Genoese cooking lesson in the with lunch in the terrace

Authentic Genoese Cooking Experience in a Historic Palazzo

This Genoese cooking lesson offers an engaging way to dive into Italy’s culinary traditions, priced at $80.24 per person for a 3-hour 15-minute experience in Genoa, Italy. Hosted by Soul of Genoa Tours, this private activity provides an intimate setting, with only your group participating. The tour begins at Piazza della Nunziata and takes place entirely within the walls of a beautiful historic palace.

What makes this experience stand out is its combination of hands-on cooking and the opportunity to enjoy a meal on a terrace overlooking the square. The class is suitable for those who want to learn genuine regional recipes, including the famed Genoese fresh pasta and pesto. Travelers who appreciate authentic, small-group activities with expert guidance find this tour particularly rewarding.

While the activity is designed to be accessible and enjoyable, it involves steep walks uphill to reach the garden setting, which is worth the effort thanks to its picturesque views. This tour suits food lovers eager to learn traditional techniques and those wanting a memorable meal in a charming outdoor space. Booking on average 28 days in advance, this experience offers excellent value for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Genoa.

Key Points

• Private, intimate class in a beautiful garden within a historic palace
• Learn to make two types of fresh pasta and traditional basil pesto using authentic techniques
• Enjoy a delicious lunch on a terrace overlooking the square
• Expert guidance from a local host with a passion for Genoese cuisine
• Flexible weather policy with full refunds if canceled due to poor weather
• Highly praised for knowledgeable hosts, stunning views, and delicious food

Location and Meeting Point in Genoa

The tour starts at Piazza della Nunziata, a convenient spot near public transportation options in Genoa. The meeting point is straightforward to find, and the activity concludes back at the same location. The private nature of the tour means only your group is involved, allowing for a relaxed and personalized experience.

Inside the Historic Palace: Setting and Atmosphere

Participants will be immersed in the charm of a beautiful Genoese palace that hosts the class. The garden where most of the activity unfolds is described as quaint and lush, with fruit trees such as grapevines, lemons, and apples. The views from the garden overlook the Genoa port and harbor, providing a stunning backdrop during cooking and lunch.

The garden’s elevation makes it a bit of a walk uphill, but it’s well rewarded with the peaceful ambiance and beautiful scenery. Rain does not spoil the experience, as the class can be moved indoors if needed, ensuring comfort regardless of the weather.

The Cooking Class Itself: Pasta and Pesto

The core of this experience involves making two types of pasta from scratch, with step-by-step guidance from the host. Guests will learn how to shape pasta dough and create delicious, traditional Genoese recipes. The class also covers how to prepare pesto using traditional tools, like a mortar and pestle, emphasizing authentic techniques passed down through generations.

Participants gain practical skills, making recipes that are simple enough to replicate at home. The host’s expertise shines through as they share tips and stories that deepen understanding of Genoese culinary traditions.

Lunch on the Terrace with a View

Once the pasta and pesto are completed, the group sits down to enjoy a lunch in the outdoor terrace. The menu features the freshly prepared pasta dishes paired with local wines, which many reviews praise for their quality and authenticity. The terrace setting offers spectacular views over the Genoa square, making the meal a memorable highlight of the experience.

Guests often comment on the deliciousness of the food and the relaxing atmosphere. The lunch is considered an integral part of the activity, allowing everyone to savor the fruits of their labor in a beautiful outdoor setting.

Engaging Guide and Personalized Experience

The activity is led by Alessandro, a host celebrated for his warmth, knowledge, and passion for Genoese cuisine. Reviews highlight how Alessandro takes time to explain ingredients, techniques, and traditions, making it accessible for beginners while still interesting for seasoned cooks. The small group size allows for personalized attention and lively conversations.

Guests also get recipes emailed after the class, so they can recreate the dishes at home. Many find this added benefit enhances the value and usefulness of the experience.

Additional Information and Practical Tips

The tour includes confirmation at booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. The activity is suitable for those with good weather, but if canceled due to rain, a full refund or alternative date is offered. Accessibility is not specifically mentioned, but the steep walk uphill might require some physical effort.

Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for outdoor temperature variations, especially if visiting in warmer months. Since it is a private activity, only your group participates, ensuring a quiet and relaxed atmosphere.

Review Highlights: What Travelers Love Most

Reviews consistently praise the expert guidance of Alessandro, the stunning views from the garden, and the delicious pasta and pesto. Many note the authenticity of the experience, with some mentioning how easy the recipes are to replicate later. The garden setting, with its fruit trees and port views, earns frequent accolades for its peaceful charm.

Some point out the steep walk uphill as a minor consideration, but the beautiful scenery and tranquil environment are viewed as well worth the effort. The lunch served in the outdoor terrace rounds out the experience as a delightful culmination.

Tailored for Food Enthusiasts and Culture Seekers

This Genoese cooking lesson appeals most to those who want authentic culinary insights combined with a bit of scenic relaxation. It suits beginners eager to learn simple pasta recipes and pesto, as well as travelers seeking a personalized, small-group activity with a local host. The cost reflects the quality of instruction, setting, and included meal.

While it may not be ideal for those with mobility issues due to the steep walk, most will find the garden, views, and delicious food make this tour a memorable addition to any Genoa itinerary.

This private Genoese cooking experience offers a perfect balance of learning, tasting, and enjoying in a beautiful outdoor setting. The expert guidance from Alessandro and the stunning views make it a standout activity for food lovers and those interested in local traditions.

While the walk uphill might be a consideration, the delicious homemade pasta, fresh pesto, and lunch on the terrace create a warm, engaging atmosphere that captures the essence of Genoa’s culinary charm. This tour provides a genuine, hands-on experience that many will cherish long after returning home.

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the menu can accommodate vegetarians, as noted in reviews mentioning dietary needs.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations due to poor weather are fully refunded or can be rescheduled, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the cooking lesson, all ingredients, and a lunch with local wine on the terrace.

How long does the activity last?
The activity lasts approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes, from start to finish.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and concludes at Piazza della Nunziata, within walking distance from public transportation.

Is the tour private or group-based?
This is a private activity, with only your group participating.

What are the main dishes I will learn to make?
You will learn to make two types of fresh pasta and traditional Genoese basil pesto.

Are recipes provided afterward?
Yes, participants receive email copies of the recipes after the class.

Is any prior cooking experience necessary?
Not at all; the class is accessible for beginners and those with basic cooking skills.

How physical is the activity?
The walk uphill to the garden is somewhat demanding; comfortable shoes are recommended.