Authentic Athens

The proposed Athens culinary week follows, but the itinerary can be customized upon request. 

Day One

• Arrival in Athens and transfer to your home in the lovely forest villa. Your hosts will welcome you with a light lunch. Time to relax, settle in and learn about the wonderful activities and tours your hosts have organized for you during the week.
• This evening, head to a local taverna for a dinner of traditional Greek meze dishes (small plates).
• Overnight.

Day Two

• Breakfast at the villa.
• Today it is time to explore historical Athens! Head first to the city center, where you will join a small group 2-hour guided tour of the Acropolis.
• Enjoy a sandwich or salad at the Acropolis Museum Cafe, and then head to the Acropolis Museum, which you can explore on your own. Immerse yourself in the stunning collection of artifacts and art that grace the museum’s halls, offering a profound and intimate glimpse into the daily lives of ancient Greeks.
• After an immersive day brimming with history and exploration, wander the historical streets of Plaka, accompanied by your host. As you meander through Plaka’s narrow alleys, you’ll encounter a blend of neoclassical architecture, bougainvillea-adorned balconies, and quaint shops offering unique Greek treasures.
• Dinner at a taverna in the heart of Plaka before you return to the villa.
• Overnight.

Day Three

• Breakfast at the villa.
• After breakfast, your first cooking class with your host Alexandros, who will show you how to cook cauliflower the Greek way, in a classic Greek vegetarian recipe, as well as the renowned Frigania dessert, a rusk base soaked in syrup, accompanied by a creamy custard, fresh cream and roasted crushed almonds.
• You will then enjoy a tranquil stroll through the forest before indulging in your delicious lunch accompanied by feta cheese and sourdough bread.
• Time to rest before heading to Lycabettus hill, the highest point in the center of Athens, where you can experience one of the most wonderful views of your life. Marvel at the panoramic views across the city, and enjoy a lovely dinner with panoramic views of the historical buildings of Athens.

Day Four

• After breakfast, head with your host into the city center. First stop is at the Greek Parliament, where you will see the “Tsoliades” in their traditional Greek uniforms from the Greek War of Independence, guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier outside the Parliament. Next stop is at the Kalimarmaro Stadium, the iconic venue that witnessed the birth of the first modern Olympic Games.
• Next, head to the Varvakeio food market to soak up the incredible aromas and vibrant colors of the spice market, taste a variety of Greek delicacies, and join your host in selecting the finest ingredients for your upcoming cooking sessions.
• Indulge in a delectable lunch amidst the lively ambiance of Varvakeio Market with various Meze dishes and Greek ouzo.
• Nex, delve into the city’s past as you visit the storied grounds of the Ancient and Roman Agora. Wander through the echoes of history, where Andrian’s Library once stood as a beacon of knowledge, and marvel at the enduring grandeur of the Tower of the Winds, a testament to ancient engineering and artistry.
• Before you return home, enjoy an authentic souvlaki dinner, a perfect end to the day.
• Overnight.

Day Five

• After breakfast, you will have your next hands-on cooking. Today, you’ll delve into the art of crafting “Giouvetsi,” a delicious dish featuring lamb and orzo pasta. You will also uncover the time-honored secrets of the traditional tzatziki sauce and a classic Greek salad.
• You will have a bit of time to relax after lunch before heading to the nearby Royal Tatoi Estate. Delve into the rich history of the Greek Royal Family, and gain insights into the indelible mark they left on the nation, steering it through pivotal political transformations towards the embrace of parliamentary democracy.
• Return to the villa for a cooking session where you will prepare two delightful pies: cheese pie and spanakopita, showcasing the diversity of Greek pastry delights. Enjoy dinner based on your efforts, along with other Greek dishes.
• Overnight.

Day Six

• After breakfast, depart on a day cruise to the captivating Saronic Islands. Your adventure begins on Hydra, a charming island where cars – and even bicycles –  are banned, preserving the charm for exploring on foot. Wander cobblestone streets, marvel at the architecture, and immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere of Hydra.
• Enjoy lunch onboard, all while being surrounded by the Aegean’s azure waters, as you head to Poros. This enchanting island is renowned for its picturesque harbor and streets, filled with the enticing aromas of local bakeries. Stroll through inviting alleys, soak in breathtaking views, and relish the flavors of freshly baked traditional delicacies.
• Your next destination is Aegina, where you will be guided by a knowledgeable local expert. Learn about the island’s history and the cultivation of the famous Aegina pistachio trees, even savoring pistachio ice cream, a delightful local specialty. Your journey will also take you to the intriguing Temple of Aphaia, a significant ancient Greek temple, and Saint Nectarios Church, a magnificent Greek Orthodox church.
• Return to Athens in the evening, enjoying the glow of a beautiful sunset. Enjoy a delectable fish dinner at a local restaurant before heading back to rest after an eventful and fun-filled day.

Day Seven

• After breakfast, learn to make “Gemista,” a traditional Greek dish. While the dish bakes in the oven, take some time to explore the surroundings, embarking on a leisurely drive to discover the beauty of the area, including Beletsi Lake and other vistas that stretch to the sea.
• Return home ready to savor the meal you’ve had a hand in preparing.
• Following a well-deserved rest, get ready for an unforgettable Greek barbecue evening at a friend’s cozy taverna. You will enjoy an assortment of grilled meats, fresh vegetables, and traditional Greek accompaniments as you raise your glasses to the wonderful memories and friendships forged during your Athens Cooking Holiday.

Day Eight

• Breakfast, then transfer to the airport.