Lake Como is famous for its stunning lakeside scenery, charming villages, and delicious food. But it’s also a fantastic place to pick up new skills or indulge your creative side. Whether you want to learn to make authentic Italian pasta, master Neapolitan pizza, or create your own watercolor masterpiece, Lake Como offers a variety of workshops designed for all interests. Among our favorites are the intimate small group cooking classes, like the Small group Pasta and Tiramisu class in Como, where you learn regional recipes in a local home, and the fun pizza-making experience at a renowned pizzeria. These share authentic techniques and delicious results you can recreate at home.
If your idea of a perfect day involves arts and crafts, you’ll love the private watercolor painting class at Villa Melzi, set in one of Italy’s most picturesque gardens. Or, if you’re more into hands-on culinary adventures, options like the Cooking Class with a local in Como are perfect for enjoying Lombardy cuisine. No matter your style, these workshops promise authentic experiences with expert local hosts.
1. Small group Pasta and Tiramisu class in Como
At number 1, this Small group Pasta and Tiramisu class in Como offers a cozy, hands-on cooking experience in a local Cesarine’s home. For about $220.95 per person, you’ll learn to roll fresh pasta by hand and craft a classic tiramisu, all within a 3-hour class capped at 12 participants. The small group size guarantees personal attention from your host, who shares regional culinary secrets. Guests praise the warm, family-like atmosphere and the opportunity to chat over an aperitivo. It’s perfect for food lovers who want an authentic taste of Lombardy. You’ll also get to hear stories about local food traditions and enjoy an informal meal together.
Bottom Line: If you’re after an intimate, authentic cooking experience where you learn from local cooks in a welcoming setting, this class is hard to beat.
2. Home Cooking Class & Meal with a Local in Como
Number 2 on our list is the Home Cooking Class & Meal with a Local in Como. For $208.15, you get approximately three hours of interactive instruction in a Cesarine chef’s home, preparing a three-course menu typical of Lombardy. You’ll learn how to make seasonal starters, fresh pasta, and a dessert like torta miascia or tiramisu. This experience is ideal for those wanting a full, satisfying meal combined with culinary insight. Guests rave about the personal attention and warm atmosphere, with many saying they plan to recreate the dishes at home.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want hands-on cooking plus a sit-down meal in a relaxed, friendly environment.
3. Premium Pizza Making Class at a Pizzeria in Como
Number 3 is the Premium Pizza Making Class at a Pizzeria in Como, where you learn to craft Neapolitan-style pizza in just 2.5 hours for $117.50. Held at a well-known pizzeria, this class covers the secrets behind perfect pizza dough, including the traditional “staglio” method to form the dough balls. You get to customize your pizza with toppings, then enjoy your creation with wine or beer. The atmosphere is lively and friendly, making it a hit with families or anyone who loves pizza.
Bottom Line: A fun, approachable class for pizza fans who want to learn authentic techniques in a casual setting.
4. Pasta Fresca Hands-on Cooking Class with a Local in Como
Number 4 on our list is the Pasta Fresca Hands-on Cooking Class with a Local. For $117.50, this 3-hour class teaches you how to make Italy’s most iconic dish from scratch. You’ll learn to prepare and roll “sfoglia” (pasta sheets) and shape it for different sauces, then cook and enjoy your creations. The instructor, a friendly local chef, emphasizes traditional techniques and fresh ingredients. Participants love the interactive approach and the chance to taste their pasta over a casual lunch. Multiple reviews mention how easy and fun it is to make pasta like a nonna.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting to master pasta-making fundamentals and enjoy a relaxed, delicious meal.
5. Cesarine: Small group Pasta-Making class in Como
Number 5 is the Cesarine Small Group Pasta-Making Class, where for $212.44 you’ll learn to make three regional pasta recipes in a private home. The class includes all ingredients and ends with a tasting of your dishes paired with wine. The small group size ensures personalized guidance from your host, Anna, and the opportunity to ask questions as you learn authentic techniques. Guests appreciate the relaxed atmosphere and the chance to learn regional secrets while enjoying a full meal.
Bottom Line: A great choice for those seeking a premium, authentic pasta experience in a personal setting.
6. Private painting class + Villa Melzi Gardens on Lake Como
Number 6 offers a unique blend of art and scenery with the Private Painting Class at Villa Melzi. For $271.12, you’ll create a watercolor painting of Lake Como using techniques taught by a professional artist amidst the historic gardens. No prior experience is needed—just a desire to be artistic. The setting, one of Italy’s most beautiful gardens, inspires creativity, and the instructor provides all materials. Guests rave about the personalized attention and the gorgeous backdrop that makes this a memorable artistic adventure.
Bottom Line: Ideal for art enthusiasts or anyone eager to try watercolor painting in a stunning location.
7. Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina’s Home in Cernobbio
Number 7 is the Private Cooking Class in Cernobbio. Over about 4 hours, you’ll learn to prepare fresh pasta, sauces, and a traditional Italian dessert like tiramisu, in the home of a local chef. The class emphasizes hands-on skills and tips you can bring home. Guests particularly enjoy the personal touch and the opportunity to ask questions. It’s perfect for foodies who want a full, private experience and to enjoy a delicious meal afterwards.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive, private culinary experience ideal for travelers who want to learn and eat in a relaxed environment.
8. Cooking Lesson in Bellagio with famous Chef Luigi Gandola
Number 8 features a Cooking Lesson in Bellagio with Chef Luigi Gandola. Costing around $332, this 4-hour class includes preparing pasta from scratch and savoring your meal on the terrace. Optional round-trip transfers are available, making access easy. Guests praise Chef Luigi’s expertise and the chance to learn traditional recipes alongside a professional, finishing with a gift set of recipes and olive oil. The setting, a family-run restaurant, adds authenticity.
Bottom Line: Best suited for serious food lovers who want a deep dive into Italian cooking with a scenic backdrop.
9. 3 Hours Pizza and Tiramisu Workshop in Como
Number 9 is the 3 Hours Pizza and Tiramisu Workshop in Como. For $155.92, this lively class combines making both pizza and tiramisu from scratch. The host, born and raised in Como, blends traditional flavors with a Mediterranean flair. Guests enjoy the warm environment and leave with new skills and delicious food. The class is perfect for those wanting a fun, comprehensive experience in a friendly setting.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those looking to learn two classic Italian recipes in a single session.
10. Neapolitan DOC Pizza Class and Cooking in a Wood Oven
Number 10 features the Neapolitan DOC Pizza Class in a Wood Oven. Costing $156.28, this 3-hour private experience includes crafting authentic Neapolitan pizza using a traditional beech wood-fired oven. The instructor emphasizes the standards for true Neapolitan pizza, and guests love the flavor imparted by the wood fire. It’s perfect for pizza purists seeking an authentic, hands-on experience in a cozy home setting.
Bottom Line: A top choice for pizza aficionados wanting to learn traditional techniques in an authentic environment.
11. Cooking Class with a View in Lake Como
Number 11 offers a Cooking Class with a View. For about $208, you’ll spend half a day preparing three pasta dishes in a private, local home, then enjoying your meal paired with regional wines. The focus is on personalized instruction and recreating classic recipes in a relaxed atmosphere, with scenic views adding to the experience.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers wanting a bespoke, scenic culinary experience with a focus on pasta.
12. Walking Tour in Lake Como with Lierna Cooking Class
Number 12 combines cultural exploration and cooking with a Walking Tour in Lake Como with Lierna Cooking. Costing $266.25, the day includes visiting Lierna’s old village, castle, and scenic lakeside spots, then heading to Anna’s villa for a hands-on cooking lesson. The experience is full of local sights and flavors, with a relaxed pace and inclusive wine.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a traditional cooking class.
13. Private Clay Sculpture Class + Villa Melzi Gardens
Number 13 offers a Private Clay Sculpture Class for $285.73. In this 2-hour workshop, you’ll learn sculpture techniques from a master artist and create your own clay masterpiece amid the stunning Villa Melzi gardens. All materials are included, and full-day access to the gardens is a bonus. It’s excellent for art lovers and those wanting a personal, creative experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers interested in art and sculpture, seeking a private, inspiring session.
14. Hike in Blevio’s Forest for a Private Yoga Class
Number 14 is the Forest Yoga Hike in Blevio. Costing $92.69, this 3.5-hour excursion combines the tranquility of Blevio’s secluded forest with a private yoga session. The space is quiet, scenic, and often home to local wildlife like deer and goats. It’s perfect for those wanting to combine outdoor activity with wellness.
Bottom Line: A peaceful retreat for yoga lovers and nature enthusiasts.
15. Bellagio Cooking Class in the Village + Villa Melzi
Number 15 features the Bellagio Cooking Class in the Village. For $289.65, you’ll learn to make pasta from scratch, including techniques for fettuccine, gnocchi, and Italian desserts. The class takes place in a charming location, with all utensils and ingredients provided. It’s perfect for those who want a comprehensive, authentic culinary lesson in a picturesque setting.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers who want an immersive, all-in-one cooking experience in Bellagio.
How to Choose the Right Workshop or Class
When selecting a Lake Como workshop, consider your interests, budget, and available time. For culinary novices, small group pasta or pizza classes or private chef experiences are perfect. Art lovers should look at the painting class at Villa Melzi, while those wanting a broader cultural experience might enjoy the walking tour in Lierna.
Booking early is recommended, especially in high season, to secure your preferred date and host. Consider the location—some experiences, like the Bellagio cooking class, take place in the charming village center, while others like the sculpture class are in private gardens.
Final Thoughts
Lake Como offers a surprising array of workshops and classes that go beyond sightseeing. Whether you want to master pasta, create art, or learn authentic pizza-making, these experiences provide a great way to connect with the region’s culture in a practical, memorable manner. For travelers seeking culinary immersion, options like the Small group Pasta and Tiramisu class or the private cooking at Cesarina’s are top choices. Art enthusiasts will enjoy painting amid Villa Melzi’s gardens, while nature lovers can combine wellness with outdoor exploration. Booking in advance ensures your spot in these popular experiences, so plan ahead to make the most of your time in Lake Como.