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
Nicole_C
An incredibly unique experience. Alberto is a wonderful host who was very knowledgeable - teaching us the steps to making delicious pesto and pasta, but also providing us with history and background of the ingredients we were using. The location is stunning. The food was delicious. Was the highlight of our trip to Genoa and a must for food lovers!
Reviews
5.0
based on 344 reviews
Sort by: Most insightful
Julia_T, Jul 2026
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!
Michaela_K, Jun 2026
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!
Denise_B, Jun 2026
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.
Shannon_S, Jun 2026
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.
Leisha_P, Jun 2026
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.
Marie_F, Jun 2026
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!
MHoss3, May 2026
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!
Clarisa_G, May 2026
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!
Abby_R, May 2026
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.
Tiffany_C, May 2026
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.
Robert_G, Apr 2026
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.
Nardine, Apr 2026
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!
Stephanie_S, Apr 2026
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!
David_H, Mar 2026
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
Danielle_S, Mar 2026
Our experience with Alberto was unforgettable! As a professional chef, he welcomed us onto his beautiful rooftop terrace for an incredible pasta and pesto cooking class. Not only did we learn so much, but he also treated us to a variety of delicious snacks and specialties we never would have tried on our own. The wine he provided was fantastic and perfectly complemented the entire experience. Alberto’s passion, skill, and hospitality truly made this a highlight of our trip… highly recommend!
Response from Host, Mar 2026
thanks for your nice comment it was great to host you
Kellie_H, Mar 2026
What an amazing afternoon, very knowledgeable chef, excellent food, and come away with new skills. Highly recommend
Response from Host, Mar 2026
thanks for your nice comment it was great to host you
Sophia_M, Mar 2026
Great experience. Alberto was so helpful, patient, and a great host. I would add it to your plans while in Genoa!
Response from Host, Mar 2026
thanks for your review it was a fun and entertaining day . hope to have you back in Genova soon
Tara_O, Mar 2026
We had a wonderful time at this homemade pesto and pasta making class. It was a small group with just our family, which made the experience feel very personal and relaxed. The atmosphere was incredibly inviting, and Alberto did a fantastic job guiding us through the process.
We not only learned how to make delicious pesto and fresh pasta from scratch, but also gained great insight into the local history and cuisine. It was the perfect blend of hands-on cooking, culture, and fun. Highly recommend this experience for anyone wanting an authentic taste of the region!
Tiffany_J, Mar 2026
This pasta making class was amazing!!! We got step by step on how to make pasta and pesto. We also was given breakfast when we arrived as well as lunch and dessert. Our chef was very knowledgeable and also knew the history of the food and culture
Response from Host, Mar 2026
thanks for your nice review. it was a pleasure to host you
Dario_D, Feb 2026
This was a highlight of our time in Genova. Alberto hosted us at his home and he was so warm and welcoming. Alberto is very knowledgeable and passionate about Ligurian (in particular Genovese) cuisine. He is so energetic you can’t help but feel fascinated by what he’s showing you. The food was delicious, honestly transcendent. It’s also an opportunity to just spend some time around an Italian chef. He embodies that obsessiveness and perfectionism we all associate with the Italian culinary tradition.
Response from Host, Feb 2026
thanks it was great to host you !
Susan_S, Dec 2025
The experience was excellent. Alberto was very kind and patient. He was very knowledgable about his craft. The location was a little hard to find.
Alicia_D, Nov 2025
Alberto was an amazing teacher, with a gorgeous roof top patio. He created a unique experience, that gave a great history to quality of ingredients and patience in creating a quality product. I highly recommend this activity for an authentic Italian experience.
Kyle_G, Oct 2025
Alberto provided a WONDERFUL experience across the board. Directions and instructions on getting to his beautiful apartment in downtown Genoa were easy to understand and follow. Alberto is extremely knowledgeable in both the history of the region, and of course the cooking techniques and specialties. Everyone in the group gets to participate in every part of the pesto AND pasta making, which is a lot of fun. He also provided some typical Genoan "appetizers", followed by some amazing wine with dinner and a little sweet treat at the end. The space was beautiful and tranquil, and we learned so much and had so much fun. We would absolutely recommend this class and experience. Grazie mille, Alberto!
Frank_A, Oct 2025
A very special experience with a great local chef. Alberto also provided a fantastic rooftop kitchen venue for the prepping and tasting of our pasta & pesto, along with a few of his own treats. Book it if you're a foodie or not-one of the best activities we had in Genoa-it added to our appreciation of the regional culture and food.
Melanie_D, Oct 2025
It was absolutely wonderful! Be mindful of the many flights of stairs to reach the beautiful space with an outstanding host. Alberto made this class such a special experience - his knowledge, his warm and welcoming atmosphere, and the the detailed cooking experience was far more than we expected.
DK_C, Oct 2025
Positively outstanding! Enjoyed meeting our fellow guests and chef who guided us through a delightful experience. We learnedmso much about Genoa, its food and history. It was “hands on” with both pesto and pasta making with a proper explanation of both the ingredients and process. In the end - we enjoyed it all with wine and dessert. Thank you so much!!!
Robert_B, Oct 2025
What a great experience. The instruction and participation was well balanced. The food, wine and company was more than we expected. I would suggest this class to anyone who is looking for an introduction to Genoa.
Lisa_B, Oct 2025
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
Sara_D, Oct 2025
Alberto’s pesto pasta class is a gem! Set on a stunning rooftop with cathedral views, you’ll learn to make fresh pasta and authentic pesto the traditional way. Alberto is warm, funny, and full of local flavor—literally and figuratively. Great food, great vibes, and unforgettable memories. Don’t miss it!
Sinaed_K, Sep 2025
This cooking class was absolutely perfect. Our host, Alberto, was very accommodating. It was fairly easy to find his apartment but our taxi driver did not seem to know, so we had the taxi stop at Piazza de Ferrari which is very close. You will need to be able to walk upstairs.
The apartment was clean and welcoming with a nice clean bathroom and a beautiful rooftop setting. The weather was perfect to sit under the canopy and listen to Alberto explain more about the culture and history of Genova. We learned so much about pesto, and making it by hand for the first time was a wonderful experience topped with the most amazing scent of basil.
The pasta was cooked for us and we enjoyed wine and aperitifs while we waited. Our meal was satisfying and the company was perfect. I could not have asked for a better day or a more personable host and guide to a deeply Italian experience.
From $98.80
per personup to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)
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