Alicante isn’t just about beaches and sunny weather—it’s a fantastic place to learn how to cook traditional Spanish dishes, especially paella, in an authentic setting. The city’s lively markets, local chefs, and vibrant food culture make it a perfect destination for culinary enthusiasts. We especially like the market visits included in these experiences, giving you a glimpse of daily life and fresh ingredients that define Alicante’s cuisine. For a hands-on experience with expert guidance, the Alicante Paella Cooking Class, Tapas, Drinks and Marketplace stands out for its immersive approach—starting with a lively market tour before cooking.
Whether you’re after a quick, affordable class or a private gourmet experience, Alicante has options. Read on for our picks of the best cooking classes that will turn your trip into a delicious memory.
1. Alicante Paella Cooking Class, Tapas, Drinks and Marketplace
This highly-rated experience consistently earns a perfect 5.0/5 from 132 reviews. It’s a 3.5-hour adventure that begins with a visit to a local market, where you’ll pick out the freshest ingredients—an essential part of the authentic Alicante experience. The class is led by a passionate local chef who shares insider tips you won’t find in a cookbook. The hands-on cooking session then focuses on paella, including different varieties like seafood, meat, and vegetarian options, making it flexible for all tastes.
The reviews rave about how fun and educational the class is, with participants mentioning interactions at the market and the chance to cook three different paellas and tapas. One guest said, “We had a very good time and learned how to cook a paella,” highlighting the education and enjoyment packed into this session. It’s great for those who want a full culture—from market shopping to dining on their own creations. Costing around $58, it offers excellent value for such a comprehensive experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for food lovers eager to learn authentic recipes, enjoy local market vibes, and share a lively, interactive class.
2. Alicante Paella Cooking Class, Tapas, Drinks and Market
Slightly more affordable at $56 per person, this class runs about 3.5 hours and shares many similarities with the first but tends to focus on creating a warm, small-group atmosphere—making it ideal for those who want a more intimate experience. The visit to the local market is a core part of the experience, and you’ll learn how to select and prep ingredients that are fresh and authentic.
Guests consistently praise Marina, the guide, for her friendliness and enthusiasm. One reviewer called it “friendly, fun, and delicious,” emphasizing how much fun they had preparing tapas and paella with a small group. The class also includes tasting traditional tapas and local drinks like sangría and regional wines, making it a flavorful journey. The focus on hands-on cooking and cultural insights makes this a strong choice for first-timers or couples.
Value-wise, the price is competitive, and the class promises a genuinely local experience that’s perfect for those looking to add a culinary highlight to their trip without breaking the bank.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for small groups and those wanting to combine market shopping, cooking, and tasting in a relaxed setting.
3. Paella & Sangria Cooking Class in Alicante with Market Visit
For around $56.89, the Paella & Sangria class offers a 3.5-hour deep dive into classic Spanish flavors. This tour is special because it combines the process of making both paella and sangria, two staples of Spanish cuisine, with a visit to the local market. You’ll learn how to pick ingredients like a seasoned stall owner, supporting small businesses and understanding the importance of freshness.
The class emphasizes interactive learning with a maximum of 15 participants, making it more personalized. Guests mention how guides like Fred make the experience engaging and informative. One reviewer noted, “Fred and chef Maria were absolutely amazing throughout every step,” highlighting the quality of instruction and the chance to learn about Spanish culinary traditions firsthand.
This experience is ideal for travelers who want to expand their cooking repertoire and learn techniques they can replicate at home. Plus, the focus on market interactions offers cultural insights that go beyond just recipes.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want a well-rounded, personalized class emphasizing both cooking and cultural understanding.
4. Alicante cooking class with a private chef
For a more exclusive experience, the private chef class offers a gourmet, personalized culinary adventure in your own accommodation. Priced at approximately $191, this 3-hour experience is tailored to your tastes and dietary preferences, making it perfect for couples, families, or groups celebrating special occasions.
The private chef introduces you to local tapas, wines, and traditional Alicante ingredients, sharing stories and insights along the way. This experience is ideal if you prefer a bespoke, intimate setting rather than a group class. Guests have raved about how the chef’s expertise made the experience both fun and educational, with a focus on quality over quantity.
While it’s pricier, the customization and privacy of the experience are its biggest draw. It’s perfect for those who want to indulge in a private culinary journey without distractions, and it’s suitable for travelers with a taste for luxury.
Bottom Line: The go-to choice for travelers seeking a tailored, exclusive cooking experience in the comfort of their own space.
5. Alicante: Cooking Class with Private Chef and Local Wine
At approximately $168 per person, this experience offers a luxurious, personalized approach to Spanish cuisine. Hosted in your own accommodation, it features a private chef guiding you through crafting a menu with fresh, local ingredients. The class includes local wines tailored to each course, enhancing the tasting experience.
Guests love the opportunity to learn about Alicante’s culinary traditions while enjoying a private, relaxed environment. The chef curates a menu based on your preferences, with an emphasis on tapas and regional flavors. The class also covers food and wine pairing techniques, making it an ideal choice for wine lovers or those celebrating a special occasion.
While this experience commands a higher price, the personalized attention and high-quality ingredients justify the cost. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a luxury, in-depth taste of Alicante’s food scene without leaving their accommodation.
Bottom Line: The top pick for those who want a bespoke gourmet experience with expert guidance and wine pairing.
$168 per person
How to Choose
Deciding between these Alicante cooking classes depends on your budget, interests, and how much of a hands-on experience you’re after. If you want a full culture with market visits and multiple dishes, the Alicante Paella Cooking Class, Tapas, Drinks and Marketplace is hard to beat. For a more intimate setting, the small-group class offers a cozy, personalized vibe.
If luxury and privacy are your priorities, the private chef experiences deliver a custom, upscale culinary journey. Meanwhile, the Paella & Sangria class balances learning and cultural richness, making it perfect for those interested in both food and local traditions.
Consider your time availability—most classes are around 3-3.5 hours—and think about whether you prefer group camaraderie or private attention. Booking early is wise, especially during peak travel seasons in spring and summer.
Final Thoughts
Alicante offers a diverse range of cooking classes that highlight its rich culinary traditions. From immersive market visits to private chef experiences, there’s something for every food enthusiast. For travelers seeking an authentic, hands-on experience, the first two classes with market visits and tapas are excellent choices. If you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a luxury treat, the private chef options will satisfy your cravings for exclusivity and personalization.
No matter which you choose, these classes promise not just a meal but a meaningful taste of Alicante’s vibrant food scene. Don’t forget to book early, as these popular experiences tend to fill up quickly—especially in high season. Now, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and start cooking in one of Spain’s most delicious regions.