Thessaloniki isn’t just a city of lively streets and delicious food; it also offers a surprising number of workshops and classes that let you get hands-on with local crafts and culinary traditions. Whether you’re interested in trying your hand at ancient art forms like glass mosaics or learning to cook authentic Greek dishes in a home kitchen, Thessaloniki provides authentic, engaging experiences. We particularly love the Creative Glass Mosaic Workshops, where you can see the stained glass Tiffany technique and create your own masterpiece, or the Private Greek Home Cooking Class in Epanomi, where Erna and Thanos welcome you into their warm home for a personalized culinary lesson. These experiences stand out for their personal touch and authentic atmosphere.
This list includes a variety of workshops that cater to different interests—from traditional crafts like embroidery and felting to modern creative outlets like punch needle and painting. You will also find engaging guided art walks and comprehensive cooking classes with market visits. All of these options offer a chance to learn something new, meet local artisans, and take home a handmade souvenir or culinary skill. Now, let’s explore each of these unique experiences in detail.
1. Creative Glass Mosaic Workshops
At number 1, the Creative Glass Mosaic Workshops are perfect if you want to try an art form invented by the ancient Greeks. Set in Dimitra’s Art Glass Studio in Ano Poli, just a short walk from Byzantine Baths and the public library, this 4-hour experience invites you to make your own glass mosaic piece. The workshop highlights include the opportunity to learn the stained glass Tiffany technique and unleash your creativity in a relaxed environment. The studio offers a view of Koule Kafe square, adding a historic touch to your artistic journey.
Guests consistently praise the workshop for its enriching experience—like one reviewer who said, “Absolutely wonderful experience! And the workshop enriched my experience when seeing mosaics around the city and surrounding areas.” The price is around $66, making it an affordable way to engage with Greek artistic traditions. It’s well-suited for travelers who enjoy hands-on activities and want to understand the historical significance of Greek mosaics.
Bottom Line: This workshop balances art, history, and fun—perfect for those curious about ancient techniques or seeking a creative break in Thessaloniki.
2. Private Greek Home Cooking Class in Epanomi-Thessaloniki
Number 2 on our list is the Private Greek Home Cooking Class, where Erna and Thanos welcome you into their beautifully decorated home. This 3-hour experience offers an intimate view into Greek culinary life, with Erna preparing everything from scratch—including her famous freshly-baked bread—while Thanos handles the fish.
This class is notable for its friendly, personalized atmosphere and the chance to learn regional flavors combining Greek and Austrian influences. Reviews mention how Erna’s warmth makes the experience memorable, with one saying, “Erna was warm and welcoming from the minute we got to her lovely home.” The cost is $116 per person, reflecting the quality of the home environment and the hands-on experience.
Bottom Line: If authentic home-cooked Greek food, combined with a personal touch, appeals to you, this class is a delightful choice—especially if you love learning recipes directly from locals.
3. Thessaloniki: Greek Cooking Class, Market visit and Lunch
For around $103, the Greek Cooking Class, Market Visit and Lunch offers a more comprehensive experience with a focus on local ingredients. Led by a professional cook, you’ll start with a tasting of Greek olives, then visit the Central Market of Thessaloniki, known as Kapani, to buy vegetables and explore the lively local scene. The tour also includes a stop at Modiano Market to taste cheeses before heading to the kitchen for hands-on cooking.
Guests rave about the combination of shopping and cooking, with comments like, “My granddaughter and I had a wonderful day visiting markets, sampling Greek products, and then cooking Greek dishes for lunch.” The experience is great for food lovers who want to enjoy local flavors and culinary culture.
Bottom Line: This class combines market exploration with cooking, ideal for those who want an interactive, full-day taste of Thessaloniki’s food scene.
4. Thessaloniki: Private Greek Cooking Class and Meal at a Farm
Number 4 on our list is a 5-hour journey to a traditional family farm (link). Here, you’ll discover the secrets of Greek rural cooking, using ingredients freshly picked from the garden. The experience offers a rare look at authentic country life, away from busy city streets, with a focus on traditional recipes and local techniques.
This tour is highly rated at 4.9 out of 5, and reviews highlight the “hidden paradise” setting and the chance to enjoy a homemade meal with a Greek family. It’s perfect if you’re seeking a deeper cultural experience and enjoy farm-to-table cooking. The $177 price reflects the personalized attention and the opportunity to learn recipes you can recreate at home.
Bottom Line: For those wanting to step outside the city and learn Greek cooking in an authentic rural setting, this farm experience delivers both.
5. Thessaloniki: Punch Needle Workshop. A Creative, Local Experience.
Number 5 features a Punch Needle Workshop, a 3-hour session perfect for anyone wanting a relaxing creative activity. You will learn techniques to create your own handmade souvenir—whether it’s a decorative pillow or wall hanging—in a cozy environment. The workshop is suitable for all ages and skill levels, making it perfect for families or solo travelers looking for a low-pressure art experience.
The review is glowing with a 5/5 rating, emphasizing the friendly atmosphere and the chance to learn modern techniques. Cost is $103 per person, which is reasonable considering the personalized guidance and taking home a unique craft.
Bottom Line: A great choice for a stress-free, creative break, especially if you’re interested in textiles and want a memorable handmade keepsake.
6. Thessaloniki: Art Walk & Creative Workshop with Guide
Our sixth entry is a comprehensive Art Walk & Creative Workshop, lasting a full day. You’ll explore Thessaloniki’s murals, neighborhoods, and art scene with a knowledgeable guide. Afterward, you’ll create your own piece of art in a hands-on workshop, with prompts and reflective exercises to deepen your appreciation of local art.
Though reviews are not yet available, the experience promises a blend of cultural exploration and personal expression. The inclusion of a free video and photo package adds value for those who want to remember their artistic adventure.
Bottom Line: Ideal for art lovers who want a guided city tour combined with a creative outlet, perfect for a full immersion into Thessaloniki’s contemporary art scene.
7. Cooking classes for Foodies, Discover Greek cuisine
Number 7 is a day-long Cooking Class for Foodies, offering a deep dive into Greek culinary traditions. Held in the city’s heart, this class teaches you how to cook up to 8 dishes, including tzatziki, dolmadakia, and zucchini balls. The instructor, Joanna, emphasizes local ingredients and technique, while the atmosphere is described as fun and professional.
Reviews highlight the quality of the ingredients and the chance to sit down and enjoy a feast of your own making. The price is $152, but for serious foodies, it’s an excellent value considering the depth of the experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a full-day, hands-on culinary adventure and enjoy learning about Greek ingredients and techniques.
8. Thessaloniki: Creative Glass Mosaic Workshops
Simplifying slightly, this is a different take on glass art, focusing on the Tiffany stained glass technique. The Glass Mosaic Workshop lasts 4 hours and provides a hands-on opportunity to explore ancient Greek craft. Participants can create their own glass piece, experiencing a craft that was invented by Greeks and still practiced today.
Rated 4.7 out of 5, visitors enjoy the chance to express themselves creatively in a friendly environment. It’s suitable for beginners and those interested in stained glass techniques.
Bottom Line: If you want to learn a beautiful and historical craft, this workshop offers a well-rounded introduction in a relaxed setting.
9. Thessaloniki: Embroidery workshops. A Creative Slow Craft Experience
Number 9 offers a Cozy Embroidery Workshop, perfect for beginners and those looking to relax with a slow craft. In a friendly studio, you’ll learn traditional and modern embroidery techniques, creating your own decorative item or souvenir.
With a focus on relaxation and creativity, the workshop is highly suitable for families, solo travelers, or anyone wanting a personal, tactile experience. The cost is $95, and reviews often mention the inviting atmosphere and the chance to make something unique.
Bottom Line: For a calming, crafty activity that results in a personal keepsake, embroidery offers a rewarding experience.
10. Thessaloniki: Felting Workshop with Tea and Biscuits
Number 10 is a Felting Workshop, lasting about 3.5 hours. You’ll learn how to make jewelry or decorations from wool using dry and wet felting techniques, all in a warm, friendly environment. As you work, enjoy tea, biscuits, and gentle music, creating your piece in a cozy atmosphere.
This workshop is ideal for those seeking a calming, creative experience with tangible results. It’s suited for all skill levels, and the price is reasonable considering the personalized instruction.
Bottom Line: Perfect for relaxing and making a unique wool creation in a welcoming setting.
11. Thessaloniki: Painting workshop with Coffee or Tea
Finally, number 11 offers a Painting Workshop, where you choose a theme and learn to paint on canvas with an experienced instructor. No prior skills are necessary, and the session lasts about 3 hours. The class includes high-quality materials, and you’ll leave with your own finished artwork.
This activity is suitable for beginners, families, or anyone wanting to try painting in a relaxed, friendly environment. It’s a creative way to spend an afternoon and pick up new skills.
Bottom Line: For an easygoing, creative experience that results in a personal masterpiece, this painting workshop is a fun choice.
How to Choose
When selecting a workshop or class in Thessaloniki, consider your interests and how much time you want to dedicate. Are you eager to explore ancient Greek crafts? Try the Creative Glass Mosaic Workshops. Want to learn Greek cooking? The market tour and cooking or the farm experience offer different levels of immersion.
For those seeking a relaxing craft, the Punch Needle or Embroidery workshops provide tangible, personal souvenirs. Art enthusiasts might prefer the Art Walk & Workshop or the Painting class for a more expressive experience.
Choose based on your budget, energy level, and interest in either culinary, traditional crafts, or contemporary art. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular classes like cooking, which can fill quickly.
Final Thoughts
Thessaloniki offers an impressive variety of workshops that suit many interests and skill levels. For a taste of ancient Greek art, the Creative Glass Mosaic Workshops deliver a meaningful hands-on experience. Food lovers will appreciate the Greek Cooking Classes or the Market & Cooking Tour, which combine culinary learning with local flavor.
If you’re after a slower, more meditative craft, embroidery or felting workshops provide relaxing ways to create and connect. And for those eager to explore their artistic side, the art walk and painting classes offer fun ways to take home a unique piece of Thessaloniki.
In short, whether you want to learn, create, or simply relax, Thessaloniki’s workshops are an excellent way to deepen your experience and bring home a piece of Greek culture. Book early, pick what excites you most, and enjoy every moment of your creative journey.
