Food Tours in Santorini

One of the most exciting ways of exploring a new destination is through its cuisine and Santorini is no exception. From spiced meats to stuffed vine leaves, fragrant salads and crumbling cheeses, this corner of Greece is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Food tours in Santorini enable you to experience subtle yet mouth-watering Mediterranean flavors and try dishes you've never heard of before in a bid to become a more cultured foodie.

Here's all you need to know about food tours, some of the most indulging gastronomic experiences in Santorini.

What are the best food tours in Santorini?

Fira walking food tour in Santorini

If you’re a food lover at heart, there’s no better place on the isle to begin your culinary education than in the capital — Fira.

On this walking tour in Santorini, you’ll begin your gastronomic experience with a traditional Greek coffee, which is boiled rather than brewed for health benefits, in the village of Firostefani.

From there, you’ll set off on a leisurely stroll to the neighboring town of Fira via a coastal path that offers unparalleled views over the caldera. Stop to snap a picture of one of the island’s most recognizable blue-domed churches before arriving in Fira for a well-deserved frosty brew.

You’ll try rich olive oil and tender marinated meats while in the capital before witnessing the best produce market on the island. End your Santorini food tour with a sit-down meal in a traditional taverna, where you can experience flavors from each corner of Greece.

Hiking food tour in Santorini

Alternatively, don your hiking boots and wind your way along the lofty cliffs of Santorini from the town of Imerovigli.

Starting with an energizing coffee, this hiking tour in Santorini is set apart by its addition of fresh fruit, which is picked from a local family’s orchard and tended to with love.

As you trek from Imerovigli toward Fira, your guide will fill you in on the ancient history of the island, as well as the intriguing mythological story of the Lost City of Atlantis.

After walking in the hot Greek sun, you’ll cool down with an ice cream in the village of Firostefani village, while wandering through the enchanting streets, lined with white-washed buildings and vibrant native flowers.

Continuing on toward Fira, you’ll grab a beer, ending at a traditional deli selling local products, such as oils, cheese and honey.

Santorini vegan food tour

Instead of missing out on the culinary delights of Greece because you're plant-based, simply opt for this vegan food tour.

With your guide, you’ll journey to the Prophet Elias monastery, which was built in the 18th century and is the highest point on the island. Admire panoramic views across Santorini’s caldera before sampling produce handmade by the resident monks.

Continue on to one of the most esteemed wineries in the region to try Santorini’s unique grape blends.

Lastly, you’ll make your way to the volcanic Red Beach where you’ll dine in a family-owned restaurant. Here, you’ll feast on stuffed grape leaves, salads, tomato fritters and fries, which all prove that dishes don’t need to include meat to have explosive Mediterranean flavors.

Are there any combos available with food tours in Santorini?

Catamaran cruise with food and drinks

Alternatively, hop aboard a boat and cruise along the crystal clear waters of the Aegean Sea on a Santorini boat tour combined with food tasting. Enjoy a snorkeling tour at secret spots, admiring the island's most iconic landmarks and dining on a fresh selection of Greek favorites.

Which places are visited?

Fira

The largest town on the island, Fira is known for creating some of Santorini's finest cuisine. Located along the coast, the town is famed for its fresh fish, as well as its white wines, which are produced in the countryside surrounding Fira.

Alongside its delicious fare, Fira is a captivating destination set against a backdrop of the Aegean Sea with a smattering of traditional churches, cobbled streets and white-washed architecture.

Firostefani

Firostefani is located just north of the main town of Fira and many tours pass through this enchanting village on their walk along the cliffs toward the island's capital.

Its name translates to the "Crown of Fira" and that's an extremely fitting description given the magnificent caldera views that can be seen from this clifftop village.

Visitors to this corner of Santorini can enjoy the cafe culture in the townlet and sip on a coffee while watching locals go about their daily routine.

How much do food tours in Santorini cost?

The majority of food tours in Santorini range between €100 and €150 per person, depending on what they include, and the destinations they visit.

A private catamaran cruise with food and wine costs approximately €1,060 per person. However, the cost per head reduces with each additional party member.

What is included?

Food tours in Santorini typically include between four and six samples of different Greek dishes from a variety of food outlets. Some also include alcoholic beverages, while others finish off with a full meal. In rare instances, you may be presented with a farewell gift.

Where does it start?

The majority of food tours in Santorini start in the villages surrounding Fira, such as Firostefani and Imerovigli. However, in some instances, you may be offered a complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off service by your tour provider.

How long does it last?

The majority of Santorini food tours last between 4 and 6 hours, giving you plenty of time to wander between culinary establishments, sampling their finest produce.

When is the best time for a food tour in Santorini?

You can participate in a food tour in Santorini at any time of day, making it one of the easiest activities to fit into your itinerary. The island becomes very busy with tourists during the height of summer, so you may wish to consider planning your trip during the shoulder months of May, June or September instead.

Travel tips

• If you have any dietary requirements, make these known to your tour provider when booking.
• Book your excursion for several hours after your last meal to ensure you fully enjoy the experience.
• Take the opportunity to learn about Santorini's food culture by asking about the ingredients and cooking techniques used in each dish.