Athens in 1 Day for Couples - Guided visit to Athens’ central market (Varvakios)
In Collaboration with Greek Travel Advisors. Updated on February 17, 2026.
This isn’t just cooking—it’s a sensory journey that connects you to the heart of Athens through taste, tradition, and genuine connection. Meet in Monastiraki, browse the central market for fresh ingredients, then enjoy a hands-on cooking class in a private garden home with unlimited wine and ouzo.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Greek Travel Advisors, inspired by the tour Athens Market Tour and Cooking Class in a Beautiful Garden. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Guided visit to Athens’ central market (Varvakios)
- Private transfer from Monastiraki Square to the cooking venue
- Hands-on cooking with a Greek home cook in a private garden
- Enjoy the meal you prepare with unlimited wine and ouzo
Itinerary
Day 1
Morning market tour followed by a hands-on cooking class in a private garden home. Total duration 4 hours 30 minutes.
Meet at Monastiraki Square (meeting point)
Check-in and quick welcome. Your guide will confirm the day's menu and go over logistics. Meeting point is Monastiraki Square, near the Monastiraki metro entrance.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive 5–10 minutes early and wait by the Monastiraki metro entrance to avoid crowd confusion.
- Carry a small day bag and a light jacket—weather in May can shift between sun and breeze.
- Keep a small amount of cash/coins handy for market tastings or small purchases.
Market tour: Varvakios (Central Municipal Market)
Guided walk through Athens’ central food market to select fresh ingredients and sample local products. The guide will explain seasonal produce and suggest what will be used in the cooking class.
Tips from local experts:
- The market has narrow aisles—wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes and keep bags in front of you.
- If you want to taste small samples, ask the stall vendor politely; small cash payments are common.
- Markets can be busy; keep personal items secure and follow your guide closely for commentary and tastings.
Private transfer from Monastiraki area to the cooking location
Short private transfer arranged by the operator from the market/Monastiraki area to the private home where the class is held. Transfer time varies with traffic; buffer included.
Tips from local experts:
- The transfer is private—confirm with your guide where you'll board (usually close to the market entrances).
- There is a short walk from the market to the vehicle; wear comfortable shoes and be ready to board promptly.
- If you have mobility needs, notify the operator in advance so staff can arrange the most convenient pickup point.
Hands-on cooking class and lunch in a private garden
Hands-on cooking with a Greek home cook in a private garden home. Learn to prepare a set of seasonal Greek dishes using the market ingredients, then sit down to enjoy the meal together with unlimited wine and ouzo. Aprons and tools provided.
Tips from local experts:
- Inform the operator of any dietary restrictions or allergies at least 24 hours in advance so the menu can be adapted.
- Aprons are provided but wear comfortable clothing you don’t mind cooking in; bring a small camera or phone for garden photos during golden hour.
- The class is not wheelchair accessible; if mobility is a concern, contact the operator ahead of time for details.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 4 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | 1 |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 3 |
| Total Places | 4 |
| Activities Types | Neighborhood, Attraction, Transfer, Experience |
