Private Santorini History and Wine Tasting 5-Hour Tour

Akrotiri Archaeological Site and Ruins. Known as the Pompeii of Santorini, Akrotiri was once a thriving Minoan port city on the trade route between Europe and the Middle East. But around 1600 BC, it was buried under a 200-foot layer of ash when a giant volcanic eruption demolished the center of Santorini. Akrotiri was forgotten until the 1860s, when quarry workers excavated and found some of its ancient artifacts. Excavations began properly in 1967 and continue to this day, while only a third of the territory has been excavated. The archaeological excavations in Akrotiri are open to the public and give a fascinating insight into what the life of the Minoans was like. The city was surprisingly developed, with houses built in two and three floors, with underfloor heating, hot and cold water and even internal toilets. And the ashes helped to preserve original elements, such as frescoes and clay pots. Now this place is open to the public and is one of the best day trips to Santorini to learn about the history of the island.

Venetsanos Winery. The Venetsanos Winery, which can now be visited, is the culmination of this rich family tradition with newly renovated buildings. The exceptional architectural structure is combined with the history of one of the most important wine producers in the Aegean Sea. The winery is located in the most breathtaking location, offering incredible views of the caldera and volcanic islands. The winery today offers you the opportunity to take a walk and get acquainted with the history and traditions, as well as with new wine production technologies. Our experienced staff will give you a detailed tour of the winery, as well as taste some of our exceptional wines.

Estate Argyros. The beautiful and modern Argyros winery estate is located on the outskirts of Episkopi-Gonia, about 5.5 km southeast of Fira. Argyros' spacious tasting room with ocean views is located in the heart of their grape estate. As with most wineries in Santorini, the main grape variety produced and used here is the white Assyrtico grape, although Argyros is also used to make a delicious Aydani wine, and their ruby-red Mavrotragano received 93/100 Parker points in Wine Advocate.

Artemis Karamolegos winery, rooted in the volcanic vineyards of Santorini and having a tradition of winemaking since 1952, is one of the most dynamic and rapidly developing wineries in Santorini. All his wines have been awarded at major international wine competitions. The winery has the most modern equipment for winemaking, special areas for wine tasting, a wine shop and selected local products. Today Artemis Karamolegou winery produces 10 different brands of wines. It makes the best use of the combination of a special microclimate with volcanic, calcareous soils offered by the terroir of Santorini, and “leads” Assyrtico, along with other local grape varieties, in the production of internationally recognized wines for their quality. The history of the winery goes back to 1952, when Grandfather Artemis cultivated his vineyards to produce wine that would satisfy the needs of his own family, and then sell it to the island and the rest of Greece. Artemis Karamolegos, the grandson who replaced his grandfather and then his father at the EXO Gonia winery, is a young man, active and full of passion for his work. From 2004 to the present day, he has managed to perform a real miracle and move the family business many steps forward and with great speed.