Santorini: Private Cooking Class and Wine Tasting Tour

If you’re dreaming of a day in Santorini that combines stunning scenery, excellent wines, and a taste of authentic Greek cuisine, this private cooking class and wine tasting tour might just be your perfect match. Offering visits to two traditional wineries, a hands-on cooking experience with a local chef, and a generous wine tasting session, this six-hour journey promises a well-rounded dive into the island’s culinary and viticultural treasures.

What sets this experience apart for us is the small-group, personalized approach — you’ll get plenty of interaction and expert insights. The tour’s emphasis on local wines like Assyrtiko and Vinsanto, combined with a genuine Greek cooking lesson, makes it feel both fun and educational.

One thing to keep in mind: it’s a full day, and the price might seem steep at $1,073 per group (up to two people), but considering the inclusions—transport, multiple wine tastings, a cooking class, and a hearty lunch—many travelers find it offers good value for a premium experience. It’s best suited for wine lovers, foodies, and those eager to soak up Santorini’s authentic flavors in a relaxed, intimate setting.

Key Points

• Personalized Private Experience: Small group, dedicated guides, tailored to your pace.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Two wineries, a cooking class, and a delicious Greek meal.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides with a passion for wine and Greek cuisine.
• Authentic Local Flavors: Learn to cook traditional Greek recipes using fresh ingredients.
• Stunning Views: Vineyard visits amidst Santorini’s volcanic landscape and picturesque surroundings.
• All-Inclusive Convenience: Pickup, tastings, lunch, and all fees included, making planning easy.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting the Day: Vineyard Visits and Wine Tasting

The adventure begins with a pickup from your hotel or Airbnb, typically included within Santorini. The tour is designed to be relaxed and engaging, with the first stop at a volcanic vineyard. Here, we loved the chance to stroll past the unique basket vines—an iconic feature of Santorini’s vineyards. The guide will explain how the island’s volcanic soil and climate produce grapes with distinctive characteristics, making Santorini wines such as Assyrtiko, Nykteri, and Vinsanto so special.

You’ll visit two traditional wineries in the countryside, often Gavalas or Argyros, as many reviewers have noted. These visits are more than just tastings; they’re storytelling moments, where owners and winemakers share insights about the island’s wine-making history and techniques. A common sentiment from reviewers is that the wineries are welcoming and treat guests like friends, which adds to the overall authenticity.

During the tastings, you’ll sample eight different wine styles. The focus is mainly on whites and dessert wines—reflective of Santorini’s production specialties. Guides often give mini-tutorials on wine tasting techniques, making it an educational experience even for those new to wine.

The Highlight: Cooking with a Local Chef

After the vineyard visits, the tour shifts gears to the heart of the experience — a Greek cooking lesson at a traditional restaurant. This part is praised for its interactive nature, with the chef guiding you through classic recipes. Reviews reveal that the chef is skilled and adaptable, customizing the session to suit different skill levels.

Expect to prepare dishes such as Santorini salad, fava puree, tomato fritters, and pork tenderloin, with recipes shared at the end so you can recreate them at home. The atmosphere is relaxed, often with plenty of Greek appetizers and wine flowing, making it more of a social gathering than a formal class. Reviewers frequently mention that they enjoyed the fun, hands-on aspect, and the chance to learn about local ingredients directly from the chef.

The Finish Line: A Delicious Meal and More Tasting

Once your dishes are ready, you get to sit down and enjoy the fruits of your labor. The meal is often complemented by a bottle of wine from the day’s tastings, enhancing the flavors and experience. The included lunch features Greek specialties and is generally praised for quality and authenticity.

In addition, there’s the opportunity to buy wine and olive oil at discounted prices, which adds a good value angle for those wanting to bring a taste of Santorini home.

Practical Details

The entire tour lasts about six hours, with flexible start times depending on availability. Transportation is included, with pickup from your accommodation. If you’re arriving via cruise, the meeting point is conveniently located in front of McDonald’s near the top of the Santorini Cable Car in Fira.

The tour is strictly private, meaning you’ll have the guides’ full attention. Payment is flexible—you can reserve now and pay later, which helps with planning.

Why Travelers Love This Tour

From the reviews, it’s clear that guides like Angelo and Stefanos are a big part of the experience’s charm. They’re praised for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and friendly approach. Comments like “Angelo was an amazing guide, very knowledgeable and made everyone feel at ease” and “Stefanos was a very likeable, knowledgeable, and entertaining guide” highlight how personalized attention makes all the difference.

Many reviewers also have raved about the wines and the overall value. For example, one said, “Worth every penny! A knowledgeable guide, three wineries, a fun, easy cooking class, and a fantastic meal.” The blend of touring, tasting, and hands-on cooking seems to hit the right note for most.

Real Experiences and Hidden Gems

Guests frequently mention the vineyards’ stunning views and the intimate atmosphere. The visits to wineries like Gavalas and Argyros are often described as welcoming and insightful, with owners eager to share their passion. The cooking class, praised for its fun and interactive nature, often becomes a memorable highlight, especially when paired with good wine and lively company.

Considerations for Booking

While the experience offers a lot, the price point might be a barrier for some. However, considering the inclusions—transport, multiple tastings, the cooking lesson, and a full meal—many see it as good value for a premium, personalized experience. The focus on small groups and expert guides adds a level of intimacy and education that large tours can’t match.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts and food lovers who want a deeper understanding of Santorini’s culinary scene. It’s also perfect for couples or small groups seeking a memorable, private activity that combines culture, taste, and scenery.

If you’re eager to learn how to cook traditional Greek dishes or want expert insights into local wines, this tour offers both in one package. However, if you’re on a tight schedule or prefer more active sightseeing, it might be a longer commitment for what’s primarily a tasting and culinary experience.

Final Thoughts

This private Santorini wine and cooking tour offers a well-balanced mix of delicious wine tastings, authentic Greek cuisine, and stunning vineyard scenery. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge shine through, making it more than just a tasting—it’s a genuine immersion into the island’s flavors and traditions. The small-group format ensures a personal touch that many travelers appreciate.

While the price is on the higher side, the inclusions—two wineries, a guided tasting session, a hands-on cooking class, and a traditional Greek lunch—make it a worthwhile splurge for those looking to make their Santorini trip extra special. It’s especially suited for couples, foodies, and wine lovers who want a memorable, educational experience that they’ll remember long after they leave.

For anyone wanting to combine beautiful scenery with authentic tastes and expert guidance, this tour ticks all the right boxes. Just remember to come hungry and ready for a day full of good company, great wines, and delicious food.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and return from your hotel or Airbnb within Santorini. If your accommodation isn’t on the list, you’re asked to advise manually after booking.

What is the meeting point for cruise travelers?
Cruise ship guests are asked to meet in front of McDonald’s near the top of the Santorini Cable Car in Fira, with flexible options if delays occur.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts about 6 hours, with starting times depending on availability.

Are the wines mainly white?
Yes, the tour features mainly whites and dessert wines, reflecting Santorini’s typical wine production.

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians or special diets?
While the reviews focus on standard Greek dishes, it’s best to advise the tour provider in advance if you have dietary restrictions.

Can I buy wine and olive oil during the tour?
Absolutely, you’ll have the opportunity to purchase these products at discounted prices.

Is this tour good for kids?
It’s primarily designed for adults interested in wine and cooking. The hands-on experience might be less engaging for children.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is conducted in English, with guides who are friendly and knowledgeable.

Can I reschedule or cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Reserve now and pay later to keep your plans flexible.

Is this experience worth the cost?
Many reviewers feel it offers excellent value considering the personalized guided visits, tastings, and cooking class—creating a memorable and authentic Santorini experience.

This comprehensive tour offers an authentic slice of Santorini’s culinary and vinicultural life, perfectly suited for those who want a relaxed yet immersive taste of the island. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or a curious foodie, it’s sure to be a highlight of your trip.