Pesto course: La Spezia
Duration
1 hour(s)
Languages
English
Skip the line
Included
Prepare authentic Ligurian pesto like a local
Hands-on cooking experience with a skilled instructor
Enjoy a welcome drink with focaccia and fresh pesto
Learn the history and secrets of traditional Ligurian cuisine
€ 33.92
Contact us 24x7


This activity is managed by our trusted partner FareHarbor.
Additional taxes and fees may apply — total shown at checkout.
Select Date & Time
Select your preferred date and time from the calendar above.
Reserve with peace of mind —
Enjoy unlimited changes and full refund options.
Exceptional flexibility
Free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling leads to total flexibility while you plan your travels
24/7/365 Customer support - When you need us we are here
Lowest Price Guarantee — no other provider offers this tour for less


In the heart of the historic centre of La Spezia, just a short walk from the central train station, you will enjoy a unique experience of preparing pesto following the ancient tradition of Ligurian grandmothers. The class lasts about an hour and begins with a welcome drink made with basil and lemon to be enjoyed with crispy focaccia and fresh pesto. Immerse yourself in this hands-on experience and discover the art of making pesto from scratch while learning about its history and the evolution of this beloved recipe over time. During the class, you will explore the properties of each ingredient and receive guidance on creating an authentic Ligurian sauce. By the end of the session, you will be given a detailed recipe that will allow you to recreate this culinary delight at home. This experience will leave you with lasting memories, new cooking skills, and the secrets to becoming a fantastic pesto maker.
Pesto making class
Welcome drink
Focaccia and fresh pesto tasting
Pesto recipe to recreate at home
Gratuities
Water bottle
Camera
Wear comfortable clothes suitable for cooking
Suitable for individuals, couples, or small groups
Classes are conducted in English, Italian, or Spanish depending on the group
Confirmation will be received at time of booking
Type in your hotel/accommodation to see how far the attraction or departure point is.
Loading pick up points...
Loading pick up points...
Activity Provider: arbaspaa
Customer Reviews
Felix

Very friendly and nice chef, he has explained us a bit about the history of the Pesto. He speaks a very good English
Sara

I really enjoyed this class! We started off with a welcome drink and 3 different types of focaccia. Then we got to work making our pesto. At the end, we received more focaccia to have with our pesto. They also provided mini jars to bring leftovers home. Chill atmosphere in a convenient location, I would recommend to anyone wanting to learn to make pesto!
Giovanni

The entrepreneurial examples we like: Giulio, with passion and patience, taught us how to make a super pesto, explaining everything there is to know about one of the excellences of Made in Italy. Thanks for this experience! A little unsolicited advice to sailors: this isn't just a tourist experience, far from it! As Italians, we should also give more space and importance to these activities. Thanks Giulio! Giovanni and Francesca from Calabria (and Luxembourg) ❤️
Tallulah

I just had the most wonderful cooking experience with Paola and Massimo, who are such warm and welcoming hosts. Paola is an excellent cook, and I truly enjoyed learning from her—her passion for food makes it so easy and fun to follow along. After cooking together, we sat on the terrace to enjoy the delicious dishes we had prepared, accompanied by lively conversation in true Italian style. It felt as though I was spending time with old friends, even though we had only just met. I would love to cook with Paola again, and I highly recommend this experience to anyone. Thank you so much!
Amandine

It was a great time, we had a private lesson with Giulio who is super nice. Everything was delicious, we had a wonderful time. Thanks 🙏🏼
Eveline

Paola’s cooking class was wonderful. We got to make homemade pesto, pasta, and were treated to some wine, appetizers with fresh focaccia, cheese, and salami, and more. It was great getting to spend time with Paola and her husband in their home and eating together on their terrace. Definitely a memorable experience and very easy to book! We also got to take home our cute aprons, an ornament, and all of the delicious recipes.
Sue

Had an amazing experience with Paula and her husband, Massimo. Paula was so kind and patient. Massimo was generous and cheeky! My daughter, son in law and I had a wonderful time making pesto and fresh pasta. The food was authentic and delicious. Would recommend this class to anyone. It was like cooking and then sharing a meal with long lost Italian family! Thank you both so much for the best evening!
Beth

Paola and Massimo are the most friendly hosts one can imagine! My son and I learned how to make homemade ravioli, tagliatelle, and tiramisu. Their gorgeous home is situated on a hill overlooking the Mediterranean and vineyards. Their kitchen is modern and immaculate. We even had homemade Limoncello from their own lemon tree. They made us feel like family! I cannot recommend Paola and Massimo more. You will have the best time!
Laurie

Amazing experience! We had the best time with Paola and loved spending time with her and her husband. Far exceeded our expectations. We learned how to make tiramisu, pesto and fresh pasta from a pro. Time well spent on vacation in Italy.
