Positano isn’t just a pretty face with its colorful houses and dramatic cliffside views; it’s also a fantastic place to learn about authentic Italian cuisine. The town’s culinary scene is deeply rooted in family traditions and fresh, local ingredients, making it an ideal setting for cooking classes. Among the many options, we especially love the Ravioli & Tagliatelle Cooking Class at a Local’s Home for its intimate, family-run vibe, and the Positano: Cooking Class and Tasting with a view of the Galli Islands for its combination of tradition and stunning scenery. These experiences go beyond just recipes—they’re about connecting with the land and people behind the food. If you want to see what makes Positano special, try these classes that put you right in the heart of local life.
Quick Overview
This list features four top-rated cooking classes in Positano, each with a unique style and setting. From an intimate home-cooked experience (Ravioli & Tagliatelle Cooking Class at a Local’s Home) to rooftop lessons with panoramic sea views (Positano: Cooking Class in the Rooftop of Rada Restaurant), all are highly rated and packed with authentic flavor. There’s also a longer, immersive experience with family recipes and breathtaking Galli Islands scenery (Positano: Cooking class and tasting with a view of the Galli Islands), plus a pasta-focused class on a scenic terrace (Positano: Ravioli & Tagliatelle Cooking Class). Read on to find the right fit for your culinary curiosity.
1. Ravioli & Tagliatelle Cooking Class at a Local’s Home in Positano
This experience offers a chance to step inside a local family’s home and learn how to make fresh pasta the old-fashioned way. You’ll join Emily and her family, who are passionate about sharing their traditions and stories. The class lasts about 3 hours and includes making ravioli and tagliatelle from scratch using time-honored techniques, plus tasting the meal you’ve prepared. What makes this class stand out is the genuine warmth and authenticity – you’re not just learning how to cook but also hearing stories about family recipes passed down through generations. The setting on their balcony with breathtaking views makes it all the more memorable.
Guests consistently praise this class for being homely, fun, and educational. One reviewer called it their “favorite experience,” highlighting the chance to learn secrets like how to achieve pasta with perfect texture. The small group size (around 12 people) keeps it intimate, and the opportunity to buy a pasta maker afterward makes it practical. At $177.74 per person, it offers a deep dive into local culinary traditions with a personal touch.
Bottom Line: If you’re after an authentic, heartfelt experience in a family setting, this class offers excellent value and a true taste of Positano’s culinary soul.
2. Positano: Cooking Class in the Rooftop of Rada Restaurant
For around 2 hours, you can enjoy a cooking class perched on the rooftop of Rada Restaurant, with spectacular views of Positano’s coast. This class is perfect if you want a beautiful setting combined with local flavors. Chef Andrea leads the session, sharing tips on traditional recipes that highlight Amalfi Coast’s seafood and fresh produce. The atmosphere is lively and relaxed, with a focus on fun and learning in equal measure.
The highlight here is the stunning terrace view—imagine preparing your pasta or pizza while gazing at the colorful houses cascading down the cliff to the sea. The class includes tasting the dishes you make, plus drinks, making it a well-rounded experience. With a perfect 5-star rating from recent reviews, guests love Andrea’s approachable style and the friendly staff.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a shorter, scenic cooking experience combined with incredible views and a lively, fun atmosphere.
3. Positano: Cooking class and tasting with a view of the Galli Islands
Taking around 4 hours, this immersive experience emphasizes family recipes, local ingredients, and the chance to experience true Amalfi Coast culture. The class is hosted by a family who shares recipes handed down from grandmothers, giving it a personal and authentic feel. The setting is breathtaking, with views of Li Galli islands providing a dramatic backdrop as you cook.
Participants are encouraged to gather fresh ingredients from the garden, adding a layer of connection to the land. The focus is on gourmet, traditional dishes that blend gastronomy, storytelling, and fun. The reviews highlight how this experience beautifully combines learning, tradition, and scenery.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a longer, more authentic experience that feels like a day with family, surrounded by some of the most beautiful views in Positano.
4. Positano: Ravioli & Tagliatelle Cooking Class
This 4-hour class focuses intensely on pasta-making, teaching you how to craft ravioli and tagliatelle from scratch. Held in a scenic location, you’ll collect fresh ingredients from a garden to incorporate into your dishes, then enjoy a meal paired with local wines and homemade liqueurs. The class emphasizes secrets of Italian cooking and hands-on techniques, making it ideal for pasta lovers.
Participants rave about the personal approach and the opportunity to enjoy your meal on a terrace overlooking the Amalfi coast. The class’s strength is its focus on skill-building—learning how to make pasta that you can replicate at home. The experience is well-suited for those who love cooking and want to bring a piece of Italy back with them.
Bottom Line: A perfect choice if pasta is your passion and you want to enjoy a meal with a view after mastering the craft.
How to Choose the Right Cooking Class in Positano
Choosing between these options depends on your interests, budget, and timeline. If you’re after an intimate family experience and want insider stories, the Ravioli & Tagliatelle Cooking Class at a Local’s Home is unbeatable. For a shorter, scenic session, the Rooftop of Rada Restaurant offers a lively atmosphere with panoramic views. If you prefer a more immersive, scenic experience with recipes from your hosts’ family, the Galli Islands class is perfect. And if pasta is your main goal, the Ravioli & Tagliatelle Cooking Class provides detailed instruction and a delicious meal.
Booking early is recommended — especially in high season — and consider your time availability and interest level in family traditions or scenic settings. For those new to Italian cuisine, classes focusing on basic pasta skills or local ingredients are ideal.
Final Thoughts
Positano’s cooking classes offer a wonderful way to connect with the local culture, enjoy spectacular views, and learn new culinary skills. Whether you choose the intimate family experience, the rooftop view, or the longer, tradition-rich classes, each provides a taste of authentic Amalfi Coast flavors. For lovers of pasta, the Ravioli & Tagliatelle classes stand out, but if scenery and fun are your priorities, the rooftop or Galli Islands experiences will delight.
Remember to book early, especially during peak seasons, as these classes fill quickly. No matter which option you choose, you’ll leave with new skills, memorable stories, and a deeper appreciation for Positano’s culinary traditions. Enjoy your time cooking and savoring the flavors of Italy’s most stunning coast.