Santorini Discovery Tour With Lunch and Wine Tasting

Santorini’s stunning volcanic landscapes and rich cultural heritage make it a captivating destination for travelers. The Santorini Discovery Tour offers an immersive experience, taking visitors on a journey through the island’s iconic sites. From the well-preserved Akrotiri ruins to the charming village of Megalochori, this tour provides a unique opportunity to explore Santorini’s past and present. Complemented by a delectable local lunch and a wine tasting at the renowned Santos Winery, the tour promises to engage all the senses. As the day culminates with a breathtaking sunset in Oia, one can’t help but wonder what other treasures this volcanic gem holds.

This experience made our list of the 23 Best Lunch Experiences In Santorini.

Key Points

• A full-day coach tour showcasing Santorini’s iconic landmarks, including Megalochori, Akrotiri ruins, Red Beach, and Santos Winery with wine tasting.
• Explore the prehistoric town of Akrotiri buried by volcanic ash and learn about its potential connection to the legendary lost city of Atlantis.
• Discover the unique natural beauty of Santorini, including the Martian-like scenery of the Red Beach and the stunning sunset experience in Oia.
• Enjoy a knowledgeable guide with an archaeological background to enhance the historical and cultural insights throughout the tour.
• Convenient pickup, wheelchair accessibility, and a flexible cancellation policy ensure a comfortable and inclusive experience for all participants.

Tour Overview

The Santorini Discovery Tour with Lunch and Wine Tasting is a full-day coach tour that showcases the stunning beauty and historical significance of Santorini, Greece.

With a rating of 4.5 stars based on 12 reviews and a 92% recommendation rate, this tour offers an immersive experience at a competitive price, starting from $216.09.

Guests can explore landmarks like Megalochori, Akrotiri ruins, Red and Black Beaches, and Santos Winery, engaging in wine tasting and learning about the region’s winemaking.

The tour also includes a visit to the prehistoric town buried by volcanic ash, as well as a stunning sunset viewing from Oia.

The tour provides convenient pickup, accessibility for wheelchair users and families, and a flexible cancellation policy.

Tour Highlights

Full-day coach tour showcases Santorini’s beauty, allowing visitors to explore iconic landmarks like Megalochori, Akrotiri ruins, Red and Black Beaches, and Santos Winery.

At the Akrotiri archaeological site, travelers can discover the remains of the prehistoric town buried by volcanic ash after the eruption of 1612 BC.

The tour also includes a visit to the unique Red Beach, known for its Martian-like scenery.

Plus, guests can indulge in wine tasting and learn about the winemaking process at Santos Winery.

The tour culminates with a stunning sunset experience in the picturesque town of Oia, providing a captivating end to the day’s discoveries.

Itinerary Details

As part of the Santorini Discovery Tour, visitors can explore the Lost Atlantis Experience at the Akrotiri archaeological site.

This 1-hour 15-minute segment allows guests to explore the prehistoric town that was buried by volcanic ash after the eruption of 1612 BC.

The tour then continues to the Red Beach, known for its unique Martian-like scenery, offering visitors 20 minutes to take in the striking red-hued cliffs.

Plus, the itinerary includes various other scenic and historical sites throughout the island, providing a comprehensive look at Santorini’s rich cultural heritage and natural wonders.

Accessibility and Transportation

The tour’s pickup locations vary by hotel, and the closest accessible spot will be advised if necessary.

Travelers can rest assured that the tour is wheelchair accessible, stroller-friendly, and provides infant seats for those who need them. This ensures a comfortable and inclusive experience for all participants.

The transportation for the tour is provided by a coach, allowing for easy movement between the various sites throughout the day.

Whether you have specific accessibility needs or are traveling with young children, the Santorini Discovery Tour has made accommodations to ensure everyone can fully enjoy the remarkable sights and experiences the island has to offer.

Customer Feedback

Travelers who’ve experienced the Santorini Discovery Tour have shared insightful feedback.

Many highlighted the knowledgeable guides, often with backgrounds in archaeology, who enriched the experience. Specific highlights included the Akrotiri ruins and the wine tasting activities.

However, some noted initial pickup timing and organizational issues. Overall, most enjoyed the comprehensive nature of the tour, despite encountering a few logistical challenges.

The key feedback points include:

1. Knowledgeable guides with archaeological expertise enhanced the tour.
2. The Akrotiri ruins and wine tasting experiences were standout highlights.
3. While generally satisfied, some travelers faced initial pickup and organizational difficulties.

Exploring Megalochori

Though often overshadowed by the picturesque towns of Oia and Fira, the quaint village of Megalochori holds its own charm on the Santorini Discovery Tour. Guests explore its narrow, winding streets, admiring the traditional whitewashed buildings and blue-domed churches.

The tour stops at a local winery, where participants learn about the region’s winemaking history and sample the renowned Assyrtiko grape varietal.

Afterward, visitors venture to the Venetian Castle ruins, contemplating the island’s rich past as they gaze out over the caldera.

Whether strolling through the charming main square or taking in spectacular views, Megalochori offers a glimpse into Santorini’s authentic local life, complementing the tour’s other iconic destinations.

Discovering Akrotiri Ruins

After exploring the charming village of Megalochori, the Santorini Discovery Tour now takes visitors to one of the island’s most significant archeological sites – the Akrotiri ruins.

Buried under volcanic ash after the devastating eruption of 1612 BC, these preserved Minoan Bronze Age ruins offer a fascinating glimpse into the past.

The tour includes:

1. A guided exploration of the excavated buildings, streets, and plazas, providing insights into the advanced urban planning and architecture of this ancient civilization.

2. Viewing the well-preserved frescoes and pottery that offer clues about the daily life and culture of the Minoan people.

3. Learning about the theories surrounding the possible connection between Akrotiri and the legendary lost city of Atlantis.

Savoring the Sunset in Oia

As the day draws to a close, the Santorini Discovery Tour leads visitors to the charming village of Oia, renowned for its breathtaking sunset views.

Perched atop the island’s volcanic cliffs, Oia’s whitewashed buildings and blue-domed churches create a picturesque setting, perfectly framing the dramatic descent of the sun into the Aegean Sea.

Travelers gather along the narrow streets and on the hilltops, eagerly anticipating the vibrant display of colors that will unfold before them.

As the sky ignites in shades of orange, pink, and purple, the mood turns serene and reflective, offering a truly unforgettable end to the day’s explorations of Santorini’s natural wonders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour to Suit My Interests?

While the tour offers a set itinerary, many operators allow guests to customize their experience. Travelers can often adjust the duration, activities, or focus areas to better suit their interests and preferences.

What Is the Group Size for This Tour?

The group size for this tour is not explicitly stated. However, the tour is conducted by coach, suggesting it accommodates a larger group size. Booking details should be confirmed with the tour operator to determine the exact group size.

Are There Any Additional Costs or Hidden Fees?

The tour price includes all admission fees and transportation. There are no additional costs or hidden fees, though travelers may choose to purchase extra items during the wine tasting. The tour provides a comprehensive experience at a fixed rate.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

The tour typically provides lunch and wine tasting, but guests are generally permitted to bring their own snacks and non-alcoholic drinks. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to confirm any restrictions or policies regarding outside food and beverages.

How Much Time Is Allotted for Each Stop?

The tour allots varying amounts of time for each stop, with the longest being 1 hour and 15 minutes at the Akrotiri ruins. Most other stops range from 20 to 30 minutes to allow for exploration.

Recap

The Santorini Discovery Tour offers a captivating blend of breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and local flavors. From exploring the iconic Akrotiri ruins to savoring a sunset in picturesque Oia, this full-day experience immerses guests in the cultural and natural wonders of the island. With a delightful lunch and wine tasting, the tour promises an unforgettable day filled with discovery and delight.