Wine tours in Europe the best wine tasting tours

Europe is renowned for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and world-class food and wine. For wine enthusiasts, there is no better way to experience the beauty and flavors of Europe than through a wine tasting tour. With countless vineyards, wineries, and wine regions to explore, Europe offers a vast array of options for wine lovers looking to indulge in the finest vintages.

This article is a collaboration of stories by writers who have experienced the best wine tours in Europe themselves.
From the rolling hills of Tuscany in Italy to the picturesque vineyards of Bordeaux in France, Europe is a playground for wine connoisseurs seeking to sample some of the best wines in the world. Each region boasts its own unique terroir, grape varieties, and winemaking traditions, making every tasting experience a memorable event.

Whether you prefer the bold reds of Spain, the crisp whites of Germany, or the sparkling bubbles of Champagne, there is a wine tasting tour in Europe to suit every palate. Guided by knowledgeable sommeliers and passionate local wine makers, these tours offer a behind-the-scenes look at the winemaking process and a chance to taste the fruits of their labor firsthand.

So, if you’re looking to savor the flavors of Europe and immerse yourself in its rich wine and food culture, consider embarking on one of the best wine tasting tours in Europe. From intimate private tastings to group tours through iconic wine regions, there is no shortage of opportunities to indulge in the world’s finest wines while exploring the stunning landscapes and heritage of Europe.

16 of the best wine tours in Europe

Frequently Asked Questions about Best Wine Tours in Europe

1. What are the benefits of going on a wine tour in Europe?

Embarking on a wine tour in Europe offers an immersive experience where you can explore picturesque vineyards, taste exquisite wines, indulge in delicious food and wine pairings, and learn about the rich wine culture of different regions.

2. How can I find the best wine tours in Europe?

To discover the best wine tours in Europe, you can research top-rated wine tasting tours in Europe, read reviews from fellow wine lovers, check for exclusive wine experiences, and look for tours that visit renowned wine destinations in Europe such as Tuscany and Bordeaux.

3. What should I expect from a wine tasting tour in Europe?

A wine tasting tour in Europe typically includes visits to wine cellars, tasting sessions of various wines, insights into wine production processes, and opportunities to savor great food and local delicacies that pair well with the wines.

4. Can I book a private tour for a wine tour in Europe?

Yes, many wine tour operators in Europe offer private tours tailored to your preferences, allowing you to enjoy personalized experiences, exclusive access to wine cellars, and intimate tastings with expert guides.

5. What are some of the best wine tours to consider in Europe?

When looking for the best wine tours in Europe, consider options that include wine and food tours, guided tours of vineyards, visits to local wineries, and experiences in renowned wine regions like Douro, Portugal.

Douro Valley Wine Tour, Portugal

Boasting an unfathomably beautiful natural landscape and known for producing some of the finest wines in the world, the Douro Valley is an essential stop for any wine enthusiast. This land of wonders, with its terraced vineyards and wineries built on steep slopes, offering spectacular vistas of the Douro River and its valley, is an easy day trip from Porto, Portugal’s stunning second-largest city.

The wineries scattered across the Douro Valley produce top-quality dry wines and the famous Port dessert wine. In fact, according to laws and regulations, the Douro Valley is the only place in the world that can produce Port wine. Although you can get to the Douro Valley by car or train, we’d recommend visiting on a guided tour from Porto instead, to save yourselves valuable time and unnecessary logistics.

There are several companies operating day tours to the Douro Valley from Porto. The tour we joined had a total duration of about nine hours. Throughout the day, we visited several wineries where we were shown around the wine-making facilities and enjoyed wine tastings, had lunch at one of the area’s top-rated restaurants, marvelled at the charm of Pinhao Village and embarked on a scenic cruise along the tranquil waters of the Douro River, catching glimpses of the gorgeous vineyards and old-fashioned manor houses along the way.  By Maria & Katerina of It’s All Trip To Me.

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Chianti Wine Tour, Tuscany Italy

When in Tuscany Italy, a visit to Chianti vineyards for a wine experience is a must. And that’s what I did when I visited Florence and Rome. 

It is possible to experience a wine tour on a day trip. Multiple day tours from Florence include 2-3 wine tastings in a local vineyard with lunch, and also sightseeing along the way. 

Imagine strolling through rows of sun-kissed vines, the gentle Tuscan breeze carrying whispers of ancient wine making secrets. With each vineyard visit, a detailed process of wine making with a couscoussier is included! 

I enjoyed sipping different wines and understanding different wine making techniques. 

A day tour is a great way to experience this – and the tour provider takes care of bookings (and driving especially if you are sipping a few glasses of wine). Typically tours from Florence are about 6 hours, and are all inclusive with a rustic Tuscan lunch for 55+ euros. This is the wine tasting tour I booked.

I enquired about booking tastings individually, and it is possible. However, you will have to arrange for transportation (renting a car, or using public transit). Each tasting cost starts at 15 euros (not including meals and transfers). From Stephanie for Bey of Travel.

Read more about Italy:

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Santo Wines – Santorini Greece

One of the most amazing wine tour experiences I’ve had in Europe was at Santo Wines in Santorini, Greece. Nestled atop the caldera cliffs, this winery offers not just an exploration of exquisite wines but a breathtaking view of the Aegean Sea that is truly unmatched. The unique volcanic soil of Santorini gives the wines a distinct minerality and crispness, making this tour a journey through unique flavors and age-old winemaking traditions.

Purchasing tickets for the Santo Wines tour is straightforward and can be done on their official website or at the winery itself. However, due to the popularity of Santorini as a tourist destination, I recommend booking at least a couple of weeks, if not months, in advance to secure a spot. 

The tour typically includes a walk through the winery, an in-depth explanation of the winemaking process unique to Santorini, and, of course, a wine-tasting session. During this session, you’re not only treated to Santo Wines’ exceptional range of wines but also to local cheeses and delicacies, making for a well-rounded experience of Greek hospitality and flavor. 

The tour duration varies depending on the package selected, but expect to spend at least 1 to 2 hours. Prices vary depending on the quantity of tastings and the chosen food pairings. What makes this wine tasting unique are the stunning views. Imagine standing on the terrace, wine in hand, gazing out over the caldera, especially during sunset. It’s certainly a once-in-a-lifetime moment.” Contributed by Kasia of Perfect Day Somewhere.

Read more about Greece

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Argiolas Winery – Sardinia

The wine tasting experience at Argiolas Winery is one of the best in Sardinia. The vineyard and the annexed winery are located in Serdiana, one of the villages of the Parteolla region in south Sardinia. This part of the island is particularly famous for the production of wine and olives, and while Serdiana counts no more than 2000 inhabitants, there currently are five different wineries there!

Cantine Argiolas offers great wine tasting experiences that last a minimum of two hours. They have a selection of different experiences you can opt from, which include a tour of the vineyards (also done by segway), a sunset picnic in the vineyard, and a tour of the winery to learn about the history of Cantine Argiolas and the wine making process.

There are various wine tastings you can pick from, including one that is exclusively dedicated to the prestige wines during which you get a tasting of their signature wine Turriga.

Tours are offered from Monday to Saturday (Saturdays are for the prestige experience only), in both Italian, English and French, and can be booked by sending an email to  [email protected]. From Claudia Tavani, Strictly Sardinia.

Rosacker Grand Crus in Hunawihr, Alsace, France. 

The Rosacker grand crus wines are well-known, complex-flavored, white wines from the Alsace region. We learned about these exceptional wines on our visit to the sleepy village of Hunawihr in the Alsace region in Eastern France. 

The grand crus Rosacker wines grow mainly Gewüztraminer, Riesling and Pinot Gris grape varieties, and they have been doing this since the 15th century. A local legend tells the tale of a lord’s wife who turned the village fountain water to wine, and since that, the water has been described as special. 

Ultimately, the water, the soil composition and special weather conditions make the Rosacker grand crus wines unique in every aspect. 

The Cave Cooperative offers free tours every Thursday at 3:30 pm in July and August to the Rosacker grand crus vineyards. This includes a free tasting of their priced wines and a walk to the wine cellars. There is no way to book a spot in advance, it’s first come, first served, and up to 40 people can take part in one guided tour. They offer these tours in English now as well, and the complete tour is about 1 hour long. Paul D’Souza of Paulmarina

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Veuve Clicquot Champagne Tour – Reims, France

Reims is one of the two main centres of the Champagne Wine Region of France, so it’s popular with anyone interested in learning more about champagne production. And Veuve Clicquot is a popular mid-market brand of champagne, with a colourful history, making it a good choice of champagne house to tour.

Add to that the high-speed train link from Paris to Reims and you can see why it’s popular to take a day trip from Paris to Reims to do a champagne tour, combined with some sight-seeing in the city itself.

Veuve Clicquot has cellars in Reims, where you can do cellar tours with wine tastings. They offer a number of different tour packages, ranging from 1 to 4 hours, available on their website. Whilst there’s a choice about the content and duration of tours, most involve a guided tour of the cellars themselves, which are deep underground, and a lesson about champagne-making; some history on the brand and it’s remarkable founder, Madame Clicquot, known as the Grand Dame of Champagne; and a tasting at the end. The longest tours also include a visit to the Veuve Clicquot vineyard.  

It’s definitely worth booking tickets for your tour in advance – and a good idea to book train tickets in advance, too, to get the best prices and availability. By Martha, from MayCauseWanderlust.com

Mesquida Mora – Mallorca

Not a lot of tourists who travel to Mallorca know that this small island in the Mediterranean Sea is a great wine producer. Even if the production is quite small, the island is known for its Prensal Blanc and Malvasia grape varieties, which are grown mostly in and around the Binissalem area. And whilst you can enjoy the wines at most of the tapas bars in Mallorca, to learn more about the local wine is best to go on a vineyard tour.

I thought that my tour of Mesquida Mora vineyard was one of the most unique things to do in Mallorca. The vineyard is located in a rural area, accessible via a tiny road that leads to the 16th century property. The vineyard is run by Barbara, who is a fourth generation winemaker who produced wine in small batches.      

The experience of visiting Mesquida Mora includes lunch with wine pairings, inside her 16th century windmill, which has been restored to welcome visitors, in the middle of the vineyard. The lunch is composed of traditional Mallorca dishes, made by local women from the village. We were served delicious panadas filled with sobrasada, peas and onions, pastries filled with codfish, flatbreads topped with vegetables, Mallorcan meatballs, as well as puff pastries filled with jam for dessert. All washed down with plenty of delicious wine. You can book this experience directly on the vineyard’s website – https://mesquidamora.com/en/ contributed by Joanna of World in my Pocket.

Ktima Akrani – Kos Greece

Nestled in the serene landscapes of Kos, Greece, Ktima Akrani, formerly known as Triantafyllopoulos Winery, stands out as a beacon of exceptional wine experiences in Europe. Its charm is not only in its picturesque setting but also in the unparalleled hospitality and exquisite wines it offers.

Upon arrival, guests are greeted by friendly staff who guide them through a tasting journey of six wines, ranging from crisp whites to delicate rosés and robust reds. 

What sets Ktima Akrani apart is not just its outstanding wines, but also the opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in its enchanting surroundings. With rolling views stretching towards the Sea, the winery offers a tranquil retreat from the bustling world.

You can either book a guided tour here from an external company or go direct. For the best experience, book the 2-hour tour directly at the vineyard. Unlike the guided tours that may compromise the intimate experience with large groups, opting for a direct tasting allows guests to savour the wines at their own pace, with personalized attention from the staff. 

This rare experience allows travellers to discover the magic of Greek winemaking firsthand. Just remember to plan your transport if you are going independently as it is a little out of the way and there is currently no Uber on the Island! Contributed by Lowri of Many other Roads.

Wine tour in Sicily, Italy

Sicily is one of the top places to visit in Italy. With that being said, one of the best things to do in Sicily is taking a winery tour. Many tourists like to enjoy wine tasting in Sicily because it is made to perfection. Wine production has become part of Sicilian’s cultures and heritages that they consume in their daily basis.

The best tour to have in Sicily is the Palermo wine tour that has wine tasting with Snacks in Bottega Monteleone. The tour last about 2 hours where you got to state 5 different wines at a cozy wine bar in the heart of Palermo. You can book the tour Get Your Guide for only 40.82 dollars.

The tour includes tasting the famous Sicilian tapas, which is one of the most famous food in the island. While savoring your taste buds with this tasty delight, you will hear your guide talking about the wine making process on the island. The delicious win served are white wine, rosé, and red wine with a final touch of desert wine. Contributed by Ossama of Awesome Traveler 

Wine Tour Europe – Alentejo, Portugal

Europe has many fantastic wines, but Portuguese wines are often overlooked. That is until you try some! Many people visit the Douro Valley in northern Portugal, and Alentejo is another fantastic wine region. There are many vineyards to visit around Évora. I went to see the amazing Herdade das Servas in São Bento do Ameixial.

The amazing family business is surrounded by 350 acres of vineyards, producing incredible white, red, and rose wines! A tour will take you to the vineyards and cellars, and of course, there is a tasting afterwards. There are several excursions available, and some include food tastings, too. We went for a wine tasting with food pairing and took several bottles back home to enjoy!

It’s best to make a reservation beforehand to ensure they are open and have availability. Payment can be made at the site itself, and you can even stay for dinner at their restaurant. You can stay in Évora for a few nights to discover the stunning Alentejo landscape. Besides vineyards, there are many ancient megaliths and cork forests. Contributed my Marga of Discover Portugal

 Hora Winery, Hvar Island, Croatia

One look at the Stari Grad plain on the island of Hvar in Croatia might send you running for the sea but this rugged, arid landscape is actually one of the richest agricultural areas along Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, with Greek history that dates to the 4th century.

Once you know this, it’s no surprise that grapes and wine are some of Hvar’s most impressive products, and the best place to try local wine is on a tour at Hora Winery, smack dab in the middle of the plain.

The winery is surrounded by acres of farmland which produces a variety of organic produce which is served in their on-site restaurant at Hora.

We visited the winery recently for a tour and tasting, and the warm sunset only added to its desert setting. One of the oldest wines produced along coastal Croatia is Posip, a semi-sweet white grape variety aged in oak, and there are also red and rose wines to enjoy.

The cost of a tour and tasting is €25 and includes 4 wines, 2 liqueurs, and a charcuterie board with house made meats and cheeses. Advance reservations are needed for the hour-long tour and tasting, and also if you plan to stay for dinner at the winery. Contributed by Lori of travlinmad.

Bordeaux wine tour, France

Bordeaux is one of the most well known wine regions in the world. It is a pioneer for a lot of the wine-making regions across the world, so the process here is really interesting to see.

One of the best places in Bordeaux for a wine tour is Château Smith Haut Lafitte. This winery is located inside the iconic hotel of Les Sources de Caudalie, and is definitely one of the most beautiful places to learn about the wine making process. This winery was even recently visited by none other than King Charles himself!

The tour takes about an hour and costs €24 per person. It includes a tour of the vineyards, an explanation of the wine making process and a tasting at the end. You can reserve your spot here.

The best time to visit this winery is around September/October, when the harvesting takes place and you can watch as the grapes are converted into wine.Contributed by Anna of No Space in my Passport.

 Wine Tasting, Azores, Portugal

Portugal’s Azores, a remote archipelago about 1000 miles off the European mainland, is full of surprises. One of my favorite discoveries was Azorean food and drink , especially Azorean wine. 

Unlike any other wine in the world, Azorean vintners use both Portuguese wine heritage and the islands’ subtropical climate to their advantage. The result is a variety of mostly white wines. Volcanic soil, along with the fact that Azorean grape growers harvest their grapes about a month early to avoid autumn hurricane damage, contribute to the wine’s unique character.  

Most of Azorean wine is produced on the island of Pico, but you’ll find amble opportunities to try Azores wine on any island.

I highly recommend taking Hungry Whales’ 3-hour Wine and Food Evening Walking Tour in Ponta Delgada on Sao Miguel Island. A knowledgeable tour guide will lead you through the capital city’s historic centre. Not only will you learn all about Azorean food and wine heritage, you’ll sample 5 different Azores wines at various wine bars and restaurants. We had no issues snagging tickets for our group of three about a month in advance.  

Another fun way to taste many different Azores wines is at a Volcanic Wine Tasting Party on Terceira Island through Islanders Immersive Experiences. Contributed by Ada of Beyond the Yellow Brick Road: A Travel Blog 

Lavaux Wine Terraces, Lausanne, Switzerland

A popular day trip from Lausanne, Lavaux wine terraces is one of the most underrated destinations for wine tasting in Europe. 

 Few people think of Switzerland as a wine country, and yet, Lavaux is the best place to get a taste of the Swiss wine, the majority of which is exported to other countries. 

 While you can visit this place on your own by taking a quick train, joining a guided tour of Lavaux is a great way to enjoy the white wine along Lake Geneva. You can get tour tickets ahead of time through Viator.com

A small tour will allow you to get a more personalized attention of your guide. During the tour, you can explore the 800 hectares of vineyard terraces that date back to the 11th century. 

It’s a fun experience that combines the history of this wine making region with spectacular views and tastings. The experience also includes tastings and snacks as well as a round-trip transpiration with a hotel pickup from Montreux. Contributed by Dari of Explore Baja California

Vallee du Rhone – France

The northern part of the Vallée du Rhône, in Eastern France, produces some of France’s most prestigious wines. Famous crus in this area are Côte-Rôtie, Condrieu, and Saint-Joseph. Here, wines are made from a single grape variety: Syrah for the reds and Viognier, Marssanne, and Roussanne for the whites.

This part of the Vallée du Rhône is easy to visit on a guided tour from Lyon. Because of the distance from Lyon, full-day wine tours are more popular.

My full-day wine tour from Lyon was excellent. It included transportation from /to Lyon in a comfortable minivan and visits to three wineries (with wine tastings) in the Saint-Joseph, Hermitage, and Croze-Hermitage appellations.

This is not a tour to see the wine-making process, but we had a glimpse of the vineyards and learned a lot about the wines. There was a break for lunch, and although it was not included in the price of the tour, we all ended up eating together in the local restaurant suggested by the guide. The place was lovely, and the food was delicious!

Before going back to Lyon, there was a grand finale (no spoilers here!). This wine tour was one of the best experiences of my trip to Lyon. Because the groups are small, I recommend booking this tour well in advance. Contributed by Elisa of France Bucket List.

Blandy’s Wine Lodge, Funchal, Madeira

A visit to Blandy’s Wine Lodge is one of the most popular things to do on a trip to Madeira. Your tour begins in the tropical plant-filled courtyard. From there your guide will take you through a series of atmospheric rooms demonstrating the wine-making process, followed by a trip through the warehouses where the Madeira wine ages, developing its characteristic taste.

The tour ends in the tasting room, where you’ll be served two glasses of Blandy’s Madeira wine, with some tasting notes provided.

The most popular tour costs €15. It takes 45 minutes and is offered several times a day in English, German, French, Portuguese and Spanish. It’s recommended to book in advance but you may be able to get on a tour by just walking in. There are also slightly cheaper tours which take 30 minutes and leave out the Blandy’s museum, and Vintage tours at €30 which include a vintage Madeira wine as one of your tastings. Contributed by Helen of Helen on her Holidays.

Europe wine tasting tours offer the opportunity to explore some of the most famous wine regions in the world. From French wine to Tuscan wine, there is a wide selection of the best wine to taste on a European wine tour. Whether you are looking for a trip of a lifetime or just want to enjoy some fine wine, there are plenty of options to choose from. One of the best ways to experience the best food and wine tours in Europe is to visit the wine route in Tuscany, Croatia, France, Portugal or Spain or take a food and wine tour including visits to world heritage sites.

For a more intimate experience, consider a small-group food and wine tasting tour in Alsace or Douro. These tours often include visits to wineries for wine tastings, as well as stops at local towns and villages for a taste of traditional street food. With the opportunity to visit a wine villa or a UNESCO World Heritage site, a Europe wine tasting trip is sure to be an unforgettable experience.