Cooking Class and Wine Tasting in Santorini

If you’re visiting Santorini and looking for a way to truly connect with Greek culture, this Cooking Class and Wine Tasting might be just what you need. While I haven’t personally joined this tour, based on the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions, it looks like a fantastic opportunity to learn local recipes, enjoy great wine, and soak in gorgeous island scenery—all in a small-group setting that feels intimate and relaxed.

What caught our eye are two key points: the interactive, hands-on approach that keeps everyone involved and the breathtaking vineyard views that make the meal extra memorable. On the flip side, one thing to consider is that children under 10 aren’t allowed, so if you’re traveling with little ones, this might not be the best fit. Still, for adults eager to dive into Greek culinary traditions or simply enjoy a delicious meal paired with regional wines, this tour seems well thought-out and worth the price.

This experience looks particularly suited to foodie travelers, wine lovers, or anyone wanting a relaxed, educational break from sightseeing. Whether you’re honeymooning, on a cruise, or just craving a local culinary adventure, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Small-group size ensures personalized attention and a more engaging experience.
• Location with vineyard views elevates the whole culinary adventure.
• Includes wine tasting with generous top-ups, perfect for wine enthusiasts.
• Hands-on cooking makes it suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned cooks.
• Guides and instructors receive high praise for their friendliness, knowledge, and humor.
• Price of around $107 offers good value considering the included meal, wine, and educational aspect.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

What to Expect from the Tour

This 4-hour experience starts at Pagonis Estate around 11:00 am. The journey includes pickup, comfortable transportation, and a scenic drive to the estate, where you’ll be greeted and welcomed into a cozy, picturesque setting overlooking vineyards and farmland. Although transportation isn’t included in the ticket price, the round-trip air-conditioned vehicle makes the logistics seamless and stress-free.

Once you arrive, you’ll join a small group—generally no more than 12 participants—which means you’ll get plenty of personal guidance. The tour is designed to be interactive, with everyone taking turns preparing dishes under the watchful eye of an experienced chef. The focus is on traditional Greek recipes, made from fresh, seasonal ingredients and herbs directly from the garden.

The Cooking Portion

During the hands-on portion, you’ll learn how to prepare a 4-course meal, which includes popular Greek dishes. Reviews mention the class being fast-paced but well-organized, with clear instructions suitable even for beginners. One reviewer noted that the chef was extremely friendly, humorous, and attentive, making the learning process fun.

The real draw here is the authenticity—you’re not just watching a demonstration but actively making the dishes yourself, which is a fantastic way to learn and remember recipes you can recreate at home. Plus, the ingredients are farm-fresh, giving your dishes true local flavor.

The Meal and Wine Tasting

After cooking, you’ll settle down on a scenic verandah to enjoy your creations. The setting is often described as “beautiful” or “breathtaking,” with many reviewers mentioning the view as one of the highlights. The meal is complemented by local wine—at a rate of one bottle per two people—which is generously topped up, according to reviews.

The wines come from the estate itself, and Lazarus, the wine expert, shares his knowledge on harvesting, processing, and traditional wine-making techniques. Reviewers rave about Lazarus’s friendliness and expertise, making the wine tasting both educational and enjoyable.

The Winery Tour

One of the most loved parts of the experience is the visit to the winery, where you’ll see how Greek wines are made and harvests are conducted. If you’re a wine lover, this adds an extra layer of insight and appreciation for the region’s viticulture.

The Overall Vibe

Guests often describe the experience as “informative, fun, and relaxing,” with many saying it exceeded their expectations. A common theme is that the class felt very personal and inclusive—if you love food and wine, you’ll appreciate how approachable and welcoming the guides are.

Pricing and Value

At around $106.72 per person, including a full meal, wine, and an engaging class, the price is quite reasonable considering what you get. The reviews support this too—many commenters mention that the experience is worth every penny and wish they’d booked it sooner.

Practical Considerations

• Children under 10 not allowed, so plan accordingly.
• The tour is not inclusive of transportation, which might be a factor if you’re not based near the meeting point.
• Be prepared for a light breakfast beforehand since the experience includes a substantial meal afterward.
• If you have food allergies, it’s advised to notify the organizers prior to the class.
• The maximum group size of 12 keeps things intimate and manageable.

Final Thoughts: Who’s This Best For?

This experience is perfect if you’re eager to learn authentic Greek cooking, want to enjoy local wines, and love beautiful surroundings. It’s a great activity for couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers who enjoy hands-on experiences. It’s less suited for children under 10 or those looking for a quick, come-and-go tour. Still, if you’re after an intimate, fun, and educational taste of Santorini’s culinary scene, this class hits the mark.

FAQ: Practical Questions Answered

Is transportation included?
No, the tour starts at Pagonis Estate and does not include pickup or drop-off. However, the round-trip transportation to the estate is arranged, making travel straightforward.

What’s the maximum group size?
Up to 12 travelers, which helps keep the experience personal and engaging.

Can I participate if I don’t cook often?
Absolutely. The class is suitable for all skill levels, from total beginners to more experienced cooks.

How long does the experience last?
Approximately 4 hours, including the cooking, meal, and wine tasting.

Are children allowed?
Children under 10 are not permitted to join.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the hands-on cooking class, a four-course meal, and one bottle of wine per two people during lunch.

Do I need to prepare anything beforehand?
It’s wise to have a light breakfast and inform the organizers of any food allergies.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the experience for a full refund.

Final Takeaway

If you’re looking for a relaxed, authentic, and scenic culinary experience in Santorini, this Cooking Class and Wine Tasting hits the sweet spot. The combination of hands-on learning, beautiful vineyard views, and generous wine makes it a standout choice for those who want to deepen their enjoyment of Greek food and wine, all in an intimate setting.

While it isn’t a tour for everyone—especially families with young kids or travelers with tight schedules—the people who do sign up tend to walk away with more than just a full belly. They get a new appreciation for Greek cuisine, a handful of recipes to take home, and a few new friends along the way. That’s pretty hard to beat.

Happy eating and tasting in Santorini!