Discover the old market and make fresh pasta

Key Points

• Authentic Veronese experience combining market visits and cooking classes
• Visit the old market in Villafranca to select fresh local ingredients
• Prepare pasta by hand, including Tortellini Nodo Damore, pappardelle, and tortelli
• Taste renowned Veronese wines paired with your homemade dishes
• Learn from a professional chef in a charming setting with a garden and castle views
• Small group size limited to 10 participants for a personalized experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discover the Heart of Veronese Food Culture in Lombardy

This 4-hour tour in Lombardy offers a genuine taste of Veronese culinary traditions. Starting from Villafranca, the experience centers on both market shopping and hands-on cooking. It’s perfect for those who want to take an active role in creating authentic Italian dishes while enjoying local wines in a friendly setting.

The tour begins with a walk among market stalls, where participants select fresh ingredients for their cooking. The guided shopping is a highlight, providing insight into local products and the importance of quality ingredients in Italian cuisine. The experience is suitable for anyone interested in culinary craftsmanship and authentic tastes of the region.

Walking Tour of Villafranca’s Old Market

The journey starts at Villafranca, in front of the Scaliger Castle, a notable landmark. Here, the group explores the old market stalls on foot, engaging with local vendors to pick the best ingredients. The market is lively, especially on Wednesdays, which is the designated market day.

On days other than Wednesday, you will visit selected local shops alongside the chef to choose ingredients. The market visit offers a window into Veronese food traditions and local produce, setting the stage for the cooking lessons. The focus on fresh, seasonal products ensures your dishes will have genuine flavor.

Hands-On Pasta Making with Eggs and Flour

The core of this experience is learning how to make pasta from scratch using simple ingredients like eggs and flour. The chef demonstrates secret techniques that echo grandmother’s methods, emphasizing kneading by hand to develop the perfect dough.

Participants will craft Tortellini Nodo Damore, pappardelle, and tortelli stuffed with seasonal vegetables. The process highlights traditional Italian pasta techniques, and you’ll understand how to achieve authentic texture and flavor. The setting, with a garden view and castle backdrop, makes the cooking session especially charming.

Making and Tasting the Famous Tiramisu

Along With pasta, the class includes preparing Tiramisu, Italy’s beloved dessert. The step-by-step guidance helps you create a classic Tiramisu, balancing creamy mascarpone and coffee-soaked ladyfingers. The dessert provides a sweet conclusion to the meal, showcasing another staple of Italian cuisine.

Once the dishes are ready, participants sit down to enjoy what they have cooked. The emphasis on good company creates a convivial atmosphere, perfect for sharing your culinary creations and relishing the flavors.

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Sampling Veronese Wines in a Beautiful Garden Setting

A key highlight is the wine tasting session, where the tour showcases famous Veronese wines. The tasting takes place in a beautiful garden attached to the cooking venue, which overlooks the Scaliger Castle.

The guide explains the characteristics of each wine, allowing participants to appreciate the pairing with their homemade dishes. This segment elevates the experience, making it a true culinary celebration of the region’s wine and food harmony.

The Chef’s Expertise and Friendly Approach

The professional chef leading this experience is praised for being prepared and attentive, always ready to explain techniques and offer helpful tips. The cooking class is designed to be interactive, allowing participants to ask questions and gain practical skills.

Guests appreciate the warm and friendly atmosphere created by the guide, making the learning environment relaxed and enjoyable. The small group size ensures personalized attention, enhancing the overall quality of the experience.

Logistics and Practical Details

This tour is organized by Verona In Tour and provides contact details for the meeting point. The meeting location is at Villafranca, with coordinates 45.3514404296875, 10.846451759338379. The tour is 4 hours long and runs with small groups limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Participants can reserve in advance with a flexible pay-later option, and full cancellation is available if canceled 24 hours in advance. The experience is conducted in Italian and English, catering to international visitors.

Limitations and Considerations

While the experience is largely positive, it is important to note that alcohol and drugs are not permitted during the activity. Also, the market visit on non-Wednesday requires participants to choose ingredients in local shops, which might involve some walking and decision-making.

The menu focuses on pasta and dessert, so those seeking a full-course meal or different regional dishes might want to look for additional options.

Overall Value and Who Will Appreciate This Tour

This pasta and wine experience offers a genuinely local way to engage with Veronese culinary traditions. With hands-on pasta making, a scenic setting, and wine tasting, it appeals to foodies, cultural explorers, and those wanting an interactive activity during their time in Lombardy.

The small group size, professional guidance, and beautiful surroundings contribute to a memorable experience rooted in authentic Italian food culture. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want to learn practical skills and enjoy delicious homemade dishes in a relaxed environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts 4 hours.

Where does the tour start?
It starts in Villafranca, in front of the Scaliger Castle.

Is the tour suitable for non-Italian speakers?
Yes, the activity is conducted in Italian and English.

What ingredients are used for the pasta?
The main ingredients are eggs and flour.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are there any restrictions on alcohol?
Alcohol and drugs are not allowed during the activity.

What are the main dishes prepared during the class?
Participants make Tortellini Nodo Damore, pappardelle, tortelli, and Tiramisu.

What makes the setting special?
The class takes place in a Venetian-style venue with a garden overlooking the Castle.

Do I need to bring anything?
No specific items are required; all ingredients and materials are provided.

Is the market visit on Wednesday only?
Yes, the market day in Villafranca is Wednesday; on other days, ingredients are selected in local shops.

How many people are in each group?
The group is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.

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