Top Genoa Cooking Classes

Genoa Ravioli, Fettuccine & Tiramisu Class with Fine Wine

2 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Rooftop Cooking Class in Genoa: Pesto, Fresh Pasta & Wine

(64)

from US$88

(348)

from US$100

Genoese cooking lesson in the with lunch in the terrace

3 hours 15 minutesFree Cancellation

This experience offers an authentic deep dive into Genoa’s culinary tradition, just steps from the birthplace of Christopher Columbus. You’ll learn to prepare real Genovese pesto using a traditional marble mortar and wooden pestle—just like locals have done for centuries. Set in our small artisan “food and wine” shop in the heart of the old town, the experience is hands-on, authentic and full of flavor. You’ll taste high-quality local ingredients and enjoy your handmade pesto served with trofie pasta, paired with a guided tasting of Ligurian wines. What makes this experience truly special is our family involvement: the class is led by us together with Gaia, our daughter, who was the youngest finalist at the World Pesto Championship in Genoa (March 2026). This is not just a cooking class, but a real connection to Ligurian culture, traditions and family hospitality.

(203)

from US$81

Genoese Pesto Lesson with Mortar, Pasta Tasting and Local Wine

Genoese Pesto Lesson with Mortar, Pasta Tasting and Local Wine

2 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

- The only cooking class in which a Chef and World Champion, Camilla Pizzorno, winner of the World Mortar Pesto Championship, teaches her recipe and its secrets; - Uses a large marble mortar and wooden pestle with more than 150 years; - Taste the freshly prepared pesto with a three-course Ligurian menu: the typical Genoese focaccia - a handmade pasta of the Ligurian tradition such as trofie or gnocchi seasoned with freshly prepared pesto - a traditional dessert: the Italian Tiramisù; - The dishes will be accompanied with a wine from the Ligurian Riviera and Italian liqueurs and grappas such as limoncello, myrtle and Camatti bitter; - Authentic Italian location surrounded by greenery: garden in the summer months and heated outdoors in the winter months.

(33)

from US$92

Mortar pesto lesson with World Champion and local Menu

Mortar pesto lesson with World Champion and local Menu

1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

With Tiziana Cooking Class for Pesto , Gnocchi and Tiramisù

(38)

from US$99

Genoa: Pasta and Tiramisu class by Cesarine

(28)

from US$141

(85)

from US$128

Capital of Italy’s beautiful Liguria region, the coastal city of Genoa takes great pride in its local cuisine—with fresh flavors and traditional recipes handed down through the generations. On this walking tour, explore Genoa’s culture and lifestyle through its food and learn why Italian cuisine is the envy of the world. Sample pasta dishes with fresh pesto, focaccia and seafood, and savory pastries, and taste the flavors the locals love.

Genoa Small-Group Food Tour with Full Meal & Local Guide

3 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

This experience is special because it allows you to learn fresh pasta directly with a Pro Chef, in an intimate and authentic setting. Each participant prepares the pasta with their own hands, discovering traditional techniques not found in classic tourist courses. The final tasting makes the activity complete and convivial, transforming a simple cooking lesson into a real moment of Italian culture.

(555)

from US$58

Fresh pasta Michelin star

(7)

from US$100

Authentic Focaccia Class on the Ligurian Riviera in Chiavari

Private Cooking Class with Lunch or Dinner in Savona

from US$128

This activity is special because it allows you to discover the secrets of real homemade ice cream directly with those who prepare it every day. It's not just a tasting: you actively participate in the creation of ice cream, learn real techniques and taste flavors prepared by yourself. It is an authentic, practical and engaging experience, combining theory, manual skills and flavours in an informal and welcoming environment. Eventually you bring home not only recipes, but a true understanding of what it means to make quality ice cream.

from US$171

Prepare homemade ice cream with a real master

Prepare homemade ice cream with a real master

1 hourFree Cancellation

from US$59

Genoa Culinary Masterclass-A Hands-On Experience by Do Eat Better

On this private, full-day shore excursion for cruise passengers, you’ll discover two of northern Italy’s most picturesque coastal towns: Portofino and Santa Margherita Ligure. Enjoy panoramic views over the Ligurian coastline from Castello Brown, stroll through Portofino’s scenic central square, “La Piazzetta,” and grab a meal or a gelato in the colorful fishing port known to locals simply as “Santa.”

(59)

from US$114

Shore Excursion: Portofino & Santa Margherita Ligure Private Day Trip from Genoa

Shore Excursion: Portofino & Santa Margherita Ligure Private Day Trip from Genoa

8 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

(1)

from US$411

Authentic Pesto Class & Tasting on the Ligurian Coast in Chiavari

2 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Cooking Class & Meal with a Local in Genoa

from US$135

(10)

from US$171

Genoa Walking Tour & Traditional Cooking Class with Wine

Panoramic Tour across the "creuze" with a storyteller

(3)

from US$117

Price varies by group size

(47)

from US$52

Cesarine: Pasta & Tiramisu Class at Local's Home in Genoa

The marble mortar, fresh Genovese DOP basil, pine nuts, Ligurian extra virgin olive oil, Parmigiano Reggiano, and Pecorino cheese: the iconic ingredients of authentic Genoese pesto become the stars of an exclusive culinary experience in the heart of historic Genoa. This hands-on cooking class takes place in an elegant frescoed hall overlooking Via Garibaldi, the famous UNESCO-listed street of the Rolli Palaces. Guided by foodteller Fabio Bongiorni, you’ll learn how to make traditional pesto by hand using the ancient marble mortar technique, while discovering stories, traditions, and culinary secrets from Liguria. After a welcome toast with a glass of local Vermentino wine, you’ll enjoy the pesto you prepared yourself, served with authentic Genoese focaccia, bruschette, and a selection of local specialties. A refined and immersive experience, perfect for couples, small groups, and travelers looking to discover the true flavors and atmosphere of Genoa.

(15)

from US$171

Pesto Experience in Via Garibaldi

Be assisted and guided step by step by expert Genovese chef Fabrizio in preparing an entire delicious Ligurian menu! You will learn how to cook 6 typical local dishes, from appetizers to dessert: Panissa, 4 different types of focaccia, gnocchi with pesto, panera: you'll prepare everything at home with first-rate ingredients, in a beautiful and spacious setting in the center of town. Afterwards you will enjoy calmly and in the company of chef Fabrizio the delicacies you will have prepared with his guidance, accompanied by a good glass of wine: chatting and laughter are guaranteed...Furthermore, Fabrizio makes and teaches how to make the best focaccia in Genoa, you won't find one this good even in delicatessens! Fabrizio is a chef with many years of experience, his passion for cooking started when he helped his grandmother in the kitchen as a child. In fact, he also ran for a very long time two restaurants and a home restaurant called “Nonna Leo,” named after his grandmother Leonilda

from US$118

Funny Cooking Class in Genova with Local Chef: Full Ligurian Menu

Funny Cooking Class in Genova with Local Chef: Full Ligurian Menu

4 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Get to know Genoa on a 4-hour walking tour of the city’s historic sights with stops along the way to sample local delicacies. Learn about the city’s past battles and innovations. Visit local shops to try delicious hand-made focaccia, and sip local wines inside a wine shop. Meet the people who give the city its vibrant character while you explore on foot on a 3-mile walking tour past landmarks like one of the world’s first banks, and the birthplace of denim.

(1)

from US$165

Genoa Day Tour: 4 hours of History with Focaccia , Prosecco & Joy

4 hoursFree Cancellation

Tiramisu Course with Local Chef

(66)

from US$117

1 hour 45 minutesFree Cancellation

from US$135

At Villa San Giacomo, a historic gem overlooking the Ligurian Gulf, a pesto cooking class awaits. Guided by a local home cook, you'll master the art of making authentic Genovese pesto with a traditional mortar and pestle. After your culinary creation, savor your homemade pesto paired with trofie pasta in the villa's elegant surroundings, complemented by a glass of local Italian wine. This hands-on experience is perfect for food lovers eager to indulge in the rich flavors and traditions of the Italian Riviera, just a stone's throw from Portofino and the Cinque Terre.

Pesto Cooking Class at Villa in Santa Margherita Ligure

Pesto Cooking Class at Villa in Santa Margherita Ligure

Genoese Pesto Lesson with Mortar, Pasta Tasting and Local Wine

from US$159

1 2

Top Attractions in Genoa

1 / 2

Attractions

What are people saying about Genoa

Joanne_P, Jul 2026

A must experience while in Genoa

Barbara was an amazing teacher, told us all the nuances of how and why the recipe is made. Our pesto was the best we’ve ever had. And her shop has so much to offer, from local wines, walnut pesto, guanciale, to mushroom extracts…all local. The experience is a must and I will be making homemade pesto from now on…. With the mortar and pestle we bought from her as well. She even indulged me by speaking with me in Italian, as I am still learning. Grazie Mille, Barbara.

Genoa: Pasta and Tiramisu class by Cesarine

Lara_L, Jul 2026

It doesn’t get more Authentic than this!

We were a family of 9 onboard Sun Princess. This was a great experience for all of us Tomaso and his assistant were super friendly and engaging! Would do it again the only two hiccups- I wish Viator would tell you after you get dropped off you’d have to walk about .5-1.0 mile - it was hard for my mom on the heat. Italians don’t love air conditioning so it would have been better to have many fans going. Italian music thruout the event would be a great add on - truly enjoyed the day - thank you!!

Genoa Ravioli, Fettuccine & Tiramisu Class with Fine Wine

John_H, Jul 2026

If you always wondered how to make pasta

This was THE BEST! Petro (Peter) had us do almost all of it hands on - making Tiramisu, making the basic pasta, filling the ravioli, and then making the fettuccini, it was so much fun! And then we got to eat our own creations. Definitely a highlight of our trip.

Mortar pesto lesson with World Champion and local Menu

Vanessa_R, Jul 2026

More Than a Cooking Class—A True Italian Experience

Lorenzo and Camila were such wonderful hosts! When we booked, we didn’t realize our accommodations were about an hour away. They were incredibly understanding of our situation and immediately put our minds at ease by allowing us to keep our reservation even though we arrived a little late. Camila made the pesto-making experience both fun and informative, explaining each step with enthusiasm and patience. Her encouraging teaching style made our party of three feel like confident chefs in no time! The meal we prepared was absolutely delicious, and the tiramisu was truly mouthwatering—the perfect ending to a fantastic experience. We wholeheartedly recommend this class to anyone visiting the area. Thank you, Lorenzo and Camila, for your warm hospitality, kindness, and for sharing your knowledge and passion with us. It was an experience we’ll always remember!

Rooftop Cooking Class in Genoa: Pesto, Fresh Pasta & Wine

Michaela_K, Jun 2026

10/10 Must Do!

Had the most amazing time on the rooftop - the roof is and a family of 3! The food was remarkable!! I loved the history the most and learning about Genova and why their food is different from other cities in Italy. The aperitif and first course were phenomenal. We got to enjoy them after making the pasta and pesto by hand. And then we got to eat the pasta with our freshly made pesto sauce. Alberto (I hope I spelled it right) was remarkable!! The dessert after was so great too! A nice Genoise take on tiramisu.

With Tiziana Cooking Class for Pesto , Gnocchi and Tiramisù

Jade_B, Jun 2026

Such a fun & memorable experience!!

This was an amazing experience myself and my husband enjoyed during our trip to Italy! Tiziana was so accommodating to her home & very friendly & encouraging! She explained everything & taught us the authentic ways to create Italian specialties! We got to make foccacia, gnocchi, pesto & tiramisu before getting to try them all alongside a glass of Prosecco! Such a fun experience we thoroughly enjoyed & lots of photos/videos to remember it by thanks to both Tiziana & her husband Roberto! Thank you so much!!!

Genoa Culinary Masterclass-A Hands-On Experience by Do Eat Better

Irene_E, Jun 2026

Wonderful!

We had such a wonderful experience learning how to make pesto, pasta, a cheese dish & cookies! Mimo (Dominic) our cook, was friendly and kind! Gian Berto, our host, interpreted and is such a lovely person who was very helpful & kind. This was a fantastic morning of cooking and eating! Come hungry!

Genoa Small-Group Food Tour with Full Meal & Local Guide

Laurie_S, May 2026

Fabulous day in Genoa with Valentina.

The tour was excellent and it was extra special with Valentina’s warmth, enthusiasm and knowledge! The food at each of our stops was delicious and we enjoyed trying a number of new dishes. It was the perfect amount of walking. Following the tour Valentina gave great recommendations and directions. Thank you Valentina for making our time in Genoa so special.

Genoa Day Tour: 4 hours of History with Focaccia , Prosecco & Joy

Steven_M, Sept 2025

A MUST DO TOUR - You will no be disappointed

Karl is the PERFECT tour guide. He made our experience in Bologna perfect. He was very informative and very excited about showing us his city. His enthusiasm was contagious. You looked forward to every turn as you knew there would be an interesting story. He showed us details, relics, buiding plaques, and so much more that we would have had no idea to even look for, and if we did see them would have had no idea what they meant, he was able to tell us the story behind each things we saw. The Frocaccia and prosecco tasting was must more than a tasting it was a meal. he made sure everyone had plenty of food and we were full before we left restaurant. We went to a very local place to eat, which was just what we asked for. He offered a fancier place, but we wanted to eat where the locals eat, I was truly a wonderful experience. Karl was not a clock watcher - he insisted on stay overtime to ensure we saw everything he wanted us to see. He quickly undersstood our interested and was very focused on showing us what we most wanted and we were never bored. I STRONGLY recommend this tour, it was an excellent way to experience Milan and learn so much history. I would rate this as the #1 tour we did on our 3 week trip through Italy.

Genoese cooking lesson in the with lunch in the terrace

PATRICIA_N, Aug 2025

Nice experience in Genoa

Wanted a unique experience in Genoa that was not a cruise excursion. We had a wonderful time making some of the most delicious pasta and pesto ever! Lunch on the terrace sipping wine overlooking looking the beautiful city was definitely a highlight of this trip. Thank you for a beautiful afternoon.