Genoa isn’t just about its stunning port or historic alleyways — it’s also a fantastic place to learn new skills that make your visit truly memorable. Whether you want to roll pasta, master pesto, or even pick up some Italian language basics, these workshops and classes offer authentic, hands-on experiences. We particularly love the Homemade Pasta and Pesto Class with a Local Chef for its intimate setting and delicious lunch, and the Genoese cooking lesson with lunch in the terrace for its beautiful garden location. These classes bring you directly into the kitchen with passionate locals and give you the chance to take home skills that will wow your friends back home.
Genoa’s workshops are great for food lovers, curious travelers, and those who want a deeper connection to Italian culture. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, these activities make learning fun, flavorful, and very personal.
Quick Overview
This list covers hands-on cooking classes, pasta-making workshops, Italian language lessons, and combined culinary and cultural experiences. Each offers a unique way to engage with Genoa’s culinary and cultural scene. For example, some classes focus solely on pizza and tiramisu, like the Small group Pasta and Tiramisu class, while others combine market visits with cooking lessons, such as the Genoa walking tour with a traditional cooking class. For those curious about the language and local sights, the Italian lesson with a guided tour of Liguria offers a different flavor of experience. Read on to find your perfect match.
1. Homemade Pasta and Pesto Class with a Local Chef in Genoa
At number one, this Homemade Pasta and Pesto Class is a standout for its authentic approach and intimacy. For around $98, you spend roughly three hours in a historic palazzo with a local chef who shares the secrets of making traditional egg pasta and crafting fresh basil pesto—a Genoese staple. Unlike larger, more commercial classes, this one caps at just six travelers, which means you’ll get personal attention and plenty of hands-on practice.
The experience begins with learning how to knead and roll pasta dough, followed by mastering the art of pesto—an ingredient so central to Genoese cuisine that it’s practically a cultural icon. The chef, Alberto, shares tips that’ll elevate your home cooking, and the group enjoys a leisurely lunch featuring the dishes you prepared, paired with regional wines. Reviewers praise this class for its detailed instruction, charming setting, and intimate atmosphere. It’s perfect for foodies eager to bring a true taste of Genoa home and for those who appreciate a relaxed, personal setting.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for anyone wanting to get hands-on with Genoa’s culinary traditions in a cozy environment.
2. Genoese Cooking Lesson in the Garden with Lunch
Coming in at number two, this Genoese cooking lesson in the garden with lunch offers a delightful outdoor experience. For about $80, you’ll spend roughly three hours and fifteen minutes in a beautiful chef’s garden, where Alessandro guides you through making two types of pasta and pesto. The setting is especially notable—imagine learning in a lush, fruit tree-filled garden with a stunning view over Genoa’s port.
The class emphasizes local ingredients and traditional techniques, making it a perfect pick for those interested in authentic Ligurian cuisine. Several reviews highlight the friendly atmosphere, the delicious food, and the scenic location. Guests also appreciate that the recipes are straightforward enough to replicate at home. The class is ideal for families, couples, or small groups who enjoy eating in a peaceful outdoor setting.
Value for money is high, given the picturesque environment and the quality of instruction. The only potential downside is that travel uphill to the garden might be tricky for some, but most find the experience well worth the effort.
Bottom line: A serene, scenic way to learn Ligurian cooking while soaking up fantastic views.
3. Small group Pasta and Tiramisu class in Genoa
At number three, this small-group pasta and tiramisu class combines Italy’s love for pasta and desserts into one fun session. For $114.95, you’ll spend about three hours learning to craft two pasta shapes and a classic tiramisu with Daniela, a passionate chef who offers a personalized experience. The class begins with an Italian aperitivo, setting a relaxed tone, and ends with everyone sitting down to enjoy their handmade meal.
What makes this class unique is its small, intimate setting, which allows for detailed instruction and plenty of questions. Guests rave about how educational and delicious the experience is, with comments like, “The pasta and tiramisu were out of this world.” The class also offers an option to choose between lunch or dinner, adding flexibility.
It’s especially suited for families, couples, or friends wanting a fun, hands-on experience that ends with a full meal. The only caution is that because of its popularity, booking early is recommended.
Bottom line: A well-rounded, delicious class that’s perfect for those who want to learn two iconic Italian dishes and enjoy them afterward.
4. Cooking Class & Meal with a Local in Genoa
Number four on the list, this Cooking Class & Meal with a Local offers a more personalized, private experience. For $167, you’ll spend about three hours learning how to make Ligurian dishes directly from a local host. The class emphasizes hands-on preparation of regional favorites, followed by enjoying your creations paired with local wines. As a souvenir, you also receive an apron and a reusable shopping bag—great practical keepsakes.
This experience is perfect for travelers seeking a more intimate, private session. Reviewers note how welcoming Tiziana and Roberto are, and how the dishes reflect a genuine taste of Genoa. However, note that finding the location can be a bit tricky, so plan your arrival accordingly. The focus on authentic cooking and regional wine pairing makes this ideal for foodies who want a relaxed, personal connection.
Value for money is good for a private experience, especially considering the personalized instruction and meal. It’s best suited for small groups or couples who appreciate privacy and direct interaction with the chef.
Bottom line: Great for those who want a private, authentic Genoese meal with a local host.
5. Genoa Walking Tour & Traditional Cooking Class with Wine
At number five, this Genoa walking tour with a traditional cooking class combines sightseeing with hands-on culinary experience. For about three hours, you’ll explore Genoa’s historic streets, markets, and artisan shops, learning about local ingredients and regional dishes. The highlight is preparing a classic Genoese dish from scratch, then sitting down to enjoy it with a glass of Ligurian wine.
This tour is excellent for travelers who love combining cultural exploration with eating. The guide’s insights into Genoa’s neighborhoods and food scene make it a rich experience. The class is designed for those who want to learn how to cook genuine regional dishes and gain a deeper understanding of the local food culture.
The price varies based on availability, but the value lies in the combination of walking and cooking. It’s suitable for those who enjoy active, interactive tours and want a taste of everyday Genoese life.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want to see the city and learn to cook a traditional dish in one afternoon.
6. Genoa–Sori: Italian Lesson & Guided Liguria Tour
Finally, number six offers a unique blend of language learning and sightseeing. For $18, this Italian lesson and Liguria tour combines a one-hour Italian language mini-lesson with a guided exploration of iconic Ligurian sites like Portofino and Cinque Terre. This is perfect for travelers eager to practice Italian and see some of the most famous coastal spots.
The experience is more relaxed and educational, focusing on speaking skills and local scenery. It’s a good option if you want to combine language practice with cultural sightseeing on a budget. The 6-hour duration makes it a full half-day adventure, suitable for those with a flexible schedule.
Bottom line: Best for travelers looking to improve their Italian while discovering Liguria’s highlights.
How to Choose the Right Workshop or Class in Genoa
When deciding among these options, consider your budget, interests, and schedule. For a truly authentic, hands-on experience with delicious local food, the Homemade Pasta and Pesto Class offers excellent value and intimacy. If you prefer a scenic, outdoor setting, the Garden Cooking Class is perfect. For those wanting a comprehensive cultural experience, the Genoa walking tour combined with a cooking class combines sightseeing and cooking in one package. Budget travelers interested in language and culture should consider the Liguria tour for a mix of learning and exploration.
Book early to secure your spot, especially for popular classes like the pasta and tiramisu workshop. Think about your skill level — many of these classes are beginner-friendly — and whether you prefer a private or small-group setting.
To sum it up, Genoa offers a rich selection of workshops and classes, whether you want to master Italian pasta, learn regional dishes, or improve your language skills. For a food lover, the Homemade Pasta and Pesto Class stands out, while those seeking a scenic outdoor experience will enjoy the garden-based class. Travelers with limited time or budget can find excellent options that combine culture and cuisine, making your Genoa trip that much more memorable. Whatever your interests, booking early will ensure you don’t miss out on these authentic experiences.