Santorini Small-Group Tour With Wine Tasting & Food Pairing

This small-group tour of Santorini immerses you in ancient history, scenic landscapes, and renowned local wines. You’ll explore the medieval village of Pyrgos, the Bronze Age ruins of Akrotiri, and the traditional town of Megalochori. Savor a wine tasting of the island’s renowned Vinsanto vintage, paired with a delightful traditional Greek lunch. Though the tour may not be suitable for those with mobility issues due to uneven terrain, those who join will discover Santorini’s captivating blend of culture, history, and gastronomy. There’s much more to uncover about this unique experience.

Key Points

• This small-group tour of Santorini takes visitors to historic villages, archaeological sites, and scenic volcanic beaches, with a wine tasting and traditional Greek lunch.
• The tour includes visits to the 15th-century village of Pyrgos, the Bronze Age city of Akrotiri, and the traditional village of Megalochori.
• Guests will sample renowned Vinsanto wine and other local varietals at a guided tasting, accompanied by traditional Greek delicacies.
• The tour may not be suitable for individuals with limited mobility due to uneven terrain, hills, and steps at various stops.
• Booking and cancellation policies include reserve now, pay later, and free cancellation up to 24 hours, with a maximum of 7 participants.

Explore the Historic Village of Pyrgos

The tour begins with a visit to the 15th-century village of Pyrgos, where travelers can explore the castle ruins atop the hill and admire the stunning views of the Aegean Sea.

Once the island’s capital, Pyrgos is known for its well-preserved Venetian architecture and winding streets. Visitors can wander through the narrow lanes, discovering charming churches, traditional tavernas, and local shops.

The highlight of the visit is the opportunity to climb to the top of the castle ruins, which provide a panoramic perspective of the island’s dramatic caldera and the surrounding volcanic landscape.

This historic village offers a glimpse into Santorini’s rich past and serves as an enchanting introduction to the day’s explorations.

Discover the Bronze Age City of Akrotiri

Next, the tour ventures to the Bronze Age city of Akrotiri, an important archaeological site that provides a window into Santorini’s ancient past.

Buried under layers of volcanic ash following a devastating eruption around 1600 BC, Akrotiri offers a well-preserved glimpse into the sophisticated Minoan civilization that once thrived on the island.

Visitors can explore the remarkably intact ruins, including multi-story buildings, intricate wall paintings, and advanced drainage systems.

The site’s artifacts, such as pottery, jewelry, and tools, offer insight into the daily lives and cultural practices of the Minoan people.

Led by an expert guide, the tour delves into the significance of this remarkable Bronze Age settlement and its role in Santorini’s rich history.

Scenic Stops at Volcanic Beaches

After exploring the ruins of Akrotiri, the tour continues to the volcanic beaches of Santorini, offering visitors a chance to witness the island’s dramatic geological features.

Along the way, the group stops at the striking Vlichada and Perivolos beaches, where they can admire the unique black sand and lava rock formations sculpted by the island’s volcanic past.

The tour guide explains how the volcanic activity that shaped Santorini over thousands of years has created these distinctive beaches, providing a stark contrast to the traditional whitewashed villages.

Guests have the opportunity to stroll along the shoreline, take in the breathtaking vistas, and perhaps even dip their toes in the crystal-clear waters before heading to the next destination.

Tour the Traditional Village of Megalochori

Nestled among the rolling hills of Santorini, the charming 17th-century village of Megalochori beckons visitors to explore its rich history and vibrant local culture.

One of the tour’s highlights, this quaint settlement is renowned for its exceptional Vinsanto wine, a sweet dessert varietal produced using sun-dried grapes.

As you wander through the narrow streets, you’ll admire the distinctive Cycladic architecture, with its whitewashed buildings and blue-domed churches. Stop to browse the local art galleries and boutiques, or simply soak up the relaxed atmosphere in one of the cozy tavernas.

This immersive experience offers a glimpse into the traditional way of life that has endured on the island for centuries.

Indulge in a Wine Tasting Experience

Indulging in a wine tasting experience is a highlight of this Santorini tour, allowing visitors to sample the island’s renowned Vinsanto wine and other local varietals.

The tour includes a stop at a picturesque local winery, where guests can enjoy a guided tasting led by expert sommeliers. During the tasting, visitors will have the opportunity to learn about the unique terroir and production methods that give Santorini’s wines their distinctive flavors.

The tasting features a selection of the winery’s finest red, white, and dessert wines, each paired with traditional Greek delicacies to enhance the flavors.

Guests can engage in lively discussions with the winemakers, gaining insights into the rich history and traditions of Santorini’s wine-making culture.

The wine tasting is complemented by a traditional Greek lunch, providing a holistic culinary experience that showcases the island’s gastronomic delights.

Savor a Traditional Greek Lunch

The wine tasting experience is complemented by a traditional Greek lunch, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the island’s culinary heritage.

The lunch features locally-sourced ingredients, showcasing the rich flavors and time-honored recipes of Santorini. Guests can savor dishes like fresh seafood, tangy feta, and wholesome legumes, all prepared with care and authenticity.

The meal is also paired with the renowned Vinsanto wine, a local specialty known for its deep, complex notes. This harmonious pairing highlights the synergy between Santorini’s viticulture and gastronomy, providing an authentic and memorable dining experience.

The traditional Greek lunch isn’t just a meal, but a cultural journey that leaves visitors with a deeper appreciation for the island’s vibrant food scene.

Accessibility and Mobility Considerations

This tour may not be suitable for individuals with limited mobility, as the itinerary involves navigating uneven terrain, hills, and steps at various stops. Visitors should consider their physical capabilities when booking this experience, as the tour’s accessibility is limited.

The visit to the 15th-century village of Pyrgos and the Bronze Age city of Akrotiri require navigating cobblestoned streets and stairs, which may pose challenges for those with mobility issues.

The volcanic beaches of Vlichada and Perivolos also have uneven surfaces that could be difficult to traverse for some participants.

While the tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, the movement within the vehicle and during the stops may not be suitable for all guests.

Booking and Cancellation Policies

Customers can reserve their spot on this Santorini tour and pay later, providing flexibility in booking. Plus, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing participants to adjust their plans if needed.

The tour is limited to a maximum of 7 participants, ensuring a small-group experience. This policy not only enhances the personalized attention guests receive but also ensures the tour remains accessible to those with limited mobility.

Booking Policy	Cancellation Policy
Reserve now, pay later	Free cancellation up to 24 hours
Limited to 7 participants	Not recommended for those with mobility issues
Accessible for those with limited mobility

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Option for a Private Tour?

Yes, this tour offers a private option. Customers can book a private tour for their group, which provides a more personalized experience and allows them to customize the itinerary to their preferences.

Can We Customize the Itinerary?

Yes, the tour can be customized to fit the travelers’ interests. The tour provider is typically willing to adjust the itinerary, within reason, to accommodate specific requests from the participants.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no formal dress code for the tour. Casual, comfortable clothing and walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves exploring villages and visiting archaeological sites. Guests should dress appropriately for the weather and planned activities.

Are There Any Additional Costs During the Tour?

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a designated driver, lunch, wine tasting, and liability insurance. However, there are additional costs for oversize luggage and any food/drinks (alcohol/soft) consumed in the car.

Do We Need to Bring Anything With Us?

Participants don’t need to bring anything extra for the tour. The package includes hotel pickup, entrance tickets, lunch, and wine tasting. Guests should only bring comfortable clothing and footwear for the day’s activities.

Recap

The Santorini Small-Group Tour with Wine Tasting and Food Pairing offers an immersive experience that showcases the island’s historic, cultural, and culinary richness.

Visitors can explore ancient ruins, discover traditional villages, and indulge in the region’s acclaimed Vinsanto wine and Greek cuisine, all while accompanied by knowledgeable guides.

This tour provides an unparalleled opportunity to fully immerse oneself in the captivating essence of Santorini.