Immerse yourself in the serene side of the Cyclades by joining a Thirassia tour that combines cave village exploration with a hands-on cooking class
If an off-the-beaten-path experience in a destination where time seems frozen sounds like your kind of thing, look no further. This well-rounded, private tour takes you to abandoned cave settlements, into a traditional kitchen and straight into the heart of authentic Greek island life. What more could you ask for?
Discover Thirassia’s pristine beauty, hidden stories and culinary traditions with local guides who make your day truly special
Highlights of your Cooking Class in Santorini: Thirassia Edition
- Step back in time as you stroll through Agrilia and listen to how islanders once adapted to life on this rugged landscape
- Cook local dishes with fresh, seasonal ingredients alongside welcoming hosts who guide you every step of the way
- Savor the meal you’ve just created in a traditional village setting while overlooking the breathtaking caldera
How your Cooking Class in Santorini: Thirassia Edition unfolds
Hop on board your boat
Your day begins with a private pick-up from your accommodation, followed by a scenic drive down to Ammoudi Port, the small harbor nestled beneath Oia. Here, you’ll catch a local ferry for a 20-minute ride to Thirassia.
As you watch Santorini’s whitewashed villages and dramatic cliffs recede behind you, you can’t help but feel a sense of excitement for the adventure that’s awaiting you.
Explore the deserted village of Agrilia
Upon docking, it’s time to board your traditional taxi and head straight to Agrilia, an abandoned settlement that’s among the oldest on the island.
As you enter rock-carved cave houses, your guide explains how people lived, farmed and thrived in conditions shaped by volcanic terrain. You’ll also visit the church of the Virgin Mary, which stands out for its vibrant colors and is a testament to the community’s strong religious life.
Prepare famous Greek dishes during a hands-on cooking class
Your next stop is a traditional tavern in Manolas, Thirassia’s capital that boasts jaw-dropping panoramic vistas. This is where the real fun begins: preparing signature Cycladic recipes under the guidance of local hosts who’ve been cooking these dishes for decades.
So, roll up your sleeves because you’re about to chop, mix and stir your way through world-renowned dishes, using fresh ingredients sourced from the island.
Enjoy the delicious lunch you just prepared
And now comes the most exciting part! Once the cooking is done, it’s time to reap the rewards. Sit down to a leisurely meal featuring every dish you’ve just prepared, served family-style with local wine and the caldera stretched out before you.
The combination of delicious food, sweeping views and that deep satisfaction of having made it all yourself? That’s the kind of moment that will linger in your memories for years to come.
Return to Santorini with your heart and stomach full
After saying goodbye to your hosts, it’s time to go back to the port where the ferry awaits for the return crossing to Ammoudi.
By the time you arrive at your hotel, you’ll carry more than just photos. You’ll have stories, recipes and the kind of experience that reminds you why you travel in the first place. Thirassia may be small and quiet, but it definitely leaves a lasting impression.
What’s included in the price?
- Private pick-up and drop-off from accommodation in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle
- Transfer to and from Ammoudi Port
- Round-trip ferry tickets Santorini–Thirassia–Santorini
- Traditional taxi transport on Thirassia
- Guided visit to Agrilia cave village and church
- Hands-on cooking class with fresh ingredients
- Lunch featuring the self-prepared dishes
- English, German or Greek-speaking local guide
- All taxes
What’s not included in the tour?
- Personal expenses
- Any tips you may want to give the staff (optional)
Anything else I need to know?
- Wear comfortable clothing, a hat, sunglasses and sunblock, even during the shoulder seasons
- The tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility challenges, as it requires moderate walking on uneven terrain
- Just like in any of our Santorini experiences, the final price varies depending on the number of participants
This 6-hour tour is best for:
- Travelers seeking off-the-beaten-track experiences in a getaway where very few people venture
- Foodies who want to learn traditional cooking techniques and recipes that they can recreate at home
- History and culture buffs looking to witness firsthand the ingenuity required to thrive in a volcanic environment
- Repeaters who’ve seen Santorini’s highlights and are ready to discover a lesser-known side of the caldera

“For anyone looking for something truly memorable, definitely book this tour”
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