Best Mykonos Olive Oil Tasting – Learn from a world-famous Expert

A Tasty Escape from the Crowds on Mykonos

If you’re visiting Mykonos and craving a break from the bustling beaches and lively nightlife, this olive oil tasting experience offers a peaceful, educational retreat overlooking the Aegean Sea. For $183.42 per person, you’ll spend about two hours learning from Anita, a professional judge in international olive oil competitions, about what makes Greek extra-virgin olive oils special. The tour takes place at a seaside restaurant, blending stunning views with a sensory journey that’s both relaxing and enlightening.

What truly sets this experience apart is its intimate setting—limited to a small group of 15—allowing for personal attention and lively conversation. We love how the learning is practical and fun: you’re not just tasting oils but also discovering how to evaluate quality and pair olive oils with specific foods like Greek salad or grilled chicken. Plus, the seaside venue provides a gorgeous backdrop that makes the whole adventure feel like a special treat.

A potential consideration is that this is a shorter experience—just around two hours—so if you’re seeking a more extensive or hands-on cooking class, this might not be the right fit. Also, keep in mind that lunch isn’t included, so plan accordingly if you want a full meal afterward.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate authentic, educational experiences, especially those interested in local food culture or looking for a relaxing way to explore Greece’s culinary traditions. If you’re curious about olive oil’s nuances or want a quiet moment amid the lively island, this is a perfect match.

Key Points

• Location & Setting: Overlooking the Aegean Sea at a seaside restaurant, offering stunning views while tasting.
• Expertise & Learning: Led by a world-famous judge with extensive knowledge, sharing tips on selecting and pairing olive oils.
• Taste Variety: Sample 5 award-winning extra-virgin olive oils from across Greece, each with unique flavors.
• Food Pairings: Enjoy snacks like Greek salad, grilled chicken, Greek yogurt, and fresh orange, highlighting the versatility of good olive oil.
• Small Group: Limited to 15 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and lively interaction.
• Value & Experience: Combines education, authentic flavors, and scenic views for a memorable, enriching outing.

An Authentic Greek Olive Oil Journey with a View

When we think about Greece’s culinary treasures, olive oil naturally takes center stage. This tour delivers more than just tasting; it opens a window into Greece’s revered olive-growing tradition, making it a standout experience. We loved the way Anita’s expertise brought clarity to what can sometimes feel like a confusing world of oils, helping us distinguish between good and great with simple, practical tips.

The itinerary is straightforward yet thoughtfully curated. It begins with a warm welcome at the seaside restaurant, where your guide introduces the basics of olive oil quality and evaluation. From there, you’ll taste five distinct oils—each from a different Greek region—while learning about their specific varieties and what makes each one special. You’ll also discover how to identify flavor profiles and recognize signs of high-quality oil, which is incredibly useful whether you’re buying in Greece or back home.

What’s remarkable about this tour is its setting. Sitting on a terrace overlooking the sacred island of Delos adds a layer of tranquility that makes the educational part even more enjoyable. As one reviewer notes, “Learning entirely new things about olive oil and how to distinguish quality made this extremely fun and educational,” capturing the perfect blend of pleasure and learning.

The tasting itself is generous and diverse. You’ll sample oils that have won awards, giving you a chance to appreciate what separates Greek oils from others worldwide. Anita’s guidance helps you understand the sensory differences—from fruity and grassy to more peppery and bitter—so you leave with skills you can use at home.

The food pairings elevate the experience further. The Greek salad, grilled chicken, and Greek yogurt aren’t just side dishes—they’re part of the lesson in pairing, showing how olive oil enhances every bite. Multiple reviews highlight how edible these pairings are, with one saying, “I enjoyed tasting the olive oil with different foods I never thought of,” emphasizing how this tour broadens your culinary horizons.

The small group size is a major plus. It fosters a relaxed, conversational atmosphere, making it easy to ask questions or share your own experiences. Anita’s friendly, knowledgeable hosting style is consistently praised: “She is extremely knowledgeable about Olive Oil and is an incredible host and conversationalist,” one review mentions.

What to Expect on the Tour

Meeting & Introduction

You’ll start at Paralia Agios Ioannis, a scenic spot that sets the tone for the experience. Anita greets you warmly, giving an overview of what you’ll learn and taste. Expect a friendly, informal atmosphere that encourages curiosity.

Olive Oil Workshop & Tasting

Following the introduction, you move to a seaside table where Anita demonstrates how to evaluate olive oils—covering color, aroma, flavor, and mouthfeel. She explains how to distinguish between extra-virgin oils made from different Greek olives, highlighting regional differences that influence taste.

Over the next 45 minutes, you’ll taste five award-winning oils from across Greece, each with a story. Anita shares insights into how these oils are made, what makes them special, and how to recognize quality. The tasting is guided but relaxed, with plenty of opportunities to discuss your impressions.

Food Pairing & Sampling

The oils are paired with traditional Greek foods, such as fresh Greek salad, grilled chicken, Greek yogurt, and orange slices. These pairings are designed to show how olive oil enhances flavors—something you’ll definitely want to replicate at home.

Scenic Finale

As the session concludes, you’ll have a chance to soak in the views and reflect on what you’ve learned. Many reviews highlight how the stunning setting makes the experience memorable and relaxing.

Analyzing the Value

While $183.42 might seem like a splurge, consider what you’re gaining: expert knowledge from a judge experienced in international competitions, access to award-winning oils, and a beautiful, tranquil setting—all bundled into a compact, two-hour experience. The value is especially clear when you think about how this knowledge can improve your cooking back home or your appreciation of Greek cuisine.

On top of that, tasting five different oils from various regions offers a rundown that’s difficult to find elsewhere on the island. The food pairings add a practical touch, helping you understand how to use olive oil in your daily meals.

The small group size makes the experience intimate and personalized, far more engaging than a large-scale tour. Plus, most travelers find Anita’s friendly approach and detailed explanations make the class both fun and educational.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This activity is ideal for foodies, culinary travelers, or anyone curious about Greek culture. If you appreciate learning through tasting and want a peaceful activity that offers a break from busy sightseeing, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s perfect for those who love to understand what makes good food great, especially if you plan to cook or entertain with olive oil once you return home.

It’s also a good pick for travelers looking for authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences that highlight local traditions without long excursions or heavy commitments. The relaxed pace and scenic setting make it suitable for all ages and fitness levels, provided you’re comfortable sitting outdoors in warm weather.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this experience suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, provided they are comfortable sitting outdoors and not allergic to olive oil.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 2 hours, offering a compact yet thorough tasting and educational experience.

Does it include lunch?
No, lunch and drinks are not included, but snacks like Greek salad and yogurt are part of the tasting.

Are drinks included?
No, alcoholic drinks are not included in the price.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Paralia Agios Ioannis and finishes back at the same meeting point.

What’s the group size?
Limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start date for a full refund.

Is there a dress code?
Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor seating.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Most participants can join, but since the experience is outdoors at a seaside location, mobility considerations should be checked in advance.

Can I buy the oils we tasted?
While the reviews suggest some wish they could purchase the oils, the tour does not specify retail options. You might find the oils available elsewhere locally.

Final Thoughts

If you’re seeking a relaxing, educational escape that enhances your appreciation of Greek culinary traditions, this olive oil tasting tour is an excellent choice. Anita’s expertise, combined with the stunning views and flavorful samples, makes for a memorable experience that enriches your knowledge and palate.

It’s especially well-suited for those who enjoy learning through tasting and conversation, and who want to bring home practical skills for choosing and using olive oil in their cooking. While not a full-fledged cooking class or food tour, it offers a beautifully curated glimpse into Greece’s most beloved ingredient, making it a worthwhile addition to your Mykonos itinerary.

Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler, this experience provides both insight and enjoyment—delivered in a picturesque setting that captures the essence of Greece’s food culture.