Nothing beats experiencing Cinque Terre’s culinary traditions firsthand through local cooking classes. The region’s top workshops let you master pesto-making, craft fresh pasta, and learn tiramisu secrets alongside expert local chefs. I especially love the small-group classes in family kitchens – they offer the most authentic experience and personal attention. The combination of hands-on cooking, wine tasting, and stunning coastal views makes these workshops particularly memorable. Several excellent options stand out for their quality instruction and warm hospitality, which I’ve listed below.
Good To Know
- Pasta and Tiramisu Workshops in Riomaggiore offer a hands-on culinary experience with a 96% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence.
- Cesarine Home Cooking Class in Riomaggiore provides traditional Cinque Terre dishes, with a 91% recommendation rate based on 22 reviews.
- Cooking With Luca Class covers trofie pasta, pesto, and tiramisu, with a maximum of 4 participants and a 4.9/5 rating.
- Pesto and Gnocchi Classes offer an authentic culinary experience with stunning views, a maximum of 15 participants, and family recipes.
- BarCa Winery Tour includes a scenic vineyard trek, wine tasting, and pesto making, with a 4.9/5 rating and a 97% recommendation rate.
A Half-Day Pasta and Tiramisu Workshop in a Local Chefs Home – Cinque Terre
A popular hands-on culinary experience in Riomaggiore, Cinque Terre, this half-day pasta and tiramisu workshop takes participants into the home of a local chef.
With a 96% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, the small group class is limited to 12 people, ensuring personalized attention. Guests will learn to make two iconic pasta dishes and the classic Italian dessert, tiramisu, under the guidance of the chef.
The experience includes a sparkling wine aperitivo, snacks, and the chance to taste the creations. Located just 200m uphill from the meeting point, the class takes place in an authentic home setting.
While some have noted difficulty finding the location or felt the class lacked structure, the overwhelming majority of the 120 reviews praise the personalized, warm hospitality and the delicious, educational experience.
Priced from $187.94 per person, the class offers free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later option.
Read our full review: A Half-Day Pasta and Tiramisu Workshop in a Local Chefs Home – Cinque Terre Review
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Cesarine: Home Cooking Class & Meal With a Local in Riomaggiore
Although located just 200m uphill from the meeting point in Riomaggiore, the Cesarine: Home Cooking Class & Meal With a Local experience transports participants into an authentic home setting.
Boasting a 91% recommendation rate from 22 traveler reviews, this private home cooking class focuses on traditional Cinque Terre dishes. Guests can expect a hands-on lesson to prepare a seasonal starter, fresh pasta (such as tagliatelle, linguine, or ravioli), and a classic local dessert (like rice cake or tiramisu).
The experience culminates in a festive shared meal featuring the dishes created together, accompanied by included beverages like water, wine, and coffee.
With a maximum of 10 travelers, this intimate experience provides an opportunity for culture and learning traditional cooking techniques from a local host.
Priced from $187.94 per person, the Cesarine class offers free cancellation and a “Reserve Now, Pay Later” option, making it an accessible and flexible addition to any Cinque Terre itinerary.
Read our full review: Cesarine: Home Cooking Class & Meal With a Local in Riomaggiore Review
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Barca Winery Cinqueterre Tour With Wine Tasting & Pesto Class
What better way to experience the beauty and flavors of Cinque Terre than the BarCa Winery Cinqueterre Trekking & Wine Tasting & Pesto Class? This highly-rated 4.9/5 tour offers an intimate and authentic glimpse into the region’s winemaking heritage.
Guests will trek through scenic vineyards, savor exquisite wines like the Rosè Rosaluna and BarCa Cinqueterre DOC, and learn to make traditional pesto.
The experience culminates with a sunset viewing and fresh focaccia paired with the handcrafted pesto. Praised for its knowledgeable and hospitable host, this family-run winery provides a personalized experience not to be missed.
With complimentary cancellation and confirmation within 48 hours, the BarCa Winery tour is an excellent value at £64.52 per person.
Highly recommended by 97% of travelers, this immersive excursion is an unforgettable way to savor the flavors and scenery of Cinque Terre.
Read our full review: Barca Winery Cinqueterre Tour With Wine Tasting & Pesto Class Review
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Cooking With Luca Pasta Tiramisu Class Riomaggiore Activity 2 H30
This highly-rated 4.9/5 cooking class in Riomaggiore, Cinque Terre offers an immersive experience in mastering traditional Italian dishes.
The 2.5-hour “Pasta, Pesto and Tiramisu” class teaches participants how to prepare local trofie pasta, pesto alla Genovese, and classic tiramisu. Led by the friendly and knowledgeable instructor Luca, the small group class (maximum 4 travelers) allows for personalized attention and an interactive atmosphere.
The class includes welcome prosecco and local white wine, a full dinner with the prepared dishes, and all fees and taxes.
While not suitable for vegans, celiacs, or those with severe allergies, participants with food intolerances can still join. The meeting point is a 10-minute walk from the Riomaggiore train station, harbor, and public parking.
Reviewers rave about the delicious food, beautiful views, and memorable Italian experience, making this class a highlight for many travelers to Cinque Terre.
Read our full review: Cooking With Luca Pasta Tiramisu Class Riomaggiore Activity 2 H30 Review
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Cinque Terre: Pesto Cooking Class With Sea View in Riomaggiore
Travelers seeking an immersive culinary experience in Cinque Terre can embark on a 2.5-hour pesto cooking class in Riomaggiore. The class, which costs $166.94 per person, accommodates a maximum of 10 participants and provides hands-on instruction in the art of making authentic pesto.
Hosted by expert chefs Barbara and Stefano, the class covers the history of pesto from La Spezia and teaches two techniques – using an electric blender and a pestle and mortar.
Participants will enjoy stunning sea views while learning to craft their own pot of pesto genovese, a local specialty. The experience includes beverages such as water, local wines, and coffee, as well as all necessary equipment and ingredients.
At the end of the class, guests will take home their homemade pesto as a souvenir. With exceptional hospitality and an unforgettable atmosphere, this pesto cooking class is a must-try for anyone exploring the culinary delights of Cinque Terre.
Read our full review: Cinque Terre: Pesto Cooking Class With Sea View in Riomaggiore Review
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Cinque Terre: Gnocchi & Pesto Class With Seaview in Riomaggiore
Though the walk to the Cesarina’s house can be a bit challenging, the Gnocchi & Pesto Class with Seaview in Riomaggiore offers an authentic Italian culinary experience that’s worth the effort.
Hosted by the local Cesarine cooking school, this small-group class focuses on teaching travelers how to prepare two classic Italian dishes – gnocchi and pesto.
With a maximum of 15 participants, the class provides a personal and intimate atmosphere. Guests will learn from the host’s family recipes, seeing the local culture.
While the uphill trek may not be wheelchair accessible, the stunning views from the location make it a worthwhile journey. The 4.6-star rating from 11 reviews highlights the class’s popularity, with travelers praising the authenticity, fun atmosphere, and excellent instruction.
Priced at $198.43 per person, the experience includes a full lunch or dinner, free cancellation, and a lowest price guarantee.
Read our full review: Cinque Terre: Gnocchi & Pesto Class With Seaview in Riomaggiore Review
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Cinque Terre: 3-Course Cooking Class With Seaview in Riomaggiore
Guests can embark on a 3-course cooking class in the stunning Cinque Terre region of Italy. The class allows them to share their passion for Italian cuisine with fellow travelers.
Led by a local Cesarina, the class includes a hands-on cooking experience, followed by a lunch or dinner featuring the 3 recipes prepared.
The meeting point is in Riomaggiore, with a 200m uphill walk to the Cesarina’s house. Directions include descending terraced steps and turning right at the I Foresti Farm sign.
The class is priced from $198.43 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before. Reservations can be made now with payment due later, offering flexibility.
Classes are limited to a maximum of 12 travelers, and most can participate, though the location isn’t wheelchair accessible. Confirmation is provided at booking, and the class is located near public transportation.
Operated by Cesarine, this cooking experience is likely to sell out quickly.
Read our full review: Cinque Terre: 3-Course Cooking Class With Seaview in Riomaggiore Review
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Cesarine: Trofie, Pesto, Tiramisu Class by the Sea in Cinque Terre
For travelers seeking an immersive culinary experience in the picturesque Cinque Terre region, the Cesarine: Trofie, Pesto, Tiramisu Class by the Sea in Cinque Terre offers a chance to master the art of making local specialties.
This 5-star rated class, led by a local Cesarina, provides hands-on instruction in preparing Ligurian trofie pasta, pesto, and the classic Italian dessert tiramisu. The intimate class setting accommodates a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.
The 3-hour experience includes a delectable menu featuring the prepared dishes, accompanied by water, two glasses of wine, and Italian coffee. Priced from $208.93 per person, the class provides a confirmation upon booking and allows free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time.
Conveniently located in Riomaggiore, the class is near public transportation, though not wheelchair accessible. This shared cooking class with a tasting of two recipes promises an authentic and memorable culinary adventure in the stunning Cinque Terre.
Read our full review: Cesarine: Trofie, Pesto, Tiramisu Class by the Sea in Cinque Terre Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Cancellation Policy for These Workshops?
The cancellation policy typically allows participants to receive a full refund if they cancel within a certain timeframe, often 2-4 weeks prior to the workshop. Fees may be partially or non-refundable for last-minute cancellations.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Accommodations Available?
Many workshops offer accommodations for dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options. It’s best to inquire about their policies when booking to ensure your needs are met during the program.
What Is the Group Size for These Classes?
Group sizes for the classes typically range from 8 to 12 participants, allowing for personalized attention and ample hands-on experience. The small group sizes ensure an intimate and interactive learning environment.
Do the Workshops Include Transportation to and From the Venues?
The workshops typically don’t include transportation to and from the venues. Participants are responsible for making their own way to the class locations, though some providers may offer optional group transportation at an additional cost.
Are There Any Age Requirements or Restrictions for the Participants?
Many workshops don’t have age restrictions, welcoming both adults and children. However, some may have minimum age requirements or offer specialized sessions for certain age groups. It’s best to check with the organizers to determine if there are any age-related policies.
The Sum Up
The Cinque Terre region offers a variety of cooking workshops and classes that allow visitors to learn from local chefs and experience the region’s culinary traditions. From pasta-making and pesto classes to tiramisu workshops, these hands-on experiences provide a unique opportunity to take in the flavors of Cinque Terre. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a curious traveler, these classes cater to all skill levels and dietary preferences, ensuring a memorable and delicious experience.