Santorini: Wine Tour with Sunset in Oia

Santorini: Wine Tour with Sunset in Oia

This 5-hour wine tour in Santorini offers an engaging way to explore the island’s viniculture, combining visits to two local wineries with a sunset viewing in Oia. For $99 per person, you’ll enjoy approximately 8 wine samples, learn about the island’s unique winemaking process, and end your day with a stunning sunset from one of the best spots on the island.

The tour departs from Thera, includes hotel pickup and drop-off, and features a local guide who shares insights into Santorini’s wine traditions. While the experience provides a well-rounded taste of Santorini’s wine scene, it is particularly suited for lovers of wine and scenic views who appreciate a compact, educational, and visually beautiful outing.

Key Points

• Visit two local wineries: Hatzidakis Winery and a wine museum in Mesa Gonia
• Taste about 8 different wines: including volcanic and unique Santorini varieties
• Learn about viniculture: from vineyard practices to wine production stages
• Enjoy a sunset in Oia: with a reserved seat at Sun Spirit Bar and a glass of wine included
• Flexible booking options: with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
• Group size and guide: led by an informative English-speaking guide, with private group options

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Start at Thira and Hotel Pickup Service

The tour begins with hotel pickup from Thira, making transportation effortless. Pickup times vary based on your accommodation, and you will receive detailed instructions via email after booking. This added convenience means no need to worry about navigating or parking — the tour handles logistics seamlessly.

Pickup begins earlier than the tour start, taking you to the first stop, Hatzidakis Winery, located in Pyrgos Kallistis. This allows sufficient time to explore and taste wines without feeling rushed.

Visiting Hatzidakis Winery in Pyrgos Kallistis

Your journey starts at the famous Hatzidakis Winery, perched 330 meters above sea level. Its innovative structure, built from above and descending downward, catches the eye immediately. Inside, you have the chance to sample three of its renowned wines, which showcase the island’s volcanic terroir.

The winery also offers insight into local architectural styles and viniculture practices. The visit lasts about an hour, giving enough time to appreciate the wines and the setting without feeling overly crowded or hurried.

Exploring the Santorini Wine Museum in Mesa Gonia

Next, the tour visits the Santorini Wine Museum in Mesa Gonia. This museum is unique because it’s built inside a cave, forming a natural labyrinth eight meters below ground, stretching 300 meters long. Such a location highlights twenty-one years of work by the Koutsogiannopoulos Family.

Inside, visitors learn about every stage of the winemaking process—from vineyard ploughing to harvesting, stomping, and weighing grapes. The museum also displays machinery used historically and today, showing how winemaking has evolved on the island. The museum visit lasts about an hour and includes tasting volcanic wines that are considered signature to Santorini.

The Final Wine Tasting at Sun Spirit Bar in Oia

The last winery stop takes place in Oia, at the Sun Spirit Bar, renowned for its perfect sunset views. Here, you are provided with reserved seating, ensuring a comfortable spot to watch the sun dip into the sea.

During this hour-long visit, you enjoy a full glass of wine—choices include red, white, or rosé—and a small platter. The bar offers picturesque views and a relaxing atmosphere, making it an ideal spot to unwind and soak in the scenery.

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Watching the Sunset in Oia with a Glass of Wine

The highlight of the tour is the sunset in Oia. After the wine bar visit, the group moves to a famous viewing spot, where guests can relax and take in the breathtaking scenery. The bar’s front-row seats, coupled with a complimentary glass of wine, create a memorable ending.

While some reviews note that additional drinks cost extra, the included glass and the view itself are enough to make this moment special. The sunsets here are renowned for their amazing colors and the calm that comes with watching the day close over the Aegean Sea.

Practicalities of the Tour: Logistics and Group Size

The tour is designed for convenience with included hotel pickup and drop-off. The guide is an English speaker, making explanations clear and engaging. The overall group size tends to be manageable, and private group options are available for those seeking a more personalized experience.

The duration of five hours provides a thorough exploration of two wineries, a museum, and Oia, without feeling overly lengthy. The tour runs multiple times a day, but travelers should check availability for specific starting times.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This wine tour excels in offering a balanced mix of education and scenic beauty. The visits to Hatzidakis Winery and the wine museum provide insight into Santorini’s unique viticulture, especially with its volcanic wines. The sunset in Oia offers a perfect conclusion, combining wine tasting and breathtaking views.

The price of $99 makes it a reasonable option for those seeking a well-organized, educational, and scenic experience. Multiple positive reviews emphasize knowledgeable guides and great wine samples, especially at the first winery, which stands out for its variety and atmosphere.

Limitations and Considerations

While the tour offers an excellent overview, some reviews mention possible delays in pickup. It’s important to confirm pickup times and be prepared for minor delays. The final stop in Oia may involve additional costs for drinks if more wine or sodas are desired, as only one glass is included.

The length of the tour and the walking involved at stops may be a consideration for travelers with limited mobility. Also, some guests note that the same wine glass is used for multiple tastings, which may matter to those seeking a more formal tasting experience.

Who Will Most Enjoy This Santorini Wine Tour

This tour is ideal for wine enthusiasts looking to learn about Santorini’s unique wines and enjoy iconic sunset views. It suits those who prefer a balanced pace and appreciate educational stops, such as the wine museum.

Travelers who enjoy scenic drives and informative guides will find this experience rewarding, especially if they want a cost-effective yet comprehensive introduction to the island’s viniculture. It’s also a great choice for first-time visitors wanting a well-organized excursion that combines culture, scenery, and wine.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 5 hours, including visits to two wineries, a museum, and sunset viewing in Oia.

What is included in the price?
The price of $99 covers hotel pickup and drop-off, wine tasting at two wineries, a visit to the wine museum, and a reserved seat with a glass of wine at Sun Spirit Bar for sunset.

Are food or additional drinks included?
Only the small platter at the first winery and one glass of wine at Sun Spirit Bar are included. Extra drinks, such as additional wine or sodas, are not included and cost extra.

Can I customize the tour?
Private group options are available for those seeking a more personalized experience, but the standard tour follows the described itinerary.

What are the main stops?
Stops include Hatzidakis Winery, the Santorini Wine Museum in Mesa Gonia, and Sun Spirit Bar in Oia for sunset.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making logistics straightforward.

What about the guide?
The activity is led by an English-speaking guide who shares insights into wine production and Santorini’s culture.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
While wine tasting is involved, younger participants or those not drinking can still enjoy the scenic views and cultural stops; just note that the tasting experience is geared toward adults.

What if I miss my pickup?
It’s important to confirm pickup times and contact the tour provider if delays occur. Some reviews mention delays, so staying in touch is advisable.

How does this tour compare to others?
It offers a well-balanced mix of vineyard visits, museum insights, and sunset views at a competitive price, making it a popular choice among similar experiences.

This Santorini Wine Tour with Sunset in Oia combines educational winery visits, spectacular scenery, and the chance to sample diverse wines, making it an engaging and visually stunning way to experience Santorini’s viniculture. Whether you are a wine lover or simply seeking a memorable sunset, this tour delivers a thoughtful, enjoyable outing for a reasonable price.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby