Sestri Levante is a town that celebrates good food and authentic crafts. Its lively markets, charming streets, and seaside vibe make it an ideal place to learn new skills—especially in the kitchen. We particularly enjoy experiences that let you get hands-on, like the Pesto & Cooking Classes with wine tasting, which combine culinary art, regional wines, and a touch of local tradition. These classes give you practical skills you can take home, plus a taste of Ligurian hospitality.
Sestri Levante’s workshops are perfect for travelers who want more than just sightseeing—they offer authentic, interactive experiences. From making fresh pasta to preparing fish dishes, these classes allow you to learn about Ligurian food culture. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, you’ll find something that fits your style. Our top choices include a vibrant pesto course and a friendly pasta-making experience, both of which highlight local ingredients and techniques.
Below, you’ll find a detailed comparison of the two best workshops and classes in Sestri Levante—each with unique features, pricing, and reviews—so you can choose the one that fits your interests and schedule.
1. Sestri Levante: Pesto & Cooking Classes, Wine Tasting
At number one on our list is the highly-rated Sestri Levante: Pesto & Cooking Classes, Wine Tasting. With a solid 4.8/5 rating based on 45 reviews, this class offers a comprehensive taste of Ligurian culinary traditions. For around $56.94 per person, you get a 1-hour hands-on experience that includes making authentic pesto using the traditional marble mortar, which is a fundamental part of Genoese cooking. The class also features preparing fresh pasta using ancient molds, which you get to take home, along with focaccia and bread—perfect for a picnic or a snack later.
What makes this tour stand out is the variety of culinary skills you learn in a single session. You’ll prepare and taste two fish dishes under the guidance of a professional chef, something that elevates the experience beyond simple cooking. The wine tasting of Vinaccieri Ballerini wines complements the meal, giving you a full flavor profile of Liguria’s regional products.
Many reviewers praise its intimacy and personalized attention: “Very good, it was a private class and not a big group,” said one. Others appreciate the easy location and the opportunity to learn and eat in a relaxed setting. It’s best suited for those who want a mix of hands-on cooking, wine tasting, and local culture in a short time.
Bottom Line: This class offers excellent value with a variety of activities packed into an hour. Perfect for food lovers who want authentic skills and regional flavors.
2. Pesto and Pasta cooking classes – Trattoria Turin Sestri Levante – Experiences
The Pesto and Pasta cooking classes at Trattoria Turin ranks as a perfect choice for those seeking a cozy, convivial atmosphere. With a perfect 5/5 rating from 9 reviews, this experience emphasizes fun and local pride in Ligurian cuisine. For just about an hour, you’ll join in making pesto from scratch with the traditional Genoese mortar, a highlight that truly captures the region’s culinary soul. The class is accompanied by a good local wine, making it a relaxed, enjoyable experience that emphasizes community and shared learning.
This class’s strength lies in its emphasis on local products and authentic methods. The team believes in supporting regional producers, which is reflected in the quality of ingredients used. It’s designed to be interactive and friendly, making it ideal for travelers who want a more intimate, social experience. The focus on having fun while learning ensures that even beginners will leave with a sense of achievement and a delicious pesto to take home.
Guests often mention how tasty their pesto turns out and how much they enjoyed the informal, friendly atmosphere. Since it’s a shorter experience, it’s perfect if you’re tight on time but still want a genuine taste of Liguria’s culinary traditions.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a relaxed, friendly cooking experience with emphasis on local ingredients and a personal touch, this class hits the mark.
How to Choose
Picking between these top workshops depends on what kind of experience you’re after. If you want a more comprehensive class with multiple dishes, wine tasting, and a slightly more structured experience, the Sestri Levante: Pesto & Cooking Classes, Wine Tasting offers excellent value and variety. It’s great for those who enjoy learning new skills quickly and want to savor regional wines.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more intimate, social, and fun-focused experience centered mainly on making pesto with a local family atmosphere, then the Pesto and Pasta classes at Trattoria Turin might suit you best. It’s perfect for travelers craving a cozy, authentic vibe.
Consider your schedule, budget, and how much culinary variety you want. Both experiences are about an hour long, so they fit well into a busy day of exploring or relaxing.
Final Thoughts
Sestri Levante’s workshops showcase how much the local culture revolves around food and craft. Whether you choose a detailed, multi-course class with wine tasting or a friendly pesto-making session, you’ll walk away with practical skills and memorable flavors. For travelers who love cooking or want to connect with local traditions, these classes are worthwhile investments.
To make the most of your trip, consider booking early—these popular experiences fill quickly, especially in peak season. Whether you’re a passionate cook, a curious traveler, or simply a foodie, these workshops give you a delicious taste of Liguria you won’t soon forget.