Italy’s reputation as a land of art, history, and culinary excellence makes it an ideal place to take part in hands-on workshops and classes. Whether you want to learn how to make traditional pesto in Liguria or enjoy a full-day Ligurian cooking class with a local host, the country offers some truly memorable experiences. We particularly love the Pesto Experience, Cooking Classes, Wine Tasting in Sestri Levante, which combines learning, tasting, and taking home your own fresh pesto — all guided by a personal chef. For those wanting a deeper dive into regional cuisine, the Ligurian cooking classes offer an immersive experience in Anna’s home, with the chance to prepare multiple Ligurian specialties. And if a more relaxing day is your goal, the Yoga Lesson in the Langhe Region offers a peaceful way to connect with Italy’s beautiful landscapes.
Each of these options highlights Italy’s rich culinary and wellness traditions, giving travelers the chance to learn, relax, and taste authentic flavors in a way that’s both practical and memorable. Let’s explore what makes each experience special.
1. Pesto Experience, Cooking Classes, Wine Tasting in Sestri Levante
At number one, this private pesto experience combines history, hands-on cooking, and wine tasting—all in just about an hour. Led by a personal chef, you’ll start with a glass of Vinaccieri wine to get in the mood, then learn the story behind this iconic Ligurian sauce. Using a traditional mortar, you’ll produce your own Genoese pesto, which you’ll taste fresh and take home in a specially provided container. The class also includes making pasta with ancient Ligurian I Corzetti molds, as well as Ligurian potato gnocchi, and a lesson on Focaccia & Pane. The intimate nature of the tour, with just your private group and a chef, makes for an engaging experience.
What makes this class stand out is its perfect balance of history, hands-on participation, and tasting. With an average rating of 5/5 from 119 reviews, visitors rave about the fun and patience of the chef, along with the delicious outcomes. One reviewer noted, “The class was so fun… learning how to make the pasta and then enjoying the same pasta delicious.” The price of about $58 per person offers fantastic value for such an authentic and personalized experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for food lovers who want a quick yet thorough taste of Ligurian cuisine, combined with a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
2. Ligurian cooking classes
At number two, these Ligurian cooking classes offer a deeper, more immersive experience lasting around 5 hours. Hosted in Anna’s private house, the atmosphere is warm and informal, feeling like cooking with a well-loved family member. You’ll learn to prepare vegetarian Pansotti with walnut sauce, stuffed roasted veggies, and meat dishes, finishing with a layered fig and rum amaretti dessert. The class emphasizes regional traditions and includes stories about Liguria’s culinary evolution, making it more than just a cooking session.
The reviews reflect high satisfaction, with all commenters describing Anna as a kind and patient host who makes everyone feel at home. One visitor said, “We had an amazing time cooking with Anna,” highlighting the engaging and friendly vibe. The price at around $104 per person is reasonable considering the length and depth of the experience. It’s especially suited for travelers wanting to really understand Ligurian food and enjoy a social, authentic setting.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want an in-depth, hands-on cooking experience in a cozy setting, with plenty of regional flavor and personal stories.
3. Yoga Lesson in the Langhe Region
Leaving the kitchen behind, the Yoga Lesson in the Langhe Region offers a tranquil way to enjoy Italy’s stunning landscape. For $47 per person, you’ll spend an entire day focusing on wellness amid the rolling hills of Piedmont. The experience features an experienced instructor guiding you through gentle yoga, set against a backdrop of vineyards and scenic vistas—perfect for those craving relaxation and a break from sightseeing.
This experience is best suited for travelers who want to combine health and nature, especially if they’re interested in holistic activities. It’s a flexible option, allowing you to unwind and reconnect with your body in a peaceful environment. While reviews aren’t listed, the appeal lies in the setting and the chance to truly relax with nature.
Bottom Line: A great choice for wellness-minded travelers seeking a peaceful, scenic yoga session as part of their Italian adventure.
$47 per person
How to Choose
When deciding between these workshops and classes, consider your interests and travel style. If you’re a foodie eager to quickly learn and taste authentic Ligurian flavors, the Pesto Experience is a fun, efficient option. For those wanting a more in-depth culinary journey, the Ligurian cooking classes provide a longer, more personalized experience. If wellness, scenery, and relaxation are your priorities, then the Yoga lesson in Piedmont offers a peaceful escape.
Consider your budget, available time, and interests—whether it’s cooking, tasting, or unwinding in nature. Booking early is advisable, especially in high season, to secure your preferred date and small group size.
Final Thoughts
Italy’s workshops and classes span a wide range of tastes and interests—from quick culinary bites to full-day cooking adventures and serene yoga sessions. If you’re short on time and want a taste of Ligurian cuisine, the Pesto Experience offers fantastic value. For a deeper dive into regional cooking, the Ligurian cooking classes are perfect for foodies. And for those seeking peace and wellness, the Yoga lesson in the Langhe presents a calming way to connect with Italy’s landscape.
No matter your choice, booking in advance ensures you won’t miss out on these authentic experiences. Italy’s workshops are a wonderful way to bring home more than just souvenirs—your own culinary skills or a moment of Zen amidst Italy’s stunning scenery.