Lake Como’s cooking workshops deliver authentic Italian experiences without the tourist traps. Stand-out options include small-group pasta classes in family kitchens and market-to-table sessions with local chefs. We especially love the hands-on workshops in Bellagio’s old town, where grandmothers share generations-old recipes in intimate settings. Most classes include round-trip transport from major hotels, all ingredients, and a meal with local wines. For the best local cooking experiences in Lake Como, check out these carefully selected tours.
Key Points
- Lake Como offers a variety of hands-on cooking classes that provide an immersive experience in traditional Lombardy cuisine, including pasta-making, sauce preparation, and dessert crafting.
- Cooking classes often accommodate small groups, ensuring personalized attention from experienced instructors and allowing for dietary restrictions to be catered to.
- Packages typically include roundtrip transportation, a multi-course lunch or dinner, and souvenirs such as recipe books and local olive oil, ensuring a comprehensive culinary experience.
- The classes highlight the influence of Lake Como’s geography on local dishes and the importance of family recipes in Italian cuisine, offering a deep dive into the region’s culinary heritage.
- Along With cooking classes, some packages integrate walking tours that allow participants to explore the historic streets, breathtaking views, and local artisans of the Lake Como region.
Home Cooking Class & Meal With a Local in Como
Those seeking an authentic taste of Lombardy cuisine can partake in a hands-on Home Cooking Class & Meal With a Local in Como.
With over 155 reviews and a 96% traveler recommendation, this small-group cooking experience allows participants to learn how to create classic dishes from the region.
The 3-course menu features a seasonal starter, fresh pasta (such as ravioli, risotto, or gnocchi), and a local dessert like torta miascia, cutizza pancake, or tiramisu.
After the cooking, guests enjoy their homemade meal paired with local wines in an intimate setting.
Held in a local’s home, the class provides personal attention and accommodates dietary restrictions.
Alcoholic beverages, including water and espresso, are included.
With a maximum of 10 travelers, the experience offers an immersive and welcoming atmosphere, as highlighted by the class’s high overall rating of 4.8 based on reviews.
Priced starting at $189.48 per person, this cooking class is a delightful way to savor the flavors of Lake Como.
Read our full review: Home Cooking Class & Meal With a Local in Como Review
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Cooking Lesson in Bellagio With Famous Chef Luigi Gandola
A cooking lesson with the renowned Chef Luigi Gandola awaits in the picturesque town of Bellagio, situated along the shores of Lake Como. This hands-on class focuses on the traditional preparation of pasta, a beloved Italian staple. With over 22 positive reviews and a 4.3 rating, the experience promises an engaging and informative culinary journey.
During the class, you will learn to make a traditional pasta dish from scratch, guided by Chef Gandola’s expertise. Afterward, guests can enjoy a homemade lunch on the terrace, including a starter, main course, and dessert.
As a special memento, attendees will receive a gift set featuring a certificate, recipe book, and homemade olive oil.
The class starts at 10:00 am and can accommodate up to 18 travelers. Optional round-trip transfers are available from various nearby cities. While the class isn’t wheelchair accessible, children are welcome when accompanied by an adult.
With its rave reviews and immersive format, this cooking lesson in Bellagio is a must-try for any food enthusiast visiting Lake Como.
Read our full review: Cooking Lesson in Bellagio With Famous Chef Luigi Gandola Review
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Cesarine: Small Group Pasta-Making Class in Como
Cesarine offers a small group pasta-making class in Como, Italy, where participants can enjoy the art of homemade pasta preparation. The 14 travelers who’ve experienced this class rate it 100% and praise the exceptional instruction, welcoming hosts, and delicious food.
During the small-group lesson, which can accommodate up to 10 people, participants learn to make three authentic pasta dishes, including fresh pasta, ravioli, risotto, gnocchi, mondeghili, and tagliatelle. All ingredients are provided, and the experience includes tasting the dishes along with water, wine, and coffee.
Priced starting at $189.48 per person, the class allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Though not wheelchair accessible, the class is conveniently located near public transportation, offering an authentic local experience in a private setting.
Participants are matched with the ideal Cesarina host based on their preferences after booking.
Read our full review: Cesarine: Small Group Pasta-Making Class in Como Review
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Pasta Fresca Hands-On Cooking Class With a Local in Como
Though set in the picturesque backdrop of Lake Como, the Pasta Fresca Hands-On Cooking Class with a Local in Como offers travelers an immersive culinary experience to learn the art of authentic Italian pasta-making.
Rated 5.0 out of 12 reviews, this 100% recommended class teaches participants to prepare and roll out “sfoglia,” or sheets of pasta, and shape them to suit various sauces.
Guests will also learn to make a traditional sauce using fresh market ingredients before enjoying a casual lunch with the dishes they created.
With a maximum of 8 travelers per group, the class provides an intimate setting to learn from the friendly and knowledgeable instructor, Beatrice.
Costing from $104.80 per person, the class includes lunch or dinner, wine, and bottled water.
Travelers have praised the class for its wonderful atmosphere, delicious food, and the opportunity to learn authentic Italian cooking techniques.
Read our full review: Pasta Fresca Hands-On Cooking Class With a Local in Como Review
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Private Cooking Class at a Cesarinas Home in Cernobbio
For travelers seeking a more intimate and personalized culinary experience in Lake Como, the Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina’s Home in Cernobbio offers an opportunity to learn authentic Italian dishes directly from a local host.
Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars across 8 reviews, the class introduces guests to preparing traditional items like fresh pasta, sauces, seasonal starters, and classic desserts like tiramisu.
Participants will enjoy tasting the 3 recipes they create, accompanied by local wine or coffee. The class takes place at a private residence in Cernobbio, with the meeting point and full address provided after booking.
Cesarine hosts adhere to strict hygiene protocols, providing essential safety equipment. Though not wheelchair accessible, the class is suitable for most travelers.
Priced from $201.13 per person, the experience can be booked with a low-price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Private Cooking Class at a Cesarinas Home in Cernobbio Review
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Luxury Cooking Class With a Chef in Bellagio
Seeking a truly immersive culinary experience in the picturesque town of Bellagio? Look no further than the Luxury Cooking Class with a Chef.
This small-group tour, limited to just 12 people, promises a personalized hands-on experience in a traditional villa. Under the guidance of a professional chef, you’ll learn to prepare a variety of Italian dishes, including appetizers, pastas, and meat courses.
The class culminates in a delightful 3-course lunch, complemented by fine Italian wine or beer. Dietary requirements like vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free can be accommodated upon request.
The class is suitable for all skill levels, making it an ideal activity for both seasoned foodies and budding chefs. Priced from $528.23 per person, with transportation options available, this luxury cooking experience in Bellagio is a must-try for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Italy.
Read our full review: Luxury Cooking Class With a Chef in Bellagio Review
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Private 90 Minutes Painting Art Class in Bellagio
Elevate your artistic talents with a private 90-minute watercolor painting class in the enchanting Bellagio, nestled along the shores of Lake Como.
Led by prestigious sculptor and painter Abele Vadacca, this class promises an immersive experience for artists of all skill levels. Set within the historical gardens of Villa Melzi, where artists have found inspiration for centuries, you’ll learn watercolor techniques while enjoying breathtaking views of the lake.
The class provides exclusive attention from Vadacca and an assistant, ensuring personalized guidance as you create a unique painting to take home.
Traditional art materials and tools are supplied, allowing you to fully focus on honing your skills. Whether you’re a seasoned painter or a beginner, this class offers a chance to tap into your creative potential amidst the stunning surroundings of Lake Como.
With a perfect 5.0 rating from previous participants, this painting class is an unforgettable opportunity to make lasting memories.
Read our full review: Private 90 Minutes Painting Art Class in Bellagio Review
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Private Lake Como Cooking Class From Como
Travelers seeking an immersive culinary experience in the picturesque Lake Como region can embark on a private cooking class that combines hands-on instruction, a delectable lunch, and a guided stroll through the charming town of Como.
The day-long adventure begins with a train and ferry journey from Milan to the lakeside town of Blevio, where an expert chef leads a small group of no more than four participants in preparing a two-course meal.
Under their guidance, visitors will craft homemade pasta and the classic Italian dessert, tiramisu, before savoring the fruits of their labor accompanied by local wine.
Following the cooking class, the group will enjoy a walking tour of Como, exploring its historic streets and taking in stunning views of the lake.
Roundtrip transportation, the cooking class, lunch, and the walking tour are all included, making this an effortless and enriching way to take in the culinary traditions of Lake Como.
Read our full review: Private Lake Como Cooking Class From Como Review
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The Sum Up
Lake Como offers a variety of engaging workshops and classes for visitors. From hands-on cooking lessons with renowned chefs to private painting sessions, there’s something to suit every interest. Whether you’re looking to learn new skills or simply enjoy a unique cultural experience, these classes provide an excellent way to learn about the local traditions and flavors of this picturesque region.