Bilbao isn’t just about Guggenheim museums and pintxo bars; it’s also a city where food culture runs deep. Here, cooking classes aren’t just about recipes—they’re about understanding Basque ingredients, traditions, and flavors. What makes Bilbao special is its blend of local history and lively culinary scene, making it a perfect place to learn how to cook traditional dishes. We especially enjoyed classes that combine hands-on experience with local wines and stories—like the Basque Pintxos and Tapas Cooking Class—which gives you a real taste of the neighborhood’s vibrant food culture.
If you’re curious about regional specialties or want to learn classic techniques, these classes offer more than just cooking—they provide insight into Basque life and flavors. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned home cook, you’ll find options that match your interests, from small-group sessions to immersive experiences.
Quick Overview
Our list covers a range of cooking classes in Bilbao that emphasize local ingredients, authentic recipes, and engaging instructors. You’ll find opportunities to learn how to make pintxos and tapas, paella, and other Basque favorites, often with wine and regional products included. Some experiences are small-group or private, offering more personalized attention, while others focus on more extensive hands-on techniques. Check these options below to see which suits your style and schedule.
1. Basque Pintxos and Tapas Cooking Class in Bilbao
At number 1, this 2.5-hour class invites you to learn how to prepare traditional pintxos and tapas with a local chef. You’ll meet your instructor, Mikel, in a modern kitchen that boasts top-notch equipment, perfect for an engaging hands-on experience. The class begins with an introduction to local ingredients and spices, where you’ll hear the stories behind each component. Then, it’s time to get your hands dirty—dicing, grilling, and assembling your own pintxos.
What sets this experience apart is the rich commentary on Basque culinary traditions, combined with a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. The reviews highlight Mikel’s expertise and warmth—”We felt very welcomed from the start” and “lots of laughter.” You’ll taste what you create, paired with local wines and charcuterie, and learn tips to replicate these dishes at home. The class is ideal for those who want a balanced mix of learning and tasting without a long commitment.
Bottom Line: Perfect for food lovers wanting a friendly, authentic introduction to Basque small bites, and it’s highly rated for its professional setup and engaging guide.
2. Small-group Immersive Basque Cooking Class in Bilbao with Open Bar
Number 2 on our list offers a more extensive, 3.5-hour experience that dives deep into seasonal Basque ingredients and local market visits. This class is well-suited for travelers wanting a true immersion—you’ll cook with other passionate foodies, using fresh, seasonal produce directly from the market. The class takes place in a private dining room, creating an intimate environment for learning and tasting.
Chef Mikel Larrañaga leads this experience, sharing stories about local ingredients and regional dishes. Guests rave about his knowledge, warmth, and the fun atmosphere—”I learned new preparation methods and had an amazing time.” You’ll prepare and taste a variety of dishes, including Basque stew (Marmitako), txuleta (steak), and desserts like torrijas, all paired with local wines. The open bar adds a relaxed vibe, encouraging conversation and conviviality.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for foodies eager for a comprehensive, hands-on adventure with a personable chef in a cozy setting. It offers good value for the time and quality of experiences.
3. Pintxos and Tapas Cooking Class in Bilbao
Number 3 features a half-day, small-group class held in a private villa outside Bilbao. This experience combines learning how to prepare Basque pintxos with tasting and socializing. The instructor guides you through creating dishes using seasonal, on-site grown produce, which adds freshness and authenticity. You’ll sip Spanish wine and sample local cheese and olive oil while cooking, then sit down together to enjoy the results.
Participants enjoy the personalized attention and the beautiful mountain setting, which offers a peaceful backdrop for culinary discovery. The class emphasizes local culture and ingredients, providing a comprehensive introduction to Basque cuisine. The reviews praise the welcoming hosts and well-organized format, noting that everyone gets involved in slicing, dicing, and plating.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want a more relaxed, scenic experience that combines learning, tasting, and enjoying in a cozy environment.
4. Paella Cooking Class (with Basque Sangria) in Bilbao
Number 4 specializes in the iconic Spanish dish—paella—with a 3.5-hour hands-on class. Led by a friendly local chef, this experience focuses on making authentic paella from scratch, including learning how to prepare the perfect rice, broth, and toppings. You’ll also get to make traditional sangría, with non-alcoholic options available.
The class takes place at an impressive venue in Bilbao, and the chef shares stories about regional variations and techniques, making it more than just an instructional session. Guests highlight the interactive nature, with many saying they plan to recreate the dishes at home. Reviewers mention that the food, the chef, and the storytelling made for a memorable experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those craving a deep dive into Spanish rice dishes and wanting to learn both cooking and drinking in a lively setting.
5. Bilbao: Basque Pintxos and Tapas Cooking Class
Number 5 offers a 2.5-hour intimate class in a spacious, modern cooking school. You’ll learn to make traditional and modern pintxos, with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients and local flavors. The instructor pairs each pintxo with local wines and explains their cultural significance. You’ll finish by tasting your own creations alongside a charcuterie board.
Participants praise the well-equipped kitchen and friendly atmosphere, with the chance to interact closely with the instructor. They also appreciate the stories about Bilbao’s culinary traditions. The class is perfect if you want a short, engaging experience that combines learning, tasting, and socializing.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers wanting a concentrated pintxos lesson paired with wine, ideal for a short but fulfilling culinary adventure.
6. Paella Cooking Class with Sangria in Bilbao
Number 6 offers a more extensive 3.5-hour class focusing on cracking the secret of authentic paella. Led by a local chef, you’ll learn the key techniques for perfect rice and seafood, plus how to make traditional sangría. The experience is hands-on, with participants preparing 2-3 dishes, including Padron peppers and gazpacho.
The venue is noted for its cleanliness and strategic location, making it a comfortable setting. Many reviews highlight how engaging and clear the instructions are, with guests excited to recreate the dishes at home. The class is suited for foodies who want a comprehensive Spanish cooking experience and enjoy pairing food with regional drinks.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting to master paella and other Spanish staples in an organized, enjoyable environment.
7. Bilbao: Immersive Basque Cooking Class
Finally, number 7 offers a 3.5-hour immersive experience in downtown Bilbao, where you will cook 2-3 starters, a main, and dessert. The class emphasizes authentic Basque techniques and ingredients, with a pairing of local wines and non-alcoholic drinks included. You’ll also enjoy a cheese and charcuterie platter as a complement while preparing your meal.
Instructor Mikel’s expertise and friendly style make this class a favorite among past guests. They appreciate the comprehensive nature of the experience—from market visits to cooking—and leave with new skills and recipes. This is best for travelers who want an all-encompassing culinary lesson with plenty of local flavor.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those seeking a full Basque cooking experience in a relaxed yet informative setting.
How to Choose the Right Cooking Class in Bilbao
When deciding between these classes, consider your budget, schedule, and interests. If you’re looking for a quick taste of pintxos and local stories, the Basque Pintxos and Tapas Cooking Class is perfect. For a more comprehensive and immersive experience, the Small-group Immersive Basque Cooking Class offers detailed instruction with market visits and multiple dishes.
Want to learn classic Spanish dishes like paella? The Paella Cooking Class provides thorough techniques, especially if paired with sangría. For a scenic, relaxed setting, the villa-based classes are ideal, while those seeking a downtown experience might prefer the Immersive Basque Cooking Class.
Book early, especially in peak seasons, and check the duration and group size to match your comfort level and schedule.
In summary, Bilbao offers a variety of cooking classes that cater to every taste—from short introductory sessions to full immersion experiences. Whether you want to master pintxos or learn how to create authentic paella, these options promise a delicious way to connect with Basque culture. For a truly memorable trip, select a class that fits your style and book ahead—you won’t regret it.