Thessaloniki, Greece’s second-largest city, is a lively hub of culinary tradition and local flavors. Unlike many touristy spots, Thessaloniki offers authentic cooking classes that let you get hands-on with Greek cuisine while experiencing local hospitality. We’re particularly fond of experiences like the Thessaloniki: Cooking & Dining Experience with Greek Family for its warm, home-style vibe, and the Private Greek Home Cooking Class in Epanomi for its intimate setting. These classes not only teach you recipes but also give a taste of Greek life. Whether you want to learn how to make authentic moussaka or pick up tips on Greek hospitality, Thessaloniki’s cooking classes have something for all.
What makes Thessaloniki stand out is its mix of local markets, family farms, and welcoming hosts. These experiences are perfect for travelers who want more than just tasting, but truly understanding Greek food culture. For those interested in a comprehensive culinary immersion, there are options ranging from local market visits to farm-to-table dining. Here’s a full rundown of the best cooking classes in Thessaloniki, so you can pick the one that suits your style and schedule.
1. Thessaloniki: Cooking & Dining Experience with Greek Family
At number 1, this Thessaloniki: Cooking & Dining Experience with Greek Family stands out for its warm, authentic atmosphere. For around $67, you spend about three hours immersed in Greek culinary and cultural traditions. The hosts, Dora and Michael, open their home to you, sourcing ingredients directly from a nearby farm. You’ll learn how to prepare traditional dishes like moussaka, tzatziki, salads, and desserts—then sit down to enjoy your creations. The experience is far from a commercial kitchen; it’s a glimpse into everyday Greek life, with the added bonus of dancing and local stories.
Reviews praise this class for its genuine hospitality and rich content. One guest called it “more than expected,” highlighting the mix of cooking, history, and dance instruction. The hosts’ flexibility and friendliness make it accessible for foodies, families, or anyone craving an authentic Greek experience. This class is ideal if you want to mingle with locals and leave with new skills and good memories. The only potential drawback is the difficulty in finding the apartment, so check the meeting details carefully.
Bottom Line: Authenticity and warm hospitality make this a top choice for those seeking a home-like, hands-on Greek cooking adventure.
2. Private Greek Home Cooking Class in Epanomi-Thessaloniki
Topping our list at number 2, the Private Greek Home Cooking Class in Epanomi offers a more personalized experience. For $116, you get about three hours in a private home where Erna and Thanos welcome you into their charming space filled with travel mementos. Erna makes everything from scratch, including her renowned freshly baked bread, while Thanos is the master of fish dishes. The class blends Greek with Austrian influences, providing a unique cross-cultural twist.
Guests leave raving about Erna’s warmth and the delicious, freshly prepared food. The class emphasizes hands-on learning—you’re involved in every step from kneading dough to seasoning fish. The intimate setting makes it perfect for couples or small groups wanting a tailored experience. Because it takes place in a cozy home, it offers a genuine sense of Greek hospitality, with hosts who genuinely enjoy sharing their love of food and culture.
Bottom Line: If you crave a private, authentic cooking lesson with a personal touch, this class delivers a memorable experience rooted in Greek and European traditions.
3. Thessaloniki: Greek Cooking Class, Market visit and Lunch
For around $103, the Thessaloniki: Greek Cooking Class, Market visit and Lunch combines the best of shopping, cooking, and eating. Starting with a tasting of Greek olives, you then join your guide at the vibrant Kapani Market, where locals buy fresh vegetables, herbs, and spices. Next, a visit to Modiano Market offers tastings of cheese and other local products. Under the guidance of a professional cook, you select ingredients and then prepare a full Greek lunch.
This class is perfect for those who enjoy food shopping as part of their learning. Guests appreciate the mix of cultural insights and practical skills, with comments about how the guides enhanced their understanding of local ingredients. With a total duration of around three and a half hours, it suits travelers who want a dynamic, interactive experience with active participation.
Bottom Line: Ideal for food lovers who want to combine market exploration with hands-on cooking and a delicious Greek meal.
4. Thessaloniki: Private Greek Cooking Class and Meal at a Farm
Number 4 on our list, the Private Greek Cooking Class and Meal at a Farm offers a full five-hour immersion outside the city. Here, you learn traditional recipes using fresh ingredients straight from the farm’s garden. The farm experience allows you to understand Greek cooking as a lifestyle, not just a task. You’ll feast on a homemade lunch or dinner, cooked in a way that emphasizes local, seasonal produce.
This tour is a hit for travelers wanting to escape city noise and experience rural Greece. The hosts focus on authentic practices and simple, honest food. The longer duration means you get plenty of time for in-depth instruction and relaxed conversation. Guests often mention the peaceful setting and the opportunity to see how Greek ingredients are grown and harvested.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking a farm-to-table experience with the chance to learn recipes in a tranquil, rural setting.
5. Thessaloniki: Authentic Greek Cooking Classes
Coming in at number 5, the Authentic Greek Cooking Classes at Ammilos offer a cozy, inviting environment for about four hours. The class emphasizes hands-on participation, with the chef guiding you through classic recipes, from eggplant dishes to hearty stews. The instructor’s approach is friendly and patient, making it suitable for all skill levels.
Reviewers value the warm welcome and the chance to learn authentic techniques. The class is flexible enough to accommodate special requests, which makes it a great choice for dietary restrictions or specific preferences. The focus on creating a memorable experience ensures you’ll leave not only with new recipes but also with a better understanding of Greek culinary customs.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a relaxed, interactive class with personalized attention and authentic recipes.
6. Cooking classes for Foodies, Discover Greek cuisine
For those eager for a full-day adventure, the Cooking Classes for Foodies offer an in-depth exploration of Greek culinary treasures. This seminar, priced at $152, is held in Thessaloniki’s city center, a UNESCO-recognized city of gastronomy. It involves making up to eight dishes, with an emphasis on learning about ingredients, techniques, and regional variations.
Participants enjoy a lively atmosphere, with the chef demonstrating traditional methods and sharing insights into local ingredients. The class culminates in a communal feast, making it ideal for dedicated food lovers who want to maximize their knowledge and skills in one intensive session. The extended duration makes it suitable for those with a full day to spare, especially culinary students or serious enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: For committed foodies ready to enjoy Greek cuisine, this comprehensive class offers excellent value and depth.
$152 per person
7. Thessaloniki: Cooking & Wine Tasting with Dockside Views
Number 7 combines culinary skills with wine at a scenic location overlooking the port and Mount Olympus. For $142, the Cooking & Wine Tasting with Dockside Views offers a 3.5-hour experience. You’ll prepare typical Greek dishes with a chef, then taste a curated selection of Greek wines paired to enhance each bite.
This experience is especially suited for those who appreciate the finer details—wine and food pairing, stunning views, and engaging conversation with a sommelier. The relaxed, scenic atmosphere makes it ideal for couples or groups seeking a combination of culinary and cultural enjoyment. The only caveat is that it’s a bit pricier, but the views and ambiance compensate for this.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want to combine cooking, wine, and panoramic views for a memorable evening.
$142 per person
How to Choose the Right Cooking Class in Thessaloniki
When selecting the best class for your trip, consider your budget, time availability, and what sort of experience you’re after. If you want an authentic home-style experience, the Thessaloniki: Cooking & Dining Experience with Greek Family is unbeatable. For a more personalized, intimate session, the Private Greek Home Cooking Class in Epanomi offers a tailored approach. Want to combine market visits and cooking? The Market tour and lunch is a great pick.
Budget-conscious travelers might prefer the Authentic Greek Cooking Classes, while serious food lovers seeking a comprehensive experience will find the Cooking Classes for Foodies ideal. Those looking for a romantic or scenic finish should consider the Cooking & Wine Tasting with Dockside Views.
Booking early is recommended, especially in summer, since these experiences are popular with both travelers and locals wanting to share their cuisine.
Thessaloniki offers a fantastic variety of cooking classes that truly reflect its culinary soul. Whether you join a family for a warm home dinner, explore local markets, learn on a farm, or pair dishes with local wines, you’re sure to leave with more than just recipes—you’ll take home stories, skills, and a deeper appreciation for Greek food culture. For a well-rounded food experience, these options give you plenty to choose from, so pick the one that fits your style and enjoy a delicious adventure.