Dream Wine Tour from Athens 7 days

The Dream Wine Tour from Athens offers an expertly curated seven-day journey through some of Greece’s most renowned wine regions, combining premium tastings with visits to iconic archaeological sites. Priced at $4,047.43 per person, this private tour provides a deep dive into Greece’s wine heritage, indigenous grape varieties, and spectacular scenery. With guided tastings at 9 wineries, visits to ancient landmarks, and opportunities to sample rare wines, this experience is perfect for enthusiasts who appreciate both wine and history. While the tour is comprehensive and well-paced, it involves considerable travel across diverse terrains, so a moderate level of physical activity and comfort with group travel is advisable.

One of the standout features is the personalized experience, with private transfers, a certified wine expert guiding tastings, and exclusive access to historically significant sites. The inclusion of Cape Sounio’s sunset at the Temple of Poseidon and a visit to Delphi’s archaeological site elevates this trip beyond simple wine tasting. However, the tour’s length and full schedule make it best suited for those comfortable with a busy itinerary. Overall, it delivers a rich combination of Greek culture, scenic beauty, and wine craftsmanship.

Key Points

• Seven-day private tour exploring Greece’s top wine regions and historic sites
• Includes guided wine tastings at 9 wineries, with a focus on indigenous grapes like Agiorgitiko, Moschofilero, and Xinomavro
• Visits iconic landmarks such as Cape Sounio and Delphi, with tickets included
• Luxury transfers and comfortable accommodation provided, with WiFi on board
• Price of $4,047.43 per person offers a comprehensive, all-inclusive experience
• Suitable for wine lovers, history enthusiasts, and travelers wanting a personalized journey

Starting Point: Athens and the Guided Wine Tasting

The journey begins with a warm welcome at Athens International Airport and a private transfer to a centrally located hotel. In the evening, a 1.5-hour guided wine tasting introduces guests to Greece’s ancient vineyards and indigenous grape varieties. Led by a certified wine expert, this session provides insights into the country’s winemaking traditions while sampling premium Greek wines.

This initial experience sets the tone for the trip, emphasizing educational insights combined with tasting opportunities. The wine tasting is well-paced and intimate, allowing plenty of time to ask questions and learn about Greece’s historic wine regions.

Exploring Attica’s Historic Wineries and Cape Sounio

The next day starts with a private driver taking visitors to Markopoulo Mesogaias, a historic wine-producing area in Attica. Here, two wineries are visited, giving guests a chance to learn about the Savatiano grape, a local specialty. These wineries are noted for their authentic atmosphere and educational tours.

Afterward, the tour visits Cape Sounio, home to the Temple of Poseidon, perched on a cliff overlooking the Aegean Sea. Guests enjoy a spectacular sunset from this renowned archaeological site, experiencing both ancient history and natural beauty. Admission tickets are included, making this a seamless experience that highlights Greece’s mythic landscape.

Journey to the Wine Region of Nemea

Leaving Athens behind, the tour heads to Nemea, often called Greece’s Bordeaux for its impressive red wines. The Corinth Canal provides a quick photo stop before arriving at Nemea, where Agiorgitiko wines are produced in world-class PDO wineries. The region is known for bold reds that range from fruity to deep and complex.

In Nemea, guests have the opportunity to taste local reds directly at the wineries, gaining insights into the climate and soil conditions that influence the wines. The region’s reputation for quality red wines makes this stop especially appealing for connoisseurs.

Discovering Nafplio’s Historic and Scenic Charm

A short drive takes visitors to Nafplio, Greece’s first modern capital. The town’s Palamidi Fortress offers panoramic views of the sea and city, while the Bourtzi Fortress on the harbor completes the scenic landscape. This stop combines history, architecture, and beautiful vistas, providing a relaxed break before continuing the wine journey.

While in Nafplio, travelers can enjoy the charming streets and vibrant atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely walk or a quiet coffee. The town’s historical significance and seaside setting make it a memorable part of the itinerary.

The Mantinia and Delphi Highlights

Next, the tour ventures into Mantinia, renowned for its Moschofilero grape. Located at high altitude, the vineyards here produce crisp, aromatic whites. The visit includes a tasting in a PDO region, demonstrating Greece’s diversity in wine styles.

Following Mantinia, the tour proceeds to Delphi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site perched on the slopes of Mount Parnassus. The guided archaeological tour explores the Temple of Apollo, ancient ruins, and the Oracle, illustrating Greece’s mythic past. Tickets for the archaeological site are included, ensuring a smooth experience.

The Delphi Archaeological Museum visit showcases famous statues such as the Charioteer of Delphi and the Omphalos, emphasizing Delphi’s role as the center of the world in ancient Greece.

Central Greece: Xinomavro, Assyrtiko, and Local Wineries

In Central Greece, the tour visits a family-run winery to taste Xinomavro and Assyrtiko, along with Savatiano. This stop highlights Greece’s diverse wine portfolio and the tradition of small-scale, family-owned wineries. Guests learn about the distinct characteristics of these grapes and their significance in Greek winemaking.

This part of the tour showcases the local craftsmanship and authentic wine production that distinguishes Greece’s wine scene from internationally known regions.

Visiting Evia’s Unique Wines and Spa Experience

The journey continues to Evia, Greece’s second-largest island, accessible via an impressive bridge. Evia produces rare wines from varieties like Vradiano and Malagousia. The visit includes a tasting of these less common wines, offering a glimpse into Evia’s distinct terroir.

Complementing the wine tasting, guests indulge in a unique oenotherapy spa experience, combining wellness with wine-based treatments. This innovative feature adds a relaxing and health-focused dimension to the trip.

Final Evening in Athens and Tour Summary

The tour concludes with a relaxing evening in Athens, offering time to reflect on the diverse wine regions, historic sites, and stunning landscapes explored over the past week. Transferring back to Athens, guests are dropped off at the airport according to their flight schedules.

Throughout the trip, private transfers and hotel accommodations ensure comfort, while WiFi on board keeps travelers connected. The experience emphasizes personalized service, with no guide in Cape Sounio included, allowing for free exploration at that stop.

Overall Value and Suitability

This 7-day private tour is ideal for those who want an immersive experience combining Greek wine, archaeology, and scenic beauty. The inclusion of nine wineries and major archaeological sites provides a well-rounded taste of Greece’s culture and viniculture. The price point reflects the luxury level and inclusions, making it suitable for travelers seeking a premium, hassle-free journey.

While the schedule is full and involves quite a bit of travel, the tour’s structure ensures well-organized logistics and expert-guided experiences. It appeals most to wine enthusiasts, history buffs, and luxury travelers interested in a comprehensive, culturally rich adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The $4,047.43 covers guided tastings at 9 wineries, tickets to Cape Sounio, Delphi, and the archaeological museum, private transfers, WiFi, and breakfast if optional.

Are all accommodations included?
The tour includes hotel stays in centrally located accommodations, but specific hotel details are not provided.

How physically demanding is the tour?
The itinerary involves walking at archaeological sites and some driving between locations. Moderate physical activity is expected, especially at sites like Palamidi Fortress and Delphi.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, since it is a private experience, solo travelers can participate comfortably and enjoy a personalized service.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
The tour includes breakfasts, but specific dietary needs should be communicated in advance, as meals outside the scheduled tastings are not included.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of premium wine tastings, visits to historic landmarks, and the private, personalized approach make this tour a distinct way to explore Greece’s cultural and vinicultural heritage.