Genoa isn’t just about its striking harbor, colorful buildings, and historic alleyways — it’s also a fantastic place to learn authentic Ligurian cooking. The city’s culinary traditions are deeply rooted in local ingredients like fresh pasta and aromatic basil pesto, making it a perfect setting for hands-on cooking experiences. We especially love the Genoese cooking lesson in the with lunch in the terrace, which combines learning with a scenic garden setting and a delicious lunch in a historic palace — a delightful mix of culture, cuisine, and spectacular views.
If you’re after a more personalized experience, the Cooking Class & Meal with a Local in Genoa offers a private, hands-on approach with warm local hosts. And for those interested in exploring Genoa’s streets before cooking, the Genoa Walking Tour & Traditional Cooking Class with Wine combines a city walk with a cozy kitchen experience, perfect for combining sightseeing and food.
Below, we break down each of these top-rated options to help you decide which suits your style and interests best.
1. Genoese cooking lesson in the with lunch in the terrace
At number one, this class offers a full immersion into Genoese culinary traditions. Over roughly three hours, you will learn to make two types of pasta and fresh pesto, crucial elements of Ligurian cuisine. The class takes place in a beautiful garden inside a historic palace, providing a stunning backdrop for your culinary adventure. The instructor, Alessandro, is praised for his patience and thorough explanations, making even beginners feel comfortable.
What makes this experience stand out is its combination of hands-on cooking and breathtaking scenery. The lunch you prepare is served al fresco, with the garden overlooking the port and sea — a perfect setting for savoring your homemade dishes. The local wine and the peaceful environment enhance the relaxed, authentic vibe. The small group setting (with plenty of positive reviews praising the friendly atmosphere) ensures personalized attention.
Guests often comment on how easy the recipes are to replicate at home, making this a practical choice for food lovers who want a memorable, scenic experience. The price is around $80, offering excellent value for a small-group class with a meal and wine included.
Bottom Line: This class is ideal if you want a scenic, relaxed experience with a focus on classic Ligurian pasta and pesto, topped with a delicious lunch in a beautiful garden.
2. Cooking Class & Meal with a Local in Genoa
Number two on our list takes a more personalized route. During this private cooking class, you’ll learn to make authentic Ligurian dishes from a local host. The focus here is on hands-on participation, where you get your hands dirty, chopping, stirring, and learning insider tips. Afterward, you sit down to enjoy the meal you created, paired with regional wines.
This experience is perfect for those seeking a more intimate, tailored lesson. The host provides a warm, welcoming atmosphere, making you feel like you’re cooking with a friend rather than in a formal class. It’s slightly more expensive at around $167, but the personal attention and private setting justify the cost. Plus, as a keepsake, you’ll receive an apron and a reusable shopping bag.
Guests appreciate the relaxed setting and the chance to learn tricky cooking techniques directly from a local. One review notes the dishes were “outstanding,” and the experience left them feeling like they truly got a taste of Genoa.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a personalized, private experience with a focus on regional dishes and wine pairing, perfect for foodies wanting a deeper connection.
3. Genoa Walking Tour & Traditional Cooking Class with Wine
The third option combines exploring Genoa’s streets and markets with an authentic cooking class, making it a well-rounded activity. Starting with a guided walk through the city’s charming alleys and historic food markets, you’ll see where locals shop for fresh ingredients. Then, you’ll head to a cozy home to learn how to prepare a classic Genoese dish from scratch.
What makes this tour appealing is its mix of sightseeing and hands-on cooking, plus the opportunity to sample regional wine. The walk provides context about Genoa’s food culture, which enriches your understanding of the dishes you’ll prepare. The class duration is around three hours, with exact start times varying, so checking the schedule is advisable.
Guests praise the warm hospitality and the chance to enjoy their meal with a glass of Ligurian wine in a cozy setting. It’s a good choice for those who want a little bit of everything—a city walk plus a traditional cooking experience—making it especially suitable for first-time visitors.
Bottom Line: Ideal if you want to combine sightseeing with authentic cooking and wine, perfect for travelers who enjoy learning about local culture in a relaxed environment.
How to Choose the Best Cooking Class in Genoa
When choosing between these options, consider your priorities: Are you after a scenic, outdoor experience with pesto and pasta? The Genoese cooking lesson in the garden offers stunning views and a relaxed vibe. Looking for a private, personalized class to focus on specific dishes? The Cooking Class & Meal with a Local is your best bet. Want to explore the city’s markets and learn in a cozy home? The Walking Tour & Cooking combines both worlds.
Budget-wise, the garden class offers great value at around $80, especially given the included lunch and wine. The private experience costs more but offers tailored attention, while the city walk and cooking combines sightseeing and culinary skills — a good deal if you want variety.
Timing-wise, all tours are around three hours, so consider whether you want a scenic outdoor meal, an intimate culinary session, or a mix of city exploration and cooking.
Final Thoughts
Genoa offers a range of deliciously authentic cooking classes suited to different styles of travelers. For a scenic, relaxed experience that leaves you with a stunning meal and great stories, the garden class is a standout. If you prefer a more personalized, hands-on approach with a local host, the private meal fits the bill. And if you’d like to combine sightseeing with cooking, the guided walking tour with a traditional class makes for a memorable half-day.
No matter which you choose, booking early is wise — these experiences tend to fill up, especially in peak seasons. Embrace the chance to learn Ligurian cooking directly from locals, and you’ll leave Genoa with more than just souvenirs — you’ll take home new recipes, warm memories, and maybe even some pesto.
Enjoy your culinary adventure in Genoa — buon appetito!