Athens: Greek Wine Tasting and Picnic on Philopappou Hill

Imagine sipping local Greek wines while gazing out over the ancient city of Athens — sounds ideal, right? That’s exactly what this Greek Wine Tasting and Picnic experience offers. Curated by expert oenologists, it combines a relaxed walk, a scenic picnic in peace, and a tasting of four indigenous Greek wines. It’s designed for those who want more than just sightseeing — a chance to connect with Greece’s wine culture in a genuine, approachable way.

We’re particularly fond of how this tour balances educational content with casual fun, making it perfect for both wine enthusiasts and curious travelers. The intimate group size means you’ll get personalized attention, and the outdoor setting provides a peaceful break from crowded city sights. That said, the tour involves a gentle uphill walk on uneven paths, so it might not suit everyone. Still, if you’re comfortable on natural ground and love exploring local flavors, this experience will resonate.

This tour is a charming way to deepen your understanding of Greek wine, enjoy breathtaking views, and savor local bites. It’s especially well-suited for those seeking a relaxed, authentic, and small-group adventure in Athens.

Key Points

• Authentic Greek Wines: Taste four native grape varieties, carefully chosen to showcase Greece’s wine diversity.
• Expert Guidance: Led by certified oenologists who share insights into the wines’ origins and production methods.
• Stunning Setting: A scenic walk up Philopappou Hill ends in a peaceful picnic spot overlooking Athens.
• Local Flavors: Enjoy pairing the wines with traditional Greek snacks like cheese, olives, sourdough bread, and olive oil.
• Educational Tools: Use a wine flavor wheel and Greek wine map to better understand aromas, tastes, and regions.
• Small Group: Limited to only 10 guests for a personal, engaging experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Meeting Point and Initial Impressions

The tour begins on Dionysiou Areopagitou Street, right outside the iconic Odeon of Herodes Atticus. It’s a lively spot, usually filled with travelers and locals alike. The guides wait in the shade, easily recognizable by their straw picnic basket — a charming touch that sets the tone. Once everyone has gathered, the small group (maximum 10 people) sets off on a short, scenic walk up Philopappou Hill.

This initial walk takes about 10 minutes, winding through a quieter side of Athens. We loved the way the route offers a gentle introduction to the area’s natural beauty and history. The paths are natural, with some uneven patches, so sturdy shoes are recommended — a small detail that ensures comfort and safety.

The Scenic Picnic Spot

Reaching the top of Philopappou Hill reveals a peaceful, leafy area with sweeping views over Athens, including the Acropolis in the distance. This quiet space is a perfect retreat from the city’s busier attractions. The view alone makes it worth the walk, especially at sunset or clear mornings.

Here, your guides set up a simple but inviting picnic. The emphasis is on local, high-quality ingredients: crusty sourdough bread, fresh Greek cheese, olives, and extra virgin olive oil. Each element is chosen to complement the wines and give you a taste of local flavors.

The Wine Tasting Experience

The core of this tour is the tasting of four Greek wines, each from indigenous varieties. The selection is curated to demonstrate the diversity of Greece’s wine regions — from mainland vineyards to island specialties. The wines are explained thoroughly, with guides sharing stories about their origins, production techniques, and what makes Greek wine unique — a fascinating mix of ancient tradition and modern craftsmanship.

We especially appreciated the use of visual aids, such as a wine flavor wheel and a Greek wine map. These tools help you explore aromas and tastes with confidence, transforming what can be an intimidating experience into accessible fun. Expect to learn about the different notes in each wine, how terroir influences flavor, and the history behind Greek winemaking — a mix of mythology, tradition, and innovation.

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Pairing and Tasting Notes

The wines are paired thoughtfully with the snacks: sourdough bread, cheese, olives, and olive oil. These are not just placeholders but carefully selected to enhance each pour. For example, rich cheese and olive oil bring out the wine’s complexity, while the bread serves as a neutral palate cleanser.

Participants often comment on the quality and authenticity of the snacks. One reviewer mentioned, “It felt like a genuine taste of Greece, not just a tourist gimmick.” The pairing elevates the experience, making it more than just a tasting — it’s a chance to appreciate the local culinary culture.

The Return Walk

After the tasting, you’ll take a leisurely walk back down Philopappou Hill, perhaps exploring a different route that reveals more of the natural landscape and city views. This gentle descent offers a relaxed way to digest both the wine and the scenery, leaving you refreshed and with a new appreciation for Athens’ surroundings.

Practical Details and Value

Duration, Group Size, and Cost

This is a two-hour experience, making it a manageable addition to your day without feeling rushed. The small group limit of 10 ensures a more intimate and engaging atmosphere, where questions are encouraged. The price includes the four wines, all paired snacks, and the educational materials — making it quite good value for a personalized, expert-led tasting.

Accessibility and Suitability

While the walk involves some uphill sections on uneven paths, it’s generally gentle enough for most travelers with moderate mobility. The experience is outdoors, so dressing appropriately for the weather is advisable — comfortable shoes, sun protection, and weather-appropriate clothing.

What’s Not Included

Transportation to the meeting point isn’t covered, so plan accordingly. Also, any additional food or drinks beyond those provided are extra. The focus remains on the four selected wines and local snacks, so don’t expect a full meal.

Why Choose This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want to connect with Greek culture through its wine in a relaxed setting. It suits those curious about wine, lovers of scenic views, and anyone wanting a break from the crowds with a meaningful, small-group activity. It’s also a wonderful introduction for first-time visitors keen to understand something more about Greece’s ancient and modern traditions.

Who Will Love It

• Wine enthusiasts eager to explore indigenous Greek varieties.
• Food lovers interested in local snacks and pairing.
• Sightseers wanting a peaceful retreat with panoramic views.
• Small groups or couples seeking a personalized experience.
• Travelers with moderate mobility, comfortable walking uphill on natural paths.
• Those who enjoy outdoor activities and learning in a relaxed environment.

FAQs

Is transportation included to the meeting point?
No, transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to make your way to Dionysiou Areopagitou Street, which is centrally located near many Athens attractions.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to the natural paths. Bring a hat, sunscreen, and weather-appropriate clothing for outdoor comfort.

Can children join this experience?
No, participants must be 18 or older to legally consume alcohol during the tasting.

Is the walk suitable for everyone?
The walk involves a gentle uphill climb on uneven natural ground, so it might not be suitable for guests with limited mobility.

How long does the tour last?
The experience runs for approximately 2 hours, making it a good short activity or a relaxing break in your day.

What is included in the price?
You get four premium Greek wines, paired snacks (bread, cheese, olives, olive oil), educational tools like a flavor wheel and wine map, and a guided walk.

Are additional drinks or food available?
No, only the included wine and snacks are provided. Additional food and drinks are extra if you wish.

How many people will be in my group?
The group is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a friendly, intimate atmosphere.

Is this experience available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak Greek, English, and French, catering to diverse travelers.

For anyone visiting Athens who appreciates good wine, authentic flavors, and scenic views, this tour offers a delightful combination. It’s a chance to enjoy Greece’s culinary heritage in a peaceful outdoor setting, away from the hustle of busy streets. The expert guidance, small group intimacy, and focus on indigenous wines make this experience stand out — a memorable way to deepen your understanding of Greek culture.

If you’re after an educational yet relaxed activity that combines natural beauty with local tastes, this wine and picnic tour on Philopappou Hill is a solid choice. It’s particularly suited for those who value quality over quantity, and who want to walk away with new insights (and perhaps a little more appreciation for Greek wine). Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring your curiosity — the views and flavors will do the rest.

Whether you’re a wine lover, a foodie, or simply seeking a peaceful break in Athens, this experience offers a taste of Greek life that’s both genuine and memorable.

You can check availability for your dates here: