If you’re dreaming of rolling up your sleeves and making your own pasta in a cozy Italian kitchen, then this Pasta & Basta experience in Sanremo might just be your ideal escape. Based on glowing reviews, it’s clear that visitors love this intimate, hands-on class. We’re here to share what makes it special, along with some honest tips so you can decide if it’s right for your trip.
What really stands out for us are the personalized instruction from a passionate local home cook and the stunning terrace overlooking the sea, perfect for relaxing after a rewarding culinary session. The chance to learn classic pasta techniques and take home practical tips is a major plus. However, keep in mind that this experience is about making pasta from scratch—so if you’re not keen on getting your hands dirty or already a pasta pro, it might not be your best fit.
This experience suits anyone looking for a cultural, interactive activity, whether you’re a foodie, a family wanting a memorable activity, or just someone curious to understand Italian culinary traditions firsthand.
Key Points
- Hands-on pasta making with detailed guidance from a local expert
- Stunning sea-view terrace for enjoying your meal
- Learn traditional recipes, tips, and Italian ingredients
- Small group for personal attention and engaging experience
- Includes a convivial, family-style meal to savor your creations
- Great value for the experience and the delicious food
Getting to Know Pasta & Basta in Sanremo
This tour is a 2-hour 30-minute cooking journey hosted in the charming town of Sanremo, Italy. For just over $174 per person, you’ll join a small, private group—making it a more intimate and engaging class than some larger group tours. Hosted by Diego De Santis, the class takes place at a local apartment with a panoramic terrace, offering visitors a chance to combine authentic cooking with spectacular views.
The experience has earned rave reviews, holding a perfect 5.0 rating from over 100 reviews, with 99% recommending it to others. Travelers consistently praise the host Monica, who is described as knowledgeable, warm, and great at blending fun with learning.
Planning more time in Sanremo? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
What You Can Expect During the Class
The journey begins at the host’s apartment, where you’ll be welcomed into a warm, interactive kitchen setting. Everyone gets their own apron, setting the tone for a relaxed, family-like atmosphere. Monica will introduce the day’s program and share traditional grandma recipes passed through generations—adding a touch of authentic Italian culture.
Making Pasta Step-by-Step
You’ll get to make three types of pasta: tagliatelle, ravioli, and gnocchi (or orecchiette depending on the season). Each pasta shape is hand-made from scratch, and Monica will guide you through the process, sharing tricks that will help you recreate these dishes at home.
The reviews emphasize how much fun participants had with the hands-on approach: “During the preparation everyone will have their own space and ingredients to practice what I’ll teach,” Monica explains, “and I will share the origin of different recipes, some historical links, and tips to turn your pasta into a real artwork.” This personal touch makes the class more than just cooking; it becomes a cultural experience rooted in family traditions.
Learning and Sharing
As you work through each step, Monica’s storytelling adds richness—covering everything from ingredient names to the history behind each pasta type. Many reviews mention how much they appreciated her humor and the way she simplifies complex techniques, making everyone feel like a pasta pro by the end of the session.
The Terrace Finale
Once your pasta is ready, the group moves outside to a terrace overlooking the Mediterranean. Here, you’ll enjoy a family-style al fresco lunch or dinner, sampling the dishes you’ve just prepared. The meal is complemented by Italian coffee and local tips, creating a convivial atmosphere that many describe as memorable and authentic.
Why This Tour Is a Great Choice
This experience is especially appealing for travelers who want to enjoy Italian culinary traditions in a relaxed setting. The small-group format ensures personalized attention and a chance to ask questions. Plus, the stunning sea view elevates the whole experience, making it feel like a true escape from the everyday.
Many reviews highlight how Monica’s warmth and knowledge set this tour apart: “Monica is so warm, friendly, fun & knowledgeable,” one guest notes. Others mention that the class is engaging enough for teenagers and adults alike, making it a versatile option whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends.
The Value of the Experience
At just over $170, the class offers a lot more than just pasta-making. You get practical skills, a cultural connection, and a delicious meal in a beautiful setting. Guests report that the sauces and pasta they learned to make are easy to recreate at home, giving the experience ongoing value far beyond the day itself.
A few reviewers mention that the class was a good value for money, especially considering the quality of instruction, the setting, and the food. Monica and Diego’s hospitality seems to be a big part of the charm, making everyone feel welcomed and involved.
Who Should Consider This Experience?
This tour is perfect for food lovers, curious travelers, and anyone wanting a genuine taste of Italian family cooking. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy hands-on activities and want to learn authentic recipes from a passionate local host. If you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy interactive experiences, this class will likely be a highlight.
However, if you’re looking for a quick, passive tour or don’t want to get involved in cooking, this might not be the right fit. Also, keep in mind that while it’s family-friendly in spirit, the activity requires some patience and manual effort, so very young children might find it less engaging.
Final Thoughts
Pasta & Basta offers much more than a typical cooking class. It’s an authentic, personal dive into Italian culinary traditions, paired with breathtaking views and a warm, welcoming host. The reviews highlight not only the quality of instruction and delicious pasta but also the memorable atmosphere created by Monica’s storytelling and hospitality.
If you’re visiting Sanremo and want to try your hand at making pasta, this experience balances practical skills with cultural insights. It’s an excellent way to spend an afternoon, especially if you love food, enjoy learning new techniques, or just want a relaxing meal in a stunning setting.
For anyone eager to bring home more than just photos but genuine skills and stories, Pasta & Basta is definitely worth considering.
Pasta & Basta
“Monica our hostess was very knowledgeable and fun when explaining the how and why of cooking methods giving us a little history and culture tips. I…”
FAQs
Is this tour suitable for children?
While it’s generally a family-friendly experience, the focus on manual pasta making means children should be old enough to participate actively. Very young kids might find the activity less engaging, but older children and teenagers usually enjoy the hands-on process.
How long does the class last?
The experience lasts approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, including the cooking, learning, and enjoying the meal.
What’s included in the price?
For $174.16 per person, you get the pasta-making lesson, ingredients, personal instruction, and the family-style meal on the terrace.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance. Just be sure to cancel in time if your plans shift.
Do I need to bring anything?
Nope, everything is provided—aprons, ingredients, and utensils. Just bring your enthusiasm and readiness to learn!
Is this experience easy to find?
The meeting point is at Strada Privata Vallarino in Sanremo. It’s near public transportation, making it accessible for most travelers.
If you’re after an authentic, enjoyable way to connect with Italian culture and cuisine, Pasta & Basta seems to tick all the boxes. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or part of a small group, this class offers a memorable, tasty experience you won’t forget.
