Rooftop Cooking Class in Genoa: Pesto, Fresh Pasta & Wine
Recommended by 99% of travelers
Badge of Excellence
Genoa, Italy
- 3 hours (approx.)
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
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Overview
There's no better souvenir to bring home from your travels than the gift of authentic Italian cuisine. Learn how to make fresh egg pasta the Italian way with a local chef in his home in a historic palazzo and master the art of fresh pesto, too. Numbers are capped at just six travelers, ensuring an intimate experience and likely the chance to make friends over lunch.
- Learn to make fresh pasta and classic basil pesto in a historic palazzo
- Professional chef shares tips and tricks on how to create the perfect dough
- Small group—maximum six—ensures personal attention from the chef
- Savor the fruits of your labor over a leisurely lunch
Sample Menu
Main
Pasta Fresca
Picagge- traditional Ligurian pasta similar to wide tagliatelle
Main
Pesto
Dessert
Traditional Genoese dessert
Starter
Genoese focaccia, Focaccette di patate, torte salate
What's Included
- Pesto and Fresh Pasta making masterclass
- Full meal (Antipasto, Pasta, and Traditional Dessert)
- Local wine and typical Genoese liqueur
- All not mentioned in the inclusions is considered excluded.
Meeting and Pickup
Meeting point
- Vico Inferiore Valoria, 1, 16123 Genova GE, Italy
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.What To Expect
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Near public transportation
- Infants must sit on laps
- Not recommended for travelers with back problems
- Communicate in advance any dietary restriction.
- Accessibility: This experience takes place in a historic building on the 5th floor with NO elevator. Guests must be comfortable climbing stairs. It is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with severe mobility issues.
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 6 travelers
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Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Featured review
It was a great experience! Alberto is a very good host. While we enjoyed a fantastic view over Genova, he explained everything about the history and the right ingredients for the dishes. He also spoilt us with delicious starters, desserts and fantastic wine. As there were only the two of us, we were able to practise our Italian with Alberto. But we can also well imagine getting to know other participants and having a great time together. We can only recommend the cookery course
Reviews
5.0
based on 370 reviews
Review summary
Last 12 months
108 reviews
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Travelers praise the cooking experience for its hands-on approach, clear instruction, and authentic pasta and pesto techniques taught by knowledgeable guides. The blend of culinary skills, cultural insights, and tasting multiple dishes in a unique rooftop setting is frequently highlighted. Food offerings, including fresh pasta, local wines, and traditional appetizers, receive consistent appreciation for quality and variety. Guides are noted for their deep knowledge and engaging, hospitable demeanor, enhancing the overall experience.
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We were fortunate enough to be the only ones attending the class as the tourist season was winding down and we had a wonderful time. Alberto was very friendly and knowledgeable and provided a lot of great information. He even provided suggestions for restaurants/wine tasting/shopping, too. The location was perfect - lots of stairs to get up to the apartment but well worth it!
Alberto was amazing! We welcomed us to his home and we made fresh pasta and pesto on the rooftop. He gave us focaccia and espresso/cappuccino to start and wine with our pasta that we made. This was an amazing experience. Totally recommend!!!
Our host/chef was absolutely fantastic. First off his directions to get there were impeccable. Secondly, the venue is on the roof of a 16th century house with tons of character. We not only learned how to make pasta and pesto we got the recipes for both along with all the other treats he gave us, including Tiramisu. We learned the history of how the locals made their pasta and pesto. I didn’t know about chestnut flour which is an ingredient used in the pasta. I highly recommend this for anyone who wants a cooking class.
Response from Host, Oct 2026
We’re delighted you enjoyed the class, from the charming rooftop setting in a 16th-century house to learning the local traditions behind Genoese pasta and pesto. It’s great to hear that the directions made finding us easy and that you appreciated taking the recipes home, along with all the delicious treats. We hope you’ll recreate these dishes and bring a little taste of Genoa into your own kitchen!
We were lucky to book Alberto’s cooking class the night we arrived in Genova. It was a perfect evening on his lovely rooftop learning how to make homemade pesto and pasta! We came hungry and left with full bellies. We were offered focaccia, a beverage, snacks and local Cinque Terra wine with our dinner we prepared. Would highly recommend if you’re looking for a lovely way to spend an evening learning to make this local dish!
Response from Host, Oct 2026
It sounds like a wonderful way to kick off your stay in Genoa! Alberto will be delighted to know you enjoyed making fresh pasta and pesto, along with the rooftop setting and local flavours. Thank you for recommending the experience to fellow travellers!
Alberto was an incredible host and made the whole evening so special. Communication and coordination were simple, and the experience itself was amazing from beginning to end.
The outdoor space is beautiful and expertly arranged to accommodate the activity. Alberto did an outstanding job sharing the history and significance of each ingredient and cooking instrument used in creating our dish. His preparation and cooking instructions were clear, and he provided helpful guidance along the way whenever things went sideways—which, of course, is part of the fun of cooking!
He also provided excellent wine and snacks to enjoy throughout the experience, and the food we created was absolutely delicious. We shared the evening with another couple and had a great time getting to know them and enjoying conversation together. Alberto was incredibly gracious and even allowed us to hang out and enjoy the evening a little longer after the class had finished.
Overall, this was a very special evening, and we are incredibly grateful to Alberto for hosting us. If you're looking for a unique and memorable experience while visiting Genova, I can't recommend this cooking class enough. It was one of the highlights of our trip and an evening we'll always remember!
Response from Host, Oct 2026
It’s wonderful to know that your evening with Alberto became one of the highlights of your trip to Genova! He puts so much care into sharing the stories behind Ligurian ingredients and traditions, and we’re delighted that you enjoyed both the hands-on cooking and the relaxed atmosphere on the rooftop. Good food, local wine, and great company are what make these moments truly memorable. We’ll be sure to share your kind words with Alberto, and thank you for recommending the experience so warmly!
Alberto's pesto and pasta making class was fantastic. We learnt a lot and ate a lot!! We did the class with our two kids (ages 9 and 11) and Alberto was kind and patient with them. The rooftop location was lovely to enjoy local snacks, wine and our pasta.
Response from Host, Oct 2026
Thank you for such a lovely review! We’re especially happy that Alberto made the class enjoyable for the whole family and was so kind and patient with your children. It’s wonderful to know you enjoyed learning, eating, and sharing the local snacks, wine, and homemade pasta on the rooftop.
This was definitely the best night of our stay in Genova! Alberto was the friendliest and most engaging host and made us feel like family in his home. Even a driving rainstorm that forced us inside for part of the lessons did not present a problem. He went out of his way to set the rooftop table back up afterwards so we could enjoy our dinner under the lights in beautiful style! And of course all the drinks, wine and food were delicious!! Book with Alberto without hesitation.
Response from Host, Sep 2026
Thank you so much for your incredible and heartfelt review! We’re thrilled to hear that your evening with Alberto was the highlight of your stay in Genoa and that he made you feel like part of the family. It’s wonderful that, despite the rainstorm, you were still able to enjoy dinner on the rooftop under the lights. We’re delighted you loved the food, wine, and warm atmosphere, and we truly appreciate your enthusiastic recommendation!
What an amazing experience!! Alberto is awesome! A very good instructor on how to make pesto and pasta plus he shared the history of the ingredients used. He made it very fun and then fed us not only the dishes we made but some different types of focaccia bread, wine and dessert all which were excellent. The rooftop added an extra layer to the experience. I would highly recommend Alberto’s cooking class. I am excited to create my own dishes at home. Thank you so much Alberto.
Response from Host, Sep 2026
Thank you so much for your amazing and heartfelt review! We’re thrilled to hear that Alberto made the experience so fun and memorable, from learning the secrets of pesto and fresh pasta to discovering the history behind the ingredients. It’s wonderful that you enjoyed the focaccia, wine, dessert, and beautiful rooftop setting—and especially that you’re excited to recreate the dishes at home!
Very knowledgeable chef offering cooking classes in his own home. I would highly recommend! It was very hands on, which made for a fun experience!
Response from Host, Sep 2026
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re delighted to hear that you enjoyed the hands-on cooking experience and appreciated Alberto’s knowledge and expertise. It’s lovely to know that learning to prepare pesto and fresh pasta in his own home made the experience so much fun. Thank you for your kind recommendation!
We will always remember this experience, and set the stage for future vacation cooking classes. Chef was incredibly kind, patient, and professional. Pesto, pasta and focaccia all made on his 12th story rooftop. Every step, every detail, so you an try at home. 100% hands on. This is a must try.
Response from Host, Sep 2026
Thank you so much for your incredible review! We’re thrilled to hear that this experience will be a lasting memory and has inspired future cooking adventures. It’s wonderful to know that the chef’s kindness, patience, and professionalism made the class so special, and that you enjoyed preparing pesto, fresh pasta, and focaccia in such a spectacular 12th-floor rooftop setting. We love that the hands-on approach gave you the confidence to recreate everything at home!
Alberto is welcoming, authentic and fun to spend the day with and learn quite a bit about pesto, pasta, and Italian cooking. He is very accommodating and goes out of his way to be a superb host and make the day rewarding and enjoyable. We had very pleasant fellow tourists attending with us, which makes for fun conversations If we come back to Genoa, we will be going again.
A highlight of our vacation for sure! So many favorite moments from the chef inviting us into his home, his rooftop prep kitchen, his sweet dog Lola, and getting to make it ourselves and learn. Really was a perfect night!
Response from Host, Sep 2026
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re thrilled to hear that your evening with the chef was a highlight of your vacation. It’s lovely to know that you enjoyed being welcomed into his home, cooking together on the rooftop, and learning hands-on throughout the experience. And of course, we’re delighted that Lola added some extra charm to your perfect night!
My daughter and I had a wonderful time participating in this cooking class. Alberto shared many useful tips about preparing the meal as well as the fascinating history about the food we were making. The rooftop was a lovely setting for the class, and it was nice to work with a small group. We would highly recommend this experience!
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re delighted to hear that you and your daughter had such a great time with Alberto and enjoyed both the cooking and the rooftop setting.
It’s fantastic to know that you appreciated the tips, the stories behind the food, and the small-group experience. We truly appreciate your recommendation and hope to welcome you back again in Genoa!
We had a wonderful time learning how to make pasta and pesto. Alberto was a great teacher. A good time was had by the entire family.
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Thank you for your wonderful review! We're delighted you enjoyed discovering Palermo's history and the important anti-mafia sites with Giuseppe. We're also glad you found the tour informative and good value. We hope to welcome you again in Palermo!
What a wonderful evening! Alberto welcomed us to his charming rooftop and shared his passion for traditional Genoese pesto and fresh pasta. He taught us the history behind the dishes while we enjoyed a unique cocktail, delicious focaccia, and local appetizers. We made pesto by hand and fresh pasta with his expert guidance, then enjoyed the meal we created with wine and a light, refreshing Genoese-style tiramisu. The small group setting made for a relaxed, personal experience. We highly recommend this class to anyone visiting Genoa!
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Thank you for your wonderful review! We're delighted that you enjoyed such a memorable evening with Alberto on his rooftop. It's great to hear that you appreciated the authentic recipes, local flavors, and the relaxed atmosphere of the small group. Thank you for your recommendation—we hope to welcome you back to Genoa for another unforgettable cooking experience. Grazie mille!
An Unforgettable Culinary Experience!
We had an absolute blast at the Pasta & Pesto making class yesterday!
Alberto is not only a fantastic chef but also an incredible teacher. He shared so many fascinating insights and background stories about the dishes, which made the whole experience both delicious and super interesting.
Everything,from the starter appetizers to the wonderful selection of wines—was top-tier. The atmosphere was light, fun, and warm. We had such a great time that as soon as I got home, I found myself googling pasta machines so I could buy one and make my own fresh pasta at home!
We would do this again in a heartbeat. Highly recommended!
Response from Host, Jul 2026
What a joy to read your review! We're thrilled that Alberto's passion for Ligurian cuisine and storytelling made your experience so memorable. Learning the secrets behind fresh pasta and authentic Genovese pesto, while enjoying delicious appetizers and carefully selected wines, is what makes this class truly special.
We're especially happy to hear that the experience inspired you to start looking for your own pasta machine—that might be one of the best compliments a cooking instructor can receive! Thank you for your enthusiastic recommendation and for sharing your wonderful memories with us. We would be delighted to welcome you back for another unforgettable culinary adventure in Genoa. Grazie mille!
Fun and interactive! Our instructor was very engaging and informative. We really enjoyed the cooking experience!
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Cooking is always better when it's hands-on and full of good energy! We're delighted that you enjoyed the interactive atmosphere and found your instructor both engaging and informative. Learning the secrets of fresh pasta and pesto while having fun is exactly what this rooftop experience is all about. Thanks for cooking and sharing this moment with us. Grazie!
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.
Response from Host, Jun 2026
Hearing that you loved learning the history of Genova and tasting that Genoise tiramisu is the best compliment! We are thrilled you had an amazing time at our authentic Rooftop Cooking Class in Genoa: Pesto, Fresh Pasta & Wine. Alberto loves sharing traditional local flavors through a hands-on experience. We're so glad the phenomenal food made your day. Grazie mille!
This is a fun experience, nestled away in a little pathway. Make sure you can climb up narrow staircases! If you can definitely worth it! Be sure and watch the video on how to arrive at the location.
Response from Host, Jun 2026
Thank you for your review! We're delighted that you enjoyed the experience and appreciated the unique setting of this rooftop cooking class in Genoa.
Located in the heart of the city's historic center, the experience offers an authentic glimpse into local life, traditions, and Ligurian cuisine. Thank you also for highlighting the arrival instructions, which help future guests enjoy a smooth and stress-free visit. We hope to welcome you back again soon.
Amazing experience!!! Alberto welcomed his home to us all, such an unforgettable time. This was by far our favourite part of the trip in Genova!
Response from Host, Jun 2026
Thank you for your wonderful review. We are thrilled to hear that Alberto made your rooftop cooking class in Genoa such an unforgettable part of your trip. Sharing his home, the secrets of authentic Ligurian pesto and fresh pasta, along with the warmth of local hospitality, is what makes this experience truly special.
We are delighted that you enjoyed this unique culinary moment and your time in Genova. We hope to welcome you back soon for another authentic Italian food experience.
This was a once in a lifetime type experience. The class was conducted in the rooftop patio of the chief's home. There was four of us in the class. The chief made everyone feel very comfortable as we made pest and pasta. In addition the chief made us a small breakfast before we started the class and provided a dessert after we ate our pesto and pasta. Highly recommend this cooking experience.
PS sorry for the late review.
Response from Host, Jun 2026
Thank you for this thoughtful review of our Rooftop Cooking Class in Genoa. There’s something truly special about making fresh pasta and pesto on a chef’s own terrace, surrounded by the city’s rooftops and that warm, unhurried atmosphere. We’re so glad the small group size helped everyone feel at ease, and that the little touches like a morning bite and dessert made the experience even more memorable. A once-in-a-lifetime experience is the highest compliment, and please don’t apologise for the timing, we’re just happy it stayed with you long enough to share. We would love to welcome you back anytime you’re in Genoa.
Alberto was amazing. He kindly opened up his home to us. He provided us with the best ingredients, warm hospitality and a wonderful rooftop. He explained thoroughly all the ingredients and how to make our pesto and pasta. He also provided us with lots of other local culinary treats. A lovely way to spend an afternoon; eat some lovely food with wonderful company and instruction. Highly recommend.
Response from Host, Jun 2026
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! Alberto truly is amazing – we're so glad he opened his home and rooftop to you. Best ingredients, warm hospitality, and thorough instruction make this pesto and pasta class in Genoa unforgettable. A lovely afternoon with great company and local treats. Grazie!
Can not say enough good things about the experience, had a fantastic group and a fantastic host. Very warm and friendly, as well as very informative about the history and culture of the cooking. The value for your money is 100% worth it. Would absolutely come back to do again and highly recommend.
Response from Host, May 2026
Diving into the history of authentic cooking with you was a delight! We're thrilled you loved our fantastic host during the Rooftop Cooking Class in Genoa: Pesto, Fresh Pasta & Wine. Crafting hands-on, traditional local flavors is our passion, and knowing you found it 100% worth it makes our day. We can't wait to welcome you back again soon. Thank you!
Alberto was the perfect genovese pasta and pesto guide to walk us through the historic tales and meaning behind every step of creating our iconic folded napkin iykyk dish. He was also incredibly hospitable! I'd recommend this experience to anyone visiting.
Response from Host, May 2026
Savoring fresh pasta and wine while uncovering historic tales is what our authentic cooking class is all about! We love that Alberto's hospitable guidance helped you master traditional recipes like Genovese pesto and that iconic "folded napkin" dish. Thank you for recommending this hands-on experience with a local chef on our scenic rooftop in Genoa. Grazie!
We had a very lovely experience! Alberto is a great host - welcoming, knowledgeable and kind. We can't wait to make pasta and pesto when we return home.
Response from Host, Jun 2026
Thank you for your kind words about our Rooftop Cooking Class in Genoa. We’re so glad Alberto’s warm and welcoming nature made the experience feel special, and that you left feeling excited to make fresh pasta and pesto back home. That’s exactly the kind of lasting inspiration we hope to share. You are always welcome back to Alberto’s rooftop for another taste of Ligurian hospitality.
My family and I loved our experience with Alberto and Amy! From the rooftop terrace to the food to the thoughtful storytelling, they totally succeeded at delivering a memorable afternoon in Genoa. Alberto taught us about the ingredients, the region, and culture while Amy crafted a hospitable atmosphere and welcomed us into their home. They were both great at communication before, during, and after the experience.
We booked this as a cruise excursion and Alberto was great about timing each aspect of the class so we could return to the port for embarkation on time.
Great opportunity to learn not only about how to make pasta and pesto, but also about Genoa and the region of Liguria. Alberto was a great host more than willing to entertain any question. Just hope to be able to repeat the success when I get back home. Highly recommend.
Amazing pesto and pasta cooking class on rooftop in Genoa!
Alberto is a great host, professional, very knowledgeable and great teacher!
His passion about his city, its roots, and every ingredient, its story of where it came from, made the experience more enjoyable, wanting us to come back for more!
Not one dull moment from the moment we stepped in! The appetizers, conversations, drinks and dessert were a great touch, and the pasta and pesto fun to make and absolutely delicious!
My husband and I truly enjoyed every minute of it, an experience not to miss!
Absolutely wonderful experience!!! Gorgeous rooftop location and delicious food. Very entertaining and inclusive for all ages. It was our favorite experience of our vacation! Highly recommend!!!
Response from Host, Apr 2026
Thank you! We’re thrilled we were your favorite vacation experience. Alberto and the team are so happy you loved the rooftop vibes and food. Come back soon!
Alberto was very informative knows a lot about the history and the ingredients that he is using to make the perfect pasta and pesto we had a fantastic time. It was just the wife and I and we can't thank him enough for an excellent afternoon highly recommend sitting down with Alberto for lunch or dinner!
Response from Host, Mar 2026
thanks for your nice review
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