Athens isn’t just about ancient ruins and vibrant street life—it’s also a haven for exceptional lunch experiences. Whether you want to enjoy a stunning view of Meteora’s monasteries, savor fresh Greek cuisine after exploring the islands, or indulge in a hands-on cooking class, this city has options that fit a variety of tastes and schedules. Our favorites include the Meteora Monasteries Day Trip with Caves and Lunch, which combines natural beauty with authentic Greek food, and the Cruise to Agistri, Moni & Aegina, offering a relaxing day on the water with delicious meals. These experiences stand out for their combination of scenery, culture, and great food.
Quick Overview
The best lunch experiences in Athens range from guided day trips to scenic monasteries and cultural sites, to island-hopping cruises with onboard meals, and even private tours with flexible options. Some tours focus on historic sites, like Meteora, offering a traditional Greek lunch amid breathtaking scenery, while others combine cruise adventures with local food tastings. Plus, there are interactive cooking classes where you learn to make your own Greek dishes. Read on to find the perfect match for your taste, budget, and available time.
1. Athens: Meteora Monasteries Day Trip with Caves and Lunch
This popular day trip from Athens takes you to the awe-inspiring Meteora Monasteries—a UNESCO World Heritage site—combined with visits to secret Hermit Caves, panoramic views, and inside visits to three monasteries. The tour includes a Greek lunch at a local restaurant with a view of the towering rocks, making it a superb choice for those craving history and scenery plus good food. The trip, rated 4.7/5 from nearly 4,000 reviews, offers a well-organized itinerary with expert local guides, free audio guides, and a comfortable coach transfer. Guests often comment on the stunning vistas and the authentic local meal. At around $90, it provides a full 14-hour experience that balances culture with scenic beauty.
Bottom line: If you’re eager to see one of Greece’s most iconic landscapes and enjoy a genuine Greek lunch, this trip offers great value and memorable sights.
2. Athens: Meteora Monasteries Tour with Local Guide and Lunch
Rated even higher at 4.8/5 from over 1,600 reviews, this tour covers all major monasteries of Meteora along with hidden gems like hermit caves, and offers an authentic Greek meal at a local restaurant. The 14-hour itinerary includes scenic stops and inside visits to six monasteries, with ample free time for photos and exploring. Led by an English-speaking guide, the trip balances in-depth historical insights with plenty of breathtaking vistas. Guests highlight the impressive sandstone formations and the delicious local lunch as major highlights. The tour’s comprehensive nature and expert guiding make it a perfect pick for history and scenery lovers willing to invest a full day.
Bottom line: For those wanting a detailed and scenic visit to Meteora paired with authentic Greek cuisine, this highly rated tour comes highly recommended.
3. Athens: Cruise to Agistri, Moni & Aegina with Lunch & Drinks
Rated 4.8/5 from over 1,500 reviews, this full-day cruise combines island hopping with delicious Greek buffet lunch and unlimited drinks. You’ll visit Agistri’s lush beaches, explore Aegina’s markets and pistachio stalls, and see Moni (or Methopi), with plenty of swimming and snorkeling opportunities. The cruise is famous for its friendly crew, well-organized schedule, and the chance to relax onboard while taking in stunning views of the Saronic Gulf. The lunch onboard is a highlight—it’s a hearty buffet with options for everyone. Guests praise the smooth logistics and the beautiful scenery, making it perfect for travelers who want a mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and tasty food.
Bottom line: If you want a seamless, laid-back day with great food and island views, this cruise is a top choice.
4. Athens Day Cruise: Agistri, Moni & Aegina + Lunch & Drinks
Rated 4.7/5 from nearly 1,600 reviews, this full-day cruise offers comprehensive island visits with a Greek buffet lunch and free drinks. The itinerary includes stops at Agistri, Moni, and Aegina, with options for swimming, exploring villages, and shopping. The lunch is served onboard, with a variety of regional foods, and the crew creates a lively atmosphere with onboard entertainment. Reviewers love the professional staff and the flexibility to explore or relax on deck. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a full day on the water with a good mix of activities and food.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who want a full, relaxing day cruising between islands with tasty Greek food included.
5. Athens cruise: Agistri, Moni/Metopi, Aegina with lunch & drinks
Rated a perfect 5.0/5 from over 580 reviews, this luxury yacht experience offers full-day sailing with stops at Agistri, Moni, and Aegina. The trip includes included snorkeling gear, unlimited wine and beer, and optional upgrades for hotel transfers. Guests rave about the professional crew, delicious buffet lunch, and the personalized experience that makes it stand out. The cruise is ideal for travelers seeking a luxury, all-inclusive day at sea with plenty of swimming, exploring, and relaxing.
Bottom line: If you’re after a premium, private-yacht feel with an all-you-can-eat lunch, this trip delivers a memorable day on the water.
6. Athens: Islands Swimming Day Cruise. DJ, Lunch & Drinks inc.
Rated 4.6/5 from around 1,800 reviews, this summer-style cruise focuses on swimming, dancing, and onboard entertainment. With a live DJ, you can lounge on sunbeds and enjoy a Greek buffet lunch with unlimited drinks. The route stops at Agistri, Metopi, and Aegina, with plenty of time for photos, swimming, and relaxing. Guests love the upbeat vibe and family-friendly atmosphere, making it perfect for energetic travelers and those wanting a lively, fun day on the water. The scenic cruising past the Athens Riviera is an added bonus.
Bottom line: For a lively, music-filled summer cruise with plenty of swimming and food, this tour hits the right notes.
7. Meteora Day Trip with Multilingual Audioguide & Lunch
Rated 5.0/5 from 365 reviews, this 13.5-hour tour offers a stress-free visit to Meteora with full transport, an audio guide, and the option for a lunch. The itinerary includes visits to all six monasteries and hidden hermit caves, with plenty of photo opportunities. The guide shares insights into the history and geology, making it ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive experience without the hassle of driving. Guests love the well-organized schedule and the impressive scenery.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who want a smooth, guided experience with local insights and some free time for exploring.
8. Athens: Cruise to Hydra, Poros, and Aegina with Lunch
Rated 4/5 from over 3,200 reviews, this full-day boat cruise offers exploration of three iconic islands with self-guided free time, onboard buffet lunch, and scenic views of the coast. Guests enjoy swimming, shopping, and sightseeing at their own pace. The well-organized schedule and friendly crew make it a reliable choice for a classic Greek island-hopping day. It’s perfect if you want a relaxed tour with options for independent exploration.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who value flexibility and want to experience historic Hydra, charming Poros, and bustling Aegina.
9. Premium Delphi Day Trip with an Expert Guide, Museum & Lunch
Rated 4.5/5 from nearly 800 reviews, this full-day trip from Athens takes you to Delphi, the ancient “center of the world.” It includes an expert guide, visits to the Temple of Apollo, the Tholos, and the archaeological museum. The tour offers round-trip luxury transport and the option to include lunch. Guests comment on the knowledgeable guide, and the spectacular mountain scenery adds to the experience. The tour is a great choice for history lovers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free day outside Athens.
Bottom line: Best for cultural enthusiasts who appreciate guided commentary and want to visit one of Greece’s most iconic sites with a good meal.
10. Traditional Greek Cooking Class and Lunch or Dinner with an Acropolis View
Rated perfect 5/5 from 177 reviews, this hands-on cooking class lets you learn how to make classic Greek dishes with a view of the Acropolis. In just 3 hours, you’ll prepare at least five dishes, then enjoy your creations with Greek spirits and wine. It’s ideal for foodies who want to recreate Greece at home. Guests praise the friendly instructors and the authentic recipes.
Bottom line: Perfect for culinary travelers seeking an interactive, flavorful experience combined with stunning views.
11. Meteora DayTrip with Multilingual Audioguide & Lunch
Rated 5.0/5 from 703 reviews, this full-day tour emphasizes ease and comfort with organized transportation, audio guides, and visits to up to three monasteries plus hidden caves. It’s ideal for small groups wanting a detailed, guided visit that includes lunch options. The scenic drive and expert narration make it a top pick for those who want a comprehensive, hassle-free Meteora experience.
Bottom line: Great for travelers wanting a guided, relaxed day exploring Meteora’s religious and natural wonders.
12. Athens: Meteora Monasteries and Hermit Caves Day Tour with Lunch
Rated 4.5/5 from 683 reviews, this full-day tour includes inside visits to two monasteries, Hermit Caves, and scenic stops. The organized transfer and expert guides help make it a smooth experience. Guests appreciate the breathtaking views and the local lunch option, which adds a satisfying culinary touch. It’s a good choice for travelers wanting a balance of sightseeing and culture.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who want a guided day trip that combines natural beauty with historic sites.
13. Corinth, Cave of Lakes, Odontotos Railway Private Tour with Greek Lunch Included
This private, customizable day tour offers archaeological sites, a scenic railway ride, and delicious mountain lunch. Starting from Athens or Nafplio, it caters to travelers seeking a personalized experience with flexible stops like Ancient Corinth, Cave of Lakes, or Mega Spilaio Monastery. The tour’s highlight is the Odontotos Rack Railway, which gives you a unique view of the Vouraikos Gorge. Priced at $481, it’s best suited for luxury travelers or groups wanting privacy and tailored exploration.
Guests love the private guide, crystal-clear cave formations, and the mountain village lunch.
Bottom line: Ideal for those wanting a luxury, private day with flexible options and a scenic train ride.
14. From Athens: Aegina, Agistri and Metopi Day Cruise w/ Lunch
Rated 4.7/5 from 298 reviews, this day cruise offers a balanced itinerary with seafood lunch, swimming, and island exploration. Starting in Athens, you’ll visit Aegina, Agistri, and Metopi, with options for self-guided walks or swimming. The lunch onboard is a highlight, served with authentic regional ingredients. Reviewers mention the beautiful beaches and the ease of combining multiple islands in one day.
Bottom line: Great for travelers wanting a full day of island hopping with a tasty, convenient lunch included.
15. Meteora Full Day Private Tour from Athens including Lunch
This customizable private tour spans 12-14 hours and lets you explore Meteora’s monasteries at your own pace. With hotel pickup, a private driver, and the freedom to choose which monasteries to visit, it’s perfect for luxury travelers or groups seeking a tailored experience. The tour includes lunch, and guests rave about the comfortable transport and personalized attention.
Guests love the flexibility and the stunning scenery that makes Meteora such a special destination.
Bottom line: Best for travelers wanting a bespoke, private experience with maximum flexibility and comfort.
How to Choose the Right Lunch Experience in Athens
When selecting the perfect tour, think about your budget, time available, and what experiences excite you most. Want a scenic journey with a Greek lunch? Try the Meteora Monasteries Day Trip. Prefer a relaxing island cruise with onboard dining? Look into the Cruise to Agistri, Moni & Aegina. For a luxury private day, the Meteora Private Tour offers personalized attention. If you’re short on time but want a comprehensive sightseeing and food experience, the Meteora with Audioguide is ideal.
Remember to consider booking early, especially for tours with limited availability or popular dates. Some tours include lunch options, while others offer flexible meal arrangements—think about your preference for guided tours versus independent exploration.
To sum it up, Athens offers a wide range of lunch experiences that combine scenic views, cultural insights, and delicious Greek food. Whether you prefer a full-day monastery visit, a relaxing island cruise, or a private tour tailored to your interests, there’s an option for you. For a truly memorable trip, consider the Meteora Monasteries Day Trip with Caves and Lunch for awe-inspiring scenery, or the Cruise to Agistri, Moni & Aegina for a laid-back day at sea. Remember to plan ahead and book early to secure the best experience for your Athens adventure.