Culinary Greece – Thessaloniki and Athens

Written by VeronicTravel on September 30, 2025. Posted in Gastronomy, Uncategorized.

GREECE 13 – 22 March 2027, 10 Days
CULINARY JOURNEY
DETAILED PROGRAM

Greece is a land seemingly as old as time itself; its rich and ancient history is etched across its terrain. Cities like Athens and Thessaloniki are abundant with historic sites, museums, delightful markets and incredible dining options. Famous spots like the Acropolis and the monasteries of Meteora continue to inspire wonder. Then there are the Greek islands with their dazzling light, beautiful beaches and characteristic whitewashed houses. From world-famous Santorini, Mykonos, Rhodes and Crete to somewhat lesser-known Alonissos, Milos and Ikaria, each of them has beautiful beaches, historic sites and alluring villages.

Greek culinary delights—from mezze to souvlaki—are also as rich as its heritage. The country offers an abundance of fresh seafood, legendary olive oil, cheese, yogurt and wines to be enjoyed along with its culture of music, dance and famously vibrant people.

Itinerary: Culinary Greece

Experience the culinary delights of Greece with VeronicTravel. This 9-day tour will take you through major cities like Athens and Thessaloniki where travelers will tour sites such as the Acropolis, Meteora and Vergina, as well as visit the Peloponnese Region.

Food is a highlight of this journey, and the itinerary will include market and tasting tours in both Athens and Thessaloniki, in addition to tastings at local wineries and an olive oil domain. Travelers will also forage for truffles and mushrooms, participate in cooking classes, and dine at cutting-edge wine bars and 5-start restaurants.

Day 0 : Departure from the USA

Begin your journey with an overnight international flight from the USA to Thessaloniki, Greece, connecting through Athens.

Day 1 : Welcome to Thessaloniki

Upon arrival at Thessaloniki Airport, you’ll be greeted by your English-speaking assistant who will accompany the group throughout the entire journey.

Private transfer from the airport to the hotel in the center of Thessaloniki will be arranged.

Check-in at a 4-star hotel

19:30 | Transfer to your Welcome Dinner

20:00 – 22:00 | Enjoy a warm welcome and your first taste of Greek hospitality with a delicious seafood dinner at award-winning restaurant MAYRI THALASSA restaurant (or similar).

After dinner, transfer back to your hotel.

Day 2 : Thessaloniki Gastro Markets & Cooking Experience

Start your day with a delicious buffet breakfast at the hotel.

10:00 – 14:00 | Culinary Tour with Smaragda Makri

Meet your culinary guide Smaragda Makri in the hotel lobby. A passionate chef trained at the prestigious École Ritz Escoffier, Smaragda is also a wine expert and certified honey sensory analyst. Her deep love for Greek flavors will guide you through an unforgettable culinary journey.

We begin with a visit to the master of bougatsa, Thessaloniki’s signature dessert, where you’ll watch a live demonstration of the traditional technique for stretching delicate filo dough.

Then we head to the city center for a guided walk through Thessaloniki’s vibrant food markets—Modiano and two additional historic markets. Along the way, we’ll enjoy a series of tastings that celebrate the flavors of northern Greece.

Tastings along the way include:

Bougatsa masterclass
“Sweets of the Spoon” – Traditional fruit preserves
Local cheeses & meze with a shot of tsipouro
Honey tasting – 3 varieties at a local café
Wine tasting (3 Greek wines) with small bites

Lunch at a traditional ouzeri where you will savor a generous spread including:

Aged fish roe dip, fresh salad, grilled squid & seasonal fish
A fine glass of Vidiano or Assyrtiko wine

Afternoon | After lunch, enjoy a leisurely walk back to the hotel, led by local guide Alex Randan, followed by free time to relax.

18:00 | Evening Cooking Class & Dinner: In the early evening, we will walk to a local culinary studio for a private hands-on cooking class. Learn how to prepare traditional Greek dishes under the guidance of local chefs—then sit down to enjoy the meal you helped create.

Return to the hotel on foot.

DAY 3 : Thessaloniki: Ancient Treasures & Jewish Heritage

Breakfast at hotel.

Morning | Embark on a panoramic journey through Thessaloniki, Greece’s vibrant second city, rich in culture, history and charm. This guided tour offers a perfect introduction to the city’s most iconic landmarks.

Start your day at the White Tower with a brief photo stop and views of the seafront. Then drive along the Waterfront Promenade, lined with cafés and sculptures. Visit Aristotelous Square, the lively city center surrounded by beautiful neoclassical buildings. See the Arch of Galerius and Rotunda, impressive Roman monuments from the 4th century. Head up to Ano Poli (Upper Town) to explore the old city walls and enjoy views over the Thermaic Gulf. Finally, visit Agios Dimitrios Church, the city’s main Byzantine church, famous for its mosaics. Throughout the tour, your expert guide will share fascinating stories that connect Thessaloniki’s multi-layered past with its modern-day vibrancy.

Free time for a quick lunch on your own.

Afternoon | Jewish Heritage & Holocaust History of Thessaloniki Tour: In the afternoon, we delve deeper into Thessaloniki’s profound Jewish heritage, uncovering a vital chapter of the city’s multicultural identity and honoring the memory of a once-thriving community.

This moving tour includes visits to key Jewish landmarks and memorials:

Yad Lezikaron Synagogue – Located in the heart of the former Jewish quarter, this synagogue serves as a memorial and a place of reflection, honoring the victims of the Holocaust.
Bank Allatini – A symbol of the once-powerful Jewish financial presence in Thessaloniki, located in the Frangon area, which was the commercial hub of the Jewish community.
Old Train Station – A powerful site of remembrance where thousands of Thessaloniki’s Jews were deported to Auschwitz & Birkenau during WWII.
Jewish Cemetery Memorial – Recently inaugurated, this monument honors the memory of one of the largest Jewish cemeteries in Europe, once home to over 350,000 tombs, tragically destroyed during the war.

Throughout the tour, you’ll gain insight into the deep historical roots and the devastating impact of the Holocaust on Thessaloniki’s Jewish population. At the end of the tour, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel.

20:00 – 22:00 | Enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant.

DAY 4 : Thessaloniki Departure – Ancient Vergina – Meteora

Breakfast at your hotel & check-out.

Morning | Depart for the remarkable archaeological site and museum of Vergina, guided by your English-speaking expert. Discover the fascinating exhibits and ancient ruins of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Vergina is one of Greece’s most important archaeological sites, famously known as the ancient city of Aigai, the first capital of the Kingdom of Macedon. This site holds extraordinary historical significance as the royal burial ground of the Macedonian kings, including the tomb believed to be that of King Philip II, father of Alexander the Great. At the Museum of Vergina, you will marvel at the richly decorated tombs, intricate artifacts and royal treasures that provide a unique window into ancient Macedonian life and culture. The site’s stunning architecture and well-preserved relics offer a captivating glimpse into the grandeur and power of one of history’s greatest empires.

Enjoy a delicious lunch at a nearby local restaurant.

Afternoon | Continue your journey to Kalambaka, where you will visit one of the world-famous Meteora monasteries, perched “suspended in the air” atop towering rock formations in the Thessaly plain. Explore this breathtaking site with your licensed English guide.

Check in at a 4-star hotel for your overnight stay in Kalambaka.

Buffet dinner, including drinks, will be served at the hotel.

DAY 5 : Meteora & Truffle Hunting – Delphi

Breakfast & check-out of your hotel.

Morning | Visit one more of Meteora’s incredible monasteries, perched high atop dramatic rock pillars. These centuries-old monasteries are a testament to the spiritual and architectural heritage of the region, offering breathtaking views and insight into the lives of the monks who once lived here.

Next, immerse yourself in a truly unique experience — a truffle hunting adventure in the nearby forests around Kalambaka. Accompanied by an expert and an award-winning trained dog, you will walk through beautiful, lesser-known woods in search of the region’s prized truffles. Learn about the fascinating world of truffles and wild mushrooms during this hands-on activity.

As part of the experience enjoy a cooking demonstration right in the forest, where you’ll help prepare a delicious pasta dish infused with freshly found truffles. Taste the unique flavors of this culinary treasure and discover how truffles elevate local cuisine.

Afternoon | Depart for Delphi, a scenic 3.5-hour drive through beautiful Greek landscapes.

Upon arrival in Delphi, your expert English-speaking guide will take you on a tour of the ancient archaeological site and museum, exploring the legendary sanctuary once considered the center of the world in ancient Greece. Discover the Temple of Apollo, the ancient theater, and the famous Oracle, as well as treasures housed in the museum.

Around 17h30 | Check in at a 4-star hotel. Take some time to relax and refresh.

Evening |Enjoy a transfer to the picturesque mountain village of Arachova, known for its charming streets and traditional atmosphere, for dinner at a local tavern where you’ll savor authentic Greek dishes of this mountainous village.

After dinner, return to your hotel in Delphi for a peaceful overnight stay.

DAY 6 : Delphi to Athens: A Full Day of Exploration

Start your morning with a hearty breakfast your hotel before checking out.

Morning | Depart on a scenic and comfortable drive to Athens (approximately 2.5 hours). Sit back, relax and enjoy the changing landscapes as you journey from Delphi to Greece’s vibrant capital.

Check-in at a 4-star hotel

12:00 – 13:00 | Embark on a private panoramic city tour of Athens by comfortable coach, accompanied by your professional English-speaking guide. Discover Athens’ rich history and lively atmosphere as you pass by major landmarks such as Syntagma Square, the Parliament building and the National Garden. Don’t forget your camera during the brief stop at the famous Panathenaic Stadium, the site of the first modern Olympic Games!

Following the tour, enjoy a quick lunch in a local restaurant.

Afternoon | Visit the world-renowned New Acropolis Museum, just a short walk from the Acropolis itself. Explore its impressive collection of artifacts, statues and relics that vividly illustrate the history of ancient Athens. The museum’s modern architecture and stunning views of the Acropolis add to the experience.

Next, walk up to the iconic Acropolis archaeological site. Wander through the ancient ruins, including the majestic Parthenon, the Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike. Your guide will share fascinating stories and insights about the significance of these monuments in Greek history and culture.

After descending from the Acropolis, enjoy a leisurely walk through the picturesque Plaka district, known for its narrow streets, colorful houses and charming shops. You’ll have some free time here to browse souvenirs, relax with a coffee, or simply soak in the lively atmosphere.

20:00 | A 15-minute pleasant walk to the bustling neighborhoods of Monastiraki and Psiri, famous for their nightlife and dining scenes.

Sit down for a delightful dinner at a traditional local tavern in Athens city center.

Afterwards, walk back to your hotel, reflecting on a day full of history, culture and new discoveries.

DAY 7 : Taste of Athens: Food, Markets & Local Flavors

Delicious buffet breakfast at your hotel.

10:00 – 14:00 | Athens Food Walking Tour: Explore the city through its vibrant food scene, guided by a local expert who will introduce you to the authentic tastes, stories and traditions that make Greek cuisine so special, including:

The Naxos Apothecary: A beautifully curated herbal boutique where Greek botany meets gastronomy. Learn how native herbs are used in traditional pies and Greek cooking, and enjoy a tasting of herbal teas and savory pies in their cozy Herbal Tea Room, home to over 130 herbs and rare superfoods from Naxos. You’ll also hear about their signature herbal mocktails and cocktails crafted by renowned Greek mixologist Popi Sevastos.

Varvakeion Central Market: Athens’ main meat, fish and spice market. This bustling hub of daily life is where locals come for the freshest ingredients. Stroll through its colorful aisles filled with aromas of herbs and spices, and see firsthand where the soul of Greek home cooking begins.

Enjoy a delicious lunch at a hidden gem right next to the market — a spot known for serving up authentic, local dishes made with fresh market ingredients. It’s a wonderful way to experience what real Athenians eat every day.

Stani, a Traditional Greek Dairy Patisserie: No Greek food experience is complete without something sweet! Visit Stani, a family-run dairy dessert shop that’s been serving since 1931. Indulge in traditional delights like masticha yogurt, house-made ice cream, and galaktoboureko (a custard pie soaked in syrup). Stani is a nostalgic treasure for those who appreciate the authentic taste of old Athens.

Afternoon | The rest of the day is yours to enjoy as you wish. Spend the afternoon exploring more of Athens at your own pace, whether you’re interested in museums, shopping, cafes or simply relaxing in one of the city’s leafy squares.

Dinner in a local restaurant.

DAY 8 : Olive Oil, Wine & Greek Cooking in the Peloponnese

Enjoy a full buffet breakfast at the hotel before heading out for a day of rich flavors, local traditions and hands-on experiences in the beautiful Peloponnese countryside.

8:30 | Departure from the hotel by private coach for the Peloponnese Region, a land known for its fertile soil, ancient history and exceptional culinary heritage.

Morning | Olive Oil Estate Visit in Corinth: Visit a fourth-generation olive oil family estate in Corinth. You’ll enjoy an advanced olive oil tour and tasting that offers more than just flavor; it’s a deep dive into Greece’s “liquid gold.”

Skouras Winery & Cooking Experience: Continue to the famous wine region of Nemea, where the hills are lined with vineyards producing some of Greece’s finest wines. At Skouras Winery you will take a guided tour of its modern facilities and learn about the winemaking process from vine to bottle.

Get ready to roll up your sleeves! Under the guidance of renowned Chef Costas, you’ll prepare a multi-course Greek meal right in the heart of the vineyard. This hands-on class combines classic techniques with seasonal ingredients.

Enjoy your homemade lunch paired with a curated selection of Skouras wines. This long, relaxed meal is the perfect celebration of Greek hospitality, flavors and fellowship.

Depart the winery and begin the drive back to Athens.

Around 19:00 | Arrive back at your hotel followed by dinner.

DAY 9 : Aegina Island & Farewell Dinner

Enjoy a relaxed buffet breakfast at the hotel before departing on a special day trip to the beautiful island of Aegina.

8:30 | Depart from the hotel with your host and transfer to Piraeus Port.

9:30 (approx.) | Board a regular ferry to Aegina, one of the Saronic Gulf’s most charming islands. The ferry ride offers lovely sea views and a refreshing escape from the city.

11:00 | Upon arrival in Aegina, transfer by private vehicle to the island’s most famous ancient monument. Visit the Temple of Aphaia, a stunning Doric sanctuary perched on a pine-covered hill with panoramic views over the Saronic Gulf. Dating back to the 5th century BC, it forms part of the famed “Sacred Triangle” along with the Parthenon and the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion.

Continue to a local pistachio factory for a guided visit and tasting. Aegina is internationally renowned for its PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) pistachios, and here you’ll learn how they’re cultivated, processed and turned into delicious local products —from roasted nuts to pistachio spreads & sweets.

Return to the capital of Aegina and enjoy lunch at one of the island’s seaside taverns and free time in Aegina Town. Take a stroll along the harbor, go for a swim, or browse local shops for pistachio souvenirs, handmade jewelry or ceramics.

16:30 (approx.) | Return via Flying Dolphin ferry back to Piraeus Port.

17:30 | Arrival in Piraeus and transfer to your hotel.

18:00 | Arrive back at the hotel with time to freshen up before dinner.

20:00 – 22:00 | Farewell to Greece in Style: A final evening to remember with a farewell dinner at ALERIA, one of Athens’ most celebrated restaurants (or similar). Nestled in a restored 19th-century neoclassical home in the elegant Metaxourgeio neighborhood, Aleria masterfully combines warmth, refined ambiance, and a contemporary take on Greek gastronomy. Relax, reflect and raise a glass to an unforgettable journey through Greece, surrounded by friends, fine wine and incredible flavors.

Return transfer to your hotel after dinner.

DAY 10 : Farewell to Greece: Departure from Athens

Enjoy your final breakfast at the hotel before checking out. Take a moment to reflect on the unforgettable experiences, flavors and friendships that have made this journey through Greece so special.

At the scheduled time, you’ll be transferred to Athens International Airport. Board your flight home with beautiful memories, new connections, and a deeper love for Greece’s rich culture, history, and hospitality.

Safe travels — and until next time!

PRICE PER PERSON

6.940 € per person, twin/double room

7.450 € per person, single room

A deposit of 30% is requested at the confirmation by October 15th, 2026
The balance due date by December 15th, 2026 to avoid cancellation

Payment by credit card via a secured link or by bank wire

Contact Veronique, veronictravel@gmail.com, to confirm & if you have any questions.

INCLUDED IN THE ITINERARY:

HOTELS:

3 nights in Thessaloniki at a 4-star hotel
1 night in Meteora at a 4-star hotel
1 night in Delphi at a 4-star hotel
4 nights in Athens at a 4-star hotel
Buffet Breakfasts are included at all of the itinerary’s hotels.

SERVICES:

Transfers to/from the airport
All the transfers, excursions & visits by private minibus according to the program: transfers from airports to hotels (or vice versa), transfers from ports to hotels (or vice versa) & all the transfers needed according to the itinerary from Day 1 to Day 10.
Professional English speaking assistant & guides
All meals, including 2 glasses of wine, water, coffee or tea
Food tours & cooking classes with a culinary expert
Truffle hunting + cooking class activity + lunch in the forest in Kalambaka
Entrance fees to all the museums and sites according to the itinerary
Boat tickets

NOT INCLUDED IN THE ITINERARY:

Flight tickets from the USA to GREECE / Flight tickets from GREECE to USA
Flight tickets from Athens to Thessaloniki / Flight tickets from Thessaloniki to Athens
Personal Insurance*
Personal Expenses, tips to guides and drivers, etc.
Whatever else is not clearly mentioned in the program section
The headphones during the visits (supplement for entire stay 40,00 € per person)

* VeronicTravel strongly recommends the purchase of Travel Insurance prior to your trip. There are no exceptions being made by companies to protect your travel investment. Without travel insurance you may not receive a refund if you need to cancel your journey, or for any accident or medical issues while traveling. VeronicTravel also strongly recommends that you are fully covered through your insurance.

Reasons to invest in travel insurance. These situations may happen in the blink of an eye:

Accidental injury, sickness, or death of you, a traveling companion or a family member;
weather events that cause cancellations in travel plans or a cessation of service;
mandatory evacuation ordered by local authorities at your destination due to hurricane or other natural disaster;
strike that causes complete cessation of travel services of your carrier;
bankruptcy and/or default of your travel supplier;
terrorist attacks that occur in your destination city; or
you or your traveling companion are terminated, or laid off from employment.

VeronicTravel will not be held responsible for any of these incidents.

*VeronicTravel recommends checking your passport’s validity prior to travel. Some countries require that passports are valid for 6 months beyond the dates of travel.

Cancellation Policy:

All cancellations must be made in writing to VeronicTravel at vero@veronictravel.com.

Cancellation Fees: