Genoa: Pesto Masterclass with Tasting and Wine

If you’re heading to Genoa and want to get a real feel for Ligurian cuisine, a pesto masterclass like this might just be the highlight of your trip. It’s not just about mixing ingredients; it’s about connecting with local traditions and learning how Genoese pesto has become an iconic part of Italy’s culinary identity.

What we really love about this experience is how interactive and genuine it feels — making pesto by hand in a traditional marble mortar and then enjoying it with trofie pasta and local wines. Plus, the fact that you walk away with a jar of your own pesto is a lovely touch. On the flip side, some might find the duration (just 2.5 hours) a little tight if they want a more relaxed pace.

This experience tends to suit curious food lovers, those eager to learn authentic recipes, and anyone interested in local Ligurian flavors. It’s especially good if you enjoy hands-on cooking lessons with a small, friendly group.

Key Points

• Authentic Method: Make pesto using a traditional marble mortar and wooden pestle, just like locals do.
• Tasting Experience: Enjoy trofie pasta with your homemade pesto, paired with local wines like Vermentino, Pigato, or Ciliegiolo.
• Local Connection: Learn family traditions and regional secrets from guides who know Liguria intimately.
• Gifts to Take Home: Receive a 90g jar of pesto made with fresh, regional ingredients.
• Small Group: Limited to just 6 participants for a more personalized experience.
• Location: Set in a cozy family shop in Genoa’s historic center, close to Columbus’s House.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Personalized Dive into Ligurian Pesto

This pesto masterclass is a beautifully crafted way to connect with Genoa’s culinary roots. Instead of the usual wine or sightseeing tour, it focuses on cooking, which often leads to more memorable experiences. The setting — inside a small, family-run shop in Genoa’s historic center — makes everything feel warm and genuine.

The fact that it’s located just 100 meters from Columbus’s House makes it easy to combine with other sightseeing. Before or after the class, you can stroll around the charming streets, soaking in the atmosphere of this historic port city.

What You Can Expect from the Experience

The core of this tour is, of course, learning how to make true Ligurian pesto. You’ll start by choosing fresh ingredients, including PDO basil, Parmesan, pecorino, pine nuts, garlic, and extra virgin olive oil. The real magic happens when you actually use the traditional Carrara marble mortar and wooden pestle — a step that many casual cooks skip but is fundamental to achieving that authentic texture and flavor.

Each participant gets to create their own pesto, which is a fun, satisfying process. The guides, like Barbara and Gaia, are praised for their knowledgeable and friendly approach, making sure everyone understands each step. As one reviewer put it, “Barbara was so informative about the region and the process,” which adds a layer of cultural learning to the activity.

Once your pesto is ready, you’ll sit down to enjoy a plate of trofie pasta topped with your homemade sauce. This isn’t a quick tasting — it’s a proper meal, paired with local wines like Vermentino, Pigato, or Ciliegiolo del Tigullio. The wine options are thoughtfully included, adding to the convivial, relaxed vibe of the class.

The Pesto and Its Authentic Roots

Making pesto by hand in a marble mortar isn’t just tradition; it’s about texture and flavor. Many reviewers, like Jimena Renee, have raved about the deliciousness of the pesto they made, claiming it was “the best they’ve ever had in Italy.” The process is described as straightforward but deeply satisfying, especially for those who might usually rely on store-bought jars.

The class ends with a farewell gift — a jar of the pesto you made (about 90g). This is a thoughtful touch, letting you recreate the experience at home or share your new culinary skills with friends and family. Plus, there’s the option to buy a mortar, which is perfect if you want to keep the traditional tool for future cooking adventures.

The Value and Practicalities

Given the duration of 2.5 hours, this experience strikes a good balance between hands-on activity and relaxed enjoyment. It’s perfect for travelers who want to learn something meaningful without dedicating an entire day. The small group size (limited to six) ensures plenty of personal attention and interaction.

Pricing-wise, considering you’re getting a personalized pesto-making lesson, a meal, wine, and a jar of pesto, it’s a reasonable investment for food lovers. The reviews consistently mention the great value and the quality of the guides, making it worth every euro.

You’ll want to wear comfortable clothes, as you’ll be handling ingredients and possibly getting a little messy. No cooking skills are necessary — just bring a curiosity and a sense of fun.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Should Consider This?

If you’re someone who appreciates authentic experiences and loves to connect through food, you’ll find this masterclass rewarding. It’s particularly well-suited for those eager to learn regional recipes and enjoy a friendly, intimate setting.

It might not be ideal if you’re looking for a longer culinary adventure or traveling with very young children, as the activity is more geared toward adults and older teens. But for anyone interested in a cultural, culinary, and social experience in Genoa, this class hits the right notes.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for complete beginners?
Absolutely. The class is designed for everyone, with no prior cooking skills needed. The guides keep it simple and approachable.

What ingredients will I use?
You’ll work with regional ingredients: PDO basil, Parmesan, pecorino, pine nuts, garlic, and extra virgin olive oil.

Can I buy a mortar during the class?
Yes, you can purchase a mortar if you want to take the traditional tool home.

Will I get to taste the pesto I make?
Yes, you will enjoy a plate of trofie pasta topped with your homemade pesto, paired with local wine.

How long is the class?
The class lasts approximately 2.5 hours, making it a manageable activity that leaves room for sightseeing afterward.

Is wine included?
Yes, a glass of local wine is included, with options like Vermentino, Pigato, or Ciliegiolo del Tigullio.

Where is the experience held?
Inside a cozy family shop at Via di Ravecca 51r, in Genoa’s historic center, close to Columbus’s House.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for handling ingredients and possibly getting a little messy.

Final Thoughts

This Genoa pesto masterclass offers an engaging, authentic look into Ligurian cuisine. It’s perfect if you appreciate hands-on learning and want to take home more than just photos — a jar of delicious pesto, new skills, and a deeper appreciation of regional traditions. The guides are knowledgeable and friendly, the setting charming, and the experience well-structured to keep things fun and relaxed.

While it’s not a lengthy tour, it packs a punch in terms of flavor, cultural insight, and personal connection. For anyone with a love of food, history, and Italy’s regional identities, this class is a satisfying way to spend a couple of hours and walk away with a tangible piece of Italy.

Who should consider this tour?

Anyone eager to learn authentic Ligurian pesto, enjoy regional wines, and experience Genoa from a local’s perspective. It’s especially suited for those who want a hands-on, small-group activity that combines cooking, tasting, and cultural stories. If you’re not afraid to get a little messy and love food adventures, this class will likely be a highlight.

This pesto masterclass isn’t just a lesson — it’s a small, flavorful window into Genoa’s culinary heart. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, it’s an experience that offers genuine insight, delicious tastes, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here: