Athens Make Your Own Greek Leather Sandals Workshop

Mariana and her husband were wonderful people, so friendly and accomodating. We learned all about sandal making. We participated in making the sandals, which were custom fit to our feet! We enjoyed the workshop very much.

Had an amazing experience with Mariana and Demetrius! They were excellent teachers, friendly people, and honestly very fun to interact with. A pair of leather sandals for the price is so worth it and you get to customize your design/color. They really are made for you and to be able to get them done in 3 hours is awesome. My friend and I were lucky and had the class to ourselves but this would be great for people of all ages. Amazing people and workshop, would highly recommend!

One of my most favorite travel experiences I’ve ever had! Marianna and Demetrius were incredible and treated us like we were family during our time there. The attention to detail that went into each step while making our own custom sandals was amazing and was so cool to see it go from a picture to sandals on our feet at the end of the session. I 110% recommend this experience you will not regret it! Also the materials they use to make the sandals are top notch!

We had an awesome time. Incredible experience. It’s a must do in Athens. Our hosts were very warm and welcoming. 10 out of 10. (And the food recommendations were spot on as well)

Please be aware this is NOT in Athens . It is extremely far from Athens despite claiming otherwise in title. When problems arose they were not accepting of handling it in a timely manner . There are local options that won’t cost more money to get from city to this tour which is over one hour away .

This workshop was the best experience ever! The hosts were so kind and made it so enjoyable for all!

If you are looking for a truly unique and memorable experience anywhere near Athens, you absolutely must book the sandal-making workshop at Marbe. It was hands-down one of the absolute highlights of our entire trip, and I cannot recommend it highly enough! The Hosts: Dimitri & Marina The workshop is located just outside of the main hustle and bustle of Athens, and from the moment we arrived, we knew we were in for something special. Dimitri and Marina are super amazing! They are the ultimate hosts—incredibly warm, welcoming, patient, and deeply passionate about their craft. They treated us like old friends, and their wonderful energy made the entire session so much fun. The Experience We loved literally everything about it. Dimitri and Marina guide you through the entire process step-by-step with a lot of laughs and expert knowledge. You get to: Work with beautiful, high-quality authentic leather. Learn the traditional steps of crafting footwear. Customize a gorgeous pair of sandals tailored perfectly to your own feet. There is nothing quite like the satisfaction of walking out wearing a stunning, comfortable pair of custom leather sandals that you actually helped create! The Verdict: If you want a genuine, hands-on, and incredibly fun piece of Greek culture to take home with you, do yourself a favor and book this experience. You will love every single second of it. Definitely do it!

This was truly one of the most incredible and unique experiences we've ever had. First and foremost, Marianna and Dimitris immediately make us feel like family by inviting us into their beautiful artistic space, along with their breathtaking land. The studio sits on a tranquil piece of paradise, that was so calming and refreshing during our evening session. Together we created beautiful sandals for myself and my husband, with them explaining each step in the process and even letting us perform some of the steps under their guidance. The process was fun, engaging and incredibly special; one we won't ever forget. Not only was it a unique opportunity to try something we'd never done before, but we were so grateful to have these two special individuals guiding us the entire time. Run, don't walk to join this amazing activity if you're in Greece.

This experience was absolutely fantastic!!! I did it with my 18 year old son and we both loved it. Making sandals from the sole, choosing leather material color, cutting the leather and actually being involved with every step was amazing and fascinating. They worked with my son on his Greek in a very fun way and it was a really fun event. My husband came too and was invited to watch or sit and drink wine out in the garden. Just a perfect end to our Greek trip and one we will always remember fondly. My son has worn his sandals every day since we got home and always tells neighbors and friends that he made them - so proud! I also get lots of compliments on mine and have been asked where I purchased them which is very flattering :)

Amazing Time amazing Hosting. This was not only a sandals workshop this was an experience you will Never forget. The kindness and openminded Couple (Dimitris & Marianna) was a Blessing and they gave a homefeeling touch to this workshop. They were so nice and answered all question and helped me Even with my bumpy feet. They adjusted everything on its finest. See you next year Sylvia & Judith

Marbe Sandals was educational and welcoming, very sweet couple that had exceptional hospitality. The sandals you get to make are customized and better than any store bought quality. All made with locally sourced materials. My wife and I had a wonderful time learning the process, while having jovial conversations throughout the whole process. After we finished they were thoughtful enough to drive us to the nearest train station and send us home. Truely an unforgettable experience and would recommend for anyone who wants to experience the pinnacle of Greek hospitality.

I cannot recommend this experience enough! Hosted by a lovely couple at their home workshop, we learned how shoes are made and got to leave with a handmade pair of sandals chosen by us. It was really easy to get here from city center on the metro, and they’ll come pick you up from the nearest station. The hostess are very fun, generous, and kind, and my sister and I spent the morning laughing alongside them. If you’re looking for an authentic experience that’s a little different, do this!

Completely hands on with wonderful instructors! We were a part of the entire process which was eye opening and a great time!

We arrived very late due to traffic but we were met with open arms.dimitri and Mariana are delightful. I was with my 12 yr old granddaughter who they really concentrated on making it such a joyful experience. We both had a fantastic time and got beautiful sandals as well . Highly recommend this workshop. On word of warning if you are staying in central Athens allow yourselves 90 minutes to get there

We had the best time ever! We left with beautiful shoes and new friends (the owners). I recommend the experience, you will not be disappointed.

10/10 experience and honestly one of my favorite things I did in Athens! Marianna and Dmitris are the sweetest couple — they made us feel so welcomed from the moment we walked in. There were plenty of snacks, drinks, and tons of laughs throughout. During the class, you get to customize a unique pair of sandals while they walk you through every step of the process. If you have room in your itinerary, do not skip this. It was so much fun!

Dmitris and Marianna where absolutely wonderful! I can't say enough kind things about the two of them and our experience. My partner and I felt so welcome and we had an absolute blast! And the finished product...! For two people with rather odd feet we all certainly had our work cut out for us, but they took their time helping to adjust everything so it was comfortable and perfect for us! I have done many interesting excursions, but this experience certainly tops my list. And my partner, I can't thank them enough for spending so much time helping him and making this such a fantastic experience for us both. If you are in Athens, MAKE THE TIME. You certainly won't regret it or forget this one!

Hands down, this was by far the best worship in Athens. The instructors are so polite and patient. The sandals are gorgeous. I have wide feet because they are flat and she took her time to ensure the sandal would fit properly. The instructor and her husband are wonderful people inside and out. Highly recommend this workshop. Worth every dollar.

If you want to feel like you’re visiting your Greek cousins in Athens, this activity is for you! Marianna and Dimitri are incredible hosts, skilled artisans, and two of the neatest people we’ve ever met. We’re filled with gratitude for teaching us how to make the cutest sandals ever.

The workshop was absolutely marvellous. The best thing. So nice and kind people who helped me make my own sandals. It was actually so great that I came back the next day to make another pair. If I have the Oporto go to Athens again, I will do it again. Thank you so much!!

This was very unique and fun! The operator picked us up from the train station, served us drinks and cookies. They let us design our sandals just as we wanted them. They were so warm and inviting. By the time it was over we felt like friends ❤️

This is an incredible, unique experience! You basically design your own sandals and Dmitri and Mariana custom make them for you, right then and there, and give you the opportunity to help at various points. They are flexible and give you guidance; they are very helpful! One of our group was a repeat customer and told us how extremely well made her sandals were, and how they had lasted for years. The amazing thing was that she had brought her old sandals, which needed an adjustment, and Mariana adjusted them for her as well as making her new sandals! Mariana even remembered a story that the guest told the last time she visited. It was a wonderful experience, and I couldn't be more pleased with my shoes!

Mariana and Demetrios were great hosts and welcomed us warmly. I had a great time chatting with them like I was part of the family and walked out with amazing custom sandals! I'm so glad I found this activity and definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a unique hands-on experience away from the hustle of the city!

Excellent experience full of creativity and relaxation. Like hanging out with new Greek friends for the evening! I enjoyed picking out the design, materials, and assembling guided by the lovely Mariana the whole way. Dmitris kindly picked me up from the train station and offered a coffee stop. Highly recommend this authentic Greek experience with the best handmade souvenir to take home with you.

Dimitris picked us up on the cafe side of the train station and was quick to answer any questions when called. Refreshments were provided and the hospitality was exceptional! Inspiration and instruction were provided for this hands on activity. The sandal making experience was very much fun! They made sure we were informed and happy throughout the process of customizing our sandals. The outcome turned out great, and they even provided a box and bag to take to go! Overall I am very glad to have had this experience, and it made my first Greece trip all the much better!

Such a fantabulous experience! Mariana & her team were absolute gems! From the beginning to the very end this was a dynamite experience. These are not the cheap uncomfortable sandals that you can pick up anywhere & keep as a souvenir of your time in Greece. These are top quality leather sandals that are hand made & custom fit to every inch of your feet. Perfect for a date night, girls night or just because... We learned, we laughed, & we created the most beautiful leather goods. Made memories we're sure to cherish for years to come. Huge thank you to Marbe Sandals. We absolutely love our new creations!

This experience was amazing! Marianna and her husband were so welcoming and kind, we chatted the entire time! There were plenty of snacks and drinks, and it was so interesting to learn about the sandal-making process, and to take part in it as well, using the machinery. I loved being able to choose how I wanted the sandals to look, and I got a beautiful, well-crafted bespoke pair in the process. If you’re in the Athens area and you have time, I would highly recommend this. It’s a relaxing couple of hours with good company, beautiful views and an interesting activity with something tangible at the end.

I booked this experience for my husband and I on our anniversary trip. My expectations were fairly high for this activity going in and Marianna and Dimitris EXCEEDED those expectations. They were the absolute nicest hosts. They treated us like we were friends or family. Their kindness made an excellent and interesting experience even better. Our visit started with a beverage and cookies. They explained the process so well and we were involved every step of the way. I couldn’t ask for a better souvenir than a custom pair of sandals. Marianna and Dimitris were so knowledgeable, helpful, and are passionate about the art that they bring to life. This was a lovely and memorable experience and I cannot recommend it enough.

Such a fabulous experience!! We took uber there and back….super simple. You can also take the metro! The experience was just wonderful! Our favorite experience in Athens! Marianna was so warm and engaging! The process was really interesting and we were patiently assisted through each step. Our sandals are awesome! You come to make sandals and learn the process, which you do, but you also leave feeling like you just met a wonderful friend! Thank you Marianna!

This was one of the highlights of our family trip to Greece. Dimitris and Marianna treated us like family and we became fast friends. If you like unique experiences that give you true sense of Greek culture and life you must book this experience. Oh by the way you get a sleek set of custom fit sandals as well. They are so accommodating and flexible to work with you and ensure you get exactly what you want. I can't say enough nice things about the experience and am rooting for their success which is inevitable so go see them before they become even more famous :) Much love to Dimitris and family - thank you for such an amazing experience.

This past Sunday, my mom & I made memories we’ll cherish forever, and sandals that may last just as long. She made gladiator-style sandals, while I went with a chic wing design inspired by the god Hermes. We both love our new shoes, and had such a beautiful time together making them. Marbé is a wife-led husband and wife team that has an incredible she-shed in the countryside 40-minutes outside central Athens, near Glyfada (by the coast). The setting is beautiful, and they have ducks + a cat who was briefly my assistant, as well as a cute lil dog. Their youngest son welcomed Charlo and they played together (with Tommy too) while we finished up, and while lovely Marianna & Dimitris finished a last-minute addition to the experience: tiny Bucks-colored gladiator sandals for Charlo! We were welcomed like family, and I hope I get the chance to go back and make another pair soon. 🇬🇷🩴🧿 Two tips: it is not near central Athens - when I clicked from trip advisor, it showed a spot near Kolonaki. That isn’t correct. Make sure you know it’s a long (but beautiful and worth it) trip from city center. Second, they mentioned it is much cooler in the evenings, so if you’re available for that time slot, it may be comfier!

An experience worth the trip! Super friendly, hospitality overload!. I highly recommend for anyone! The best instructor!

This was by far the best experience we’ve had in all of our travels across Greece. We had tours/adventures in Athens, Naxos, Milos and Santorini and this was the best experience and we’re so glad we had this at the end of our trip. To say they’re the most amazing humans ever is an understatement, they were so kind to us and our family, and engaging in the art of sandal making. Our kids had a blast and we did too! We recommend this to any and all looking either to make sandals or just to bond with their friends and family. Again it’s the one event that we knew we had to do, we just didn’t realize how much we would enjoy it. Thanks again!!!’

Today, my mom and I had the pleasure of doing the Make Your Own Sandals Workshop with Marianna, and I couldn't be more impressed. Marianna went absolutely above and beyond. She served us with delicious coffee and cookies before teaching us how to make our sandals. I felt so fortunate to have gotten to learn about sandal making and all of the steps in the process, especially from someone so passionate and knowledgeable! The sandals are stunning and so comfortable, and I love that we got to step away with beautiful shoes on top of a wonderful experience that we will never forget!

Amazing experience!!! Totally hands on! Marianne and Dimitrius treated us like family and we loved the setting. Completely authentic!

If there is one thing you do in Greece let it be this. We had an absolutely amazing experience making sandals at Marbe Sandals. We didn't have a rental car but getting there was easy because they graciously picked us up (and dropped us off) at the train stop. Upon arrival, we were offered cookies and coffee before selecting our perfect sandals. There were many styles to choose from as well as colors/patterns. We had a blast throughout the entire process, learning about and making the sandals. When Marianna learned that I was pregnant she even helped us make a pair of tiny sandals for our future daughter. It was such a kind and lovely gesture and I know we will cherish those sandals even after our little girl has far outgrown them. Being pregnant, they took special precautions and always made sure I was comfortable. We thoroughly enjoyed making the sandals, but spending time and talking with Marianna and Dimitris really made the experience extra special. We felt like we were catching up with old friends. We cannot say enough wonderful things about Marianna and Dimitris and our experience at Marbe Sandals.

We wrapped up our week in Athens with a truly special activity—creating our own Greek sandals in a hands-on workshop just 40 minutes from central Athens. The drive alone is worth the trip—absolutely breathtaking—and it’s easy to combine this with a relaxing day at the beach. The workshop is run by Maryana, a talented artist and the owner of the onsite atelier, alongside her all-female crew. Maryana is not only incredibly skilled but also engaging and fun—our 10-year-old son was completely captivated from the start. He spent the afternoon building his own pair of sandals like a “puzzle,” involved in every step (and trust us, there are many!). Watching the pride grow on his face as the sandals came together was something! Maryana offers a truly tailor-made experience. Every strap and hole is crafted to match your foot’s shape and comfort. The setting is lovely too, with a charming outdoor space for the workshop—we didn’t use it due to the weather, but it’s a great bonus for sunnier days. And yes, our son—football-obsessed as he is—chose shiny golden sandals. He’s already calling them his “Olympian boots.” One especially touching detail: our dog was along for the experience, and Maryana, in her characteristic generosity, made him a custom collar. It’s a small gesture that speaks volumes about her kindness and attention to detail. Maryana also has an Etsy store, so if you want to support her incredible craft (or get a pair without the puzzle), definitely check it out! Highly recommend for families, creatives, or anyone looking for an authentic and memorable Greek experience.

We decided to make sandals with the kids (6 and 9). Even though location is a little away from the Athens it is easy to reach by taxi. Hosts are an amazing friendly hospitable couple. Already spending an evening with them was a pleasure. We could choose our own design (create own design inspired by available ones), select materials and colours (too much choice) and then learn how to make the sandals by our own hands. The master is so talented and patient and sooo good with kids. We spent 5 hours enjoying a conversations, glass of wine, cookies and of course sandals making!

Brilliant workshop. Marianna and Dimitri were great hosts, and went above and beyond to make the session enjoyable. Marianna is an excellent designer and keen to show you the craft. Love my new sandals too!

This class was amazing! We sat in a real artisan's workshop and spent the evening learning and making sandals. Mariana was incredibly friendly and gave us a wonderful experience. We got to choose what style of sandals we wanted to make from a million choices, then crafted them to fit our feet exactly. They came out amazing! We left with wonderful keepsakes and wonderful memories.

This was the best experience my Aunt and I had as part of our 9 days in Greece. Marianne and Marwu walked us through all the steps to make customized leather sandals from raw materials to finished shoes. Not only do we have beautiful shoes, we had a lovely time, and I can’t recommend this activity enough. If you love a hands on activity, learning a new skill, and being immersed in the culture, this is the experience to do. We were welcomed to Marianne’s fully outfitted workshop and given a plethora of choices to design our sandals. The selection of colors was phenomenal as well. I will never forget this experience. :-)

"I had the most grateful and delightful experience working with Mariane. From start to finish, she was absolutely wonderful—warm, attentive, and incredibly talented. Her skills and expertise shine through in everything she does, and it was clear how much passion she brings to her work. Mariane’s professionalism, creativity, and genuine kindness made the entire experience truly special. I’m so grateful to have had the chance to work with her and would highly recommend her to anyone looking for exceptional talent and a positive, memorable experience."

I had the most incredible experience at the sandal making workshop that truly embodied the essence of Greek filoxenia. From the moment my children (ages 12 and 15) and I stepped in, we were embraced with warmth and hospitality, making us feel like we were reuniting with lifelong friends. The evening was filled with creativity and tranquility as we crafted beautiful sandals from start to finish. The design process was inspiring, and the execution was a true labor of love. I highly recommend this workshop to anyone seeking an authentic Greek experience that combines artistry, camaraderie, and pure joy. It was truly a memorable and enriching experience that my children and I will cherish forever.