Bilbao’s cooking classes give food lovers a true taste of northern Spain’s celebrated cuisine. The standout experiences are intimate pintxos workshops, where local chefs teach the art of these Basque small bites in English-friendly settings. I especially love the mountain villa classes – they offer stunning views while you learn traditional recipes handed down through generations. For seafood fans, the paella workshops are a must, teaching you the secrets of perfectly cooked rice and rich broths. The best workshops combine cooking instruction with wine tastings, letting you understand how local flavors work together.
Check out these top-rated cooking experiences in Bilbao:
Key Points
- Bilbao offers a range of immersive culinary workshops and classes, including private pintxos workshops, Basque pintxos and tapas classes, and traditional Basque cooking experiences.
- These hands-on classes provide opportunities to learn authentic techniques, such as preparing paella, crafting pintxos, and cooking local specialties like txuleta and marmitako.
- The classes feature expert local instructors, who offer insights into Basque culinary heritage and guide participants through interactive cooking demonstrations and tastings.
- Workshops are typically priced between Kč 2,652 and $149.12 per person, with high recommendation rates and overwhelmingly positive reviews highlighting the personalized, memorable, and educational experiences.
- These culinary classes cater to various skill levels, making them suitable for both beginners and experienced cooks, as well as foodies visiting Bilbao.
Private Workshop Preparation of Pintxos With Lunch in Bilbao
As travelers explore the vibrant culinary scene of Bilbao, they can enjoy a private workshop that teaches the art of preparing traditional pintxos, the Basque Country’s renowned small plates.
Rated 4.7 stars from 28 reviews, the “Private Workshop Preparation of Pintxos with Lunch” offers an intimate experience for up to 12 participants.
Led by acclaimed Chef Gustavo, the workshop takes place in Bilbao, where guests learn to craft four pintxos, including modern interpretations of classic dishes like the Modernist Gilda and low-temperature cod with pil pil sauce.
Throughout the hands-on session, participants savor the creations paired with Txakoli wine or Rioja Alavesa red wine, as well as Idiazabal cheese and ham.
The experience culminates with a delightful lunch, leaving attendees with a deeper appreciation for the region’s rich culinary heritage and newfound pintxo-making skills.
With a 93% recommendation rate, this workshop is a must for foodies visiting Bilbao.
Read our full review: Private Workshop Preparation of Pintxos With Lunch in Bilbao Review
Book now: Check availability
Bilbao: Basque Pintxos and Tapas Cooking Class With Open Bar
For those seeking an immersive culinary experience in Bilbao, the “Bilbao: Basque Pintxos and Tapas Cooking Class with Open Bar” provides an opportunity to master the art of crafting traditional and modern pintxos. Priced at Kč 2,652 per person, this 2.5-hour hands-on cooking class led by an English-speaking chef introduces participants to local ingredients and their significance.
During the class, attendees learn the guided cooking process and engage in an engaging atmosphere in a well-equipped kitchen. The experience includes tasting 4 different pintxos, a charcuterie board, and a dessert, along with an open bar.
With an overall rating of 5/5 based on 12 reviews, the class receives positive feedback for the chef’s expertise, engaging storytelling, and the quality of food and wine. Participants are encouraged to try their newly acquired skills at home, as they receive recipes and an apron to take home.
The class is subject to menu changes based on market availability and season, and customers are advised to check for availability and starting times.
Read our full review: Bilbao: Basque Pintxos and Tapas Cooking Class With Open Bar Review
Book now: Check availability
Pintxos and Tapas Cooking Class in Bilbao
The Pintxos and Tapas Cooking Class in Bilbao offers an immersive culinary experience, inviting guests to learn the art of crafting traditional Basque tapas in a scenic mountain villa.
Rated 4.9/5 stars with a 97% recommendation, this half-day, small-group class caters to a maximum of 12 travelers aged 18 and above. Led by local hosts Irene and David, you will savor Basque-style pintxos, sip local wine, and dive into hands-on cooking guided by a chef.
The class focuses on creating seasonal Basque dishes, including starters like “La gilda,” “El Bilbainito,” and grilled cod with mayo, as well as a traditional Basque dessert.
With an open bar and included gratuities, the experience provides a well-rounded immersion in Bilbao’s culinary heritage. While one review noted limited hands-on participation, the hosts emphasize the importance of group cohesion and communication.
Read our full review: Pintxos and Tapas Cooking Class in Bilbao Review
Book now: Check availability
Paella Cooking Class With Sangria in Bilbao
Visitors to Bilbao can enjoy the vibrant flavors of Spanish cuisine through the captivating Paella Cooking Class with Sangria. This 3.5-hour experience takes place in the heart of Bilbao, inviting participants to learn the art of creating traditional Spanish dishes under the guidance of experienced chefs.
The class covers the preparation of a full meal, including 2-3 starters, a meat and fish paella as the main course, and a Spanish Basque toast for dessert. Participants will also learn to make the beloved Spanish sangria. The menu may vary depending on market availability, ensuring the freshest possible ingredients.
Throughout the class, participants receive a charcuterie board and a selection of local wines to complement the culinary journey. Recipes are provided, and an apron is available for use during the hands-on cooking experience.
With an exceptional 4.9/5 rating based on 9 reviews, this class is suitable for a variety of travelers, from couples and friends to solo adventurers and families.
Read our full review: Paella Cooking Class With Sangria in Bilbao Review
Book now: Check availability
Small-Group Immersive Basque Cooking Class in Bilbao With Open Bar
What better way to take in the rich culinary traditions of the Basque region than through a small-group cooking class in Bilbao?
This highly-rated experience, boasting a 100% recommendation rate from 32 reviews, offers an in-depth look at the flavors of the Basque Country. The class features a menu highlighting iconic dishes like bacalao (salted cod) with tomato sauce and the famous tuna and vegetable stew, marmitako.
Participants will also learn to prepare the traditional sweet Basque toast for dessert. With all food and drinks included, this 3-hour class led by the engaging Chef Mikel provides a delightful balance of hands-on cooking demonstration and immersive storytelling.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the class accommodates up to 12 travelers and takes place conveniently near downtown hotels, across from the Guggenheim Museum. Priced at $157.49 per person, with free cancellation and pay-later options, this Basque cooking class is an excellent way to savor the flavors of Northern Spain.
Read our full review: Small-Group Immersive Basque Cooking Class in Bilbao With Open Bar Review
Book now: Check availability
Bilbao: Traditional Basque Cooking Class With Wine Tasting
Though Bilbao’s vibrant culture and architectural wonders undoubtedly captivate many travelers, the city’s unparalleled culinary scene is equally enticing. One exceptional offering is the “Bilbao: Traditional Basque Cooking Class with Wine Tasting,” a 3.5-hour hands-on experience that immerses participants in the heart of Basque gastronomy.
Priced at $149.12 per person, the class invites guests to master the preparation of 2-3 starters, a main dish, and a dessert, including local specialties like txuleta (meat chop), Tolosa beans, and the iconic Marmitako (tuna stew).
Alongside the cooking, you will enjoy a tasting of regional wines, such as Riojas, Txakolis, and Albariños, expertly paired with a selection of cheeses and charcuteries.
Upon completing their culinary creations, guests will savor their dishes in a private dining room, complemented by an open bar of local wines.
As a memento, they’ll receive the recipes and an apron to take home. With overwhelmingly positive reviews praising the personalized experience and quality of the food, this class is undoubtedly a highlight for any foodie visiting Bilbao.
Read our full review: Bilbao: Traditional Basque Cooking Class With Wine Tasting Review
Book now: Check availability
Basque Pintxos and Tapas Cooking Class in Bilbao
Why not explore the art of Basque pintxos and tapas during a hands-on cooking class in Bilbao? This highly-rated experience promises an evening of culinary delight, with expert instruction from Mikel and Irene.
Dive into the rich flavors of Basque cuisine as you learn to prepare classic dishes like Bilbainito, La Gilda, and the decadent Torrijas.
With a maximum of 12 travelers, this intimate class offers personalized attention and a fun, interactive atmosphere. You’ll not only cook but also gain insights into the history and traditions behind these beloved Basque specialties.
The menu highlights local ingredients, from the fresh prawns and Basque mushrooms to the desalted grilled cod.
Rated 4.9/5 with a 97% traveler recommendation, this class is a must for foodies visiting Bilbao. Indulge in alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, and water as you savor the fruits of your labor.
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a culinary novice, this Basque pintxos and tapas experience promises a delicious and immersive gastronomic adventure.
Read our full review: Basque Pintxos and Tapas Cooking Class in Bilbao Review
Book now: Check availability
Paella Cooking Class (with Basque Sangria) in Bilbao
Looking to learn about the vibrant culinary traditions of Bilbao? Consider the Paella Cooking Class (with Basque Sangria) – a hands-on experience that earned a Badge of Excellence and 100% recommendation from past travelers.
Set in a beautiful kitchen overlooking the iconic Guggenheim Museum, this 3-hour class teaches the art of crafting two types of paella, alongside appetizers like garlic prawns and Padron peppers.
Led by the skilled instructor Mikel, participants learn techniques for preparing the perfect broth and cooking the bomba rice. The class also includes a tasting of traditional Basque dessert, torrijas, and flowing Sangria.
With a maximum of 12 attendees, the experience promises an intimate and educational journey into Bilbao’s gastronomy. Reviews highlight the class as a memorable and extraordinary event, offering valuable insights and exceptional food.
At $136.49 per person, this paella workshop is a must for any foodie exploring the culinary delights of this Basque city.
Read our full review: Paella Cooking Class (with Basque Sangria) in Bilbao Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Bilbao offers an array of engaging workshops and classes that allow visitors to enjoy the city’s renowned culinary traditions. From private pintxos preparation classes to paella cooking lessons accompanied by Basque sangria, these experiences provide an opportunity to learn directly from local experts and savor the vibrant flavors of the region. Whether you’re a passionate foodie or simply seeking a unique cultural encounter, Bilbao’s diverse culinary offerings cater to a wide range of interests and preferences.