Santorini: Explore Southern Part with Wine Tasting

Exploring Santorini’s Southern Charm with Wine Tasting: A Detailed Review

Santorini is world-famous for its stunning caldera views, crisp white buildings, and vibrant nightlife, but for many travelers, the true essence of the island lies beyond the bustling tourist areas. The Santorini: Explore Southern Part with Wine Tasting tour offers a fantastic chance to uncover the island’s quieter, more traditional side. It’s a well-rounded experience that combines scenic views, authentic villages, and the chance to sample some of Greece’s best wines—all in just five hours.

What we find particularly appealing about this tour is its focus on local authenticity. Visiting villages like Pyrgos and Megalochori gives you a taste of how island residents live, far from the crowds. Plus, the panoramic stop at the lighthouse provides some of the best views of the volcano and caldera, making it a photographer’s dream. That said, one thing to consider is the walking involved—some stairs and uneven paths mean comfortable footwear is a must.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a deep, authentic experience without the hassle of large crowds or over-touristed sites. If you’re seeking a relaxed, informative journey that highlights hidden gems of Santorini, this could be perfect. It’s also suited for those who love wine, scenic vistas, and discovering local culture at a gentle pace.

Key Points

• Authentic Focus: Explores less crowded, traditional villages and landscapes.
• Scenic Highlights: Panoramic views from the lighthouse and Vlychada bay.
• Cultural Insights: Guided commentary offers a deeper understanding of local life.
• Wine Tasting: Enjoy an authentic taste of Santorini’s renowned wines.
• Comfort & Convenience: Private group, hotel pick-up, and transportation included.
• Walking Requirements: Includes walking and stairs; wear comfortable shoes.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Discovering Pyrgos Village

The tour kicks off with a visit to Pyrgos, a charming village that feels like stepping back in time. Known for its narrow streets, traditional tavernas, and panoramic viewpoints, Pyrgos offers a relaxed pace away from the crowded Fira and Oia spots. Walking through its winding alleys, you get a real sense of local life and architecture, with plenty of photo-worthy scenes. Our guide, Nikolas, was praised for his friendly, insightful commentary, sharing stories that brought the village’s history to life.

Walking in Megalochori

Next, the tour takes you to Megalochori, a village often overlooked but bursting with character. It’s renowned for its beautifully preserved Cycladic architecture, with whitewashed houses and vibrant bougainvillea. Here, you can stroll at your own pace, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. The review from a recent traveler mentioned how the guide’s detailed explanations helped deepen their appreciation for the architecture and way of life in the village.

The Lighthouse and Panoramic Views

A highlight of the tour is the stop at the lighthouse, perched on the southern tip of Santorini. From here, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the volcanic islands and the caldera. The weather can make or break this experience—bright, clear days will reward you with picture-perfect vistas. This viewpoint is also a fantastic spot to appreciate the island’s wild landscape and volcanic origins.

Vlychada Bay & Natural Beauty

The tour then moves to Vlychada Bay, famous for its dramatic lunar-like landscape and quiet beaches. While not necessarily a swimming stop, the scenery here is utterly unique—volcanic cliffs and stark, sculpted rock formations make for incredible photos. Some travelers find this landscape more captivating than the more touristy beaches, and it’s a peaceful place to reflect before heading back.

Wine Tasting & Local Flavors

No trip to Santorini is complete without sampling its wines, and this tour doesn’t disappoint. The guide walks you through the aromas and flavors of local varieties, with the promise that the wine tasting fees are separate from the tour price. Travelers rave about the authentic experience, with one reviewer noting, “The aromas of Santorini wines really added to the authenticity of this trip.” The tasting is a highlight, especially for wine lovers wanting insight into Greek viticulture.

Transportation and Group Experience

Traveling in a comfortable Mercedes A/C minivan, the journey itself is smooth and relaxing. The private group setup means a more personalized experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and enjoy the scenery at your own pace. The guide, Nikolas, was noted for his friendly, detailed explanations—making complex local stories accessible and engaging.

Practical Details

• Duration: 5 hours—an ideal half-day activity that fits easily into most itineraries.
• Price: $192 per person—considered good value, given the personalized experience, guided insights, transportation, and scenic stops.
• Inclusions: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, bottled water, tissues—nothing more to worry about.
• Not Included: Wine tasting fees, snacks, meals, and drinks—so plan for a small extra budget if you want to indulge.

Considerations

The tour involves walking, including stairs, so comfortable shoes are a must. Travelers mentioned that trekking up stairs in some villages is part of the charm but may be tiring for some. Also, since wine tasting fees are extra, it’s worth budgeting around €10-€15 per person if you want to sample the wines.

Authenticity and Valued Experiences

What truly makes this tour stand out is its focus on local authenticity. Visiting Pyrgos and Megalochori provides a more genuine look at island life—away from the crowds and commercialized spots. The guide’s detailed commentary adds context and depth, making each stop more meaningful.

The fact that the tour covers scenic viewpoints like the lighthouse offers memorable vistas of the volcanic landscape. These panoramic moments are often the most cherished photos from travelers, emphasizing Santorini’s natural beauty. Several reviewers highlighted how the views exceeded their expectations, especially on clear days.

The wine tasting experience, although requiring an additional fee, is a rewarding highlight. Guests appreciated the chance to sample local varieties and learn about the island’s unique viticulture. One reviewer even suggested the tour could benefit from including this fee in the overall price, which speaks to the value of the experience.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This tour is best suited for those wanting a relaxed, authentic exploration of Santorini’s quieter, traditional side. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer guided experiences with local insights, rather than self-guided wandering. If you enjoy scenic views, culture, and sampling local flavors, you’ll find plenty to love here.

While it involves some walking, it’s manageable for most active travelers. However, those with mobility issues or a dislike for stairs might find certain parts challenging. The private group aspect allows for a more intimate and flexible experience, making it a good choice for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting personalized attention.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Southern Santorini tour with wine tasting offers a fantastic balance of scenic beauty, cultural authenticity, and personal insight. It’s perfect for travelers who want a meaningful glimpse into island life beyond the usual tourist spots—without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. The knowledgeable guide, Nikolas, makes the experience engaging and insightful, turning each stop into a story worth remembering.

If you’re a lover of great views, local architecture, and authentic flavors, this tour will satisfy your curiosity while offering excellent value for its price. It’s suitable for those who appreciate a more laid-back, immersive experience, and who don’t mind a bit of walking to uncover Santorini’s hidden treasures.

For travelers looking for a deeper connection with the island—without the crowds—this tour delivers a memorable, authentic slice of Santorini life.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour? Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off, with travel in a comfortable Mercedes A/C minivan.

How long does the tour last? The experience runs for about 5 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity.

Are meals or snacks included? No, the tour does not include meals or snacks, but water and tissues are provided.

What about wine tasting fees? The fees for wine tasting are not included and typically cost around €10-€15 per person, payable separately.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues? The tour involves walking and stairs, so comfortable footwear and mobility are recommended.

Can I join this tour as a solo traveler? Yes. It’s a private group, which means it’s tailored for small groups or private bookings—perfect for solo travelers wanting a personalized experience.

Do I need to book in advance? Yes, booking ahead is recommended, especially during peak seasons. You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the tour.

This experience offers a warm, authentic taste of Santorini that’s perfect for those eager to see the island’s quieter side, indulge in local wines, and enjoy spectacular views—all within a relaxed, well-organized package.