Getting your hands doughy in Genoa’s cooking classes is the perfect way to understand this historic port city’s food culture.
The best classes focus on local specialties like fresh pasta and authentic pesto alla Genovese, Liguria’s most famous export.
We love the intimate, small-group lessons held in traditional homes and the market-to-kitchen workshops that start with selecting ingredients at the historic Mercato Orientale.
Family-run cooking schools offer the most authentic experiences, often including recipes passed down through generations.
Let’s look at our favorite cooking classes in Genoa…
Top Tours
- Highly-rated hands-on cooking classes focusing on classic Genoese and Ligurian dishes like pasta, pesto, and focaccia.
- Cooking classes offering a immersive cultural experience by learning from local experts in intimate settings.
- Options for private or small group classes (up to 10 participants) to ensure personalized attention.
- Classes include market visits, wine tastings, and communal dining to enhance the culinary experience.
- Cooking classes cater to various dietary needs and offer convenient booking options with flexible cancellation policies.
Genoese Cooking Lesson in the Garden With Lunch
The Genoese cooking lesson in a garden with lunch offers travelers an immersive culinary experience in the heart of Genoa.
This highly-rated 5-star activity, with 98% recommendation, provides a hands-on cooking class featuring authentic local recipes and techniques.
Participants enjoy a scenic garden setting overlooking the port, where they’ll learn to prepare fresh pasta and pesto alongside an engaging host.
The class includes a tasting of Ligurian snacks, a delicious pasta lunch, and local wine.
Though some feel the pace is a bit rushed, the majority rave about the memorable atmosphere and the chance to connect with Genoese culture through food.
Read our full review: Genoese Cooking Lesson in the Garden With Lunch Review
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Cooking Class in Genoa – Do Eat Better Experience
Nestled in the heart of Genoa, the Cooking Class in Genoa – Do Eat Better Experience offers travelers an immersive culinary journey.
With 49 glowing reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, this 3.5-hour class promises an authentic taste of Genoese cuisine.
Led by engaging chefs, you will learn to prepare classic dishes like gnocchi, pesto, and focaccia, as well as local delicacies like Canestrelli biscuits.
The class accommodates a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and cultural insights.
Priced at $104.96, the experience includes tastings, artisanal gelato, and beverages.
While not wheelchair accessible, the class is stroller-friendly and near public transportation.
Whether a seasoned cook or a culinary adventurer, this class is a must-do for anyone visiting Genoa.
Read our full review: Cooking Class in Genoa – Do Eat Better Experience Review
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Genoa: Private Cooking Class at a Locals Home
Dive into the heart of Genoese cuisine with a private cooking class hosted in a local family’s home.
You’ll explore authentic family recipes passed down through generations as an expert home cook guides you.
You’ll learn the secrets behind three traditional local dishes and put your newfound skills to the test, cooking alongside your instructor.
As you prepare the meal, you’ll enjoy local wines and beverages.
Once the cooking is complete, you’ll gather around the communal table to savor the fruits of your labor.
This immersive experience offers a unique opportunity to connect with a local Italian family and discover the rich culinary traditions of Genoa.
Read our full review: Genoa: Private Cooking Class at a Locals Home Review
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Genoa: Market and Cooking Class at a Locals Home
Enjoy the vibrant culinary culture of Genoa with this market and cooking class experience hosted in a local family’s home.
You’ll visit a vibrant local market with a knowledgeable host, then head to their historical abode to learn traditional recipes passed down through generations.
In a private setting, an expert home cook will guide you through preparing three authentic local dishes, including hands-on pasta-making techniques.
Enjoy the fruits of your labor, complemented by regional wines, in a communal dining atmosphere.
This memorable, once-in-a-lifetime class promises to imbue you with lifelong cooking skills and appreciation for Genoese cuisine.
Read our full review: Genoa: Market and Cooking Class at a Locals Home Review
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Genoa: Pasta & Tiramisu Cooking Class at a Locals Home
Embarking on a culinary journey, this Pasta & Tiramisu Cooking Class at a Local’s Home in Genoa promises an immersive experience that delves into the heart of traditional Ligurian cuisine.
Participants will learn to roll sfoglia (fresh pasta) by hand and prepare two iconic pasta types from scratch, all while enjoying an Italian Aperitivo.
The class also covers the art of making the classic tiramisu dessert. Held in a local’s home, the experience offers an authentic glimpse into Italian life.
With instruction in Italian and English, the 3-hour class is flexible, allowing for free cancellation and reserve now, pay later options.
Discounted rates and gifting options make this an enticing culinary adventure.
Read our full review: Genoa: Pasta & Tiramisu Cooking Class at a Locals Home Review
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Genova Cooking Class With Tasting
For those seeking a deeper dive into the culinary heritage of Genoa, the Genova Cooking Class With Tasting offers an unparalleled opportunity.
Participants will learn to prepare four traditional recipes from Genoa and Liguria, with a focus on making authentic pesto sauce. Led by a professional chef, the 3.5-hour class includes hands-on instruction in creating Focaccia with cheese and Canestrelli biscuits.
Attendees will also have the chance to taste the dishes prepared during the session. However, the class may not be suitable for wheelchair users, those with severe allergies, or individuals requiring extensive physical assistance.
Participants must be confirmed, and availability for specific dates should be checked prior to booking.
Read our full review: Genova Cooking Class With Tasting Review
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Genoa: Hands-On Cooking Class and Wine Tasting With a Sommelier
Travelers seeking an immersive culinary experience in Genoa, Italy can embark on a 3-hour hands-on cooking class and wine tasting led by a skilled sommelier.
The class, which has a 4.5-star rating from 29 reviews, teaches participants how to prepare traditional Genoese dishes like handmade pasta and Focaccia di Recco.
During the 3-course lunch, guests will sample three paired wines and enjoy their creations on a terrace with stunning views.
While the location isn’t wheelchair accessible, the class accommodates dietary restrictions with advance notice.
With a maximum of 6 travelers, this intimate culinary adventure is priced at $146.08 and promises an authentic taste of Ligurian cuisine.
Read our full review: Genoa: Hands-On Cooking Class and Wine Tasting With a Sommelier Review
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Cooking Class & Meal With a Local in Genoa
Nestled in the heart of Genoa, the historic Italian Riviera city, a private cooking class invites guests to enjoy the rich culinary traditions of the region.
Hosted by a local expert, the hands-on experience teaches participants to prepare classic Ligurian dishes like Trofie or Ravioli alla spezzina and Pasta alla contadina.
The intimate class provides personalized instruction, ensuring a memorable and educational journey.
After cooking, guests can savor the fruits of their labor, paired with local wines, and take home an apron and reusable shopping bag as keepsakes.
With a 5.0 rating on Viator and Tripadvisor, this cooking class offers an authentic taste of Genoa’s vibrant food culture.
Read our full review: Cooking Class & Meal With a Local in Genoa Review
Book now: Check availability
Common Questions
What Are the Dress Code Requirements for the Cooking Classes?
The dress code for the cooking classes is typically casual and comfortable. Most schools recommend participants wear closed-toe shoes, aprons, and comfortable clothing that can get a bit messy during the hands-on cooking sessions.
Are Vegetarian or Vegan Cooking Options Available?
Many Genoa cooking classes offer vegetarian and vegan options to accommodate diverse dietary needs. Instructors typically provide alternative recipes and ingredient substitutions to ensure all participants can fully engage in the hands-on culinary experience.
Can the Classes Accommodate Food Allergies or Dietary Restrictions?
Most cooking classes in Genoa can accommodate food allergies and dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free. Instructors are typically willing to modify recipes and provide alternatives to ensure all participants can actively participate and enjoy the experience.
Do the Cooking Classes Provide Transportation to and From the Venue?
Most of the cooking classes in Genoa don’t provide transportation to and from the venue. However, some premium classes may offer shuttle services or assistance in arranging transportation for an additional fee.
Are Children or Families Welcome to Attend the Cooking Classes?
Most cooking classes in Genoa welcome children and families. They often offer kid-friendly menus and activities to engage younger participants. Some classes even provide childcare options for parents who want to fully participate in the cooking experience.
Sum Up
Genoa offers a range of immersive cooking experiences for visitors. From private lessons in local homes to classes focused on regional specialties, there’s something for every level of cook. These hands-on experiences provide an opportunity to learn traditional Genoese techniques, sample the city’s vibrant food culture, and connect with the local community. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out, Genoa’s cooking classes are a fantastic way to deepen your culinary knowledge and appreciation.