Athens: Greek Food Tour with Varvakeios Market & Tastings

Summary

Greek flavors, bustling markets, pastry stops and laughter in Athens

You’ll wander Athens’ historic streets tasting bougatsa pastries and honey-drenched loukoumades, chat with market vendors at Varvakeios (if open), try local cheeses and olives in tucked-away shops, and end your day sharing souvlaki with new friends. The small group size means you’ll actually hear stories from your guide — and maybe even laugh at yourself trying new words or flavors.

What’s the experience like?

We met up outside a bakery near Monastiraki — I was still waking up, honestly, but the smell of warm bougatsa drifting out the door kind of did the trick. Our guide, Maria, handed us flaky squares dusted with sugar and cinnamon. She told us her grandmother used to make it every Sunday. I tried to say “bougatsa” right (she grinned at my attempt), and then we set off down Aiolou Street where shopkeepers were already joking with each other and someone had set out buckets of bright oranges that looked almost too perfect.

Walking through Athens on this food tour felt like being let in on little secrets. We ducked into a tiny spot for olives — so many kinds I lost track — and Maria showed us how to tell which ones came from Kalamata just by the shine. There was this moment when she explained why Greeks eat cheese with honey (I didn’t expect that combo), and suddenly I got it: salty, sweet, sticky fingers. The city noise faded for a second while we all tasted it together.

The Varvakeios Market was next — loud in a way that’s hard to describe unless you’re there. Butchers calling out prices, fish laid on ice, people waving herbs around like bouquets. At one point I caught a whiff of oregano so strong it made me sneeze (Maria laughed). She introduced us to Nikos at his spice stall; he let us crush dried thyme between our fingers. It stuck under my nails for hours after. If you’re doing an afternoon or Sunday tour though, heads up: the market’s closed then, so you’ll skip this bit.

I think what surprised me most was how much of Athens’ history you can taste just walking these few blocks — from pastries to souvlaki at the end (mine was chicken; someone else went vegetarian). We finished sitting outside as the sun started to slide behind some old stone buildings. I still think about that honey-cheese thing sometimes when I’m home making breakfast.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Athens food tour and market visit

• Stroll through historic Athens streets
• Taste bougatsa and loukoumades
• Sample olives and Greek specialties
• Visit Varvakeios Market
• Explore Aiolou Street shops and cafes

Top questions

Does the Athens food tour include Varvakeios Market?

The tour visits Varvakeios Market except on Sundays or afternoon tours when it’s closed.

What foods do you try on this Athens food tour?

You’ll sample bougatsa pastries, loukoumades (honey dumplings), olives, cheeses, olive oil, honey, and finish with souvlaki.

Is there a vegetarian option available?

Yes, there are vegetarian options including for the final souvlaki stop.

How many people are in each group?

The group is limited to 16 people for a more personal experience.

Is pickup included in this Athens food tour?

No hotel pickup is included; you meet at a central location in Athens.

What should I wear or bring for this walking food tour?

Wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather; sunscreen and a hat are recommended.

Are there gluten-free options on this tour?

Gluten-free options are very limited; inform them of any allergies in advance.

Which areas of Athens does the food tour cover?

The route includes Monastiraki area, Aiolou Street, specialty shops, and Varvakeios Market if open.

What’s included

Your day includes tastings of local specialties like bougatsa pastries, honey-drenched loukoumades, olives and cheeses from carefully chosen shops; entry into Varvakeios Market when open; all guided by a dedicated local food specialist who shares stories along the way; plus tips for eating well during your stay in Athens — finishing up with souvlaki (meat or vegetarian) before heading off full and happy.