Matera isn’t just about its striking Sassi views and ancient cave dwellings; it’s also a fantastic spot for hands-on learning. Whether you want to roll pasta, craft ceramic cuckoo birds, or learn the secrets of traditional bread, Matera offers a variety of workshops that let you connect with local artisans and foodies alike. These experiences provide a much richer memory than just sightseeing, offering a taste of genuine Lucanian culture and craftsmanship. For example, the Matera Cooking Class lets you meet a local family, harvest ingredients from their organic farm, and enjoy a rustic country lunch—an authentic slice of rural life you won’t find in typical tours.
If you’re looking to get your hands dirty with clay, the Handmade Clay Bird Workshop provides a quick but memorable introduction to Matera’s ceramic traditions. Or, if pasta is your passion, the Pasta Cooking Class Old Farmer Style offers a chance to learn recipes handed down through generations—making this one of the most flavorful ways to dive into local gastronomy. Want to explore local markets and cook in a private home? The Cesarina’s private cooking experience combines shopping, hands-on cooking, and a meal with regional wines. For a different craft, the Terracotta artisanal workshop shows you the secrets behind Matera’s clay art, perfect for those interested in traditional craft skills.
Below is a detailed look at each of these top workshops and classes, so you can choose the best fit for your interests, budget, and schedule.
1. Matera Cooking Class
This private cooking class takes you off the tourist trail into the rural heart of Matera for a real taste of local farm life. During approximately four hours, you’ll meet a local family at their organic olive and orange groves, where you can learn how these ingredients are harvested—perfect for anyone interested in farm-to-table traditions. Afterward, you’ll roll up your sleeves in their rustic kitchen to prepare fresh pasta and other classic dishes, guided by a host eager to share stories and techniques. The highlight is a casual meal where you taste the dishes you’ve crafted, paired with local wine or a simple country-style lunch.
What makes this experience stand out is its authentic setting—away from busy restaurants—and the chance to connect directly with a local family. The reviews, notably a perfect 5/5 based on 66 reviews, praise the hosts Greg and Sylvia for their warmth and humor, plus the opportunity to enjoy a hearty meal made with love.
This tour is ideal for food lovers who enjoy hands-on experiences, rural scenery, and storytelling. It’s a solid value at $161.34 per person, especially considering the personalized, private nature and the inclusion of a full meal. Be prepared for a relaxed pace and plenty of time for questions and conversation.
Bottom Line: A standout for those wanting genuine culinary immersion and a taste of Matera’s countryside.
2. Matera: Handmade Clay Bird Workshop
The Clay Bird Workshop offers a quick but authentic dive into Matera’s ceramic traditions. In about 1.5 hours, you’ll learn how to hand mold a traditional cuckoo bird whistle, a typical Matera craft with deep roots. The workshop is conducted in a small, private setting perfect for just two people, making it an intimate experience. Your instructor not only guides you through the process but shares insights into the history and cultural significance of the cuckoo motif in Matera’s society.
What makes this workshop unique is its focus on craftsmanship rather than mass-produced souvenirs. You’ll create a functional piece of art—the whistle—that carries local significance, and you’ll take it home as a memorable keepsake. The workshop costs just $79.71 per person, offering excellent value for a personalized craft experience, especially given its short duration.
Reviews highlight the skill of the instructor and the enjoyable storytelling, making this a perfect activity for craft lovers or those curious about local artisanship. It’s an ideal addition to your itinerary if you want a quick, meaningful hands-on activity without a long commitment.
Bottom Line: A charming, short craft session perfect for those interested in Matera’s ceramic heritage and unique local crafts.
3. Matera: Pasta Cooking Class Old Farmer Style in a Sassi Cellar
This pasta-making class takes place in a historic Sassi cellar carved from ancient stone—an atmospheric setting that adds authenticity to your culinary journey. Over approximately three hours, you’ll learn to prepare bruschetta, cialledda salad, and traditional pasta dishes using fresh, local ingredients. Guided by a professional chef, you’ll master handmade pasta techniques that have been passed down through generations, deepening your appreciation for Matera’s gastronomic traditions.
What sets this tour apart is the historic environment—cooking in a cave-like setting that connects you directly to the past. The reviews, which include a 4.5/5 rating from 12 reviews, praise the chef’s expertise and the chance to learn authentic recipes in a private, relaxed atmosphere. Guests mention the delicious food and the passion of the hosts, making it a memorable culinary experience.
This class is perfect for foodies wanting a hands-on, immersive experience and a chance to learn regional recipes. At $91.04 per person, it offers good value considering the personalized instruction and the unique setting. Note that it’s suitable for those comfortable with a bit of physical activity in the kitchen.
Bottom Line: An authentic and atmospheric way to learn Matera’s traditional pasta recipes from a professional chef.
4. Local Market Visit and Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina’s home in Matera
For around six hours, this experience combines market shopping with a private cooking lesson in a local Cesarina’s home. It begins with a guided tour of Matera’s vibrant local markets, where you’ll select fresh produce and ingredients—an essential part of understanding regional cuisine. Then, in an intimate setting, you’ll prepare three regional dishes with expert guidance, culminating in a sit-down meal over local wine and coffee.
What makes this tour stand out is its personalized approach—you learn in a real home, not a commercial kitchen. The host’s insider knowledge makes it a cultural as well as culinary experience. The review mentions a high degree of attention and a cozy, welcoming environment, perfect for those who enjoy learning from locals. The $218.98 price reflects the extensive hands-on involvement and the meal included.
Ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, immersive experience, this is perfect for food lovers seeking deep engagement with Matera’s culinary traditions. The longer duration and gourmet focus make it suitable for a special occasion or serious food enthusiast.
Bottom Line: A premium, fully personalized culinary experience that combines shopping, cooking, and tasting in a local home.
$218.98 per person
5. Matera: terracotta artisanal workshop
In this artisanal workshop, you’ll have the opportunity to discover the ancient craft of pottery making firsthand. Led by an architect and ceramist with a passion for local materials, you’ll learn how to craft objects inspired by Matera’s landscape and traditions. The tour offers a fascinating storytelling session as you observe and participate in shaping clay, understanding the significance of Matera’s terracotta art.
The workshop lasts about two hours, and participants get to create their own clay objects—a meaningful souvenir that connects you directly to Matera’s artisanal heritage. The review is glowing, praising the skill of the instructor and the warm, welcoming atmosphere. At $91.89, it offers good value for a small-group, hands-on art experience.
Suitable for art lovers or those curious about traditional crafts, this workshop provides a rare glimpse into Matera’s creative side. It’s a perfect choice for travelers interested in cultural craftsmanship and adding a handmade item to their travel keepsakes.
Bottom Line: An engaging introduction to Matera’s ceramic and terracotta traditions, ideal for lovers of art and local craftsmanship.
$91.89 per person
6. Private cooking class at a Cesarina’s home with tasting in Matera
This private cooking class focuses on fresh pasta and traditional Southern Italian recipes. Over about three hours, you’ll learn how to prepare three different pasta dishes with the guidance of a friendly local host. The lesson takes place in a cozy, private home, making it ideal for those seeking a more relaxed, personalized experience. After the cooking, you’ll enjoy your culinary creations with a glass of regional wine.
The experience is appreciated for its informal, intimate atmosphere, and the host’s ability to tailor the class to your skill level and interests. With a 4.5/5 rating based on 4 reviews, guests consistently mention the delicious food and the friendly, welcoming environment. The $168 price is reasonable given the personalized attention and the opportunity to take away new cooking skills.
Best suited for travelers who want to learn from locals at a relaxed pace and enjoy a delicious meal with wine at the end. It’s perfect for couples or small groups looking for a culinary home experience.
Bottom Line: A friendly, private lesson in Matera’s culinary secrets that ends with a satisfying meal.
7. Bread-making workshop in Matera
The Bread-making workshop in Matera offers a hands-on experience spanning about an hour and a half. You’ll learn about the history of breadmaking in the region, including the use of local semolina and natural sourdough starters. Under the guidance of a master baker, you’ll knead, proof, and shape your own loaf, applying a traditional stamp that signifies authenticity.
While the ratings are modest at 3/5 based on 2 reviews, the experience provides valuable insight into local baking techniques and ingredients. The $93.05 fee is reasonable, especially for those interested in culinary traditions and bread art. The workshop is straightforward and good for bread enthusiasts or families wanting a simple, engaging activity.
It’s a good choice for those curious about bread history and techniques, especially if you’re interested in working with natural sourdough or want to bring home a fresh loaf as a souvenir.
Bottom Line: An educational and tactile experience for lovers of baked goods and traditional breadmaking.
$93.05 per person
How to Choose the Right Workshop in Matera
When deciding between these culinary and craft experiences, consider your budget, interests, and how much time you want to dedicate. For a deep dive into local cuisine, the Cesarina private cooking offers a comprehensive experience, including shopping and a meal. If you prefer shorter, craft-focused activities, the Clay Bird Workshop or the Terracotta Artisanship are fantastic options. Budget-wise, the pasta and bread workshops offer good value, while the private market and home cooking classes provide more personalized attention.
Book early, especially during peak travel seasons, as these workshops tend to fill quickly. Think about your interest level—whether you want to learn cooking, crafting, or just enjoy a hands-on cultural experience—and choose accordingly.
In summary, Matera offers a rich variety of workshops that go beyond sightseeing. Whether you’re kneading dough in a cave, shaping clay into a cuckoo bird, or shopping at a lively market, these classes make your trip memorable by connecting you directly to local traditions. For most travelers, the Matera Cooking Class and the Cesarina home experience stand out as excellent ways to enjoy authentic culinary immersion, while those interested in craftsmanship will appreciate the ceramic and terracotta workshops. Don’t forget to reserve ahead, especially in high season, to secure your spot for these engaging experiences in Matera.