Eat and Cook Like a Greek: Athens, Meteora, Thessaloniki, Crete, & Santorini

September 24 - October 5, 2025

Program Overview

Athens

The program will commence in Athens with participants' arrival on the afternoon of Tuesday September 23rd. After check in at our accommodation, we will take you to enjoy a simple meal of gyros or souvlaki and introduce you to the traditional Greek sweet known as loukamades. Or, you can visit a sweet shop that specializes in "chocolate soup." You will get your first glimpse of the Acropolis, and this first evening will allow participants to catch their breath and overcome a little jet lag from your international flight. The next two days will include visits to iconic landmarks such as the Acropolis and the Panhellenic Olympic Stadium. Additionally, participants will embark on a food tour that serves as a fantastic introduction to Greek cuisine, including a visit to the Central Market. Our accommodations will be located near to Monastiraki Square, which makes for a walkable location near to sites as the Acropolis and Plaka. We will enjoy our first cooking class in Athens.

Chania, Crete

Next we fly to Crete. Crete is regarded as the island where the Mediterranean Diet originated. The itinerary in Crete focuses on enjoying, savoring, and cooking delicious Cretan cuisine. Chania is a picturesque and charming city, perfect for leisurely strolls around its scenic harbor, shopping, and relaxing.

One of the highlights is a cooking class in the countryside with a local family, and to experience the results of our cooking with a delicious Cretan meal that we will share together as a group with this wonderful family. During the stay in Crete, there will be a day trip to Rethymno to visit the splendid Agreco Farm. Here, participants will knead and bake bread, taste honey and olives, sample cheese, make dakos, and cook other Cretan delicacies, culminating in a traditional Greek lunch or dinner.

The visit to Crete also includes learning about the olive oil production process, an olive oil tasting session, a visit to a beautiful Cretan beach, and a stop to see the oldest olive tree in the world.

Santorini

Our program will conclude with a visit to the stunning island of Santorini for the final two days (Friday October 3 and Saturday October 4). On Santorini, you will enjoy the breathtaking cliffside villages of Fira and Oia, renowned for their iconic blue and white houses and buildings. These charming locales, perched high above the Aegean Sea, provide a feast for the eyes and soul as we meander through their narrow, winding streets. with an enviable photo stop around nearly every corner.

On our itinerary (weather-permitting) is the majestic Fira to Oia morning walk. A walk of about 10 km (6.5 miles) traverses the beautiful caldera offering captivating views of the caldera and is a perfect opportunity for photography enthusiasts to capture Santorini's unique beauty. Those not up to the walk are welcome to take the public bus from Fira to Oia to meet the group there for further exploring and a meal together. Another highlight in Santorini is our visit to the enchanting village of Pyrgos. Known for its traditional architecture and captivating ambiance, Pyrgos offers an idyllic setting for a leisurely meal and panormic view of the island. Here, participants will savor a delicious traditional Greek meal at a quaint little outdoor restaurant, where we will be met with the warm hospitality that Greece is famed for.

The program ends on Sunday October 5 with flight departures for returning home or to embark on further travels in Greece or elsewhere in Europe.

Join us on a 12 day culinary journey through splendid Greece

Embark on an exciting culinary journey through Greece, where you’ll immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and delectable flavors of this beautiful country. Experience the rich tradition of Greek cuisine as you learn to cook authentic dishes, and enjoy hands-on cooking classes and food tours that will enhance your skills and delight your palate. Along the way, discover breathtaking historical sites and stunning landscapes, all while surrounded by like-minded food enthusiasts who share your passion for culinary exploration. This adventure promises not only to satisfy your taste buds but also to create lasting memories and friendships. Join us for an unforgettable experience that celebrates the heart and soul of Greece through its food, culture, and stunning scenery. Let's make culinary magic together!

Meteora

Leaving the bustling city of Athens behind, our journey on Friday September 26th takes us northward, to the awe-inspiring region of Meteora, a place where nature and spirituality converge in a dramatic embrace. Upon arriving in Meteora, the first sight of the towering rock formations is nothing short of breathtaking. These colossal pillars of stone rise precipitously from the ground, crowned by centuries-old monasteries that defy gravity and time. Meteora, meaning "suspended in the air," is a UNESCO World Heritage site that encapsulates the spiritual and geological wonders of Greece. In the late afternoon we will enjoy a sunset tour of the beautiful region enjoying unforgettable scenery while learning the cultural and religious background of the monasteries. On Saturday morning participants can opt for the hiking tour or a sightseeing tour. We will enjoy a group meal together at Restaurant Meteora, where you can peak inside ;;;; Meteora promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe of its majestic splendor.

Thessaloniki

We depart from Meteora on Saturday afternoon towards Thessaloniki. Along the way, we stop in a small northern Greek village for a lovely lunch at a very traditional taverna. If the weather is good, we will be seated outside under a big tree and enjoy spanakopita, tzakiki, Greek salad, gemista (stuffed tomatoes and peppers), and other traditional Greek dishes.

Thessaloniki, the second-largest city in Greece, is often referred to as the cultural and culinary capital of the country. Nestled in the northern region of Macedonia, this vibrant port city boasts a rich tapestry of history, culture, and modern life. The city's waterfront is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. We will take a leisurely evening stroll on Saturday evening along its promenade which stretches for several kilometers along the waterfront, offering stunning views, beautifully landscaped gardens, and contemporary sculptures. The White Tower, situated along the waterfront, provides panoramic views of the city and the sea from its observation deck.

We begin the day on Sunday September 28 by attending the Thessaloniki Branch of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The branch meets in Aristotelus Square located in the center of the city nearby the waterfront. After attending the branch meetings and time for interacting with its local members, we will enjoy a relaxing lunch at one of the city's noted restaurants. The rest of the day will be on your own and give you time for some needed rest.

Monday September 29 will be marked with a food tour of Thessaloniki, including a tour of its central market, a cooking class, and eating a meal of what you cooked in the class.

Limited Group Size: 14

Estimated Cost: $3400-$3800 (per person based on double occupancy)

Boutique Experience: Limited Group Size 8-14 People

Our small group trips, comprising up to only 14 participants, provide a unique opportunity to explore the Mediterranean diet and way of life like never before. With a small group size, we can partake in specialized experiences tailored just for our group. This intimate setting not only fosters deeper connections with locals and among participants, but also enhances the overall quality of each experience. Whether enjoying delicious meals together or discovering hidden gems in our travel locations, our programs ensure a comfortable and memorable journey together that outshines the conventional tour experience. Join us to savor the richness of local culture and cuisine in an atmosphere that larger groups simply can't achieve.

This immersive experience is offered through Pages Abroad, an organization dedicated to creating opportunities for individuals to learn and experience Mediterranean diet and way of life. This program is curated by Randy and Tana Page. Randy is an Emeritus Professor of Health Promotion at Brigham Young University, and Tana was an Adjunct Professor also at BYU. Together, they have taken 900+ BYU students to more than 30 different countries on five continents. Now they are focused on sharing their students' rich experiences with others in boutique style "study abroad" tours.

A highly recommended trip with old people.

Reese Richards

bench and dining table near body of water under calm sky

★★★★★

A charming Mediterranean street scene with outdoor dining tables set up on a stone-paved area. Surrounding the area are quaint, multi-story buildings with balconies and vibrant facades. Potted plants and trees add greenery to the scene, as several people sit at the tables, enjoying their time.

Authentic Cooking Experiences

Experience the art of olive oil tasting to learn to discern high quality extra virgin olive oi (EVOO) that has health promoting properties.

a group of people sitting at a table with plates of food

Enjoy Cretan Meals

Enjoy eating together with our group and also at times with a Cretan family.

a goat standing on top of a dry grass covered hillside

Discover Crete

Engage in cooking classes taught by Cretan cooks and taste the results of your cooking.

Discover the beauty and scenery of the Cretan landscape. Take in the vibes of city magnificent city of Chania

Focus on Olive Oil