Italian cooking classes pack the most punch when they’re small, personal, and rooted in local tradition. The standout experiences are concentrated in Liguria, where you’ll learn authentic pesto-making techniques passed down through generations. We especially love the intimate pasta workshops in Sestri Levante, where local grandmothers share family secrets in their home kitchens. For memorable food adventures, don’t miss the wine-paired cooking sessions in Cinque Terre or the cozy home-cooking lessons in Cogorno, where you’ll master classics like lasagna and stuffed calamari. These hands-on classes typically host 4-8 students, letting you really connect with your instructor and fellow foodies. Let’s explore our favorite Italian cooking experiences…
Good To Know
- Ligurian cooking classes in Cogorno offer hands-on experiences with traditional dishes like pansotti and tortellini.
- Private dining experiences in Leivi, Filignano, Loano, and Cogorno provide intimate settings to interact with local hosts and enjoy seasonal Ligurian cuisine.
- Pesto and cooking classes in Sestri Levante focus on making authentic Genoese pesto using a marble mortar and offer courses on fresh pasta, focaccia, and seafood.
- Wine tasting and cooking show in Cinque Terre feature local specialty tagliatella burro salvia e limone with free-flowing alcoholic beverages.
- Cooking classes at a chef’s private kitchen in Liguria offer hands-on experiences with traditional Ligurian recipes, including Ligurian lasagne and stuffed calamari.
Ligurian Cooking Classes
One of the top cooking experiences in the Ligurian region is the Ligurian cooking classes offered at Annas in the village of Cogorno.
Operated by Mandilli de Saea, these classes provide a hands-on introduction to the flavors of Ligurian cuisine. Guests can learn to prepare regional dishes like Ligurian pansotti with walnut sauce and Ligurian big tortellini dressed in walnut sauce.
The classes include lunch and dinner, along with alcoholic beverages, and all necessary kitchen tools. Pickup from nearby train stations can be arranged.
With rave reviews, these private cooking classes offer a delightful way to take in the culinary traditions of Liguria, all set against the beautiful backdrop of Annas’ garden.
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Dining Experience at a Locals Home in Leivi With Show Cooking
Travelers enjoy the culinary heritage of Italy’s Liguria region through a private dining experience at a local’s home in Leivi.
This intimate setting allows guests to explore artisan food stores, taste and sip wine, and then prepare three local signature dishes alongside their host.
The menu includes a seasonal starter, fresh pasta, a second course with a side dish, and a typical dessert, all accompanied by beverages like water and wine.
After the cooking, the experience ends back at the meeting point.
Priced from $91.14 per person, this 5-star rated activity offers a low-price guarantee and flexible cancellation policies.
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Pesto Experience, Cooking Classes, Wine Tasting in Sestri Levante
Enjoy the rich culinary heritage of Sestri Levante through the Pesto Experience, Cooking Classes, and Wine Tasting.
This highly-rated (5.0/96 reviews) and recommended (100%) experience allows you to learn the art of making authentic Genoese pesto using a marble mortar.
Expand your skills further with courses on fresh pasta, focaccia, seafood bread, and fish dishes. Each class includes a complimentary glass of the Vinaccieri Ballerini wines, paired with quality gastronomic products.
The meeting point is easily accessible from various nearby towns and cities. With flexible booking and cancellation policies, this private experience ensures an unforgettable taste of Ligurian cuisine and culture.
Read our full review: Pesto Experience, Cooking Classes, Wine Tasting in Sestri Levante Review
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3hrs Wine Tasting and Cooking Show at Cinque Terre
This 3-hour wine tasting and cooking show in Cinque Terre allows visitors to savor the flavors of the region.
Held at a picturesque vineyard estate, the experience includes a dinner featuring the local specialty, tagliatella burro salvia e limone, as well as free-flowing alcoholic beverages for those 18 and over.
Private transportation is provided, and the event is accessible to most travelers, with infants welcome to sit on laps.
Participants can enjoy the scenic views and enjoy the culinary traditions of this stunning Italian destination.
With a maximum of 50 guests, the intimate setting ensures a personalized and unforgettable experience.
Read our full review: 3hrs Wine Tasting and Cooking Show at Cinque Terre Review
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Dining Experience at a Locals Home in Filignano With Show Cooking
At a private residence in the quaint town of Filignano, travelers can indulge in a captivating dining experience that showcases the culinary traditions of the region.
Operated by Cesarine, this 4-course private lunch or dinner features a show cooking demonstration and a menu that highlights seasonal starters, fresh pasta, side dishes, and typical desserts.
Priced at $91.14 per person, the experience includes water, wines, and coffee.
Travelers can reserve their spot and pay later, with the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours before the event.
This is a private tour, ensuring an intimate and authentic encounter with the local cuisine and culture.
Read our full review: Dining Experience at a Locals Home in Filignano With Show Cooking Review
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Dining Experience at a Locals Home in Loano With Show Cooking
Travelers can regularly indulge in a captivating dining experience that showcases the culinary traditions of the Loano region.
The private four-course meal or lunch includes a seasonal starter, fresh pasta, a second course with a side dish, and a typical dessert.
During the experience, guests will enjoy show cooking and have the opportunity to interact with the local Cesarina.
The experience takes place at a meeting point in Loano, Province of Savona, Italy, and returns to the same location.
Beverages, including water and wines, are included, and the cost starts from $91.14 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Dining Experience at a Locals Home in Loano With Show Cooking Review
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Dining Experience at a Locals Home in Cogorno With Show Cooking
Guests can savor a captivating dining experience that showcases the culinary traditions of Cogorno, Italy.
They’ll enjoy a private, four-course meal prepared by a local chef in their home. The menu features a seasonal starter, handmade pasta, a main course with a side dish, and a typical dessert. Beverages like water, wine, and coffee are included.
The intimate gathering takes place at a meeting point in Cogorno, with the full address provided after booking. This private tour lasts until guests return to the starting point.
Priced from $91.14 per person, the experience offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Dining Experience at a Locals Home in Cogorno With Show Cooking Review
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Cooking Class on Ligurian Cuisine at the Chefs Private Kitchen
Frequently, travelers can enjoy the rich culinary heritage of Liguria during a hands-on cooking class at the chef’s private kitchen.
The class offers an opportunity to learn traditional Ligurian recipes and improve culinary skills under the guidance of a local chef. Participants can expect to prepare a menu featuring Ligurian lasagne with pesto, stuffed calamari with peas, and baked stuffed peaches.
The class is limited to a maximum of 6 travelers, ensuring personalized attention. Included in the experience are dinner and alcoholic beverages, as well as the chance to bring home traditional recipes.
The class is conveniently located near public transportation, though it’s not wheelchair accessible.
Read our full review: Cooking Class on Ligurian Cuisine at the Chefs Private Kitchen Review
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Dining Experience at a Locals Home in Cogoleto With Show Cooking
For those seeking an immersive culinary experience in Italy, the Dining Experience at a Local’s Home in Cogoleto With Show Cooking offers a unique opportunity to savor the flavors of Ligurian cuisine.
This private tour allows you to taste, connect, and dine like a local in the charming town of Selinunte, Sicily.
The 4-course meal includes a seasonal starter, pasta, a second course with a side dish, and a typical dessert, complemented by water, wines, and coffee.
During the experience, you’ll enjoy a cooking demonstration by your Cesarina, who’ll prepare one of the menu’s recipes.
With a maximum group size, this is a likely-to-sell-out experience that’s not to be missed.
Read our full review: Dining Experience at a Locals Home in Cogoleto With Show Cooking Review
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The Sum Up
Italy’s diverse regions offer a wealth of exceptional cooking classes, from learning the art of Ligurian pesto-making to immersive dining experiences in local homes. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a curious traveler, these classes provide an unparalleled opportunity to explore the country’s rich culinary heritage and savor the flavors of authentic Italian cuisine.