trip is ideal for foodies or travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Santorini’s culinary scene with the added benefit of local dinner. The inclusion of private transport and hotel pickup adds convenience, making it suitable for those who prefer a hassle-free experience.
Bottom line: If you love pairing local wines with traditional Greek dishes and want a relaxed, immersive experience, this tour offers excellent value and authentic flavor.
$215.26 per person
How to Choose the Right Wine Tour in Saronic Gulf Islands
When selecting your wine experience, consider your budget and how much you want to learn versus relax. The Santorini Wine Roads Tour offers a balanced approach for those wanting many tastings in a small group. If you prioritize personalized service and scenic sunset views, the Private Sunset Wine Tour fits perfectly. For a more in-depth, authentic local experience, the Discover Local Santorini Wine & Tasting provides flexibility and insight. Lastly, if your focus is on food and wine pairing with a touch of local cuisine, the Santorini Food & Wine Tour is your best choice.
Booking early is recommended, especially during the peak summer months, as these tours are popular and often fill up quickly. Think about your interests — whether it’s learning about traditional grapes, enjoying spectacular sunsets, or pairing wine with local dishes — and pick the experience that best suits your style.
In summary, Santorini and the surrounding Saronic Gulf Islands offer a variety of wine tours that cater to different tastes and budgets. For a small-group, in-depth taste of volcanic wines, the Santorini Wine Roads Tour is excellent. Those wanting a luxurious, sunset-focused experience will love the Private Sunset Wine Tour. If you prefer a more relaxed, authentic visit, the Discover Local Santorini Wine & Tasting is perfect. And for a culinary journey, the Santorini Food & Wine Tour combines sightseeing, tastings, and local dining.
No matter your choice, booking in advance will ensure you get the best experience. These tours provide a fantastic way to deepen your understanding and appreciation of Santorini’s legendary wines — an essential part of any visit to this island paradise.