Santorini might be famous for sunsets and cliffside views, but it’s also home to some of the most fascinating wineries in Greece. If you want to sip your way through volcanic soil, ancient vines, and modern award-winning labels, this self-planned wine-tasting experience is for you.
You’ll visit a mix of historic family-run estates and bold modern wineries, many with sea views, museum rooms, and art galleries. Most tastings come with food pairings, and the views alone are worth the trip. Just be sure to plan ahead — and sip responsibly.
🍷 Good to Know Before You Go
- Duration: Around 5 hours
- Tasting Prices: €16 to €290 depending on your selection
- Drinking Age: 18 and over only
- What to Bring: ID, sun protection, water, and comfortable shoes
🧭 How to Get Around
You have a few solid options depending on how you want to travel (and drink).
By Car
Renting a car is the easiest way to explore, but we don’t recommend driving if you’re drinking. Either stick to spitting (yes, it’s a thing) or have a designated driver. Most wineries have easy parking. Book cars early in high season. Most rentals are manual and roads are narrow.
By Bus
All public buses on Santorini leave from and return to Fira. If you’re hopping between locations, expect to pass through there. Tickets cost about €2 and are paid onboard or at the station. Check timetables here.
By Taxi or App
Taxis are limited, but you can use the FreeNow app or hail a ride on the street. Uber is also available but not widely used. Expect up to €40 per ride from Fira. Confirm prices before riding — fares are fixed, and taxis only take four people max.
🌿 Why Santorini Wine Is Unique
Santorini’s vineyards are ancient — some of the oldest in the world. The strong Meltemi winds, volcanic soil, and low rainfall force the vines to adapt. Grapes grow in kouloura, low basket shapes that hug the ground. This protects them from the wind, sun, and sand.
The island is best known for white grapes like assyrtiko and aidani, but some wineries offer rare varieties like katsano and voudomato. Whether you’re a wine nerd or just wine-curious, you’ll love learning about the techniques and tasting styles here.
🍇 Winery Highlights
Anhydrous Cellar Door – Fira
The most convenient winery from town. Just 10 minutes from central Fira. Award-winning, creative, and set inside an old open-air cinema.
- Tasting starts at €20
- Premium tastings with food can go up to €95
- Open May to October, 11 am to 7.30 pm
- Book online
Santo Wines – Pyrgos
Known for its caldera views and epic sunsets. Great for a romantic tasting with a view. Offers guided tours and a short wine film.
- Tasting starts at €62 for four wines
- Dinner with wine from €82
- Restaurant minimum spend: €50 per person
- Open April to October, 9 am to 9 pm
- Book online
Venetsanos Winery – Megalochori
The oldest industrial winery on the island, dating back to 1947. Set on a cliff with panoramic caldera views.
- Tasting with nibbles: €30
- Full tasting and museum visit: €58
- Sunset terrace open May to September, 6.30 pm to 10 pm
- Book online
Gavalas Winery – Megalochori
Small, family-run, and deeply traditional. The only place cultivating katsano and voudomato grapes.
- Tastings from €24 to €45
- Open April to October, 11 am to 7 pm
- Book online
Estate Argyros – Episkopi Gonia
Santorini’s largest private vineyard. Focused on organic and sustainable practices with century-old vines. Fully accessible.
- Tasting tours from €20 to €40
- Open year-round. Monday to Saturday, 10 am to 8 pm. Sundays from 11 am
- Book online
Santorini Wine Museum – Vothonas
A cave museum 8 meters underground. Explore winemaking history from 1660 to 1970. Comes with audioguides and large tasting options.
- Entry + tasting starts at €25
- Premium tastings go up to €290
- Book online
Art Space – Episkopi Gonias
A winery meets an art gallery. Taste organic wine while browsing contemporary paintings and sculptures.
- Six-wine tasting with pairings: €20
- Open daily from 11 am to sunset
- Call +30 22860 32774 to book
Hatzidakis Winery – Pyrgos
Off the beaten path, but worth the detour. Fully organic with international awards. You’ll need a car to reach it.
- Tasting sessions from €30 to €150
- Open Tuesday to Saturday, 10 am to 6 pm
- Call +30 69811 07180 or email hatzidakishospitality@gmail.com to book
Gaia Wines – Avis Beach
Set in a converted tomato factory right on the coast. Modern and creative with rare vinegar production. You’ll need a taxi or car to get here.
- Tastings from €16 to €30
- Open April to October, 11 am to 7 pm
- Book online
🍷Things to know
- Combine your wine day with a visit to Red Beach or Akrotiri Lighthouse for a sunset finish
- Book in advance, especially in high season
- Skip perfume and strong food before tasting
- Spit your wine if you’re doing multiple stops
- Take small sips and swirl — your sommelier will be proud
- Bring sunscreen. Some tastings are outdoors
