Interest in wine tourism is booming in 2025, with over one million internet searches recorded for wine tasting experiences.
As travelers prepare for the summer holiday season, Titan Travel has published a comprehensive study revealing the most attractive destinations for wine lovers this year.
The ranking is based on several key factors, including:
- The average price of a bottle of wine
- The cost of wine tastings at vineyards
- The number of wine tours available
- The volume of global Google searches for wine-related experiences
1. South Africa – A Clear Favorite (Score: 8.38/10)
South Africa has emerged as the top wine tourism destination in 2025, thanks to its affordability and scenic offerings.
- Average wine bottle price: GBP 3.42 (approx. EUR 4.00)
- Average tasting cost: GBP 11.73 (approx. EUR 13.70)
- Organized wine tours: 279
- Annual searches: Over 16,000
Visitors can taste renowned varieties such as Chenin Blanc while enjoying the breathtaking mountainous landscapes of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek.
2. Portugal – Rich Traditions & High Accessibility (Score: 7.75/10)
Portugal ranks second, offering one of the highest densities of wine tours by area.
- Tours available: 562
- Average bottle price: GBP 4.24 (approx. EUR 4.96)
- Annual searches: Over 14,000
From walks through the Douro Valley vineyards to tastings of Touriga Nacional grapes during the September harvest, Portugal offers a deeply cultural wine experience.
3. Italy – Diversity and Culinary Pairings (Score: 7/10)
Italy completes the top three, boasting over 800 wine tours, the most among all countries surveyed.
- Annual searches: Nearly 12,500
Italian tours often combine wine with regional cheeses and cured meats, offering deeper insights into food pairing and local winemaking traditions. September is ideal for exploring Prosecco and other DOCG specialties.
France – Highest Online Interest, But at a Price
France records the highest global online interest with over 46,000 searches annually. However, high prices affect its ranking:
- Average wine bottle price: GBP 5.95 (approx. EUR 6.96)
- Tasting cost: GBP 183 (approx. EUR 214.30)
France remains an iconic destination, but budget-conscious travelers may look elsewhere.
Other Destinations to Watch
The report also highlights Cyprus, Chile, Spain, New Zealand, Croatia, and Armenia.
- Spain ranks sixth, with a bottle price of GBP 4.25 (EUR 4.98), but expensive tastings averaging GBP 146 (EUR 171).
- Chile scores well for value for money, while New Zealand wins travelers over with stunning landscapes.
Wine Tourism’s Rising Popularity
Phil Elis, a destination expert at Titan Travel, observes that wine tours have evolved from niche experiences into essential elements of modern travel.
“Travelers are increasingly looking for sensory experiences that allow them to connect with local culture through wine and its production,” Elis explains.
Methodology
The study combines data from:
- Numbeo for pricing
- Get Your Guide and World Bank for tour availability
- Google Ads (April 2024–March 2025) for search volume
- Tripadvisor ratings for tasting prices at the five top wineries per country
Source: Vinetur