Bilbao’s cooking classes offer a practical introduction to Basque Country cuisine, one of Europe’s most celebrated food regions. Most classes run 2.5-3.5 hours and teach fundamentals of local specialties – from traditional pintxos (Basque tapas) to hearty marmitako (fish stew).
We especially like the small-group sessions at the Old Town market schools, where you’ll shop for ingredients before cooking. Their English-speaking instructors share cultural insights while keeping the atmosphere casual and fun. Many include wine pairings and post-cooking feasts.
For the best hands-on cooking experiences in Bilbao, check these recommended options:
Top Tours
- The Traditional Basque Cooking Class offers a comprehensive 3.5-hour experience covering 2-3 starters, a main dish, and a dessert.
- The Paella Cooking Class with Sangria provides a 3.5-hour hands-on session focused on authentic paella and traditional Spanish Sangria.
- The Basque Pintxos and Tapas Cooking Class is a 2.5-hour class that teaches traditional and modern pintxos with an open bar.
- The Pintxos and Tapas Cooking Class in a Private Villa offers a personalized experience with food tastings and wine pairings in a picturesque mountain setting.
- The Small-Group Immersive Basque Cooking Class features a maximum of 12 participants and covers beloved Basque dishes like bacalao and marmitako.
Bilbao: Traditional Basque Cooking Class With Wine Tasting
Although Bilbao is renowned for its industrial heritage, the city also boasts a rich culinary tradition rooted in the Basque Country’s gastronomic culture.
Travelers can enjoy this vibrant food scene through a hands-on Basque cooking class. Participants will prepare 2-3 starters, a main dish, and a dessert, complemented by a selection of cheeses, charcuteries, and local wines.
The 3.5-hour experience is led by an English-speaking instructor who shares cooking techniques and historical insights. Guests can look forward to creating traditional dishes like atxuleta (meat chop) and Marmitako (tuna stew) while receiving recipes and an apron to take home.
With flexible booking options and an overall rating of 4.8 stars, this class offers an authentic taste of Basque cuisine.
Read our full review: Bilbao: Traditional Basque Cooking Class With Wine Tasting Review
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Paella Cooking Class With Sangria in Bilbao
Travelers can enjoy Bilbao’s vibrant culinary scene through a hands-on paella cooking class that also teaches the art of making traditional Spanish Sangria.
Lasting 3.5 hours, the class offers a personalized experience, with a live English-speaking guide leading participants through the preparation of authentic paella, 2-3 starters, and a traditional Spanish dessert.
Guests can enjoy a communal meal and pair the dishes with a selection of local wines.
Rated 4.9/5 for excellent guidance and cleanliness, the class is suitable for small groups and receives high recommendations for its engaging and humorous chef.
Read our full review: Paella Cooking Class With Sangria in Bilbao Review
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Bilbao: Basque Pintxos and Tapas Cooking Class With Open Bar
Enjoy the vibrant culinary culture of Bilbao through a captivating Basque pintxos and tapas cooking class.
Led by an expert chef, the 2.5-hour experience offers insights into local ingredients and their significance. Guests will enjoy hands-on instruction in creating traditional and modern pintxos, complemented by an open bar for beverages.
The class culminates in a tasting of four prepared pintxos and a charcuterie board. With flexible scheduling and free cancellation, this cooking class is a fantastic way to explore Basque cuisine.
Travelers have praised the knowledgeable chef, comfortable setting, and overall enjoyment of the experience.
Read our full review: Bilbao: Basque Pintxos and Tapas Cooking Class With Open Bar Review
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Pintxos and Tapas Cooking Class in Bilbao
Set against the picturesque backdrop of a private villa nestled in the mountains, the Pintxos and Tapas Cooking Class in Bilbao offers a delightful immersion into the vibrant culinary culture of the Basque country.
Over the course of a half-day, small-group session, participants learn to prepare an array of traditional Basque-style pintxos, or bite-sized appetizers, using fresh, seasonal produce.
Along With hands-on cooking, the class includes food tastings, wine pairings, and guidance from a local expert.
With a maximum of 12 travelers, the class provides an intimate, personalized experience that has earned it a 97% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence.
Read our full review: Pintxos and Tapas Cooking Class in Bilbao Review
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Small-Group Immersive Basque Cooking Class in Bilbao With Open Bar
Nestled in the heart of Bilbao, the Small-Group Immersive Basque Cooking Class invites travelers to embark on a culinary adventure that celebrates the rich flavors and vibrant culture of the Basque country.
Boasting a Badge of Excellence from Gastronomía Bilbao, this intimate experience allows a maximum of 12 participants to learn from an engaging chef, Mikel, known for his captivating storytelling.
The menu features beloved Basque dishes like bacalao with tomato sauce and the iconic marmitako (tuna/salmon stew), culminating in the indulgence of sweet Basque toast.
With all food and drinks included, this immersive class promises an unforgettable exploration of Basque gastronomy in a picturesque setting near the Guggenheim Museum.
Read our full review: Small-Group Immersive Basque Cooking Class in Bilbao With Open Bar Review
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Basque Pintxos and Tapas Cooking Class in Bilbao
For travelers seeking a deeper dive into the vibrant culinary culture of Bilbao, the Basque Pintxos and Tapas Cooking Class offers an unparalleled opportunity to master the art of these beloved Basque specialties.
Hosted by the acclaimed Gastronomía Bilbao, this 5-star rated experience takes participants on a journey through the region’s iconic flavors. From crafting the classic Bilbainito to perfecting the spicy garlic mushrooms, the hands-on class covers a tantalizing menu of Basque delights.
With an open bar and a maximum of 12 travelers, the class promises an intimate and immersive culinary adventure. Whether a seasoned foodie or a curious newcomer, this highly-recommended experience is a must for anyone exploring the Bilbao food scene.
Read our full review: Basque Pintxos and Tapas Cooking Class in Bilbao Review
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Paella Cooking Class (with Basque Sangria) in Bilbao
Travelers seeking an immersive culinary adventure in Bilbao can indulge in the Paella Cooking Class (with Basque Sangria) offered by the acclaimed Gastronomía Bilbao.
With a maximum of 12 participants, the class provides a hands-on experience in creating two types of paella – fish and meat – complemented by starters like garlic prawns and Padron peppers.
The class also includes a traditional Basque dessert, torrijas, and local alcoholic beverages.
Held in a venue overlooking the Guggenheim Museum, the 5-star rated class is praised for its educational and enjoyable environment, led by the expert instructor Mikel.
Participants leave with newfound cooking skills and a deeper appreciation for the regional cuisine and traditions.
Read our full review: Paella Cooking Class (with Basque Sangria) in Bilbao Review
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Common Questions
Can I Request a Specific Dietary Requirement?
Most cooking classes in Bilbao accommodate dietary requirements. Students can typically request vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options, and the instructors will adjust the recipes and ingredients accordingly. It’s best to communicate any needs when signing up for a class.
Is There a Dress Code for the Cooking Class?
Most cooking classes don’t have strict dress codes, but it’s best to wear comfortable, casual clothing that won’t get in the way during the hands-on cooking experience. Avoid anything too formal or restrictive, and opt for clothes you can easily move around in.
What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Class?
The maximum group size for the cooking class typically varies, but it’s usually kept small to ensure personalized attention. Most classes accommodate between 8 to 12 participants, allowing for an interactive and hands-on learning experience.
Can I Bring My Own Wine or Alcohol?
Most cooking classes have a policy about bringing outside food or drinks. While some may allow you to bring your own wine or alcohol, it’s always best to check with the instructor beforehand to ensure you follow their rules.
Is There a Discount for Booking Multiple Cooking Classes?
Most cooking class providers in Bilbao offer discounts for booking multiple classes. Customers can typically save 10-15% when signing up for a package deal of 3 or more classes. It’s a great way to get the most value out of your cooking experience.
Sum Up
Bilbao offers a variety of cooking classes that allow visitors to enjoy the city’s rich culinary traditions. From paella and pintxos to traditional Basque dishes, these classes provide an opportunity to learn from local experts and indulge in the flavors of the region. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned foodie, there’s a class to suit every taste and skill level in this vibrant city.