Corfu: Greek Cooking Class & Olive Oil Tasting

If you’re looking to truly connect with Corfu’s local culture, this Greek cooking class combined with olive oil tasting offers a hands-on way to do just that. For around $107 per person, you’ll spend about five hours exploring the vibrant market, learning traditional recipes in a family home, and discovering the art of olive oil production.

What we love most about this experience is the chance to shop like locals at the open-air market, tasting fresh feta and organic vegetables, and then walk through an olive grove that’s been part of a family’s livelihood for generations. The small group size (limited to 8) ensures personal attention and a genuine, relaxed atmosphere.

One consideration is that transportation to the family’s villa is not included unless you select the transfer option; you’ll need to drive yourself or arrange the ride. If you enjoy authentic, immersive experiences—especially if you’re a foodie or curious about Greek traditions—this tour suits travelers eager to go beyond typical sightseeing and get a taste of everyday life in Corfu.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Authentic Experience: Join a local family and learn their recipes and traditions.
Market Shopping: Visit a bustling market for fresh, organic ingredients.
Olive Oil Tasting: Discover how olive oil is made and enjoy tasting the “liquid gold.”
Hands-On Cooking: Prepare a traditional Greek meal either actively or as an observer.
Cultural Insights: Learn about Corfu’s history and family olive oil traditions.
Limited Group Size: Small groups enhance the personal and intimate nature of the tour.

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An In-Depth Look at the Corfu Cooking & Olive Oil Tour

Starting Point and Local Market Excursions

The tour begins at the Old Port of Corfu, a lively hub where your host greets you. From here, you’ll stroll through narrow alleys into the Corfu Central Market, a vibrant place bursting with fresh fish, vegetables, herbs, and local produce. It’s not just a shopping trip; it’s an immersion into the local culinary culture.

Many reviews highlight how special this phase is—one traveler noted, “We did a walk about around old town Corfu selecting our local foods… and also learned about local culture and history.” The market’s lively atmosphere, with the aroma of fresh fish and herbs, offers a sensory overload that sets the stage for the full experience.

In particular, stopping at a local deli shop to taste authentic feta cheese is a highlight. It’s a chance to see the quality of ingredients that go into Greek cooking, making the subsequent meal even more meaningful.

From Market to Family Villa

Once supplies are gathered, the tour transports you—either by your own car or via a minivan—to a family’s country home in the countryside. Here, the real fun begins. You’ll have the choice to be hands-on or simply observe as the chef demonstrates traditional Greek cooking techniques.

The villa itself is a picture-perfect setting—outdoor cooking space, lush olive trees, and the gentle sounds of nature. The highlight? Cooking with a wood oven. One reviewer raved about preparing a 5-course meal using these methods, emphasizing how educational and enjoyable it was to learn family cooking techniques.

The menu includes dishes like Greek salad, cheese pie, and pork knuckle marinated in Corfiot beer, slow-cooked in the oven. The use of local ingredients, such as fresh herbs and virgin olive oil, is central to the authentic flavor.

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Olive Grove and Olive Oil Tasting

Before sitting down for lunch, the tour takes you for a walk through a family olive grove and explores the ruins of a 200-year-old olive press. This part of the experience is especially valued by those interested in olive oil production—a key part of Greek culture and economy.

The olive oil tasting isn’t just a quick sip; it’s a detailed exploration of what makes quality olive oil stand out. As one reviewer mentioned, “learned how to make olive oil and finished with olive oil tasting.” This gives you a new appreciation for liquid gold and how to identify fresh, high-quality oil.

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Dining and Hospitality

Lunch is a communal affair—featuring the dishes you’ve helped prepare—paired with local wine or beer. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with many reviewers describing Yorgos and his family as friendly, professional, and generous hosts.

Sitting down to enjoy the meal in their scenic outdoor space, you’ll realize this isn’t just a cooking class; it’s a genuine cultural exchange. One guest noted, “Yorgos and his family made me feel like part of the family,” which underscores how personal this experience feels.

Practical Aspects and Value

The tour lasts about five hours, with options for hotel pickup in certain areas, making logistics straightforward. The price of $107 covers shopping, ingredients, a chef, the cooking class, olive oil tasting, and a five-course meal with drinks—a strong value considering the depth of experience and personal attention.

While transportation to the family villa isn’t included in the base price, the option to add a transfer makes it convenient. The small group size (max 8 participants) ensures everyone has enough space to participate actively or observe comfortably.

What Makes This Tour Special?

Beyond the culinary skills, many reviews highlight the authenticity of the experience—shopping with local vendors, learning about olive oil production, and sharing a meal with a genuine Greek family. Guests often mention how much they learned about Corfu’s culture, history, and food traditions, making it a well-rounded introduction to the island.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This tour is perfect for food lovers, those interested in Greek culture, or travelers who want a personalized, relaxed experience away from typical tourist paths. It’s especially suitable if you enjoy hands-on activities and are eager to understand local culinary techniques and traditions.

Final Thoughts

This Corfu Greek Cooking Class & Olive Oil Tasting offers a compelling mix of market shopping, family hospitality, and culinary education. It’s a chance to see, taste, and cook with authentic ingredients, guided by knowledgeable hosts who make you feel at home. The combination of local culture, beautiful scenery, and delicious food creates an experience that many travelers cherish long after their trip ends.

If you’re craving a deeper connection to Corfu’s everyday life—and want to bring home genuine Greek recipes—this tour is a smart choice. It will suit those who value small-group intimacy, authentic regional flavors, and the warmth of family hospitality.

FAQ

Is transportation to the family villa included?
Transportation to the villa is not included unless you select the transfer option. You’ll need to arrange your own way there or opt for the pickup service.

What is the starting point?
The tour begins outside the Konstantinoupolis hotel at the Old Port in Corfu Town.

Can I participate actively in the cooking?
Yes, you can choose to be hands-on or just observe during the cooking class.

What dishes are included in the meal?
The menu features Greek salad, cheese pie, marinated pork knuckle, and fruit desserts—all prepared during the class.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the meal comes with local wine or beer, along with soft drinks and water.

How long is the experience?
It lasts approximately five hours, including shopping, cooking, and dining.

Is there a limit on group size?
Yes, the activity is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personal experience.

What should I bring or wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor cooking and walking is recommended.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Most reviews don’t specify age restrictions, but given its hands-on nature, it’s best suited for adults or older children.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes, dietary restrictions should be communicated in advance to allow for appropriate menu adjustments.

What makes this tour value for money?
Considering the market shopping, ingredients, cooking lesson, olive oil tasting, and a multi-course meal, it offers excellent value for an immersive, authentic Greek experience.

This Corfu experience is more than a cooking class; it’s a journey into family traditions, local flavors, and warm hospitality—crafted for travelers eager to experience the real Greece beyond the usual sightseeing.

You can check availability for your dates here: