Santorini: Vineyard and Winery Tour with Cooking Class

If you’re dreaming of a half-day adventure that combines Santorini’s legendary wines with the chance to learn how to cook some of the island’s most beloved dishes, this tour might just be your perfect fit. Offered by Santorini Wine Stories, this experience blends visits to two traditional wineries with a hands-on cooking class led by a local chef—all within approximately 4.5 hours.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to explore the unique volcanic vineyards and learn about the island’s distinct viticulture methods. Second, the opportunity to enjoy up to 8 different wines like Assyrtiko and Vinsanto, with insights from a knowledgeable private guide. And third, the delicious reward of cooking and tasting authentic Santorinian dishes in a cozy setting.

However, do consider that the tour involves a fair amount of walking through vineyards and cellars, and the group size is limited to 8, which is great for intimacy but might feel crowded if you prefer more privacy. This experience is ideal for wine lovers, foodies, and curious travelers eager to explore local traditions in an engaging, authentic way.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Visit 2 traditional wineries and see where wines are bottled, gaining insight into unique Santorini viticulture.
• Educational & Tasty: Learn from a knowledgeable guide about local wines and enjoy tasting up to 8 varieties.
• Hands-On Cooking: Get practical and fun, cooking traditional dishes with a local chef, and savor your creations.
• Convenient & Inclusive: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, private guide, and all tasting and cooking materials.
• Small Group Setting: Limited to 8 people for a more personalized and interactive experience.
• Great for Food & Wine Fans: Combines culture with culinary and viticultural education.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

The Vineyards & Wineries

Your adventure kicks off with hotel pickup from over 80 potential locations across Santorini, from Kamari to Oia, ensuring you’re picked up conveniently no matter where you stay. The journey in a luxurious, air-conditioned vehicle sets a comfortable tone for what’s ahead.

Your first stop is a charming vineyard, where you’ll begin to appreciate how Santorini’s volcanic soil influences its distinctive flavors. The tour includes walking through ancient vineyards, which adds a layer of historical context and showcases how traditional viticulture persists today. You’ll explore the cellars of each winery—seeing where wines are stored and bottled—offering a behind-the-scenes look at the wine-making process.

Visiting two wineries is a highlight. The focus is on local varieties like Assyrtiko, which is known for its crispness, and Vinsanto, the sweet dessert wine. According to reviews, guides are knowledgeable and friendly, with one reviewer mentioning that the guide, Raphael, was “very pleasant and helpful,” adding a personal touch to the experience.

Wine Tasting & Expertise

The guided tasting includes up to 8 different wines, giving you a well-rounded introduction to the island’s viticultural heritage. The tasting sessions are set in beautiful winery settings, often with sea or caldera views, making it an enjoyable visual as well as tasting journey.

While the reviews note that one guest would have appreciated more detailed tips on proper wine tasting, the overall experience is still very positive, especially for those wanting a guided yet relaxed exploration of Santorini’s wine scene. It’s a chance to learn about the unique volcanic influence on the wines and to sample some of Greece’s most acclaimed varieties in a welcoming environment.

The Cooking Class

After the vineyard visits, the tour shifts gears to culinary hands-on fun. Led by a local Greek chef, you’ll learn how to prepare traditional Santorinian dishes in a cozy, authentic setting. The focus is on local recipes, so expect to get your hands dirty with ingredients and techniques that are rooted in the island’s culinary traditions.

The review from Zahra describes the cooking class as “very fun”—Chef Chris was “engaging, informative, and fun.” The dishes prepared are described as “delicious,” with generous portions, and the entire process offers a practical insight into local flavors.

At the end of the class, you’ll sit down and enjoy everything you’ve cooked, which makes the experience feel extra rewarding. This communal dining experience enhances the social aspect and allows for sharing stories and tips with fellow travelers.

The Final Touch

Throughout the tour, you’ll also sample local tapas-style dishes and enjoy scenic views that are perfect for photos or just soaking in the atmosphere. The entire experience is designed to be educational, intimate, and tasty.

Practical Details & Tips

• Duration & Timing: The tour lasts about 4.5 hours, so plan accordingly, especially if you have other activities later in the day.
• Group Size: Limited to 8 participants, which fosters a more personalized experience but means booking early is recommended.
• Cost & Value: At $260 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive package—including transportation, expert guides, tastings, and a cooking experience—that’s well worth the investment for lovers of wine and food.
• What to Bring: Comfortable clothing is recommended, especially since you’ll be walking through vineyards and cellar areas.
• Availability: Check the booking platform for current starting times, as they vary.

Authenticity & Insights from Real Guests

One reviewer shared how they loved the setting of the last winery by the beach, calling it “a hidden gem,” which highlights how the locations add to the overall charm. Another pointed out that their guide, Raphael, was “very pleasant and helpful,” emphasizing the importance of good guides in enhancing the experience.

The cooking class received praise for Chef Chris’s engaging style and the generous portions of food, making it both fun and filling. While one guest expressed a desire for more detailed wine tasting tips, the overall sentiment is that the experience provides a solid introduction to Santorini’s wine and culinary traditions.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want an authentic, hands-on taste of Santorini’s wine and food culture. It’s perfect for small groups seeking intimacy, personalized attention, and a mix of educational and leisure activities. If you’re a wine enthusiast eager to learn about volcanic terroirs, or a food lover eager to cook local dishes, this tour hits all the right notes.

It’s also a great option for those who enjoy scenic settings, guided expertise, and interactive experiences that go beyond just tasting or observing. Families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate a deliberately paced and informative half-day can find this a memorable highlight in Santorini.

The Sum Up

In a nutshell, the Vineyard and Winery Tour with Cooking Class offers a well-rounded blend of wine tasting, culinary learning, and culture. With its focus on authentic, traditional practices and intimate group size, it provides a genuine insight into what makes Santorini’s local scene so special.

The experience’s value lies not only in the quality of wines and dishes but also in the personalized guidance and beautiful scenery. It’s a fantastic choice for food and wine lovers who want to deepen their appreciation of Greek traditions while enjoying the relaxed pace of the island.

If your goal is a fun, educational, and delicious way to explore Santorini in just half a day, this tour is definitely worth considering. It captures the essence of the island’s culinary and viticultural soul—delivering memorable tastes, sights, and stories in one engaging package.

FAQ

How do I get picked up for this tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup from over 80 locations across Santorini. You’ll receive an email with the exact meeting point 24 hours before your tour.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes are recommended, especially since you’ll be walking through vineyards and cellar areas. Shoes suitable for walking are advised.

Are there any dietary restrictions I should know about?
The tour’s focus is on traditional dishes and wine tastings. While specific restrictions aren’t mentioned, it’s best to inform the provider if you have allergies or dietary needs.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 4.5 hours, including transport, visits, tastings, and the cooking class.

What wines will I taste?
You may sample up to 8 types, including varieties like Assyrtiko and Vinsanto, which are characteristic of Santorini.

Is this a private or group tour?
It’s a small group experience limited to 8 participants, promoting a more personal and interactive environment.

Can I customize the tour?
Yes, the tour can be arranged to suit your preferences, allowing some flexibility in the itinerary.

What is the price and what does it include?
At $260 per person, the price covers pickup and drop-off, private guide, wine tastings, visits to wineries, the cooking class, and all materials.

This tour offers a delightful, authentic taste of Santorini’s wine and culinary traditions, wrapped in scenic, intimate settings. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or a curious foodie, it promises an engaging, delicious, and memorable experience.