Cooking classes in Genoa showcase the best of Ligurian cuisine, with each workshop offering hands-on learning in intimate settings. The pasta-making sessions are particularly worthwhile, where you’ll master authentic pesto (Genoa’s claim to fame) and fresh pasta techniques. I’m especially fond of the market-to-kitchen experiences, where skilled home cooks guide you through local markets before hosting you in their private kitchens – it’s like spending the day with a Genovese grandmother. Small-group formats and clear English instruction make these classes accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Find our recommended cooking workshops below.
Good To Know
- Highly-rated pasta and pesto classes in historic palazzos, with hands-on instruction and a lunch featuring homemade pasta.
- Specialized culinary workshops focused on preparing iconic Italian dishes like pizza, tiramisu, and gnocchi.
- Private cooking classes and market tours offering personalized instruction on traditional Ligurian cuisine.
- Exploration of Savona’s culinary heritage, including tastings of local wines and insights into the region’s gastronomy.
- Commitment to health and safety protocols, flexible booking, and accessibility considerations for cooking class participants.
Homemade Pasta and Pesto Class With a Local Chef in Genoa
Though located in a historic palazzo in the heart of Genoa, this intimate Homemade Pasta and Pesto Class with a Local Chef offers travelers an engaging, hands-on culinary experience.
With a maximum of 6 participants, the class provides an exclusive opportunity to learn from a professional chef and master the art of making fresh egg pasta and classic basil pesto.
During the 3-hour session, guests will dive into all stages of the cooking process, gaining valuable insights into the traditional preparation methods and ingredients.
Complementing the hands-on learning, the class includes a delightful lunch featuring the homemade pasta and pesto, as well as a traditional Genoese dessert.
Praised for its warm hospitality, educational focus, and delicious food, the class has earned a 99% recommendation rate from 185 past travelers, including a Badge of Excellence.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a curious foodie, this experience promises an authentic taste of Genoa’s culinary heritage.
Read our full review: Homemade Pasta and Pesto Class With a Local Chef in Genoa Review
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Genoese Cooking Lesson in the Garden With Lunch
Nestled within a picturesque garden overlooking Genoa’s vibrant port, the Genoese Cooking Lesson in the Garden With Lunch offers an immersive culinary experience.
Hosted by the local experts at Soul of Genoa Tours, this 155-review, 4.9-rated class invites guests to learn the traditional methods of making fresh pasta and pesto in an intimate setting.
The menu features trofie or corzetti pasta served with the region’s renowned pesto, accompanied by local wine and bottled water. Participants actively engage in the cooking process, learning to prepare these signature Genoese dishes.
Beyond the hands-on experience, the class provides cultural insights and recipes to take home.
With a meeting point just outside Palazzo Lauro, the lesson is accessible via public transportation, though not wheelchair-friendly.
While some guests have noted issues with timing and class size, the majority praise the knowledgeable host, delectable food, and picturesque garden setting, making this a unique and memorable culinary adventure.
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Cesarine: Small Group Pasta and Tiramisu Class in Genoa
Reviewers praise the delicious food, engaging hosts, and memorable experience.
While a few note cleanliness concerns and the presence of pets, the class maintains high ratings and is widely recommended for those seeking a unique culinary adventure in Genoa.
With a 96% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this small group pasta and tiramisu class is a must-try.
Read our full review: Cesarine: Small Group Pasta and Tiramisu Class in Genoa Review
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Cooking Class in Genoa – Do Eat Better Experience
The Cooking Class in Genoa – Do Eat Better Experience offers a unique culinary adventure for those seeking an authentic taste of Ligurian cuisine.
With a perfect 100% recommendation rate from past travelers, this 3.5-hour small-group class (maximum 10 participants) promises a hands-on experience in preparing traditional regional dishes. Guests will learn to make gnocchi or testaroli, classic basil pesto, focaccia with stracchino cheese, and canestrelli biscuits.
The class includes a full lunch, snacks, beverages, and even alcoholic drinks. Located at the Casa di Cristoforo Colombo in the heart of Genoa, the class starts at 9 am on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Though not wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly with infant seats available. Priced from $101.84 per person, this experience earns a stellar 4.9/5 rating based on 50 reviews, which praise the fun, engaging instructors and the opportunity to learn authentic local recipes and culture in a friendly atmosphere.
Read our full review: Cooking Class in Genoa – Do Eat Better Experience Review
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Cesarine: Home Cooking Class & Meal With a Local in Genoa
A unique culinary experience awaits visitors to Genoa through the Cesarine: Home Cooking Class & Meal With a Local.
Hosted by a local culinary expert, the private class offers hands-on instruction in preparing classic Ligurian dishes. Participants will learn to make trofie, ravioli alla spezzina, and pasta alla contadina, along with traditional desserts like canestrelli biscuits, castagnaccio, spongata cake, and tiramisu.
The intimate setting provides personalized attention, and guests will enjoy the fruits of their labor paired with local wines. As keepsakes, participants receive an apron and reusable shopping bag.
Situated in the picturesque Italian Riviera, the cooking class provides an authentic Genoa experience, complete with rave reviews praising the welcoming hosts, delicious dishes, and engaging interactions.
With a 5.0 rating across multiple platforms, this is an unmissable opportunity to take in the vibrant food culture of Genoa.
Read our full review: Cesarine: Home Cooking Class & Meal With a Local in Genoa Review
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Travelers seeking an intimate, hands-on culinary experience can enjoy the flavors of Ligurian cuisine during the “Share Your Pasta Love: Small Group Pasta and Tiramisu Class” in the picturesque town of Camogli.
This interactive cooking class, limited to a maximum of 12 participants, focuses on mastering the art of making two types of fresh pasta and the classic Italian dessert, tiramisu.
Led by a local host in a home kitchen, the class provides individual attention and hands-on guidance, allowing participants to learn tips and tricks from an expert.
After the cooking lesson, guests will enjoy a final meal, savoring the dishes they created paired with local wine. The menu includes two iconic pasta types, one stuffed and one fresh, as well as the beloved tiramisu.
The experience is further enhanced with an Italian aperitivo of prosecco and nibbles. With authentic recipes and new culinary skills, this class offers an immersive and delicious way to connect with the rich gastronomic heritage of the Ligurian region.
Read our full review: Share Your Pasta Love: Small Group Pasta and Tiramisu Class in Camogli Review
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Gourmet Cooking Lesson
Although located in the picturesque town of Rapallo, the Gourmet Cooking Lesson offers an immersive culinary experience that transports participants directly into the heart of Ligurian cuisine.
This small-group format, limited to a maximum of 6 attendees, provides an intimate setting to learn the secrets of traditional Ligurian dishes, including the renowned pesto alla Genovese.
Led by knowledgeable chefs, the class covers the preparation of a multi-course meal, which is then enjoyed alongside local wines.
The menu features starters like pesto, main courses such as lasagne al pesto and Ligurian stuffed vegetables, all of which can later be recreated at home.
Conveniently located near public transportation, the class includes all taxes, beverages, lunch, and gratuities.
With a perfect 5.0 rating from past participants, the Gourmet Cooking Lesson promises an engaging atmosphere and a delicious exploration of the region’s culinary traditions.
Read our full review: Gourmet Cooking Lesson Review
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Cesarine: Private Pasta Class at Locals Home in Genoa
One of the most immersive culinary experiences offered in Genoa is the Cesarine: Private Pasta Class at Locals Home. This small-group cooking class allows travelers to learn the art of making authentic Genoese pesto in an intimate setting.
Under the guidance of a skilled chef-instructor, you will craft the iconic sauce using fresh basil, pine nuts, Parmesan, garlic, and extra virgin olive oil.
The class takes place in the home of the host, offering a glimpse into daily life in Genoa. Participants can expect to savor appetizers and locally-sourced wine to complement the lesson.
After the class, they’ll take home the recipes to recreate the dishes. With a maximum of 10 travelers, the experience provides a personalized and immersive culinary journey.
Priced at $166.94 per person, the class includes local taxes, essential sanitary equipment, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. This Cesarine offering is a must for any food enthusiast visiting Genoa.
Read our full review: Cesarine: Private Pasta Class at Locals Home in Genoa Review
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Cesarine: Small Group Market Tour and Cooking Class in Genoa
For those seeking a more immersive culinary experience in Genoa, Cesarine offers a small-group market tour and cooking class that showcases the city’s vibrant food culture.
Participants embark on a local market tour to handpick fresh ingredients, then return to a Cesarina’s home for a hands-on cooking session. Under the guidance of experienced hosts Agata and Tomaso, guests learn to prepare iconic Italian dishes like pasta and tiramisu.
The class is limited to 12 travelers, ensuring a personalized and intimate atmosphere. An “aperitivo” of prosecco and snacks sets the tone for a relaxed and convivial cooking environment.
Participants rave about the authenticity of the experience, the graciousness of the hosts, and the delectable results of their culinary efforts.
With a focus on culture through food, this Cesarine class provides a memorable and enriching experience for visitors to Genoa.
Read our full review: Cesarine: Small Group Market Tour and Cooking Class in Genoa Review
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Cesarine: Pasta & Tiramisu Class at Locals Home in Genoa
Cesarine’s pasta and tiramisu class in Genoa, Italy, offers participants a chance to enjoy the city’s rich culinary heritage.
This private, hands-on experience allows guests to learn the art of making pasta from scratch and tiramisu under the guidance of a personal instructor in a local’s home.
The class includes the preparation of two pasta dishes and the iconic Italian dessert, all while enjoying beverages like water, wine, and coffee. Priced at $152.24 per person, the experience features a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the event.
With a perfect 5-star rating from 10 reviews, the class has received unanimous praise for its gracious hosts, delicious food, and cultural exchange.
The private nature of the experience ensures an intimate setting, and the meeting point in Genoa is provided upon booking for privacy.
This immersive cooking class is suitable for all ages and can be scheduled for either lunch or dinner.
Read our full review: Cesarine: Pasta & Tiramisu Class at Locals Home in Genoa Review
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Name Your Recipe: Food Market Tour and Workshop With a Cesarina in Genoa
This hands-on cooking experience in Genoa invites guests to discover the city’s vibrant food culture through a private market tour and workshop with a local Cesarina.
The personalized class offers an immersive journey into traditional Genovese cuisine. Participants will create regional dishes like Trofie al pesto or Pansotti con sugo di noci, alongside typical desserts such as Pandolce e canestrelli or Panera.
The menu can be customized to accommodate dietary restrictions. Throughout the experience, the Cesarina’s passion and culinary expertise shine, as guests enjoy the meal paired with local wines and engage in lively conversation.
Included are a guided tour of a local market, a hands-on cooking class featuring two recipes, and a tasting session.
With an overall 5-star rating, this experience promises a genuine taste of Italian culture, from the bustling markets to the cozy home kitchen.
Read our full review: Name Your Recipe: Food Market Tour and Workshop With a Cesarina in Genoa Review
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Private Pizza & Tiramisu Class at a Cesarinas Home With Tasting in Genoa
Guests step into the cozy home of a local Cesarina in Genoa for a private pizza and tiramisu-making class.
They’ll learn to craft these beloved Italian classics from scratch, with personalized guidance from their host. The menu highlights the main course of homemade pizza, accompanied by the classic tiramisu dessert, along with refreshing beverages like water, wine, and coffee.
Located near public transportation, this 3-hour experience is suitable for both kids and adults, offering a delightful way to take in the culinary traditions of Genoa.
While the class isn’t wheelchair accessible, the private setting ensures a tailored experience for all participants.
With an overall rating of 2.0 based on a single review, this class from Cesarine provides an opportunity to discover the art of Italian home cooking.
Guests will leave with new skills and the satisfying tastes of their freshly prepared pizza and tiramisu.
Read our full review: Private Pizza & Tiramisu Class at a Cesarinas Home With Tasting in Genoa Review
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Private Pizza & Tiramisu Class at a Cesarinas Home With Tasting in Savona
Stepping into the cozy home of a local Cesarina in Savona, guests embark on a private pizza and tiramisu-making class. This immersive culinary experience allows participants to learn firsthand from an expert home cook.
The menu features homemade pizza as the main course, followed by the classic Italian dessert, tiramisu. Throughout the class, guests are treated to a selection of beverages, including water, wines, and coffee.
As an added memento, each participant receives an official ‘Le Cesarine’ apron. After the hands-on preparation, the group enjoys tasting the fruits of their labor – the freshly baked pizza and creamy tiramisu.
The class takes place in a convenient location near public transportation, though it isn’t wheelchair accessible. Confirmed details, including the full address, are provided after booking to ensure privacy.
This private tour is exclusive to the booking group, providing a personalized and intimate culinary adventure in Savona, Italy.
Read our full review: Private Pizza & Tiramisu Class at a Cesarinas Home With Tasting in Savona Review
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Small Group Market Tour and Cooking Class in Camogli
After arriving at the meeting point in Camogli, guests embark on a small group market tour and cooking class that invites them to share their passion for Italian cuisine with fellow travelers.
The experience, operated by Cesarine, allows a maximum of 12 participants to explore the local market and learn to make iconic pasta and the famous tiramisu.
During the cooking class, guests will receive an official Cesarine apron and enjoy a tasting session featuring the prepared dishes, wine, beverages, and coffee.
The experience also includes an Italian aperitivo with Prosecco and nibbles.
The activity ends back at the meeting point, providing a convenient return.
With a price starting at $136.49 per person and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, this small group market tour and cooking class in Camogli is an excellent opportunity to take in the local food culture of Genoa.
Read our full review: Small Group Market Tour and Cooking Class in Camogli Review
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Genoa: Hands-On Cooking Class and Wine Tasting With a Sommelier
Travelers seeking an immersive culinary experience in Genoa can join a hands-on cooking class and wine tasting led by a sommelier. The class, located in the heart of Genoa, focuses on making fresh gnocchi, filled gnocchi, and Genoese pesto.
With a maximum of 6 participants, the intimate class provides personalized hands-on instruction, allowing participants to actively engage in the cooking process.
The experience includes a 3-course lunch featuring the prepared gnocchi dishes, accompanied by a selection of wine, coffee, and tea. Participants can also enjoy a starter of focaccia and focaccia Genovese.
The cozy, authentic home-style setting creates a leisurely atmosphere for savoring the meal. While the class receives mostly positive reviews, some participants have noted challenges finding the location and mixed experiences regarding the class structure and menu accuracy.
Dietary restrictions can be accommodated with advance notice, and the class isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Read our full review: Genoa: Hands-On Cooking Class and Wine Tasting With a Sommelier Review
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Pesto Class at Locals Home in Genoa
Enjoy the authentic flavors of Genoa by joining a small-group pesto class hosted in a local’s home. This 4-star rated experience focuses on teaching you how to make the iconic Genoese pesto using a mortar and pestle. You’ll learn to balance the flavors and textures of fresh basil, pine nuts, Parmesan, garlic, and extra virgin olive oil.
The class includes a cooking lesson, appetizers, and locally-sourced wine, providing a personalized experience. You’ll also take home the recipes so you can recreate the dishes at home. The sample menu features the signature Pesto Genovese.
With a maximum of 10 travelers per class, you’re sure to enjoy an intimate setting in the chef-instructor’s home. Located in the Italian Riviera’s Genoa, the class meets at a private address provided after booking.
The experience starts at 10:00 am and ends back at the meeting point. Sanitary measures like hand sanitizer and masks are in place. With free cancellation up to 24 hours before, this 5-star rated class is a must for pesto lovers.
Read our full review: Pesto Class at Locals Home in Genoa Review
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Private Cooking Class With Lunch or Dinner in Camogli
For those seeking a more hands-on culinary experience in the Ligurian region, a private cooking class in the charming town of Camogli offers an excellent opportunity to explore the flavors of the Italian Riviera.
During this immersive class, you will learn to prepare three traditional Italian dishes, such as trofie, ravioli alla spezzina, or pasta alla contadin, as well as a delectable dessert like canestrelli, castagnaccio, spongata cake, or tiramisu.
The class is private, ensuring personalized attention, and all necessary ingredients and tools are provided.
After the cooking session, guests can enjoy a tasting with wine, beverages, and coffee, while discussing the rich cultural heritage of Italian cuisine.
The class takes place in a convenient location in Camogli, with sanitary measures in place to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Priced from $152.24 per person, this private cooking class promises an authentic and memorable taste of Ligurian gastronomy.
Read our full review: Private Cooking Class With Lunch or Dinner in Camogli Review
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Market Visit and Cooking Class With Lunch or Dinner at a Locals Home in Rapallo
Guests eager to explore the rich culinary traditions of the Ligurian region can embark on a captivating market visit and cooking class in the charming town of Rapallo.
Under the guidance of a private host, you will learn about the local gastronomy and shop for fresh, seasonal ingredients at a nearby market.
The private cooking class includes the preparation of a 3-course meal, with options such as fresh pasta, seasonal starters, and traditional Ligurian desserts like Gobbeletti pastries or Pànera custard.
Participants will enjoy the fruits of their labor, accompanied by local wines and good conversation.
The experience includes beverages, official Cesarine apron, market tour, and a private 3-course lunch or dinner.
Conveniently located near public transportation, this immersive culinary adventure is an ideal way to authentically experience the flavors of Rapallo and the Ligurian coast.
Read our full review: Market Visit and Cooking Class With Lunch or Dinner at a Locals Home in Rapallo Review
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3 Hour Genoa Cooking Class and Tastings
Those eager to experience the culinary traditions of Genoa can embark on a 3-hour cooking class that offers a delightful blend of hands-on instruction and tastings.
Hosted by Wonderful Italy Experiences, the class welcomes up to 12 travelers to learn the secrets behind classic Genoese dishes. Participants will start by preparing a cheese focaccia before moving on to craft the beloved testaroli pasta, which they’ll dress with the city’s renowned pesto sauce.
To cap off the experience, they’ll savor canestrelli biscuits, a local specialty. Throughout the class, attendees will enjoy four food tastings, providing a well-rounded exploration of Genoa’s culinary heritage.
The experience begins and ends at the Christopher Columbus House, with a start time of 9:15 am. Confirmation is provided upon booking, and the class is open to most travelers, though it isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Read our full review: 3 Hour Genoa Cooking Class and Tastings Review
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Private Market Tour and Cooking Class With Lunch or Dinner in Camogli
Travelers seeking an immersive culinary experience in Camogli can embark on a private market tour and cooking class that culminates in a delightful lunch or dinner.
Led by a local chef, the hands-on class teaches participants to prepare three traditional Italian dishes. The experience begins with a guided tour of the local market, where guests select fresh, seasonal ingredients for their culinary creations.
In the chef’s home, participants learn authentic cooking techniques under expert instruction, gaining insights into the region’s gastronomic heritage. The class concludes with a tasting session, where guests savor the dishes they’ve prepared, accompanied by wine, coffee, and other beverages.
As a memento, participants receive an official Le Cesarine apron and shopping bag. This tailored experience caters to dietary requirements and preferences, ensuring a truly personalized culinary adventure in the charming town of Camogli.
Read our full review: Private Market Tour and Cooking Class With Lunch or Dinner in Camogli Review
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Cesarine: Market Tour & Home Cooking Class in Genoa
Cesarine, a renowned culinary organization, offers a private market tour and cooking class in the vibrant city of Genoa. This immersive experience is designed for foodies seeking to master Italian cooking techniques and gain insider knowledge about the local cuisine.
Participants will engage in a hands-on culinary adventure, cooking in a private home under the guidance of an expert host. During the class, guests will learn to prepare a delectable three-course meal, starting with a seasonal starter, followed by fresh pasta options like tagliatelle or trofie with pesto, and concluding with a traditional dessert such as tiramisu or typical biscuits.
The experience also includes a private guided tour of the local market, where participants can discover unique ingredients and equipment. Throughout the class, the expert host will be available to answer any questions, ensuring a truly enriching and personalized experience.
With convenient transportation, inclusive pricing, and flexible cancellation policies, Cesarine’s market tour and cooking class in Genoa offers an unparalleled opportunity for food lovers to dive into the heart of Italian culinary traditions.
Read our full review: Cesarine: Market Tour & Home Cooking Class in Genoa Review
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For pasta enthusiasts visiting the picturesque city of Savona, a hands-on small group class offers the chance to master the art of crafting fresh pasta and the beloved Italian dessert, tiramisù.
Hosted by a local, this intimate culinary experience takes place in a cozy setting in Savona. Participants will learn to knead, roll, and shape two types of fresh pasta, then create a filled pasta dish and sauces.
The class also covers the preparation of authentic tiramisù. Guests will savor the fruits of their labor during a family-style meal, accompanied by beverages, an Italian aperitivo, and local taxes.
The class is limited to a maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring personalized attention. While the location isn’t wheelchair accessible, the experience provides an immersive introduction to the rich culinary traditions of the Genoa region.
Priced from $141.74 per person, this class is a must-try for anyone seeking an authentic pasta-making experience in Italy.
Read our full review: Share Your Pasta Love: Small Group Pasta and Tiramisu Class in Savona Review
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Private Cooking Class With Lunch or Dinner in Savona
Although Savona may be better known for its coastal charms, this private cooking class offers visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy the city’s rich culinary traditions.
Guests can choose between a lunch or dinner experience, where they’ll receive personalized attention from a local chef in a home setting. The class includes a tasting session with wine, coffee, and other beverages, as well as the chance to learn how to prepare three traditional dishes – a seasonal starter, a pasta main course, and a typical dessert.
The experience begins with a visit to the local market, where participants can engage with the chef and select fresh ingredients for the cooking lesson.
Upon returning to the kitchen, guests will receive an official Le Cesarine apron and shopping bag as a memento of their culinary adventure.
With strict adherence to health and safety protocols, this private cooking class provides a truly authentic and memorable way to explore Savona’s gastronomic delights.
Read our full review: Private Cooking Class With Lunch or Dinner in Savona Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Wine or Alcohol to the Class?
It’s generally not allowed to bring your own wine or alcohol to a class. Most workshops and classes have policies prohibiting outside food and drinks to ensure a safe, focused learning environment. It’s best to check with the organizers beforehand.
Is There a Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Option Available?
Many workshops and classes in Genoa offer vegetarian and gluten-free options to accommodate various dietary needs. It’s best to check with the specific program or venue to inquire about the availability of these options.
How Long Do the Cooking Classes Typically Last?
Cooking classes in Genoa typically last 2-3 hours, allowing participants ample time to learn new recipes and techniques. Many classes offer vegetarian and gluten-free options to accommodate various dietary needs.
Can I Take the Recipes Home After the Class?
Yes, participants can typically take the recipes home after a cooking class. Many instructors provide printed copies of the recipes covered during the class, allowing students to recreate the dishes in their own kitchens.
Do You Offer Any Discounts or Packages for Group Bookings?
The workshop/class offers discounts for group bookings. Customers can inquire about package deals for groups of 4 or more. The discounted rates make it an affordable option for friends, families, or colleagues to enjoy the experience together.
The Sum Up
Genoa and its surrounding areas offer a variety of hands-on culinary experiences. From homemade pasta and pesto classes to small-group cooking lessons, travelers can enjoy traditional Genoese cuisine. These classes provide an opportunity to learn from local chefs, explore regional ingredients, and savor the flavors of the Italian Riviera. Whether you’re a cooking enthusiast or simply want to experience the local food culture, Genoa has something to satisfy every palate.