In the rustic hill town of Matera, cooking classes offer one of Italy’s most authentic food experiences. Local chefs and home cooks share generations-old recipes in intimate settings, from cave-like kitchens in the Sassi to family-run farmhouses. Small-group classes (maximum 6 people) typically run 3-4.5 hours and cost around $148.
We especially love the hands-on breadmaking workshops in local bakeries where you’ll learn to make the region’s famous crusty loaves. The farmhouse cooking experiences stand out for their farm-to-table approach and family atmosphere.
Check out these recommended cooking experiences in Matera:
Key Points
- Matera offers a variety of cooking classes in local homes, providing authentic culinary experiences and fostering community connections.
- Cooking classes range from 3 to 4.5 hours, accommodate up to 6 travelers, and focus on traditional dishes and techniques using fresh, seasonal ingredients.
- Popular cooking class options include private lessons, small-group settings, and immersive experiences, with prices starting around $148.20 to Kč 3,656 per person.
- Several classes feature market tours, hands-on pasta-making, and the opportunity to taste local dishes with wine.
- Unique culinary experiences in Matera include horseback riding and cooking classes, breadmaking workshops, and other activities highlighting local traditions.
Matera Cooking Class
Although Matera is renowned for its ancient cave dwellings and historical charm, visitors can also enjoy the city’s rich culinary traditions through the Matera Cooking Class.
This private cooking experience takes place at a traditional farm, allowing travelers to discover Matera’s rural heart, including olive and orange groves. Guests will learn to prepare fresh pasta and classic dishes alongside a local family, enjoying a country-style lunch featuring the prepared recipes and accompanied by wine and water.
The class is highly recommended, with 100% of 62 reviews praising the experience. Located near public transportation, the class accommodates up to 6 travelers and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Priced at $148.20 per person, the Matera Cooking Class provides an authentic and memorable way to explore the flavors of this historic Italian city.
Read our full review: Matera Cooking Class Review
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Matera: Old Farmer Recipe Cooking Class in Ex-Sassi Cellar
Travelers seeking an immersive culinary experience can join the Old Farmer Recipe Cooking Class in the ex-Sassi cellar of Matera. This 3-hour small-group class ($1,639 per person) allows participants to learn traditional cooking techniques from local experts and prepare authentic Lucan dishes in an intimate, historic setting.
During the class, guests will explore the Sassi di Matera, the unique cave dwellings that once housed the city’s poorer residents.
They’ll then descend into the ex-Sassi cellar, where they’ll learn to make regional specialties like orecchiette pasta and Lucan lamb dishes. Hands-on instruction covers everything from ingredient selection to plating.
Participants can also expect to enjoy the fruits of their labor, savoring the homemade dishes paired with local wines.
With a 4.7 rating, this cooking class offers an immersive taste of Matera’s rich culinary heritage. It’s an opportunity for travelers to connect with the city’s history and culture through its time-honored recipes and techniques.
Read our full review: Matera: Old Farmer Recipe Cooking Class in Ex-Sassi Cellar Review
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Private Cooking Class at a Cesarinas Home With Tasting in Matera
For those interested in a more intimate culinary experience in Matera, the Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina’s Home with Tasting offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the region’s traditional Southern Italian cuisine.
Participants will have a hands-on experience preparing three different pasta specialties, learning pasta-making techniques in a relaxed, informal setting of a local home. The class focuses on fresh pasta, a staple of Southern Italian cuisine, and includes tasting the prepared dishes served with wine.
The experience is inclusive of local taxes, private cooking class, tastings of three recipes, and beverages. Participants will meet at the specified location in the province of Matera, with safety measures in place, such as sanitation equipment, social distancing, and personal protective equipment.
While not wheelchair accessible, the activity is near public transportation. With a 4.3 rating from 4 reviews, this private cooking class provides an authentic taste of Matera’s culinary traditions.
Read our full review: Private Cooking Class at a Cesarinas Home With Tasting in Matera Review
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Matera: Breadmaking Workshop in a Local Bakery
Nestled in the heart of Matera’s historic center, the Panificio Perrone bakery invites visitors to enjoy the time-honored tradition of breadmaking.
During this 1.5-hour workshop, you will learn from a master baker the techniques that have been passed down through four generations. Instructed in both Italian and English, the hands-on experience allows attendees to create their own loaf of bread, gaining valuable insights into the bakery’s history and the ingredients used.
After the demonstration, participants can relax and enjoy a tasting of local products.
The workshop also includes a map for city exploration and a 10% discount coupon at MòVado Food & Drink.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve without upfront payment, this breadmaking experience is a must-try for anyone visiting Matera.
Priced at €105.00 per person, the workshop isn’t suitable for individuals with food allergies, and certain restrictions apply.
Read our full review: Matera: Breadmaking Workshop in a Local Bakery Review
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Cooking Class in a Cave Restaurant in the Sassi of Matera
One unique cooking class in Matera invites guests to explore the local cuisine within the historic Sassi district. Operated by Ferula Viaggi – Day Tours, this hands-on experience offers a chance to prepare traditional dishes alongside a local chef in a cave restaurant setting.
The class begins with a visit to the fruit market, where participants can discover the fresh, seasonal ingredients that make Matera’s cuisine so vibrant.
Back at the restaurant, the group works together to prepare the meal, learning techniques and recipes from the expert chef. Throughout the experience, guests enjoy complimentary alcoholic beverages, water, and a quarter of wine.
With a maximum of 6 travelers, this intimate cooking class provides a personalized and immersive experience. Reviewers rave about the exceptional quality, calling it a must-do for foodies visiting Matera.
The host’s warm hospitality and attention to detail ensure a memorable culinary adventure in the heart of this historic Italian city.
Read our full review: Cooking Class in a Cave Restaurant in the Sassi of Matera Review
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Matera: Authentic Italian Cooking Class
Travelers seeking an immersive culinary experience in Matera can participate in the Authentic Italian Cooking Class. The 2-hour class costs $197.91 per person and allows guests to learn traditional Italian cooking techniques, like making fresh pasta or focaccia using family recipes.
During the class, you will enjoy a farm tour to appreciate the farm-to-table concept and feast on the dishes they’ve prepared, paired with wine and local products.
The class emphasizes sustainability and natural ingredients, providing an educational journey into the origins of the ingredients and their significance in Italian cooking.
While the class isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues, food allergies, or individuals over 95, it offers a unique opportunity to enhance culinary skills and connect with nature.
The class includes a 10% discount coupon at MòVado Food & Drink, and travelers are advised to reach the meeting point on foot due to inaccessibility for private transport.
Read our full review: Matera: Authentic Italian Cooking Class Review
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Local Market Visit and Private Cooking Class at a Cesarinas Home in Matera
For travelers interested in an immersive culinary experience in Matera, the Local Market Visit and Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina’s Home offers a unique opportunity to discover southern Italian cooking.
Participants will embark on a guided tour of a local market, selecting fresh produce to use in their private cooking class. The class takes place in a home setting, where guests will learn to prepare three regional dishes with hands-on guidance.
The experience culminates in an authentic 3-course meal, where guests can savor their creations paired with local wines, water, and coffee. Included in the experience are local taxes, the market tour, the private cooking class, the 3-course lunch or dinner, and an official Le Cesarine apron and shopping bag.
With a 5.0 overall rating, this activity offers an immersive and memorable way to take in the culinary traditions of southern Italy.
Read our full review: Local Market Visit and Private Cooking Class at a Cesarinas Home in Matera Review
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Matera: Pasta & Tiramisu Cooking Class at a Locals Home
If you’re eager to learn about the culinary traditions of Matera, the Pasta & Tiramisu Cooking Class at a Local’s Home is a must-try experience.
During this 3-hour hands-on class, you’ll learn to prepare fresh pasta and the beloved Italian dessert, tiramisu, under the guidance of Francesco, a local maestro known as ‘il professore’.
The class takes place in a shared setting at Francesco’s home, allowing you to connect with other guests over a shared passion for Italian cuisine.
You’ll start with an Italian aperitivo before diving into the cooking. The experience includes lunch or dinner featuring the dishes you’ve prepared, as well as beverages like water, wine, and coffee.
Travelers consistently praise the welcoming atmosphere, delicious food, and engaging conversations with Francesco, who shares his deep knowledge of local culture.
With free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance, this class from the renowned Cesarine network offers a fantastic opportunity to savor the flavors of Matera.
Read our full review: Matera: Pasta & Tiramisu Cooking Class at a Locals Home Review
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Matera: Market Tour and Cooking Class at a Locals Home
Immersing oneself in Matera’s vibrant culinary heritage is effortless through the Market Tour and Cooking Class at a Local’s Home. This 4.5-hour experience whisks participants through the bustling local market, where they’ll learn about the region’s fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Under the guidance of a knowledgeable local chef, guests then return to their host’s home to prepare an authentic Italian meal from scratch.
The hands-on cooking class covers classic dishes like homemade pasta and tiramisu, providing an immersive look into Matera’s time-honored food traditions.
With a small-group setting, the experience offers ample opportunity for one-on-one instruction and culinary insights. Priced at Kč 1,513 per person, the Market Tour and Cooking Class is a top-rated activity, earning a perfect 5-star review from previous participants.
Whether a seasoned home chef or a cooking novice, this experience promises to elevate one’s appreciation for Matera’s vibrant food culture.
Read our full review: Matera: Market Tour and Cooking Class at a Locals Home Review
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Matera: Authentic Cooking Class at a Locals Home
Why not experience Matera’s authentic culinary heritage through a hands-on Cooking Class at a Local’s Home?
This 3-hour private group experience allows you to learn local recipes from expert home cooks and create connections with Italian families. You’ll prepare three authentic local dishes – a starter, pasta, and dessert – using ingredients and utensils provided by the host in a relaxed environment.
The class is conducted in English and Italian, and the cost is from $151.03 per person. You can reserve your spot without upfront payment and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The class typically starts at 10:00 AM or 5:00 PM, with flexibility upon request. Dietary requirements are accommodated as well.
During the class, you’ll taste the dishes you’ve prepared, paired with local wines, water, and coffee.
This is an excellent opportunity to learn about Matera’s rich food culture and walk away with new cooking skills and memories.
Read our full review: Matera: Authentic Cooking Class at a Locals Home Review
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Altamura: Cooking Class at a Locals Home
Just a short distance from Matera, the historic town of Altamura offers visitors an opportunity to experience the region’s rich culinary heritage through a hands-on cooking class in a local’s home.
The 3-hour experience promises to be an immersive one, with English and Italian as the languages of instruction. Hosted in a private group setting, the class allows participants to learn three authentic local recipes from family cookbooks.
Equipped with utensils and ingredients, attendees will have the chance to prepare the dishes themselves, then savor the fruits of their labor around the table, accompanied by local wines.
The experience includes tasting a starter, pasta, and dessert, as well as beverages like water, wine, and coffee. With flexible dining times, typically at 10 AM or 5 PM, the class can accommodate various dietary requirements with prior arrangement.
Priced from Kč 3,656 per person, this cooking class in Altamura offers a memorable taste of the region’s culinary traditions.
Read our full review: Altamura: Cooking Class at a Locals Home Review
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Matera: Market & Private Cooking Class at a Locals Home
A wonderful opportunity awaits visitors to Matera who wish to explore the region’s vibrant culinary heritage.
The “Matera: Market & Private Cooking Class at a Locals Home” experience offers an intimate glimpse into the local food culture. Participants start by exploring the bustling Matera market, where they’ll handpick the freshest seasonal ingredients.
Then, they’re welcomed into the home of a local chef, who guides them through the preparation of authentic Materan dishes. Over the course of 3 hours, guests learn traditional cooking techniques, uncover the stories behind regional specialties, and savor the fruits of their labor.
This immersive experience, priced at £304.18 for a small group, ranks highly with a 4.7 customer rating. It’s an excellent way to connect with the local community and bring home cherished culinary memories from Matera.
Read our full review: Matera: Market & Private Cooking Class at a Locals Home Review
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Horseback Ride and Cooking Class in Matera
Visitors seeking an exceptional cultural experience in Matera can embark on a Horseback Ride and Cooking Class that offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and culinary exploration.
This 3-hour activity starts with a guided horseback ride through the stunning Sassi di Matera, the ancient cave dwellings that have earned the city UNESCO World Heritage status. Participants will marvel at the region’s breathtaking landscapes and unique architecture as they saddle up and explore the area.
After the ride, guests will head to a local’s home to learn the art of traditional Materan cuisine. Under the guidance of an experienced chef, they’ll prepare a delectable meal using fresh, regional ingredients.
This hands-on cooking class provides an intimate glimpse into the culinary traditions that have been passed down through generations. At the end of the experience, you will savor the fruits of their labor, enjoying a satisfying meal in a welcoming and authentic setting.
Read our full review: Horseback Ride and Cooking Class in Matera Review
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The Sum Up
Matera offers an array of immersive workshops and classes for visitors. From cooking classes in historic cellars to breadmaking workshops in local bakeries, these hands-on experiences allow you to explore the region’s rich culinary traditions. Whether you’re interested in preparing classic Materan dishes or exploring the area’s agricultural heritage, there’s an activity to suit every taste. With options ranging from private lessons to group tours, you can customize your experience to perfectly fit your interests and needs.