Santorini’s stunning vistas, whitewashed buildings, and dramatic volcanic landscapes make it a top destination not just for sightseeing but also for memorable dining experiences. The island’s volcanic soil imparts a distinctive character to its wines, which are celebrated worldwide. One of our favorites is the Santorini Wine Stories: Sunset Tour with Tasting & Dinner—a small-group tour that combines spectacular vineyard visits, learning about volcanic terroir, and a delectable five-course dinner. It’s a perfect way to combine gastronomy and culture with breathtaking views. For those seeking an indulgent day on the water, the Luxury Santorini Sunset Cruise, with its BBQ and open bar, offers a luxurious way to enjoy the sunset while swimming at volcanic hot springs. If privacy is your style, the Private Sunset Sailing Tour with dinner and drinks promises a personalized, romantic experience, complete with panoramic caldera vistas.
Santorini is a haven for food lovers and wine enthusiasts alike. Whether you prefer tasting local wines during a guided tour, enjoying a sunset cruise with fresh seafood, or experiencing authentic Greek dance and music at a lively tavern, the options are plentiful. This guide highlights the top choices, balancing price, experience, and authenticity to help you find your perfect dining adventure.
Quick Overview
Our list features a variety of Santorini dining experiences suited for different interests and budgets. From wine tasting tours like Santorini Wine Stories to luxury cruises such as the Luxury Sunset Catamaran, there’s something for all. You’ll find private sailing tours, sea kayaking, lively Greek nights, and multi-hour excursions exploring the caldera and islands. Each offers a distinct way to savor Santorini’s flavors while soaking in its stunning scenery.
Below, we detail each experience, helping you decide which one best matches your taste, budget, and style.
1. Santorini Wine Stories: Sunset Tour with Tasting & Dinner
At number 1 on our list, the Santorini Wine Stories offers an immersive half-day experience that’s perfect for wine lovers. With a maximum of a small group, you’ll visit three traditional wineries, learning about how the island’s volcanic soil impacts wine flavor. The tour includes cellar tours and tastings of 10 wines, such as Assyrtiko, Nykteri, and Vinsanto. The highlight is a five-course dinner paired with the wines, served against a stunning sunset backdrop.
Tour guide Nikolas is praised for his passion and knowledge, making each visit educational and fun. The experience is great value at around $200, especially considering the included dinner, wine tastings, and vineyard visits. This trip suits wine connoisseurs and those wanting a relaxed, intimate taste of Santorini’s terroir. Be aware that walking through vineyards and winery tours require comfortable shoes.
Bottom Line: A perfect blend of education, taste, and scenery, ideal for wine enthusiasts eager to explore Santorini’s unique volcanic wines.
2. Luxury Santorini Sunset Cruise: Dinner, BBQ, Open Bar, Transfers
For around $154, the Luxury Sunset Cruise offers a high-end way to enjoy Santorini’s iconic sunset. Departing from Vlychada port, this catamaran adventure takes you past famous spots like Red Beach, Indian Rocks, and Akrotiri Lighthouse. The boat stops for swimming and snorkeling at Mesa Pigadia Beach, with time for a hot springs visit—so you get both adventure and relaxation.
The all-you-can-eat BBQ lunch, along with unlimited drinks, makes this a fantastic value for a day on the water. The positive reviews highlight excellent staff, delicious food, and unforgettable sunset views. The cruise is suited for travelers who enjoy luxury and socializing, and want a more relaxed, scenic experience without sacrificing comfort. The boat’s intimate size ensures a more personal atmosphere.
Bottom Line: A fantastic choice for those who want a scenic, luxurious day with good food, drinks, and memorable views.
3. Santorini Private Sunset Sailing Tour with Dinner, Drinks & Transfer included
For a truly personalized experience, the Private Sunset Sailing Tour is unbeatable. Priced at $626, this 44-foot yacht accommodates up to 10 guests in complete privacy. Your crew provides free-flow beer, wine, water, and a full dinner while you enjoy views of Red Beach, White Beach, Palea Kameni, and Thirassia Island.
The highlight is witnessing the famous Santorini sunset from your own boat, with options to swim, snorkel, or simply relax. The package includes hotel transfers, making logistics easy. Guests rave about the personalized care and the flexibility to customize stops. This experience suits romantic couples or groups seeking an intimate, luxury adventure.
Bottom Line: Perfect for couples or small groups seeking exclusivity and a romantic setting, with all the comforts of a private yacht.
4. Santorini: Sunset Sea Kayak with Light Dinner
If you’re looking for a more active, outdoor experience, the Sunset Sea Kayak is a fantastic choice. For $139, you’ll paddle along the coast from Black Beach, enjoying views of Indian Bay and the caldera. The tour includes snorkeling, a picnic on the beach, and the chance to kayak to Red Beach.
Guide Panos keeps the group safe and informed, and reviews praise the breathtaking sunset and crystal-clear waters. The tour is best suited for physically fit travelers who enjoy nature and water activities, with the added bonus of a relaxed dinner. It’s a great way to combine adventure and scenic beauty.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers who want a hands-on experience of Santorini’s coast with stunning sunset views.
5. Santorini Sunset Sailing Cruise: Dinner, BBQ, Open Bar, Transfers
At just $139, the Sunset Sailing Cruise is a popular choice. This 5-hour trip departs from Vlychada, cruising past Red Beach, Indian Rocks, and Palea Kameni. The boat stops at Mesa Pigadia Beach for swimming, with a delicious Greek dinner served onboard. The open bar complements the feast, and the sunset views are spectacular.
Guests mention the friendly crew and beautiful locations. The cruise appeals to travelers who want a balance of food, scenery, and socializing. It’s a good option for those who prefer group settings over private tours but still want quality.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers wanting an affordable, fun, and scenic evening on the water with excellent food and drinks.
6. Private Sunset Cruise with Full Greek Dinner
This exclusive private cruise costs roughly $522 per person but offers a personalized, romantic experience. The boat covers Red Beach, Akrotiri, White Beach, and Thirassia, with optional dips in the hot springs. The full Greek dinner and drinks onboard create a luxurious setting, perfect for couples celebrating special occasions.
The reviews highlight the personalized service and the romantic atmosphere. The tour includes hotel transfers, and the crew ensures every detail is handled. It’s best suited for travelers who prioritize privacy and luxury over budget.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for honeymooners or couples seeking an exclusive, high-end experience.
7. Santorini Caldera Sunset Sailing Cruise with Dinner and Wine
For a full-day adventure, the Caldera Sunset Cruise offers a 6-hour trip for about $93. Guests explore the volcano with a guided hike, soak in hot springs, and sail past Thirassia. The cruise includes dinner and wine while watching the sunset over Oia.
The experience is praised for its balanced itinerary and informative guides. It’s suited for travelers who want a combination of active and relaxing moments. Note that the volcano hike requires a moderate level of fitness.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those wanting a comprehensive day on the water with cultural and scenic highlights.
8. Traditional Greek Night live Music & Dinner Show in Santorini
For about $58, the lively Greek Night immerses you in authentic Greek food, music, and folk dance. Spend three hours in a bustling taverna enjoying a buffet of local dishes like souvlaki, tomato fritters, and stuffed vine leaves, all accompanied by unlimited wine.
The show features traditional dances and music, making it a fun cultural night out. Reviewers mention the “amazing” show and “great food,” making it excellent value. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a casual, fun evening with lively entertainment.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those on a budget who want a taste of Greek culture and cuisine in a lively setting.
9. Santorini: Romantic Sunset Caldera Cruise with Dinner
This more affordable sunset cruise at $73 offers a relaxed way to enjoy Santorini’s panoramic views. It features a buffet dinner onboard as you watch the sun set over the caldera. The cruise is less involved but still provides a romantic atmosphere and a chance to see key sights.
Reviewers mention the good food and fantastic views, making it suitable for travelers seeking a moderate experience without sacrificing scenery. It’s a perfect pick for couples on a budget or those with limited time.
Bottom Line: A simple, romantic way to enjoy Santorini’s sunset with good food and views.
10. Santorini 5 Hour Private Oia Tour & Lunch/Dinner at a Local Farm
A great choice for those who want a personalized experience. The Private Oia Tour & Farm Lunch/Dinner costs about $197 and includes a drive through Oia’s stunning streets, a stop at Kissiras farm for local dishes, and a visit to Artemis Karamolegos Winery.
Reviewers love the small group size and the focus on local food and wine. It’s perfect for travelers who want an authentic, relaxed day that combines sightseeing, tasting, and the countryside.
Bottom Line: Best for those seeking a personalized, authentic experience combining scenic beauty, local food, and wine.
11. Santorini Private 10 Wine Tastings with Dinner & Oia Sunset
This private wine and food tour costs about $297 and provides exclusive access to two wineries, along with a visit to Oia. The tour includes tastings of 8 wines, a Greek lunch, and dinner with wine pairings. The guide ensures a personalized experience in a smaller group.
Guests mention the delicious wine and food, as well as the amazing sunset in Oia. Suitable for wine enthusiasts wanting a comprehensive, intimate day.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers who want a luxurious, private exploration of Santorini’s wineries, villages, and cuisine.
12. Santorini Private Romantic Tour with Dinner & Wine Tasting
This private tour at about $326 per person is tailored for romance. It covers Oia, Fira, and Santo Wines Winery, with stops for volcano views and a sunset dinner in Akrotiri. The wine tasting at the winery features local varieties like Assyrtiko.
Reviewers appreciate the personalized service and the romantic scenery. It’s best suited for couples celebrating special occasions or seeking a quiet, intimate experience.
Bottom Line: The top pick for couples seeking a luxurious, private day with fine wine, stunning views, and a romantic setting.
13. Santorini: Night Hike, Wine Tasting, and Greek Dinner
For those who want to combine light exercise with dining, the Night Hike and Dinner offers a 3-hour evening adventure. Starting with a trek along the Fira-Oia trail, you’ll watch the sunset, then enjoy wine tasting and a traditional Greek dinner at a local restaurant.
Rated 4.5 stars, travelers love the spectacular views, and the informative guide makes the experience memorable. Suitable for active travelers who want an evening combining nature and culture.
Bottom Line: Perfect for energetic travelers who want an authentic night experience blending hiking and local flavors.
14. Santorini: Motor Yacht Sunset Cruise with 5-Course Dinner
At just $80, the Motor Yacht Sunset Cruise is an affordable luxury. It features a 5-course dinner on board, with stops for swimming at the volcano and Mesa Pigadia Beach. The small group setting ensures an intimate atmosphere with drinks included.
Guests highlight the delicious food and friendly staff, with many mentioning the beautiful sunset. It’s ideal for travelers seeking cost-effective elegance and a mix of adventure and relaxation.
Bottom Line: Great for those who want an elegant yet affordable evening cruise with excellent food.
15. Santorini Wine and Food Experience with pick up included
Finally, the Wine and Food Experience offers a small-group tour of two wineries plus lunch at a beachfront taverna. The tour includes tasting eight wines, sampling local dishes, and exploring Argyros Estate and Hatzidakis Winery.
It’s praised for being intimate and well-organized, with personalized attention. This experience suits travelers who want a relaxed day with wine, food, and scenic views.
Bottom Line: Ideal for wine lovers wanting a comprehensive, intimate taste of Santorini’s culinary and viticultural scene.
How to Choose Your Perfect Santorini Dining Experience
When selecting your ideal experience, consider your budget, interest level, and fitness. For example, if you love wine and culture, the Santorini Wine Stories offers a perfect blend. If a romantic sunset on the water appeals, the private Sunset Sailing Tours are unmatched.
For travelers wanting a lively night out, the Greek Night dinner show combines great food with traditional music. Those with limited time may prefer the Caldera sunset cruise, which delivers scenic views and good food on a shorter trip.
Book early, especially in peak season, as many tours fill up fast. Check if transfers are included — many of these experiences provide door-to-door service, making your trip smoother.
Final Thoughts
Santorini offers a wide array of dining experiences that cater to every taste — from luxury private cruises to authentic Greek nights and guided wine tours. If you’re craving an intimate, luxurious, or culturally rich experience, options like the private sailings or small-group tastings deliver personalized magic. For those on a budget or seeking a lively atmosphere, the Greek Night show or group cruises provide great value.
Whatever your preference, these experiences highlight what makes Santorini special: spectacular scenery, delicious food, and vibrant local culture. To ensure your spot, especially during busy months, booking in advance is highly recommended. Enjoy your time in this stunning island—your perfect Santorini dining adventure awaits.