A Taste of Greece : A culinary journey
/Join us on a culinary journey that transcends time and tantalizes taste buds across the heart of Greece! From the historic streets of Athens to the sun-kissed landscapes of Peloponnese, each day is a new chapter in a gastronomic adventure. Immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Acropolis, savoring breakfast with the gods before delving into Athens' vibrant food scene on a delectable food tour. Indulge in a Michelin-starred dinner that sets the stage for the mouthwatering days ahead. Journey to Peloponnese, where beekeepers unveil the secrets of golden nectar, and the ancient Olympia whispers tales of Olympic glory. Your taste buds will dance through Kalamata's culinary delights and the charming alleys of Monemvasia, where wine-making, bread baking, and beach side feasts await. Each day is a celebration, from enjoying 5-star luxury resorts to an intimate dinners in village tavernas. The finale? A farewell cooking class in Athens with Acropolis views, leaving you with memories as rich as the flavors you've savored. This is more than a trip; it's a gastronomic symphony that crescendos with a farewell breakfast overlooking the city of legends. Depart enriched, your palate forever marked by the essence of Greece.
Day 1 - Athens arrivals and Greek taverna
dinner at greek taverna
Upon your arrival at Athens International Airport, a dedicated team awaits to usher you to exclusive luxury transportation, whisking you to a meticulously chosen 5-star hotel centrally located for your convenience. The hotel, just a stone's throw from the heart of Athens, promises a delightful stay. Depending on your arrival time, luxuriate in the rooftop pool's breathtaking views of the Acropolis or embark on a leisurely exploration of the city's vibrant energy. For ultimate rejuvenation, the spa facilities beckon, offering the option to arrange revitalizing treatments.
The 10-day gastronomy tour kicks off with an authentic taverna experience, historically serving as a confessional, haven, and mini-agora. Here, class distinctions dissolve, and patrons share the same simple choices of white, red, or rosé house wine. Tavernas, once relegated to basements and frequented by outsiders, gained prominence when embraced by middle-class intellectuals in the 1950s. Engage with your Tour Leader and fellow travelers in the original Athenian tavern atmosphere, fostering interesting conversations and camaraderie amidst this unique cultural experience.
Meals : Dinner
Day 2 - Acropolis, Athens Food Tour & Michelin star restaurant
athens food tour
Start your delicious first day with a captivating exploration of Athens, a city steeped in Western civilization's essence and rich with historical and cultural treasures. The iconic Acropolis, a symbol of democracy, introduces you to architectural marvels such as the Propylaea gateway, the enduring Parthenon, and the ethereal Erectheum with its iconic Caryatids. Explore additional wonders surrounding the Acropolis, including the Theatre of Dionysus and the Odeion of Herodes Atticus. Transition into a culinary adventure with the Athens Food Tour, an opportunity to join locals in their favorite pastime—eating. Your English-speaking guide initiates the experience with Greek coffee at a landmark coffee house, providing insights into the role of food in Greek life. The journey continues with street treats, visits to specialty food stores for olive oil tastings, and stops at a baklava bakery and a popular grill spot for souvlaki and fried potatoes. Dive into the bustling Varvakios Market, witnessing the lively competition among butchers and fishmongers.
Stroll along Spice Street, exploring a shop with an array of local condiments and herbs. Indulge in a sugar rush at a local pastry shop with a traditional cream-filled phyllo treat. Conclude the tour with a delightful assortment of Greek meze at a charming deli, savoring classic appetizers, cheeses, and cured meats. The culinary journey culminates in a surprise dinner at one of Athens' twelve Michelin awarded restaurants, offering a taste of Greek fine dining rooted in modern cuisine—an exquisite conclusion to a day filled with cultural and gastronomic delights.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3 - Be a beekeeper for a day
beekeepers and honey making experience
As the morning sun illuminates your journey, a scenic coastal road unfolds along the Saronic Gulf, guiding you to the Corinth Area. Your initial stop introduces you to the Corinth Canal, an artificial waterway connecting the Gulf of Corinth to the Saronic Gulf, effectively turning the Peloponnese into an island. Commencing construction in 1881, the canal faced setbacks, including geological and financial challenges, leading to the bankruptcy of its original builders. Ultimately completed in 1893, it stands as a testament to perseverance. Your next destination is the Beekeeping Museum in Nemea, designed to foster a connection with bees and showcase cultural heritage intertwined with these essential pollinators. The museum offers a comprehensive tour of honey production and packaging, exhibitions featuring beekeeping artifacts from various eras, and informative videos on bee life. Don a beekeeper's uniform for an up-close encounter with live honeybees—a unique highlight.
Concluding this immersive experience, indulge in a homemade traditional lunch infused with honey, accompanied by the excellent house wine of the Nemea region. It’s time to check in to the amazing W at Costa Navarino offering nothing less than pure luxury. Your first dinner in Messinian Land unfolds with a backdrop of sea and sunset views over the Ionian Sea. A short drive from your hotel leads to Gialova, a picturesque seaside settlement on the spit of Navarin. Renowned for its serene natural environment, captivating beaches, and romantic sunsets, Gialova boasts a protected lagoon with rare flora and fauna. Here, you'll relish local dishes in a carefully selected seaside tavern, providing a perfect culmination to your day.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4 - Ancient Olympia, Olive Oil Tasting and Kafeneio visit
Traditional kafeneio
Commence your day at "Platia," the Greek square offering a culinary array for breakfast, spanning The Coffee Shop, The Bakery, The Deli, and The Cookery. The journey unfolds in Olympia, birthplace of the ancient Olympic Games and a worship site for Zeus since the 10th century BC. Marvel at sculptures like the temple of Zeus decorations, Hermes of Praxiteles, and Nike of Paionios. The historic Olympic Games, a celebration of peace and noble competition, continue to influence modern sporting events.
Step onto the same track where ancient athletes raced and explore remnants of buildings and temples among the trees. A museum houses artifacts from the sanctuary. Witness the lasting ideals of peace, justice, and progress, as revived by Pierre de Coubertin in 1896. Visit a fourth-generation family-owned farm in Olympia, surrounded by olive groves, and experience a farm-to-table culinary adventure. The day concludes with dinner at a traditional tavern in a village near your resort, offering insight into the transformation of old kafenia (Greek cafes) into tavernas. Greek kafenia, integral to social life since the 18th century, have evolved into meeting places where locals engage in conversations over coffee, and some have transformed into tavernas. These tavernas, nestled in picturesque settings, embody the essence of Greek culture, serving simple yet delectable dishes. This journey bridges the past and present, allowing you to immerse yourself in Greek traditions and cuisine.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5
w costa navarino in pelopennese
Costa Navarino, nestled along the stunning coastline of the Peloponnese in Greece, boasts world-class facilities that redefine luxury and elevate the guest experience. Guests are welcomed into a haven of opulence with lavish accommodations that blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. The resort features a remarkable array of recreational facilities, including two signature golf courses—the Dunes Course and the Bay Course—designed by legendary golf architects. These courses provide not only a challenging golf experience but also breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea. For those seeking relaxation, the Anazoe Spa is a sanctuary of rejuvenation, drawing inspiration from ancient Greek healing traditions. The spa offers a diverse range of treatments, including therapies utilizing local olive oil and extracts, providing a holistic approach to well-being. Costa Navarino is a haven for culinary enthusiasts, boasting a plethora of dining options that showcase the rich flavors of Greek and international cuisines. From authentic Greek tavernas to upscale fine dining, the resort caters to diverse palates with a commitment to using locally sourced, organic ingredients. Additionally, the Navarino Outdoors program offers a wide range of outdoor activities, from hiking and biking to water sports, ensuring guests can immerse themselves in the region's natural beauty. The resort's commitment to sustainability is evident in its eco-friendly practices and initiatives that contribute to the preservation of the local environment. With its world-class amenities, Costa Navarino provides an unparalleled retreat where guests can indulge in luxury, embrace nature, and experience the best of Greek hospitality.
Meals : Breakfast
Day 6
kalamata food tour
Continue your gastronomic adventure in Kalamata, the vibrant capital of Messinia, starting your day with a light hotel breakfast before delving into a food tour that unveils the region's culinary treasures. Kalamata, once a prosperous center due to the exploitation of fertile Messinian lands, boasts a rich history and significant port. Led by local guides, the walking tour immerses you in the heart of Kalamata's historical center, exploring non-touristic areas and engaging with local vendors to sample various traditional and regional Greek foods.
As the culinary journey unfolds, savor the changing landscape on a drive through the picturesque villages of Mani, where the wild beauty of Peloponnese reveals itself. Passing coastal gems like Kardamyli and Stoupa, venture further south to Deep Mani, characterized by its rugged coastline and occasional coves, offering breathtaking views in places like Ιtilos. Explore Areopoli's charming alleys or unwind with coffee in Limeni against a backdrop of stunning sea views. Continuing eastward, the journey leads to Monemvasia, renowned for its rock mass looming over the Laconian coastline, connected to the mainland by a narrow causeway and a 130-meter bridge. Monemvasia's name, meaning "only access," reflects its unique geography. Conclude the day with a delightful dinner at a local taverna, rounding off a day that blends cultural exploration, culinary delights, and the scenic wonders of Peloponnese.
Meals : Breakfast, Dinner
Day 7
wine making experience
On your inaugural day in Monemvasia, a remarkable experience awaits as you delve into the art of winemaking. A brief drive leads to a historic mansion, once the winter retreat of esteemed Greek poet Yiannis Ritsos in the 19th century. The journey extends to the estate's vineyards, where active grape harvesting provides a hands-on opportunity. Participate in the process, filling baskets with grapes, gaining insights into vine cultivation, and learning about the harvested grape varieties from your knowledgeable guide. Subsequently, a visit to the estate's winery unveils the intricate stages of production and initial fermentation. Returning to the cellar of the historical mansion, relish a delectable lunch featuring local estate products, accompanied by the indulgence of estate-produced wines. The day progresses with an exploration of Monemvasia Castle, a medieval fortress-city perched on a plateau 100 meters above sea level, connected to the mainland by a narrow road. The castle's strategic construction in a rock, shaped by an earthquake in 375 AD, ensured protection against invaders throughout history. Witness the remnants of town walls and Byzantine churches, reflecting centuries of Byzantine, Frankish, Venetian, and Ottoman occupations, as well as the influence of local Spartans. Today, the castle stands as a popular tourist attraction, preserving the rich history shared by proud locals. Conclude your day with free time for shopping and a delightful dinner, rounding out an immersive journey into Monemvasia's cultural heritage, winemaking traditions, and extraordinary landmarks.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch
Day 8
watermills for breadmaking
Today's journey takes us to the charming village of Talanta in the "Bali Gorge." The adventure begins with a descent to the watermills along a cobbled path, where 12 watermills, remnants of the past, line the way to the sea. The third watermill, meticulously restored, hosts a weekly tradition where locals and visitors grind wheat using the ancient method. The miller demonstrates the authentic process, showcasing the power of water in grinding wheat to produce flour.
Embark on a trek through nature, reminiscent of the early 20th century, descending the gorge on an easy route surrounded by old plane trees, olive trees, and flowing waters. Your local guide highlights the local flora during the 1800-meter trek, leading to a circular path back to the watermill. Enjoy a picnic-style break with freshly squeezed orange juice, local snacks, and fresh fruit amidst the serene natural landscape. The Municipality of Monemvasia's beaches offer a nostalgic backdrop, reminiscent of childhood postcards. Choose from sandy beaches or those adorned with colorful sea shells, windless gulfs at road ends, or easily accessible, organized sandy beaches. Spend hours relaxing under your umbrella, swimming in crystal-clear blue waters, and indulging in local cocktails or a light beachside lunch. Conclude the day with another tavern experience, savoring more Lakonian flavors in this picturesque coastal setting.
Meals : Breakfast, Dinner
Day 9
cooking class
Following your hotel checkout, immerse yourself in the secrets of Mediterranean cuisine. Delve into the Laconic vegetarian gastronomy with a skilled chef, uncovering the nuances of a 100-mile diet. Engage in a hands-on experience as you craft and bake your own lunch, personally selecting vegetables from the garden for a farm-to-table meal. Explore the organic farm, harvesting fresh, edible greens and organic vegetables for cooking seminars led by local chefs. These seminars allow you to assemble the gastronomic puzzle of the region, creating special dishes from a symphony of local products. After the enriching cooking class and a satisfying lunch, the journey takes you back to Athens for an overnight stay, offering free time in the afternoon for any last-minute shopping. As the sun sets, gather for an unforgettable farewell dinner on the Roof Garden of your hotel, boasting incredible views of the Acropolis. Celebrate shared memories and the profound impact of your journey amidst delightful cuisine and heartfelt conversations. The farewell dinner marks a culmination of the collective experience, providing a fitting conclusion to your immersive exploration of Mediterranean flavors and cultural richness.
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10
The 10-day gastronomy tour concludes, and we trust you've fully immersed yourself in Greek cuisine, uncovered the secrets of the Mediterranean diet, relished pure organic products, and had enjoyable experiences as a beekeeper, winemaker, or even a little chef! If needed, private transfers can be organized to ensure a seamless journey to the Athens airport for your departure flight home. Safe travels!
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✓ All transfers to/from Athens airport as per your arrival/departure time
✓ 3 x Overnights at Electra Metropolis* in Athens on BB basis
✓ 3 x Overnights at W Costa Navarino 5* in Pylos on BB basis
✓ 3 x Overnights at Kinsterna Traditional Hotel 5* in Monemvasia on BB basis
✓ English-speaking Tour Leader through out the itinerary
✓ Entrance fees to Acropolis of Athens and Ancient Olympia Sites
✓ 9 x Breakfast meals
✓ 7 x Dinner meals
✓ Local Licensed Guides for visits at Acropolis of Athens, Ancient Olympia Sites and Monemvasia Castle
✓ Athens Food Tour
✓ Visit in the Beekeeping Museum with Lunch
✓ Entrance fee to the Farm in Ancient Olympia with Lunch
✓ Kalamata food tour with light lunch
✓ Wine making experience with lunch along with wine pairing (local expert guide, harvesting equipment included)
✓ Cooking Lesson with lunch in an Organic Farm
✓ Trekking the Talanta Watermill (included local trekking guide, hiking sticks, picnic preparation and service, local products for the picnic)
✓ 24/7 Concierge Support
✓ Porter service throughout the trip
✓ Gift bag
✓ Tips
✓ All taxes
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✓ International flights
✓ Excess baggage charges
✓ Meals other than those specified
✓ Drinks during the meals (unless specified)
✓ Visa and passport fees
✓ Travel insurance
✓ Optional activities and all personal expenses
✓ Anything else not mentioned in the description
the acropolis, athens
To enquire about this itinerary, e-mail yiasou@dph-world.com
