8-Day Greek Culinary and Local Experiences Tour

Once the heart of Ancient Greece, the capital city of Athens is a museum in its own right. Landmarks that date back to the 5th Century still dominate much of the cityscape, and you will soon enjoy the opportunity to uncover the fascinating heritage of these beacons of an ancient civilization. For now, you will meet your private transfer at the airport and drop your belongings off at your accommodation before visiting local artisanal restaurants. Through an exploration of the appetizing treats and tantalizing dishes native to the Athenians, you will immerse yourself in the local culture from the get-go.

You will transfer to Athens Airport after breakfast on the morning of your second day to catch a domestic flight to the charming seaside town of Chania on the banks of Crete Island. The Old Town is riddled with hidden spots between narrow alleyways. Here, you will catch a glimpse of the local lifestyle within the Venetian Harbor as the sun filters through the overhead openings. You may acclimate yourself to the welcoming neighborhood or stroll to the sun-kissed shores of Glaros beach for a vitalizing dip in the glimmering water.

Atop the summit of the White Mountains, a quiet Cretan farm hangs over the vast countryside and descends toward Chania. Here, locals craft scrumptious traditional meals. They will invite you into their culinary school to discover their tricks. By working alongside a distinguished chef with fresh, organic ingredients, you will learn how to curate plates of authentic Cretan dishes that will open your taste buds to a new world of flavor. After a riveting exploration of the Cretan culinary arts, you may tuck into your creations with a glass of exceptional wine.

The eastern province of Chania, known as Apokoronas, is home to a plethora of charming villages and hamlets, each with their own distinctive cultural nuances. Today, along with your private guide, you will journey to a few of these intriguing destinations. From savoring the enchanting flavors of traditional Greek coffee and flipping through the folklore stories presented at the Apokoronas Museum in Gavalochori to snacking on artisanal cheese at a unique Cretan cheese-making farm in Emprosneros, you will experience much that the Apokoronas has to offer.

Santorini is cherished by locals and foreigners alike who have come to find refuge in the island’s sprawling natural beauty. Upon your arrival, you will feel your worries wash away as the salty air and fragrant scents of blossoming flowers as they billow across the landscape. In Santorini, dazzling bars buzz with the hum of people having fun, gentle waves crash up against smooth beaches, tomatoes grow on the volcanic soil, and vineyards stretch far into the distance at flourishing wine estates. There is something for everyone in this sought-after escape from the everyday and the mundane.

With your tour gradually coming to an end, how you wish to spend the day is entirely up to you. There are, however, two experiences that should be at the front of your mind. The fine-dining and wine culture in Santorini is thriving and beckons visitors to immerse themselves in the sumptuous flavor creations prepared by stellar restaurants across the island. On the other hand, traditional Santorini snacks are a staple for visitors, and a walking food tour could bring with it the perfect bite. Either way, you will explore the height of Santorini’s cuisine today.

As you step out onto the streets of Santorini in the morning, the sun will unveil the whitewashed homes and illuminate the cityscape in a vibrant glow. You may spend the morning leisurely strolling through the stoned walkways to town squares that are flanked by flower beds. This afternoon, you will board a sunset cruise and set off across the sea. Circling the island to coveted landmarks, you will witness natural spectacles that will appear to pose in their picturesque form.

Thoughts of Santorini conjure up images of blue dome-roofed houses in the cliffs that loom over the sea and villages. Santorini’s cuisine is a highlight of its own that you will wallow in during your final few moments on the island. From the tantalizing flavors of Tomatokeftedes, which are tomato fritters made from the distinct Santorini tomato, to the sweet taste of local visanto, the locals have perfected their unique culinary delights to try before your departure later today.