Ioannina might be famous for its lake and castle, but it’s also a city that offers plenty of hands-on experiences for travelers eager to learn local skills and traditions. From cooking traditional pies in a small village to exploring the city’s gastronomy with a local guide, these workshops give you a taste of authentic Epirus life. We love the Food & Culture Tour for its combination of city exploration and a cooking lesson, and the Traditional Pies Cooking Class for its intimate bakery experience in Zitsa. If you’re looking for a more relaxing activity, a yoga class in the city offers a chance to unwind with locals. These options highlight the region’s culinary, artistic, and wellness traditions, making your trip not just sightseeing but also engaging and memorable.
Quick Overview
This list features three unique workshops and classes in Ioannina: a comprehensive food and culture walking tour with a cooking lesson (Tour Details), a hands-on baking class focused on traditional pies in Zitsa (Tour Details), and a relaxing yoga class in the city (Tour Details). Each offers a distinctive way to connect with local customs, whether through cuisine or wellness.
1. Ioannina Food & Culture Tour with Cooking Lesson
At number one, we recommend the Ioannina Food & Culture Tour with Cooking Lesson. For around $214, this 4-hour experience (details here) combines exploring the city’s alleys and markets with hands-on cooking. The tour starts with a walk through the historic districts, where your guide shares stories about Epirus’s traditions and local ingredients. You’ll get to sample traditional flavors, local wines, and tsipouro, making it a tasty way to understand regional culture.
The highlight is the cooking lesson, where you’ll learn to prepare iconic dishes, all within a lively and friendly atmosphere. Guests rave about how authentic and approachable the experience is, with some mentioning the “intense aromas” and “unique flavors” that make the region special. The price reflects the quality, with ample time for tasting and conversation, making it ideal for food lovers who want an immersive experience.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive look at Ioannina’s culinary traditions while strolling through its historic streets. It’s a bit on the pricier side but offers a rich, full experience that combines sightseeing with authentic cooking.
2. Zitsa: Traditional Pies Cooking Class
Number two on our list is the Zitsa: Traditional Pies Cooking Class, priced at $169 per person (details here). This 4-hour experience takes you to the charming village of Zitsa, known for its local wineries and historic houses—some functioning as small museums. The class is centered around learning how to make savory and sweet pies, a staple of Epirus cuisine.
What makes this experience stand out is the intimate setting and the chance to visit a local bakery for your hands-on lesson. You’ll also taste Debina wine, a regional specialty, and visit nearby wineries for a tasting. The hosts, Kostas and Anna, get high marks for their warmth and ability to make everyone feel at home. Guests have remarked that the ambiance is inclusive and lively, with plenty of food prepared so there’s enough for everyone to take home.
This class is ideal for those who want to master traditional recipes and enjoy a relaxed, small-group atmosphere. The value lies in the combination of learning, tasting wine, and exploring a picturesque village.
Bottom line: Perfect for culinary curious travelers who want to go beyond just tasting and learn to make authentic pies in a cozy, personal setting.
3. Join a Yoga Class!
For a different kind of experience, the Join a Yoga Class (details here) offers a relaxing way to connect with the city’s local lifestyle. Priced at just $9.29, this 1-hour class in the city center is ideal if you’re looking for a brief, restorative activity. It’s suited for all levels, from complete beginners to seasoned yogis, seeking to unwind after days of sightseeing.
The yoga session adopts a holistic approach that emphasizes relaxation, grounding, and balancing body and mind. Held in an urban retreat setting, it provides a peaceful escape from the busy streets of Ioannina. Many reviewers mention the calm and welcoming atmosphere as a highlight. It’s a good option for those who want a quick break to stretch and refresh, especially if you’re traveling with friends or family who might not want a full-day activity.
While this class doesn’t offer the culture of the culinary tours, it’s a practical choice for health-conscious travelers or those seeking a moment of calm.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers looking to incorporate wellness into their trip without spending much time or money, and no prior yoga experience needed.
$9.29 per person
How to Choose
When selecting a workshop or class in Ioannina, consider your interests and schedule. If you’re passionate about food and local flavors, the Food & Culture Tour with Cooking Lesson offers a comprehensive city experience plus a cooking lesson. For those eager to learn traditional recipes in a cozy setting, the Pies Cooking Class in Zitsa is a top pick. And if wellness is your focus, the Yoga Class provides a quick, affordable way to relax and rejuvenate.
Think about your budget, available time, and what kind of authentic connection you want. If you’re short on time but craving a taste of local cuisine, the food tour is ideal. Want a more hands-on, intimate experience? The pies class is perfect. Looking for a peaceful activity that fits into a busy sightseeing schedule? Yoga is your best bet.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.
Final Thoughts
Ioannina offers a surprising variety of hands-on opportunities that enrich your visit. Whether you choose the comprehensive food and culture experience, the personalized pie-making class, or the relaxing yoga session, each provides a chance to connect with the local traditions in a meaningful way.
For travelers who want to dive into Epirus’s culinary scene, the Food & Culture Tour stands out as a full, lively experience. If you prefer a more intimate, skill-based activity, the Pies Cooking Class offers a warm, authentic atmosphere. And for those seeking a moment of peace, the Yoga Class provides a simple but effective way to relax.
Whatever your choice, booking ahead will ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable experiences during your trip to Ioannina.