Perugia isn’t just a charming hilltop city with stunning views and medieval streets—it’s also a fantastic place to learn how to cook like an Italian nonna. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned home cook, the city offers a variety of hands-on classes that make using fresh, local ingredients fun and accessible. We especially love the Hands on Italian Cooking Classes for their lively atmosphere, thorough instruction, and the chance to enjoy your own creations paired with estate-grown wine. These experiences give you a true taste of Umbrian cuisine, making them perfect for foodies eager to bring authentic recipes home.
If you’re after a more immersive experience, the Organic cooking class with a sommelier in an Olive and wine farm combines cooking with tastings of award-winning olive oil and wine on a working farm—ideal for those who want to understand where their food comes from in a relaxed setting. For families, the Family cooking class offers a fun, kid-friendly way to learn Italian cooking while connecting with local farmers. And for those who prefer to stay in their private villa, the Cooking class of Spoleto recipes, fresh pasta and truffles provides a customizable, intimate lesson in a beautiful setting.
In the list below, you’ll find the best options for every interest and schedule—whether you want a quick afternoon class, a private experience, or an online session to learn from afar.
1. Hands on Italian Cooking Classes
At number 1 we have the Hands on Italian Cooking Classes, which consistently earn a perfect 5-star rating from hundreds of happy travelers. This half-day experience in Perugia takes about four hours and is led by an English-speaking instructor who guides you through making a five-course meal from scratch. It’s a true hands-on workshop—no watching from the sidelines here. Instead, you’ll get your hands in the dough, stirring sauces, and shaping pasta, then enjoying a feast of your own creations alongside estate-grown red wine.
What sets this class apart is the authentic focus on traditional Umbrian recipes, combined with a warm, family-run setting that makes you feel more like a guest than a tourist. The included recipe book means you can try your hand at these dishes back home, extending the experience beyond your trip. Reviewers love the personal touch and the relaxed atmosphere, with comments like, “We learned a lot and shared a delicious meal with homegrown wine.” This class is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, friendly introduction to Italian cooking.
Bottom line: This is a top-rated, immersive experience perfect for food lovers eager to learn authentic recipes and enjoy a generous, home-cooked meal.
2. Organic cooking class with a sommelier in an Olive and wine farm
Second on our list is the Organic cooking class with a sommelier, rated 5 stars from 60 reviews. Held at Il Fontanaro, a picturesque farm in the Umbrian countryside, this roughly three-hour experience combines cooking, tasting, and touring. You start with a welcome coffee, then sample the farm’s award-winning olive oil and wine, including a tour of the cellars. Afterward, you’ll create fresh pasta using ingredients you pick yourself from the garden, emphasizing a farm-to-table approach.
This experience is particularly appealing because it offers a genuine insight into the agricultural side of Italian cuisine. The farm’s setting is stunning, with guests noting how the environment adds to the authenticity. Gluten-free options are available, making it accessible for various dietary needs. The buffet lunch of dishes you prepare is a satisfying way to conclude the class, and many reviewers mention how the relaxed pace and friendly host, Alina, made it one of the trip highlights. Plus, children love the interactive nature of the class.
Bottom line: Great for families and foodies who want a full sensory experience of Italian farm life, from olive oil to pasta.
3. Family cooking class
Ranking third is the Family cooking class, rated 5 stars from 22 reviews. This 3-hour private session is perfect for travelers with kids who want to get involved. Held at an organic farm between Tuscany and Umbria, it focuses on making two types of pasta or gnocchi, tailored to be fun and suitable for young chefs. The class concludes with a sweet treat, and everyone shares a meal outdoors, enjoying the dishes they’ve crafted.
What makes this class special is its focus on family participation and organic ingredients. It’s a chance for kids to experience authentic Italian cooking in a relaxed environment, with personalized attention from the host. Reviewers mention how enjoyable the experience was, with one stating, “We continue to use the skills we learned at home,” highlighting its practicality. It’s more expensive per group but offers excellent value, especially for families seeking a memorable, hands-on experience.
Bottom line: An ideal choice for families wanting a fun, educational activity that results in a delicious meal and lasting memories.
4. Live Online Italian Cooking Class with Raffaella from Perugia
Number 4 is the Online Cooking Class with Raffaella. For around $69, you can participate in a 2.5-hour live session—perfect for remote learners or those short on time. Raffaella, an experienced chef and author, guides you through preparing a three-course Italian meal, including appetizer, main, and dessert. She shares her recipes and tips during a highly interactive class where you can ask questions.
What makes this online experience a hidden gem is the personalized feel—no large groups here. Plus, participants get a free e-book with screenshots and recipes for their favorite dishes, making it easy to replicate at home. It’s a great option for travelers who want to learn authentic Italian recipes without leaving their kitchen or for those planning a future trip to Perugia.
Bottom line: Ideal for motivated home cooks and busy travelers who want to bring Italian flavors into their own kitchen with expert guidance.
5. Pasta and Tiramisu class with Mamma in Spoleto
In fifth place, this Pasta and Tiramisu class with Mamma offers a delightful 3-hour experience in Spoleto. Small groups prepare two iconic dishes: pasta and tiramisu—Italy’s beloved dessert—while enjoying an authentic Italian aperitivo of prosecco and nibbles. This setting is intimate and friendly, perfect for those who want to dive into Italian comfort food while making new friends.
The class’s charm lies in its warm, family-style atmosphere and the chance to learn recipes from a passionate local. Reviewers highlight how much fun they had and how they loved the personal attention. It’s also cost-effective, making it a great choice for budget-conscious travelers wanting a memorable culinary experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for those seeking a relaxed, social atmosphere with delicious food and authentic recipes.
6. Cooking class of Spoleto recipes, fresh pasta and truffles
Next, the Cooking class of Spoleto recipes, fresh pasta and truffles offers around 3.5 hours of hands-on cooking focused on regional dishes. While specific details are limited, it emphasizes making excellent, traditional recipes of Umbria, including pasta and truffles, which are a local delicacy. This experience is ideal for food lovers wanting to understand Umbrian ingredients and techniques.
What makes this class stand out is the regional focus on special ingredients like truffles, making the dishes truly local and special. It’s suited for travelers wanting a deeper dive into Umbrian cuisine, with less emphasis on sightseeing and more on culinary craftsmanship. The reviews are positive, emphasizing the quality of the recipes and the authenticity of the experience.
Bottom line: Excellent for those interested in regional ingredients and authentic Umbrian pasta recipes.
7. Cooking class in Umbria in any location AT YOUR PRIVATE VILLA
Number 7 offers a highly customizable experience with the Private villa cooking class. Rated 4.5 stars, it allows you to choose your menu and enjoy a fully tailored culinary lesson right at your villa anywhere in Umbria. The chef brings everything needed, and the class includes shopping, preparation, and a final meal served in your outdoor space or dining room.
This is the most flexible option, perfect for families, groups, or romantic getaways wanting privacy and control over their menu. Reviewers appreciate the convenience and personalized attention, with some noting how they learned to make pasta, bread, and traditional dishes. It’s especially appealing for those staying in a villa and wanting a private, intimate experience.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who prefer privacy, customization, and a flexible schedule without sacrificing quality.
8. Fun Cooking Class, Let’s Make Lasagna! – Umbria
At number 8, this Lasagna cooking class is a longer, 5-hour experience that starts with a farm tour. You’ll learn the secrets of making homemade pasta and then prepare lasagna as your main course, which you’ll enjoy at the end of the class. It’s a hands-on session that’s perfect for those who love pasta and want to master a classic Italian dish with expert guidance.
The class’s advantage is its focus on lasagna, a perennial favorite, and the warm, farm-to-table setting. Although it’s the only class listed with a longer duration, the extended time allows for in-depth learning and plenty of practice. It’s best suited for dedicated food lovers eager to perfect pasta preparation.
Bottom line: A comprehensive, immersive option for pasta enthusiasts wanting to learn from scratch and enjoy a hearty, homemade lasagna.
$325.31 per person
9. Pasta-making class at a Cesarina’s home with tasting in Perugia
Finally, the Pasta-making class at a Cesarina’s home offers a hands-on experience with a passionate home cook. It’s a smaller, more intimate tour where you prepare three types of regional pasta, including possibly tagliatelle or ravioli. The class lasts about 3 hours and ends with a tasting of your creations paired with local wines.
While the price is slightly lower at around $122, the reviews reflect a warm, authentic experience. One reviewer mentions, “We made 5 different pastas and enjoyed wine and homemade limoncello,” emphasizing the personal touch and variety of pasta options. This class is perfect for those wanting a genuine, home-style cooking lesson.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for travelers seeking an authentic, cozy experience with a focus on regional pasta techniques.
$121.95 per person
How to Choose the Right Workshop or Class
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, schedule, and culinary curiosity. If you want a comprehensive, hands-on experience with a full meal, the Hands on Italian Cooking Classes offers great value. For a deep dive into regional ingredients like truffles and olive oil, the Spoleto recipes class is ideal. Families should look at the Family cooking class for its kid-friendly approach.
Travelers seeking flexibility can opt for the private cooking class at your villa, while those wanting to learn online can try Raffaella’s live virtual class. Budget-conscious visitors may prefer the Pasta and Tiramisu class in Spoleto for its excellent value and warm atmosphere.
Booking early is advised, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred time slot and avoid missing out on these popular experiences.
Final Thoughts
Perugia’s array of cooking workshops and classes provides something for all—from casual learners to dedicated foodies. The top-rated Hands on Italian Cooking Classes are perfect for those seeking an authentic, immersive experience, while the private villa lessons offer personalized luxury. For families, the Family cooking class creates fun memories with delicious results.
No matter which you choose, these classes deepen your connection to Umbrian cuisine and culture. We recommend booking ahead to guarantee your spot—Italy’s culinary treasures wait for no one.