Athens Old Town: Greek Olive Oil & Herbs Tasting

If you’re wandering through Athens’ charming Old Town (Plaka) and want a quick, authentic taste of Greece’s culinary heritage, this olive oil and herbs tasting might just fit the bill. We’ve looked into this experience, and what we find appealing is how it combines learning with tasting in a very accessible way. Plus, the setting at Brettos, the city’s oldest bar, adds a layer of historic charm.

What makes this experience stand out for us is its expert-led approach—you’re not just sampling blindly but gaining insights into what makes Greek extra virgin olive oil special. And of course, the chance to sip some local wine and nibble on herbs enhances the overall flavor journey. The only downside? It’s short—just about 20 minutes—so if you’re eager for a deep dive into Greek cuisine, this might feel a little light.

This tasting is ideal for travelers who love food, are curious about olive oils, or want a quick cultural fix without committing hours. It’s also a fun, casual way to start your day or break up sightseeing, especially if you’re interested in Greek culinary traditions.

Key Points

• Brief but Informative: It’s a quick 20-minute session with a focus on education as well as tasting.
• Expert Guidance: A knowledgeable host helps you distinguish between different types of olive oil and herbs.
• Authentic Setting: Located at Brettos, the oldest bar in Athens, with a cozy, historic vibe.
• Affordable Price: At around $22.58 per person, it offers good value for this focused experience.
• Tastings & Learning: You’ll sample four types of Greek extra virgin olive oil and some of the finest herbs.
• Inclusive of Wine: A glass of Greek wine accompanies the tasting, adding to the pleasure.
• Convenient Location: Right in the heart of Plaka, close to the Acropolis, making it easy to combine with sightseeing.
• Mixed Reviews: Guests praise the knowledgeable guides and quality of the oils, though some note it’s more of a quick overview than an in-depth class.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect and How It’s Set Up

Walking into Brettos, you’ll find yourself in a space that feels both historic and welcoming. Known as Athens’ oldest bar, Brettos boasts a warm atmosphere with barrels of Greek wine and spirits lining the walls, setting the perfect scene for a tasting. The activity begins by locating the bar, where you’ll check in and settle in for your 20-minute adventure.

You’ll be guided by an English-speaking expert—someone who’s passionate about olive oil and herbs and eager to share their knowledge. The experience involves tasting four different types of Greek extra virgin olive oil. Each oil is distinct, offering unique flavors and qualities that the host will help you identify. This isn’t just about sampling; it’s about understanding the subtle differences and what makes Greek olive oil stand out.

Alongside the olive oils, you’ll sample some of the finest Greek herbs. These herbs are paired intentionally with the oils, so you can see how they complement each other. The host will explain how certain herbs go well with olive oil, perhaps giving flavor tips you can take home. As you taste, a glass of Greek wine is included, which balances the oils and herbs nicely.

By the end of the brief session, you’ll have a solid basic understanding of what makes extra virgin olive oil special—from polyphenols to flavor profiles. The host might also mention interesting facts, like how fresh olive oil should have a certain dry burn in your throat, which is a good sign of quality.

The Flavors and Tastes

The highlight is clearly the four types of olive oil, which may range from fruity to peppery, depending on the varieties available. Guests often appreciate the ability to compare and contrast, which helps in understanding the nuances of Greek oils. This comparison can be surprisingly eye-opening, especially if you previously thought all olive oils were pretty much the same.

The herbs serve as a delightful complement. You might find yourself trying basil, oregano, or other local herbs, and discovering how they intensify or balance the oil’s flavor. These herbs are a staple in Greek cuisine, so this quick lesson offers practical insights for cooking or seasoning at home.

The wine, a traditional Greek variety, adds a gentle touch of relaxation. It’s not a heavy tasting—you’re encouraged to savor the oils and herbs thoughtfully, making this more of a mindful experience than a boozy one.

Authenticity and Setting

The experience is hosted at a well-established hotel that sells olive oils, honey, and wine, so they clearly have a passion for Greek products. Several reviews mention how the staff is friendly and eager to answer questions, adding to the approachable feel of the experience.

The location in the Old Town also means you’re right in the heart of Athens’ most picturesque district. After the tasting, you’re free to stay longer at Brettos and enjoy additional drinks or finger foods—though these are at an extra cost. The convenience of being near major sights like the Acropolis makes it easy to slot into your sightseeing itinerary.

Price and Value

At about $22.58 per person, this tasting offers a focused, educational experience without breaking the bank. It’s a short session, but the value lies in the quality of the guide, the variety of oils, and the insight you gain. Reviewers mention that it’s particularly worthwhile if you’re curious about olive oils or looking for a quick, authentic activity in Athens.

Some guests, like Steven, noted that the host seemed experienced and answered questions on the fly. Others appreciated how much they learned about the polyphenols and the qualities of fresh oil, which shows the educational side of this tasting.

Who’s It Best For?

This experience is perfect for food lovers, curious travelers, and anyone interested in Greek culinary traditions. It’s especially suited to those who want a quick, informative taste of local flavors without committing hours. If you’re a family with older children or teens interested in food, it can be a fun, interactive activity too. But if you’re after a lengthy class or in-depth tasting, this might feel a bit too brief.

If you’re after a light, engaging, and educational taste of Greek olive oils and herbs, this experience delivers. The setting at Brettos adds historic charm, and the knowledgeable host makes the tasting approachable. You’ll leave with a better understanding of what makes Greek olive oil different, and perhaps some new ideas for using herbs or picking out good oils at home.

The short duration is both a strength and a limitation—perfect if you’re on a tight schedule or want a quick flavor fix. But if you’re looking for a deeper dive into olive oil production, you might want to seek out longer or more comprehensive tours. Still, at this price point, it offers solid value and a memorable introduction to Greek culinary delights.

For travelers eager to explore local flavors, learn a bit, and enjoy a casual drink in a historic setting, this olive oil and herbs tasting hits the right notes. Just remember, it’s an overview, so don’t expect a full-blown class—think of it as a friendly, flavorful snapshot of Greece’s olive heritage.

How long does the olive oil and herbs tasting last?
It lasts about 20 minutes, making it a quick but enjoyable way to start or break up a day of sightseeing.

Where does the experience take place?
It’s held at Brettos Bar, the oldest bar in Athens, located in the heart of Plaka near the Acropolis.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s best to reserve ahead of time. You can cancel for a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Is there a guide?
Yes, an English-speaking expert leads the tasting and shares insights into the oils and herbs.

What’s included in the price?
You get to taste four types of Greek extra virgin olive oil, some herbs, and a glass of Greek wine.

Are there additional costs?
Any drinks or food beyond the initial tasting are at your own expense. The bar sells additional drinks and snacks if you wish to stay longer.

Can I stay longer after the tasting?
Absolutely. You can remain at Brettos and enjoy more drinks and finger foods, but those are sold separately.

Is this experience family-friendly?
The reviews suggest it’s suitable for families or groups interested in food, but keep in mind it’s a brief tasting—more a quick educational experience than a full-fledged workshop.

What makes Greek olive oil special?
While the tour doesn’t go into production details, guests learn that Greek oils can be quite nuanced, with quality indicators like polyphenols that influence flavor and health benefits.

If you’re curious about Greek food and want a fun, quick introduction to olive oils and herbs, this tasting in Athens’ Old Town could be a lovely, low-key way to get started.

You can check availability for your dates here: