Bologna isn’t just Italy’s food capital — it’s a place where you can roll up your sleeves and learn authentic culinary skills firsthand. Its rich tradition of pasta, regional wines, and local dishes makes it an ideal city for participating in hands-on cooking classes and food workshops. We love experiences like the Bologna: Pasta Cooking Class, Ragu, Spritz, Wine & Gelato, which combines cooking with regional drinks, and the Cesarine small-group pasta and tiramisu class, perfect for intimate, authentic lessons. These experiences are a fantastic way to connect with local traditions, meet fellow travelers, and bring home new skills.
Bologna’s culinary workshops fall into several categories: private cooking classes in local homes, small-group experiences with expert chefs, market tours combined with cooking, and specialized courses like lasagna and gelato making. Each offers a different way to dive into Emilia-Romagna’s rich food culture. Below, I’ve listed the best of the best, with honest insights to help you find the perfect fit.
1. Bologna: Pasta Cooking Class, Ragu, Spritz, Wine & Gelato
At number one, this 3-hour cooking experience combines hands-on pasta making with regional drinks and a lively social atmosphere. Guided by a knowledgeable instructor, you’ll craft your own tagliatelle and learn how to make homemade ragu. The class kicks off with a welcome aperitivo of piadina, mortadella, and regional wines, setting a friendly tone. Throughout the session, you’ll prepare and sip a Casoni Spritz, then sit down to enjoy your freshly made pasta paired with regional wines. The experience concludes with Montenegro, Moka Coffee, and a dash of mystery with Mr. G.
This class shines with its interactive format, friendly vibe, and inclusion of regional drinks, making it perfect for food lovers who enjoy a relaxed, social environment. With a 4.9/5 rating from 731 reviews, it’s widely loved for its authenticity and fun. The 3-hour length is ideal for those wanting a genuine taste of Bologna’s culinary style without a huge time commitment.
Bottom Line: This class offers a lively, flavorful experience that combines pasta, regional wine, and regional drinks — great for travelers looking for a full immersion in Bologna’s culinary charm.
2. Pastamama, Home Cooking Classes at Grace’s Home
Number 2 on our list is a personalized, home-based experience with a local host in her Bologna kitchen. For around $103 per person, you’ll learn to make fresh tagliatelle, tortelloni, and rich sauces, gaining techniques directly from a passionate local. Grace, your host, shares stories of Bologna’s culinary history, making this a more intimate cultural experience. After the hands-on prep, you’ll enjoy a home-cooked lunch with your creations, complemented by regional wines and dessert.
Guests consistently praise Grace for her warm hospitality and her thorough, easy-to-follow instructions. One reviewer called it an “outstanding class,” emphasizing the value of learning authentic techniques in a home setting. The class’s small size—around 4-8 participants—ensures plenty of attention and a friendly atmosphere.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a personal, local experience with a focus on learning traditional pasta-making techniques in a cozy home environment.
3. Exclusive Bologna Cooking Class – Pasta Tagliatelle Ragu & Spritz
Next, this small-group class offers a more intimate and authentic experience. With just 10 participants, you’ll start with a regional aperitivo of pignoletto wine, mortadella, and crescenta focaccia. Then, you’ll make tagliatelle from scratch to go with homemade ragù, learning regional techniques not typically found in touristy classes. The highlight is making your own Casoni Spritz and enjoying a delicious, home-cooked meal with local wines.
Rated a perfect 5.0, this class is ideal for travelers who want personal attention and to learn regional specialties that a Bolognese would serve. The host’s passion for Emilia-Romagna cuisine shines through in the small-group setting, and guests leave with not only skills but confidence to recreate these dishes at home.
Bottom Line: For those seeking a small, interactive class focusing on local pasta and regional drinks with an authentic flavor, this experience is a winner.
4. Cesarine: Small group Pasta and Tiramisu class in Bologna
Number four features a charming small-group experience led by a passionate Bologna host. You’ll start with Prosecco and snacks, then learn how to make two types of pasta plus tiramisu — a true Italian classic. In just 3 hours, you’ll master shaping pasta like tortellini or tagliatelle, then indulge in the desserts you’ve created.
Rated 5.0 from 157 reviews, this class is praised for its warm host and relaxed atmosphere. The small group (limited to about 8 people) ensures plenty of interaction and personalized guidance. Guests love the hands-on approach and the chance to cook authentic recipes in a homely environment.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want comprehensive hands-on practice making both pasta and tiramisù, with the added charm of a local home.
5. Bologna on the Plate, Cooking Class with Alessia
Alessia’s class offers a dynamic, authentic experience focused on her grandmother’s traditional recipes. Over 3 hours, you’ll learn to prepare handmade pasta and finish with a classic Tiramisu. Alessia’s passion for sharing her family’s culinary secrets makes this class engaging and personal.
Rated 5.0 from numerous reviews, it’s appreciated for its friendly atmosphere and hands-on instruction. Working in a home kitchen, you’ll get practical tips and recipes to recreate at home — a real plus for foodies. The class includes wine, making it a well-rounded cultural experience.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers wanting to learn family recipes in a warm, welcoming environment with plenty of practical tips.
6. Bologna: Pasta Tagliatelle Ragu Cooking Class with Wine
This productive class focuses on local Emilia-Romagna recipes like handmade pasta and tortellini. Led by an experienced chef, the activity involves making your lunch or dinner and relaxing with regional local wine. It’s ideal for those wanting to learn traditional recipes in a relaxed setting.
While reviews note it’s a friendly, hands-on experience, some mention the absence of specific details about the class size or chef’s background. Nevertheless, the focus on local recipes and enjoying a meal together makes it appealing for families and casual cooks.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a comprehensive pasta class combined with a full meal and wine.
7. Bologna: Pasta Cooking Class, Ragu & Wine with Local Host
This fun and informative class offers a 3-hour deep dive into Emilian recipes, with the added benefit of pairing wines. It’s suitable for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike, with a focus on aromas and flavors unique to Bologna.
Rated 4.8, this class is praised for its engaging instructor and authentic flavors. It’s ideal for travelers who want a broad overview of regional cuisine with the flexibility of vegetarian options.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those interested in traditional recipes paired with local wines in a lively environment.
8. Bologna: Original Lasagna & Gelato Class at a Cooking School
A favorite for lovers of comfort food, this class teaches you how to make Bolognese lasagna and homemade gelato. You’ll learn to make spinach pasta dough, béchamel sauce, and layer lasagna with slow-cooked ragù — classic Emilia-Romagna fare.
Rated 4.9, this experience includes an aperitivo with regional wine and cured meats. It’s perfect for families or foodies wanting a comprehensive, hands-on class with a delicious payoff.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting two iconic dishes — lasagna and gelato — in a lively, engaging setting.
9. Cesarine: Private Pasta Class & Meal at Local’s Home in Bologna
This private, 3-hour experience offers one-on-one coaching from a local Bologna home cook. You’ll learn to make three regional pasta styles, then enjoy a family-style meal with your creations and regional wines. Its personalized approach ensures tailored tips and tricks.
Rated 5.0, reviewers mention the warm hospitality and expert guidance. It’s suited for travelers seeking a more intimate and authentic experience of Bologna’s culinary traditions.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a customized and personal cooking lesson with a local host.
10. Pasta Class in Bologna in a 15th-Century Estate Home with Chiara
A truly unique experience, this 4-hour private class takes place on a historic farm outside Bologna. Led by Chiara, you’ll learn to make three dishes, including tagliatelle with prosciutto di Parma and lemon zest. The setting offers a rustic vibe and a glimpse into local farm life.
Rated 5.0, this class is praised for its personal attention and beautiful location. It suits travelers looking for a more immersive, rural experience combined with hands-on cooking. Vegetarian options are available.
Bottom Line: For those who want to combine culinary skills with scenic countryside, this is a top pick.
11. Bologna: Pasta and Tiramisu Cooking Class with Wine
This class combines pasta and tiramisu, both iconic Italian dishes, in a popular Bologna restaurant. Over 3 hours, you’ll learn step-by-step how to make perfect pasta dough and a classic tiramisu, enjoying Prosecco and regional wine along the way.
Rated 4.4, it’s praised for its fun atmosphere and easy-to-follow instructions. Ideal for food lovers who want quality instruction in a relaxed setting with a social vibe.
Bottom Line: Good choice for those who want a combined pasta and dessert experience with drinks included.
12. Cesarine: Small group Tortellini Class at Local’s Home in Bologna
Tortellini — Bologna’s signature pasta — takes center stage here. This small-group class is led by a local host teaching how to knead, roll, and shape tortellini by hand. Afterwards, you’ll sit down to a family-style meal with your own tortellini and regional wines.
Rated 5.0, reviews highlight the personalized instruction and authentic home environment. It’s best suited for those eager to master a regional specialty in a warm, intimate setting.
Bottom Line: A specialist class for making perfect tortellini, perfect for pasta enthusiasts.
13. Cesarine: Market Tour & Cooking Class at Local’s Home in Bologna
Number thirteen is a comprehensive experience combining a local market tour with a home cooking class. Led by a seasoned local, you’ll learn how to select the best ingredients at the Mercato del Quadrilatero or del Erbe. Then, you’ll cook three traditional recipes in a private home, culminating in a feast paired with local wines.
Rated 5.0, this tour is praised for authenticity and rich local insights. Ideal for those who want to understand Bologna’s food scene and cook regional dishes with expert guidance.
Bottom Line: Perfect for visitors seeking a full cultural and culinary immersion blending shopping and cooking.
14. Private Market Tour and Cooking Class in Bologna with Giovanna C
This private 4-hour tour offers market shopping combined with cooking in a local Bologna home. Giovanna, a native with over 60 years in Bologna, guides you through selecting ingredients before you cook three dishes. The experience is highly customizable and includes sampling everything you make.
Rated 5.0, it’s highly praised for authenticity, local insight, and personal attention. It suits travelers who want a deep dive into local ingredients and recipes with a warm host.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those wanting a personalized, immersive experience in Bologna.
15. Bologna: Pasta & Wine Lesson Private Chef & Sommelier
Finally, this 3-hour private session pairs pasta-making with organic wine tasting from small Italian producers. Led by a private chef and sommelier, you’ll learn how to match regional wines with various dishes, finishing with a Tiramisu from your host’s grandmother.
Rated 4.7, it’s ideal for travelers wanting a sophisticated, intimate experience combining culinary skills with wine pairings. It’s perfect for couples or small groups seeking a luxurious yet authentic class.
Bottom Line: For those interested in wine and pasta, and looking for a personal, exclusive experience, this class delivers.
How to Choose the Perfect Workshop or Class in Bologna
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time available, and specific interests. For a fun and social introduction to Bologna’s cuisine, the Pasta, Ragu, Spritz, Wine & Gelato is excellent. If you prefer a more personalized, home-cooked experience, try Grace’s home cooking class. For those seeking an immersive rural experience, the pasta class on a 15th-century estate outside Bologna offers a scenic retreat.
Choosing a market tour combined with cooking like Giovanna’s private experience gives a thorough cultural experience, while small-group classes such as Cesarine’s pasta and tiramisu excel for intimacy and hands-on learning.
Final Thoughts
From full-day market excursions to intimate home cooking lessons, Bologna’s food workshops offer something for every kind of traveler. Food lovers will appreciate the chance to learn authentic recipes directly from locals, while history buffs can enjoy the scenic rural courses. If you’re after a fun, social atmosphere, the classes with drinks and shared meals are perfect. For a more personalized touch, private and small-group experiences shine.
Be sure to book early, especially for popular classes with high ratings and limited spots. Bologna’s culinary delights are waiting — all you need to do is choose your adventure and get ready to bring home a taste of Italy.
