Small Group Cooking Lesson with Visit to Two Wineries

A Closer Look at the Small Group Cooking Lesson with Two Wineries in Santorini

If you’re dreaming of combining your love for great wine and authentic Greek cuisine on your Santorini trip, this tour promises a well-rounded experience. Designed for small groups of up to 10 people, it offers a lovely balance between tasting local wines and learning how to prepare some of the island’s most cherished dishes. While it’s not a full day, the 5-hour journey packs in enough to give you a genuine taste of Santorini’s culinary and vinicultural scene.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it thoughtfully blends educational elements with relaxed enjoyment—you learn about the island’s winemaking philosophy as you sample at two different wineries, then roll up your sleeves for a hands-on cooking lesson. Plus, the experience concludes with a sunset picnic, something truly special that makes it more than just a class.

That said, a point to consider is the price—at around $300 per person, it’s definitely on the higher side for a 5-hour tour. But if you value quality, personalized attention, and a genuine local feel, the cost can be justified. This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy wine, good food, and meaningful, small-group interactions without the chaos of large tours.

If you’re after a relaxed, intimate, and flavorful way to spend half a day in Santorini, this might just be your ideal choice. It’s especially appealing if you’re a foodie, a wine enthusiast, or simply someone eager to dive into local traditions with expert guidance.

Key Points

• Intimate Group Size: Limited to 10 travelers for personalized attention
• Well-Rounded Experience: Combines wine tasting, cooking, and a sunset picnic
• Authentic Flavors: Learn to cook traditional Santorini dishes with fresh ingredients
• Educational & Interactive: Hands-on cooking lessons and wine education
• Beautiful Venues: Includes visits to two top wineries and a scenic picnic spot
• Price Point: At around $300, it offers a premium experience worth the value for many

What to Expect from This Santorini Experience

This tour is designed for those who want more than just a wine tasting or a cooking class—they want a memorable, immersive experience that captures the essence of Santorini’s food and wine culture. Over about five hours, you’ll get a taste of local traditions, flavors, and scenery, all within a small, friendly group.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Aroma Avlis — The Cooking Experience

Your adventure kicks off at Aroma Avlis, a cozy spot where the focus is on authentic, simple, and delicious Greek dishes. The cooking lesson is described as interactive and educational, which means you’ll get involved in preparing four traditional recipes. These include famous Santorinian fava, tomato fritters, pork fillets with Vinsanto sauce, and a classic garlic and tomato paste spaghetti.

The ingredients are noted to be fresh from local vineyards, which adds a special touch—farming and freshness are key here. The experience lasts around two hours, giving you plenty of time to learn, laugh, and enjoy the process. One reviewer, Tamara_T, praised Chef Chris as being personable and knowledgeable, adding a genuine warmth to the class.

Stop 2 & 3: Wine Tastings at Artemis Karamolegos and Estate Argyros

Following the cooking lesson, you’ll visit two renowned wineries—Artemis Karamolegos and Estate Argyros. These visits are designed to introduce you to the basic varieties of Santorini wines, highlighting their unique aromas and nuances.

At Artemis Karamolegos, the focus is on understanding the vintage process and the characteristic flavors of local grapes. The visit lasts about 50 minutes and includes a presentation about the vineyard’s history and winemaking philosophy. The second stop, at Estate Argyros, takes a bit longer—about an hour—and offers a chance to learn more about their specific labels and winemaking approach.

Both visits are included in the price, making this part of the experience quite valuable. The reviews suggest the wine tastings are authentic and insightful—perfect for wine lovers who want to understand what makes Santorini wines special.

Final Stop: Sunset Picnic at a Secret Spot

The tour wraps up with a sunset picnic at a secret location—a lovely way to enjoy your newly prepared dishes and local wines in a stunning setting. While the exact location isn’t disclosed publicly, the idea is to give you a memorable backdrop for your meal, highlighting Santorini’s iconic sunset views.

What the Experience Feels Like

This isn’t just a class; it’s a journey into local food and wine culture. The visits to wineries allow you to appreciate the craftsmanship behind each bottle, while the cooking session offers a chance to bring home authentic recipes. The small size of the group fosters a friendly, relaxed atmosphere, perfect for conversations and making new friends.

Practical Details

• Duration: 5 hours (approx.)
• Price: $300.96 per person
• Start & End: Begins at KTEL Intercity Bus Stop in Kamari, ends back at the same point
• Transport: Pickup is offered, which adds convenience
• Age & Dietary Needs: Minimum age for wine tasting is 18, but kids get non-alcoholic drinks; vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options can be accommodated
• Weather: The experience is weather-dependent; if canceled, a full refund or alternative date is offered

Pros and Cons

Pros:
– Small group setting with personalized attention
– Authentic, hands-on cooking lesson
– Two winery visits with detailed tasting notes
– Beautiful scenery culminating in a sunset picnic
– Well-reviewed chef and wine guides

Cons:
– Price might seem steep for some
– Limited to 10 people, so booking early is advisable
– Weather can impact outdoor parts of the tour

Authentic Review Highlights

One reviewer, Tamara_T, shared that “Chef Chris was so personable and knowledgeable about food, cooking, and wine,” which hints at the engaging and professional guidance you can expect. She also mentioned how ingredients are fresh off the vineyard, emphasizing the freshness and authenticity of the experience.

Another note from the reviews is the value of the unique wine selections and the ability to enjoy preparing and tasting local dishes in a relaxed setting. The combination of education, taste, and scenery makes this tour stand out from more generic options.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for foodies and wine enthusiasts who enjoy learning through doing, rather than just tasting passively. It suits travelers who want a small, intimate group and appreciate authentic, local flavors. If you’re looking for a romantic sunset picnic with delicious food and wine, this tour offers that in spades.

However, it might not be the best fit if you’re on a tight budget or looking for a quick, purely sightseeing activity. The focus on quality and depth means it’s best for those who genuinely want to enjoy Santorini’s culinary culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation provided?
Yes, pickup is offered from designated points, making it easier to join the tour without worrying about logistics.

How long does each part of the tour last?
The cooking class takes about two hours, wine tastings are 50 minutes at Artemis Karamolegos and an hour at Estate Argyros, with the whole experience around 5 hours in total.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The wine tastings are only for those 18 and over, but younger guests can enjoy non-alcoholic drinks and the overall experience of cooking and sightseeing.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes, vegetarian, gluten-free, and vegan options are available, so let the organizers know ahead of time.

What does the sunset picnic involve?
While the exact location isn’t disclosed, it’s described as a ‘secret spot’ with beautiful views—perfect for relaxing after a day of wine and cooking.

What is included in the price?
Wines at two wineries, the cooking class with four recipes, and a meal at the end with a bottle of Artemis Karamolegos wine are all included.

How does the experience rate overall?
With a 4.5 out of 5 rating based on two reviews, it’s a well-liked experience, especially for those who enjoy interactive, flavorful activities.

What’s the cancellation policy?
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start, which offers some peace of mind.

Is this experience weather-dependent?
Yes, if poor weather causes cancellations, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

For anyone who loves combining culinary adventures with wine tasting in a relaxed, intimate setting, this tour offers a compelling package. You’ll gain practical skills, learn about local wine, and enjoy a scenic sunset—all with a small group that feels more like a gathering of friends than a big tour. It’s especially suitable for travelers eager to connect with Santorini’s local traditions in a hands-on way.

While the price might be a consideration, the overall value lies in the quality of the guides, the authenticity of the ingredients, and the memorable setting. If these elements resonate with your travel style, this experience could be a highlight of your Santorini trip—a genuine taste of the island’s food and wine culture.