Sestri Levante stands out as a fantastic spot for cooking classes thanks to its location in Liguria, a region famous for its pesto, fresh seafood, and hearty bread. What makes these experiences special is the chance to learn authentic recipes directly from local experts, often using traditional tools like marble mortars. One of our favorites is the Sestri Levante: Pesto & Cooking Classes, Wine Tasting, where you get to make Genoese pesto using a marble mortar — a true taste of local tradition. Plus, the class includes making pasta with unique molds and preparing focaccia, all paired with wine tasting. These hands-on activities give you more than just a meal; they’re about understanding the regional food culture in a relaxed setting.
In addition, Sestri Levante offers various cooking experiences that dive into Liguria’s culinary heritage. Whether you prefer making pesto from scratch or creating seafood dishes guided by expert chefs, you’ll find options that suit your taste and skill level. For those interested in a lively, convivial atmosphere, the Pesto and Pasta cooking classes at Trattoria Turin Sestri Levante provide a more informal, social experience with a focus on local ingredients and traditions. Here, the emphasis is on fun, fresh flavors, and a sense of community.
Below, we’ve broken down the two best cooking classes available in Sestri Levante, highlighting what makes each unique and who they’re best suited for.
1. Sestri Levante: Pesto & Cooking Classes, Wine Tasting
For around $56.94 per person, this 1-hour class offers an immersive look into Ligurian cuisine with a focus on pesto, pasta, bread, and seafood. Starting at La Sciamada dei Vinaccieri Ballerini, the experience is designed to be hands-on and authentic. You’ll use a marble mortar to crush fresh basil and make your Genoese pesto—a crucial skill for any foodie visiting Liguria.
What sets this class apart is its variety of experiences: you’ll also learn to make pasta using ancient molds, bake focaccia, and prepare two seafood dishes under the guidance of a professional chef. The class concludes with a wine tasting of Vinaccieri Ballerini wines, pairing these regional wines with typical Ligurian products. The reviews highlight its intimate setting, with many guests describing the class as “fun,” “informative,” and the guides as “knowledgeable and friendly.” One guest mentioned, “Daniel was fantastic, and we came away full of delicious pasta and helpful tips.”
Bottom line: This class is ideal for those wanting a comprehensive, authentic Ligurian cooking experience that combines food and wine in a relaxed atmosphere. It’s perfect if you enjoy learning new skills and tasting regional wines.
2. Pesto and Pasta cooking classes – Trattoria Turin Sestri Levante – Experiences
Costing less than an hour of your time, this 1-hour class focuses mainly on pesto and pasta, with an emphasis on participatory fun and local flavor. Hosted at Trattoria Turin, it’s a lively, convivial experience that encourages interaction among participants. The highlight is making pesto with the traditional Genoese mortar, which is a rare chance to see a classic Ligurian technique in action.
Participants rave about the delicious pesto they produce, noting how much fun it is to “make it together with local ingredients.” The class also features a good local wine to complement the flavors. With a perfect 5-star rating from 9 reviews, this experience is appreciated for its informality, friendliness, and focus on product quality. The hosts believe in supporting their local territory, which shines through in the ingredients and tips shared.
Bottom line: This class is well-suited for travelers seeking a short, lively, and authentic introduction to Ligurian pesto and pasta, especially if they enjoy socializing over good food and wine.
How to Choose the Right Cooking Class in Sestri Levante
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time, and interests. The first class offers a more comprehensive experience with seafood and baking, alongside wine tasting, making it perfect for those who want a well-rounded taste of Liguria. Meanwhile, the second is ideal if you’re interested primarily in pesto and pasta, and prefer a more casual, social environment.
Check availability and start times beforehand, especially during busy seasons, and book early to secure your spot. Keep in mind that some classes, like the Sestri Levante: Pesto & Cooking Classes, Wine Tasting, tend to be popular, so planning ahead will ensure you don’t miss out.
Final Thoughts
Sestri Levante offers a wonderful range of culinary experiences that go beyond just tasting food—they teach you skills and stories behind Ligurian cuisine. For a comprehensive, wine-paired session, the first tour is a clear winner, especially if seafood and bread are your thing. If you prefer a more casual, social pesto-making session, the second option at Trattoria Turin will suit you perfectly.
No matter which you choose, these classes are a fantastic way to connect with local culture, learn new skills, and enjoy delicious regional flavors. Be sure to book early, especially in high season, and prepare for a memorable taste of Liguria.
