Lake Como isn’t just about stunning lakeside views and charming villages. It’s also a fantastic place to learn about authentic local culture through workshops & classes. Whether you’re interested in learning how to make fresh pasta in a home setting or creating your own watercolor masterpiece in a historic garden, Lake Como offers a variety of creative experiences. We particularly love the small group pasta classes like the Small group Pasta and Tiramisu class in Como because of its intimate setting and the chance to hear regional culinary secrets directly from local Cesarine hosts. Plus, it’s perfect for food lovers eager to bring Italian flavors home.
If you prefer something more active, the Hike in Blevio’s Forest for a Private Yoga Class combines nature, relaxation, and wellness, offering a peaceful break from sightseeing. For a creative twist, the Private painting class + Villa Melzi Gardens lets you try watercolor techniques while gazing at one of Lake Como’s most beautiful settings. Whatever your interests, Lake Como’s workshops & classes give you a meaningful way to connect with local traditions and arts.
Below, we’ve compiled a list of the 15 best workshops & classes in Lake Como. From pasta to pizza, painting to hiking, these experiences ensure that your trip includes some hands-on fun and authentic cultural insight.
1. Small group Pasta and Tiramisu class in Como
At number 1 on our list, this Small group Pasta and Tiramisu class in Como offers a true taste of home cooking. With just 12 people, you’ll step into a local Cesarine’s home and learn to roll pasta by hand and craft the beloved tiramisu. The class lasts about 3 hours and includes insights into Lombardy’s culinary traditions. Guests rave about the warmth of their hosts and the delicious results—”Our cooking class was everything we wanted. Fantastic, fun, and the food was delicious,” says one. The intimate size ensures plenty of personal attention, and you’ll end the session chatting over an aperitivo with newfound friends. Perfect for foodies wanting an authentic, hands-on experience in Como.
Bottom line: A friendly, authentic way to master pasta and dessert while experiencing local life firsthand.
2. Home Cooking Class & Meal with a Local in Como
Positioned at number 2, this Home Cooking Class & Meal with a Local in Como offers an immersive 3-hour experience. A Cesarine chef guides you through preparing a three-course Lombardy menu, from seasonal starters to fresh pasta and regional desserts like torta miascia or tiramisu. The class is intimate, ensuring personalized tips, and includes sampling wines paired with your dishes. Reviewers highlight the friendly atmosphere and the chance to learn secrets of Italian cuisine—”We loved cooking with Monica and sharing a delicious meal,” one guest shares. This experience suits travelers wanting both a culinary lesson and a memorable meal.
Bottom line: Excellent for those looking for a full gastronomic experience with a local host.
3. Premium Pizza Making Class at a Pizzeria in Como
Next up, the Premium Pizza Making Class in Como offers a fun, hands-on lesson in Neapolitan pizza craft. In about 2.5 hours, you’ll learn how to prepare authentic dough, master the “staglio” technique for shaping, and customize your pizza with favorite toppings. The friendly pizzeria atmosphere makes it ideal for families or groups. Reviews praise the “amazing and educational” experience, emphasizing the quality of the pizza and the engaging hosts. For only around $117, this class delivers a lively, delicious, and practical skill you can use at home.
Bottom line: A lively, family-friendly class perfect for pizza lovers wanting to learn authentic techniques.
4. Pasta Fresca Hands-on Cooking Class with a Local in Como
At number 4, this Pasta Fresca Hands-on Cooking Class centers on Italy’s most iconic dish. Over about 3 hours, you’ll learn how to prepare, roll, and shape fresh pasta like a seasoned nonna, using locally sourced ingredients. You’ll also cook a traditional sauce before sitting down to enjoy your homemade meal. Guests appreciate Emily’s expert teaching and the relaxed, friendly environment—“We loved making Tagliatelle and Ravioli, and the experience exceeded our expectations.” The class is perfect for those eager to learn regional pasta secrets and take home practical skills.
Bottom line: An authentic, flavorful way to master pasta from scratch with a knowledgeable host.
5. Cesarine: Small group Pasta-Making class in Como
Number 5 on our list is the Cesarine small group Pasta-Making class, where you’ll learn three regional pasta recipes in a cozy home setting. The class lasts about 3 hours, with all ingredients provided, and includes tasting your creations with wine. Reviewers call it “fantastic” and praise Deborah’s patience and teaching skills—“I’ve been making Italian food for decades, but I learned new techniques here.” This experience is ideal for travelers who want an intimate, comprehensive pasta lesson with a taste of local life.
Bottom line: A deeply satisfying, all-inclusive pasta experience with personalized guidance.
6. Private painting class + Villa Melzi Gardens on Lake Como
Number 6 features the Private watercolor painting class amid Villa Melzi’s historic gardens. Led by artist Abele Vadacca, this 1.5-hour session allows beginners and experienced artists alike to create their own Lake Como-inspired artwork. The focus is on watercolor techniques, with all materials supplied. Past participants rave about the “beautiful setting” and the chance to learn from a master—“We took our paintings home and loved the experience.” It’s ideal for creative travelers wanting a personal, artful memory of Lake Como.
Bottom line: A unique, scenic opportunity to capture Lake Como’s beauty on paper with expert guidance.
7. Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina’s Home in Cernobbio
Number 7’s Private Cooking Class in Cernobbio is perfect for those craving an immersive culinary experience. Lasts about 4 hours, during which you’ll prepare pasta, a seasonal starter, and a traditional dessert—all with a host who shares regional tips. The class is private, providing personalized attention and a chance to learn authentic recipes you can recreate. Reviewers remark on the warm hospitality: “My wife and I loved learning from Margherita and sharing a meal together.” It’s great for couples or small groups seeking a relaxed, in-depth experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting a personalized, relaxed cooking journey with local tips.
8. 3 Hours Pizza and Tiramisu Workshop in Como
Number 8 offers a Pizza and Tiramisu Workshop lasting about 3 hours. The host, born and raised in Como with roots in southern Italy, specializes in traditional flavors with a Mediterranean twist. Participants learn to make pizza dough and tiramisu from scratch in a convivial environment. Reviews highlight how fun and hands-on it is, with “delicious food and warm hosts.” It’s a good value at around $155, especially for those keen to learn traditional recipes in an authentic setting.
Bottom line: A lively, authentic experience for lovers of pizza and classic Italian desserts.
9. Neapolitan DOC Pizza Class and Cooking in a Wood Oven
Coming in at number 9, the Neapolitan DOC Pizza Class specializes in authentic pizza prepared in a traditional wood oven. Over about 3 hours, you’ll learn how to make the pizzaiolo’s dough, master the use of a beech wood fire, and craft your own pizza with genuine ingredients. Reviewers mention the fun atmosphere: “Loved preparing pizza in the professional kitchen and wood oven.” This class is ideal for serious pizza enthusiasts who want an authentic, memorable cooking session.
Bottom line: A rare opportunity to learn classic Neapolitan pizza making with true ingredients and techniques.
10. Cooking Class with a View in Lake Como
Number 10 is the Cooking Class with a View, a half-day, highly personalized experience. Held in a local’s home, this class teaches you to prepare three pasta dishes, then enjoy them paired with regional wines. The focus on customization makes it suitable for foodies wanting to recreate the dishes at home. Reviewers appreciate the opportunity to cook and eat in a relaxed environment: “A private, bespoke experience where we learned and tasted a variety of regional pasta.” It’s perfect for travelers with limited time but a desire for deep culinary insight.
Bottom line: Great for those seeking a tailored, scenic cooking experience in Lake Como.
11. Walking Tour in Lake Como with Lierna Cooking Class
Number 11 combines history and food in Lierna’s walking tour and cooking workshop. Starting with a visit to the old village, castle, and scenic lake banks, then crossing the “Wayfarers path,” it culminates in a hands-on session with Anna, where you learn to cook egg pasta and a typical Italian dessert. The 5.5-hour experience includes wine and a shared meal, making it suitable for travelers who want a full day of culture and cuisine.
Bottom line: An immersive day of exploring Lierna’s charm followed by a local cooking lesson.
12. Hike in Blevio’s Forest for a Private Yoga Class
Number 12 offers a different kind of workshop—a private yoga class combined with a forest hike. Set in a secluded Blevio baita, this 3.5-hour experience blends gentle hiking with yoga in nature. Guests love the “magical views” and the chance to disconnect from busy travel days. It suits travelers looking for a peaceful, restorative activity amid natural beauty.
Bottom line: Ideal for wellness-minded travelers seeking tranquility and scenic surroundings.
13. Pasta and Tiramisu Class with a View near Lake Como
Number 13 is a delightful Pasta and Tiramisu Class near Lake Como. Over 3 hours, you learn to make sfoglia and prepare two pasta types plus tiramisu, all with a stunning view. Reviewers mention how “fun and authentic” the experience is, and how it’s a wonderful way to connect with Italy’s culinary roots. It’s perfect for those wanting a scenic setting combined with hands-on cooking.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for travelers seeking a relaxed, picturesque culinary lesson.
14. Ravioli & Tiramisù Cooking Class near Lake Como
Number 14 offers a warm, family-style Ravioli & Tiramisù Cooking Class. In about 3 hours, learn to make three classic recipes with your host, then enjoy your meal paired with local wines. Guests emphasize the friendly, welcoming atmosphere: “Chiria and Giuseppe made us feel like family.” It’s ideal for those who want a relaxed, authentic Italian cooking experience in a homely environment.
Bottom line: A cozy, family-run experience perfect for food lovers seeking authentic recipes.
15. An Exclusive Cooking Class in Bellagio, on Lake Como
Number 15 is the exclusive Bellagio cooking class. Over about 3 hours, a talented young chef guides you through preparing fresh pasta, dressings, and desserts in a professional kitchen with a herb garden. The class is highly curated and ideal for travelers wanting a premium, intimate culinary experience with a touch of local artistry. Reviewers praise the setting and the chef’s creativity.
Bottom line: Perfect for culinary enthusiasts seeking a high-end, memorable cooking session in Lake Como.
How to Choose the Perfect Workshop or Class in Lake Como
When selecting your ideal experience, consider your budget, time, and interests. If you want to master Italian pasta from scratch, the Small group Pasta and Tiramisu class in Como offers an intimate, authentic setting. Food lovers seeking a comprehensive meal and wine pairing might prefer the Home Cooking Class & Meal. For those interested in art, the Watercolor painting class provides a scenic, creative outlet.
Budget-wise, the pizza classes (around $117) provide good value, especially with their lively atmosphere. If you’re after a private, high-end experience, the Bellagio chef’s class at over $500 might be perfect. Think about your fitness level too—hiking combined with yoga or the walking tour with cooking might suit active travelers.
Booking early is advised, especially in peak summer months when spots fill quickly. Check each experience for cancellation policies and whether they cater to dietary restrictions if needed.
Final Thoughts
From hands-on pasta making to watercolor painting amid historic gardens, Lake Como’s workshops offer a wonderful way to connect with local culture while creating lasting memories. For food lovers, the small-group Pasta and Tiramisu class and the Family Ravioli & Tiramisù class stand out for their warmth and authenticity. Art enthusiasts will enjoy the Painting class in Villa Melzi Gardens, while wellness seekers can unwind with the Forest Yoga hike.
Whatever your interest, these experiences add a personal touch to your Lake Como trip, making your visit more than just sightseeing. Be sure to book early and pick the class that best fits your style. Authentic, fun, and delicious—these workshops will leave you with new skills and stories to tell long after you leave the lake.
