Santorini: Night Hike, Wine Tasting, and Greek Dinner

If you’re visiting Santorini and want to do more than just snap photos of the sunset, this Night Hike, Wine Tasting, and Greek Dinner tour offers a fantastic way to connect with the island’s essence after dark. It’s a three-hour adventure packed with stunning views, local flavors, and a peaceful walk away from the daytime crowds.

One of the standout features is the only official night hike on the island, which means you’ll enjoy the scenery with a quieter, more intimate vibe. Plus, ending the evening with a wine tasting and traditional Greek meal really highlights the authentic charm of Santorini.

However, keep in mind that the tour involves a moderate hike of 1.5 to 2 hours, so good walking shoes and comfortable clothes are a must. If you’re not used to walking or hiking, it’s worth considering your comfort level. This experience is especially perfect for travelers seeking a mix of outdoor activity, cultural insight, and culinary indulgence. It suits those who want a relaxed yet memorable evening with expert guides and local touches.

Key Points

• Unique Night Hike: Experience the only officially organized night hike on Santorini for a tranquil view of the island’s caldera and volcano.
• Spectacular Sunset: Watch the sun set from a hilltop viewpoint, with the Caldera illuminated by thousands of twinkling lights.
• Authentic Local Experience: Enjoy a selection of Santorini wines, including Assyrtiko and Vinsanto, paired with a delicious Greek dinner.
• Convenience & Comfort: Hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics hassle-free, leaving you to focus on the experience.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Panos are praised for their warmth, storytelling, and attentiveness, enriching the experience.
• No Hiking Experience Needed: The hike is moderate, making it accessible to most travelers, with no prior experience required.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins with a hotel pickup in Santorini, easing the often complicated logistics of exploring the island. From there, you’re driven to Fira, where your guide awaits to lead you on a 2-hour hike along the Fira-Oia trail toward Imerovigli. This section of the trail is famous during the day for its crowds, but in the evening, you’ll find the trail surprisingly peaceful—almost like having your own private view.

What makes this hike special is the timing: as you walk, you’ll witness the orange glow of the sunset gradually fading behind the volcano. The views are spectacular, with panoramic vistas of the caldera and the island lights flickering to life below. Several viewpoints along the trail allow you to stop and soak in these sights, making for fantastic photo opportunities and moments of quiet reflection.

Sunset & Views

The top of the hill offers an unobstructed view of the sunset and the caldera, an experience that many reviews describe as magical. One reviewer noted, “The views were spectacular,” and you’ll likely feel the same. The island’s lights turn on as dusk turns to night, offering a surreal blanket of glow that makes the entire landscape look like a miniature cityscape from above.

The Imerovigli Stop & Wine Tasting

Once you arrive in Imerovigli, it’s time to unwind. The group is welcomed at a charming local restaurant, where you’ll indulge in a wine tasting session featuring four unique Santorinian wines, including Assyrtiko and the renowned Vinsanto. The guide, Panos, shared that understanding the island’s wine culture and history adds much to the tasting, making each sip more meaningful.

According to reviews, the wines are top-notch, and the guide’s insights make the experience even more enjoyable. One guest mentioned that the meal at the end was the “best meal we had on the entire trip,” highlighting the quality of the food and the authenticity of the flavors.

The Greek Dinner

The included dinner is a traditional Greek meal, served in a cozy setting that feels authentic and welcoming. It’s a shared experience, offering a taste of local recipes, with reviewers praising the deliciousness and presentation. Whether it’s fresh seafood, local cheeses, or hearty salads, the meal complements the wine perfectly and rounds off the evening on a high note.

Practical Details & Value

The price of $175 per person might seem steep, but considering the hotel pickup and drop-off, the guided hike, wine tasting, and dinner, it offers substantial value. Reviews suggest the guides are very knowledgeable and passionate, adding a personal touch to the experience that many travelers appreciate.

The duration of around 4 hours including transport is enough to feel like a full evening out without being overly long or tiring. The activity is suitable for most fitness levels, and the lack of prior hiking experience needed makes it accessible. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and clothes, and bring a daypack for essentials.

Authenticity & Local Flavor

What makes this tour stand out is its emphasis on authentic local experiences. From tasting island wines and learning about their history to sharing a traditional meal, you’re getting a taste of genuine Santorini life. The guides, like Panos, are praised for their friendly attitude and deep knowledge, making the stories behind the wines and dishes come alive.

The peaceful sunset setting, away from the busy daytime crowds, offers a rare chance to truly connect with the island’s natural beauty and local culture. This is not just a sightseeing tour but an immersive experience that balances outdoor activity with cultural richness.

Who It’s Best For

This tour is ideal for travelers who want to combine outdoor adventure with culinary exploration. It suits those who appreciate a bit of walking but don’t want to spend all day hiking or trekking. If you’re keen on photography, the sunset views and quiet trails offer fantastic opportunities.

It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers eager to experience Santorini from a different perspective—after dark, with a relaxing meal and good wine. If you prefer a lively, bustling atmosphere, you might find daytime tours better suited to your style. But for those seeking tranquility, authenticity, and a touch of adventure, this evening experience hits the mark.

The Sum Up

In summary, this Santorini night hike, wine tasting, and dinner tour offers a memorable way to see the island in a new light—literally. The combination of a peaceful hike, breathtaking sunset views, and authentic local flavors makes it a well-rounded experience. It provides excellent value through comprehensive inclusions like transportation, guided commentary, wine tasting, and a delicious meal.

While it involves some walking, it’s accessible to most, and the expert guides—like Panos—ensure a friendly, informative atmosphere. The quiet trails and stunning vistas create a sense of exclusivity, making you feel like you’ve uncovered a hidden side of Santorini most visitors miss.

This tour is best suited for those who want a blend of outdoor activity, culture, and relaxed social dining. If that sounds appealing, it’s definitely worth considering for your Santorini itinerary.

FAQ

Is hiking experience required for this tour?
No, prior hiking experience isn’t needed. The hike is moderate, lasting about 1.5 to 2 hours, and most people find it manageable with comfortable shoes.

What should I wear on the hike?
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking, along with casual, weather-appropriate clothes. Bringing a small daypack for essentials is advisable.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making it more convenient and stress-free. Be ready outside your accommodation 5 minutes before pickup.

How long does the entire experience take?
Including transportation, the activity lasts about 4 hours, with the hike itself taking around 2 hours.

What wines are served during the tasting?
The tasting features four wines, including Assyrtiko and Vinsanto, both signature to Santorini’s wine scene.

Is food included in the tour?
Yes, you’ll enjoy a traditional Greek dinner in Imerovigli, with dishes that showcase local recipes.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What are the main highlights of this experience?
The sunset view from the hilltop, the peaceful trail, the expert guide, and the authentic wine and food are the top features.

Is this suitable for families?
While the tour is generally accessible, consider the hike duration and your family members’ comfort with walking.

How do I book this experience?
You can reserve your spot through the provided booking platform, with flexible options to reserve now and pay later.

In all, if you’re looking for a different side of Santorini—calmer, more intimate, and tastier—this tour delivers on every front. Whether it’s the sunset, the wines, or the stories, you’ll leave with lasting memories of this stunning Greek island.