Felsina Culinaria – Personalised Private Cooking Course

Discover the Charm of Bologna’s Private Cooking Experience

The Felsina Culinaria – Personalised Private Cooking Course offers a warm, hands-on look at Bologna’s most beloved dishes. Priced at $179.25 per person, this 3-hour culinary journey is perfect for those who want to learn authentic Italian cooking in a peaceful countryside setting. The tour is highly-rated with a perfect 5.0 out of 5 based on 28 reviews, and it’s recommended by 100% of participants.

Located at Villa degli Olmi, this experience stands out because of its intimate nature and personalized approach. The private setting ensures individual attention, and the spectacular views of the Po Valley make the learning feel even more special. The tour offers flexibility with pickup options, either free in Castel San Pietro or for a fee in Bologna, making it accessible for different travelers.

While the main focus is on mastering Bolognese dishes, the experience also includes a wine pairing option for an additional $25 per person and the chance to relax in a beautiful rural environment. The combination of delicious food, expert guidance, and stunning scenery makes this a popular choice for culinary enthusiasts seeking a genuine taste of Bologna.

Key Points

• Private, personalized 3-hour cooking class centered on traditional Bolognese cuisine
• Located at Villa degli Olmi, with stunning views of the Po Valley
• Includes ingredient preparation, cooking, and photography of your dishes
• Option to add wine pairing for $25 per person
• Pickup is free in Castel San Pietro; in Bologna, transportation costs $120 for groups up to four
• Includes a meal of your cooked dishes, bottled water, and a brief Italian language class

Starting Point in Castel San Pietro with Gorgeous Countryside Views

This tour begins at Via Giuseppe Tanari, 2013, Castel San Pietro Terme, where pickup in Castel San Pietro is free. If you’re staying in Bologna, a private transfer costs $120 for groups of up to 4 people, making the journey convenient. The meeting point is easy to locate, and the activity ends back at the same spot, streamlining the experience.

The setting of Villa degli Olmi offers a peaceful escape from the city, with panoramic views over the Po Valley. The drive or transfer to the villa is quiet and scenic, setting the perfect mood for your culinary adventure.

This private experience is designed for small groups or individual bookings, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed pace. The tour’s flexibility allows you to arrive prepared for a fun, immersive cookery session in a beautiful rural environment.

Crafting Authentic Bolognese Dishes Step-by-Step

The core of this experience is learning how to create classic Bolognese dishes. The instructor begins by organizing all ingredients for your chosen dish or dishes, ensuring you know exactly what goes into each step.

Then, you proceed to fry, boil, and bake with expert guidance, gaining skills in making pasta, sauces, or other local specialties. The focus is on traditional techniques, so you’ll pick up authentic methods directly from a local expert.

After cooking, the dishes are beautifully arranged and photographed, giving you a lasting memory of your culinary creation. The entire process emphasizes hands-on involvement, making it ideal for small groups who want to learn and practice.

Enjoy a Meal While Overlooking the Po Valley

Once your dishes are ready, you sit down to enjoy the fruits of your labor. The included meal features the food you cooked, with the option to bring some home.

The experience is designed to provide a relaxing, scenic setting to savor your meal, with stunning views of the Po Valley creating a memorable backdrop. The dinner includes bottled water and soft drinks, making it a refreshing and satisfying conclusion to the class.

Guests have praised the deliciousness of the food and the relaxed atmosphere, noting that the host, Bianca, and her family are welcoming and helpful throughout. This part of the experience highlights authentic flavors and informal, friendly service.

Optional Wine Pairing and Pool Relaxation

For an extra layer of enjoyment, you can add a local wine pairing for $35 per person. This pairing complements your dishes perfectly, enhancing the authentic taste of Bologna.

After your meal, guests are welcome to take a dip in the swimming pool for $20 per person, offering a refreshing way to unwind after your culinary efforts. The pool access is optional, giving you the choice to relax outdoors in the beautiful countryside.

Meeting Point and Transportation Details

The meeting point is Via Giuseppe Tanari, 2013, Castel San Pietro Terme, from where the activity begins and ends. The pickup options are straightforward: free in Castel San Pietro or $120 in Bologna for groups of up to four, making this experience suitable for various travel plans.

The location’s accessibility is good, with proximity to public transportation options, enabling easy access for most guests. The private transfer option ensures comfort for those staying outside Castel San Pietro, simplifying logistics.

What’s Included and What to Budget Extra For

Your booking includes the cooking class, the meal of your dishes, bottled water, and a basic Italian language lesson—a fun addition that enriches the experience.

Extras, such as local wine pairing for $35, swimming pool access for $20, additional dessert (if desired) for $25, and private transportation if preferred, are available for purchase.

Note that any additional dishes beyond the main or starter are charged separately, and you should specify your dish preferences at least 24 hours prior to ensure availability.

The Atmosphere and Host Interaction

The hosts, Bianca and her family, are consistently praised for their warm hospitality and friendly guidance. Many reviewers highlight how she shares helpful cooking tips and makes the class fun and accessible.

The farmhouse and garden are described as beautiful, with a fabulous view that adds to the relaxing environment. The casual, welcoming atmosphere makes this experience particularly suitable for those looking for a genuine, personable cooking lesson.

Booking, Cancellation, and Practical Tips

The experience is bookable up to 42 days in advance, with confirmation within 48 hours, subject to availability. Free cancellation is possible up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing peace of mind in case of change of plans.

Guests are encouraged to communicate their dish preferences at least a day before the class. The activity is suitable for service animals and is accessible near public transportation, making it convenient for most travelers.

Authentic Bologna Cooking in a Picturesque Setting

The Felsina Culinaria offers more than just a cooking class; it promises a personalized, scenic, and delicious experience that captures the essence of Bologna. The expert guidance, stunning views, and relaxed environment make this tour especially appealing for food lovers and those seeking a peaceful countryside escape.

While the price includes everything needed for a meaningful class and meal, optional extras like wine and pool access allow for personalized indulgence. This tour is suited for small groups or couples wanting a hands-on, memorable day in Italy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I choose my dishes for the class?
Yes, you need to specify your dish preferences at least 24 hours prior to the class to ensure they can be prepared.

Is transportation included?
Pickup in Castel San Pietro is free, while in Bologna, it’s $120 for groups of up to four. The activity starts at Via Giuseppe Tanari and ends there too.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the experience. Cancellations less than 24 hours ahead are not refunded.

Can I add wine or pool access?
Yes, wine pairing costs $35 per person, and swimming pool access is $20. Both are optional upgrades.

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The guides focus on making the process accessible and fun, sharing tips and techniques for all skill levels.

What if I want extra dishes?
Additional dishes are charged separately, and it’s recommended to communicate your choices in advance.

Is there an age restriction?
The data does not specify age limits, but service animals are allowed, and the setting is generally suitable for most ages.

How long does the experience last?
The class runs for approximately 3 hours, making it a well-paced and manageable activity.

Can I bring leftovers home?
Yes, guests can take some of the prepared food home, letting you enjoy your culinary creations later.

What makes this tour stand out?
The personalized attention, stunning countryside views, and authentic cooking instruction distinguish this experience from other classes in Bologna.