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Thessaloniki is a city that practically breathes food. Its mix of cultures—Ottoman, Jewish, Greek, and Balkan—shows up on the plate in every corner, making it a paradise for food lovers. What we especially like about its food scene is how accessible and authentic it is; you can find outstanding street snacks, bustling markets, and local tavernas that serve up dishes you can’t find anywhere else. One of our favorites is the Thessaloniki: Food Tastings and Drinks tour with a Chef, which perfectly captures the city’s culinary spirit with local dishes and lively stories from a local chef.
If you want to really taste Thessaloniki’s flavors, these food tours cover a range of experiences—from market explorations and street-food tastings to gourmet chef-led adventures. Whether you’re keen on exploring markets like Kapani and Modiano, sampling popular treats such as koulouri and bougatsa, or learning how to pair local drinks like ouzo and wine, this list has you covered. Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each tour and what makes them stand out.
1. Thessaloniki: Food Tastings and Drinks tour with a Chef
At number 1, this 4-hour culinary walk is a hit for those wanting a hands-on experience. Led by a passionate local chef, the tour combines walking through Thessaloniki’s streets with tastings of iconic dishes like koulouri, Greek cheeses, salads, and traditional pastries such as bougatsa. The guide shares stories of the city’s culinary roots, making each bite meaningful. The tour includes drinks at most stops, and vegetarian options are accommodated—something many reviewers appreciated, describing it as a well-structured, engaging experience. Guests mention their guide Panos as “good company,” and the food from vendors they’d never find alone makes this tour a standout. For anyone wanting a deep dive into Thessaloniki’s food with local flavor, this experience holds excellent value at $90. Bottom line: perfect for foodies wanting a guided, authentic taste of the city.
2. Thessaloniki: Open Market Food Tour with Tasting
For 3 hours of exploring the city’s bustling open markets, this tour is a lively way to see Thessaloniki’s authentic food scene. Visiting Kapani and Modiano markets, your guide points out organic produce, cheeses, and traditional products. The tour includes a visit to a grocery store specializing in organic goods, with tastings to match. Guests rave about the guide Constantina and the variety of Greek bites, from pastries to cheeses. The tour’s real strength lies in experiencing how locals shop and eat daily, with stops in Louloudadika and Athonos Square adding cultural flavor. If you love vibrant markets and a chance to sample authentic Greek street food, this tour offers great value for $51. It’s ideal for those who want an energetic, taste-focused introduction to Thessaloniki.
3. Thessaloniki: Walking Open Market Food Tour and Tasting
This highly-rated 3-hour insider’s tour emphasizes local life and traditional flavors. Walking through Kapani and Modiano markets, you’ll sample everything from organic cheeses to Greek pastries, all while discovering where Thessalonians do their daily shopping. The tour also includes stops at Louloudadika and Athonos Square for more tastings and stories. Guides like Konstantina are praised for their friendly, informative approach, making the experience engaging. The tour’s small size, with just 52 reviews, and a perfect 5-star rating suggest it’s well-loved. If you want to explore Thessaloniki’s food scene with a local’s insight, this tour delivers a genuine taste of the city for $52.25. Bottom line: a must for market lovers seeking authenticity.
4. Gastronomic Food Tour in Thessaloniki with a Chef
This 4-hour gourmet experience combines culinary and cultural stories with visits to key gastronomic sites. Led by a local chef, the tour highlights Thessaloniki’s multicultural influences—think seafood, herbs, cheeses, and marinated dishes. Starting in the historic Louloudadika neighborhood, guests enjoy tastings of local delicacies paired with drinks. The guide shares insights into recipes and local traditions, making each dish meaningful. Reviewers note the “knowledgeable” guide and the excellent organization. At $92.52, it offers a slightly more refined experience, ideal for those wanting a chef’s perspective on local flavors. It’s perfect if you’re interested in the culinary craft behind Greek dishes and want a more upscale experience.
5. Traditional Greek Food Tour With A Local
For around 3 hours, this engaging walk offers an authentic taste of Thessaloniki’s classic dishes. Guided by Anna, you’ll visit hidden spots, taste bougatsa, souvlaki, and local sweets, and hear stories about their cultural significance. The tour mixes food with cultural context, making it a well-rounded introduction. Guests praise Anna’s enthusiasm and her knowledge of city history. Costing about $91.90, it’s a good choice for travelers who want to experience Greek cuisine in a friendly, relaxed setting. Bottom line: excellent for those who want a personal connection with a local guide and traditional flavors.
6. Thessaloniki Street Food Tour with a Local Guide
This 3-hour street food crawl begins at the harbor and explores Ladadika, Bezesteni Market, and the renovated Modiano Market. You’ll taste koulouri, bougatsa, stuffed pitas, and sweets, sampling Thessaloniki’s most loved snacks. The tour is praised for its friendly guide Ali and the variety of tastings, which include surprises along the way. Guests love the experience because it combines walking with eating, giving an authentic snapshot of local life. For $103.18, it’s slightly pricier but offers a rundown of street snacks and hidden food spots. Ideal for those wanting a lively, snack-focused adventure in a short time.
7. Half Day Food and Walking Tour with Tastings in Thessaloniki
This 2.5-hour tour is designed for food lovers eager to taste a variety of Greek delicacies. Starting at Electra Palace, the tour visits Kapani Market for olives, then moves through Chrimatistiriou Square to try bougatsa. It continues with souvlaki and local cheeses, ending with a pastry and coffee stop. The guide’s engaging approach and generous portions earn this tour high praise. At $81.82, it balances time and value well, making it suitable for travelers wanting a rapid yet rich culinary overview. Bottom line: quick but delicious, perfect for those with limited time.
8. Greek Ouzo and Meze Food Tour With A Local
This 3-hour tour is an excellent introduction to Greek drinks and meze. Tasting different types of ouzo and cold cuts at local tavernas, guests learn about the drinks’ history while enjoying bites like spreads, cheeses, and small plates. The guide explains how to enjoy Greek beverages like a local, and some tips for nightlife in Thessaloniki are included. Rated just 7 reviews, the tour offers a more intimate experience for those interested in drink culture and social dining. At $91.50, it’s best suited for those wanting a relaxed, drink-focused experience with a local expert.
9. Thessaloniki Food Tour with a Local Chef
This 4-hour experience is perfect for gourmets wanting a chef-led tour that explores secret local delicacies paired with rare drinks. It includes olive oil tastings, honey, balsamic vinegar, farm-to-table charcuterie, and a high-quality lunch at a local restaurant. Guests rave about the chef’s storytelling and the personalized approach. The price is $127.34, making it one of the more upscale options, ideal for those interested in premium food experiences. If you want to learn about spices, teas, and regional ingredients with a chef’s insight, this tour is a top pick.
10. Get a Taste of Thessaloniki – a food tour & lunch to local tastes
This 4-hour walk combines tasting local flavors with a cozy restaurant lunch. Starting at artisan food shops, the tour emphasizes Thessaloniki’s cross-cultural influences. You’ll sample dishes, explore markets, and end with a relaxed meal. Costing $90.20, it is well suited for travelers who want to combine sightseeing and food without rushing. It’s best booked early in your trip to get the most restaurant tips and local insights.
11. Thessaloniki: Food and Walking Tour with Tastings
This 2.5-hour tour is a lively exploration of Thessaloniki’s culinary landmarks. Visiting three neighborhoods, you’ll taste sweet and savory dishes, including soutzoukaki and regional desserts. The guide Elly is praised for her engaging style and local knowledge. With a cost of $78, it’s a nice option for travelers who want a quick, tasty overview of the city’s food scene. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want to experience the real flavor of Thessaloniki.
12. Thessaloniki: Guided Food Tour
This 3-hour guided walk is straightforward but packed with flavor. Visiting the most famous pastry shops for koulouri and bougatsa, plus trying souvlaki at a local market, it offers a classic taste experience. Guide Nicos shares stories about the history behind the food, making it educational as well as delicious. Rated 4.7 stars from 9 reviews, it’s suitable for travelers seeking a classic, well-organized introduction to Thessaloniki’s food. Price at $73 makes it a good value for a city-focused food walk.
13. Thessaloniki Private Treasure Hunt & Tour w Food Stops
For those who like a little fun with their food, this 2 hour 15-minute private treasure hunt combines sightseeing with tastings. Using an app, you solve riddles at key monuments before stopping at local food spots. It includes iconic sites like the White Tower and Aristotelous Square, plus secret culinary stops along the way. The tour costs $73.30 and is perfect for families or groups who want a playful, interactive experience with bites at each stop. The mix of city exploration and food makes this a memorable way to see Thessaloniki.
14. Thessaloniki Food Tour – Gastronomy Experience – 4 hrs
This private, customizable 4-hour tour is designed for serious food lovers. Starting from the Thessaloniki Tourist Information Center and moving through markets and restaurants, your guide tailors the experience to your interests. It includes tastings of local products like olive oil, honey, balsamic, and a proper meal at a restaurant. Guest reviews highlight the personal touch and the chance to ask questions about the ingredients and recipes. Priced at $173.64, it’s suited for travelers who want an intimate, comprehensive tasting with flexibility. Perfect for food connoisseurs willing to splurge for a tailored experience.
15. Olicatessen Greek Deli Food Tasting in Thessaloniki
Finally, for those seeking a quick, fun sampling, this hour-long tasting at the Olicatessen inside Modiano Market offers a variety of spreads, cheeses, and traditional meze with a twist. At just $40.55, it’s a budget-friendly option that appeals to foodies who want to try many local delicacies in a relaxed setting. Reviewers mention the “tasteful bites” and the fun atmosphere, making it perfect as a quick snack stop or introduction to Greek flavors.
How to Choose the Right Food Tour in Thessaloniki
When deciding which tour to pick, consider your budget, available time, and specific interests. If you want a comprehensive experience that combines storytelling and tasting, the Gastronomic Food Tour with a Chef is excellent. For those who want to focus on markets and street food, the Walking Open Market Food Tour offers insider access. Budget travelers might prefer the Greek Deli Taste, while families and groups seeking fun might opt for the Treasure Hunt. Booking early is advised, especially during peak season, to secure your spot on these popular experiences.
Thessaloniki’s food scene is as diverse as its history, and these tours give you a taste of what makes the city special. From quick snacks to chef-led gourmet explorations, there’s something for every palate and budget. Whether you prefer wandering bustling markets, sampling street foods, or indulging in a private tasting, these experiences help you connect with Thessaloniki’s soul through its flavors. For the best trip, pick a tour that matches your interests and pace, and book early—these are popular for good reason. Happy eating!
