Ravenna is a city that combines artistic treasures with a lively culinary scene, making it a fantastic place for hands-on workshops and classes. Unlike typical sightseeing, these experiences allow you to roll up your sleeves and learn authentic Italian skills directly from locals or professional chefs. We especially love the Gelato Making Class for its fun, flavorful results and the chance to taste your own creations—an indulgent way to spend an afternoon. The Private Pasta & Tiramisu Class at a Cesarina’s home offers a cozy, authentic setting where you can learn regional recipes from someone who knows them best. Plus, the opportunity to enjoy your own cooked dishes with local wine makes it a memorable culinary treat.
If you’re eager to truly learn about Ravenna’s food scene, these classes are perfect. Whether you want to master pasta, learn the secrets of tiramisu, or create your own gelato, each offers a unique way to connect with Italian culture through cooking. Now, let’s explore these top-rated workshops in detail.
1. Ravenna: Gelato Making Class
At number one, this 1.5-hour gelato-making class is a sweet way to spend time in Ravenna. It’s led by a professional gelato maker who will teach you the tricks behind blending flavors and perfecting textures. You’ll create your own gelato under expert supervision, tasting as much as you like during the session. The class emphasizes hands-on participation, so you get to learn through doing—no passive watching here.
What makes this experience stand out is its focus on techniques and secrets that make gelato so irresistibly smooth and flavorful. It’s perfect for food lovers, families, or anyone curious about Italy’s most beloved treat. The small size and friendly instruction ensure plenty of personal attention. The price is reasonable for the quality and duration, making it a good value for a memorable culinary experience. Plus, tasting your own freshly made gelato is a thrill that no store-bought version can match.
Bottom Line: This class is ideal if you want a fun, interactive way to learn about Italian desserts and enjoy lots of tastings. It’s a casual, enjoyable experience suited for all ages.
2. Private Pasta & Tiramisu Class at a Cesarina’s home with tasting in Forlì
Number two on our list takes you behind the scenes of Italian cooking in a warm, private setting. During this 3-hour class, you’ll learn to prepare two pasta recipes and tiramisu from scratch, guided by a host known as a Cesarina. The class is held in her home in Forlì, which offers an intimate glimpse into regional culinary traditions. You’ll get hands-on experience kneading dough, shaping pasta, and assembling the perfect tiramisu.
Guests consistently praise the lively atmosphere and personal touch—a far cry from a crowded cooking school. The host shares family secrets and tips, giving you a real taste of Italy’s home cooking. After cooking, you’ll sit down to enjoy your creations paired with local wines, making this a well-rounded culinary adventure. The price reflects the private setting and extended duration, offering a more immersive experience than typical group classes.
Bottom Line: This class is best suited for foodies who want an authentic, personalized cooking lesson and a chance to savor the dishes they make. Its intimate vibe and regional focus make it a standout experience.
3. Private Authentic Pasta-Making Class in Ravenna in a Local’s Home
For those seeking a truly local experience, this private, one-on-one pasta-making class offers a peek into Italian family life. Hosted in a local’s home, Silvia will teach you her grandmother’s secret techniques for making pasta, such as tagliatelle, ravioli, and more. Over approximately three hours, you’ll learn to craft 2–3 dishes, which you can then enjoy together.
What makes this tour special is the opportunity to dive deep into Italian culture and cuisine in an intimate setting. Silvia’s warm hospitality creates a welcoming environment, and you’ll sample cheeses, piadina, and freshly made pasta along the way. Alcoholic drinks are included, adding to the relaxed, convivial atmosphere. Guests have described the evening as a “fantastic experience,” highlighting the personal connection and authentic recipes.
Bottom Line: If you love authentic, personal cooking lessons and want to learn family recipes from a local, this private class offers unmatched insight and a cozy atmosphere.
4. Ravenna Gelato Making Class
This 1.5-hour gelato workshop provides a quick, enjoyable introduction to Italy’s favorite frozen treat. It’s designed for those who want to experiment with flavors and techniques without committing too much time. You’ll learn how to select ingredients, master basic techniques, and then craft your own personalized gelato batch. The class is interactive and suitable for food lovers of all levels.
What’s appealing here is the focus on creative experimentation—you can try classic flavors or invent your own. The instructor will share tips on balancing flavors and achieving the perfect texture. With just one review, it’s clear this class delivers on fun and flavor. It’s an excellent choice if you’re short on time but still want a memorable, hands-on culinary experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a quick, engaging way to learn about gelato and leave with a custom batch to enjoy.
5. Share your Pasta Love: Small group Pasta and Tiramisu class in Ravenna
Number five offers a small-group, 3-hour cooking experience in a private Ravenna home. You’ll learn to make two types of pasta and tiramisu, then sit down to enjoy your meal with a selection of local wines. The class starts with an Italian aperitivo, creating a relaxed, friendly environment perfect for socializing.
What’s distinctive is the small-group setting, which ensures personalized attention. The host guides you through the steps of making both pasta and dessert from scratch, fostering a real sense of participation. This class is flexible for lunch or dinner, making it easy to fit into most itineraries. Guests note the “delicious food and warm environment,” confirming its value.
Bottom Line: Best for those wanting a relaxed, social culinary experience, learning regional recipes in a cozy home atmosphere.
6. Small Group Market tour and Cooking class in Forlì
Rounding out the list, this 5-hour experience combines a market tour with a cooking class in Forlì. It’s perfect for those interested in shopping like a local—you’ll stroll through the morning market, selecting fresh ingredients with your host. Then, in a home kitchen, you’ll transform those ingredients into pasta, sauce, and tiramisu.
The value here is in the combination of shopping and cooking, providing a fuller understanding of Italian culinary culture. The small group size fosters a personal connection, and the class ends with a meal sharing your homemade dishes. Guests describe this as an “amazing” experience that offers a true taste of Italy.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want an immersive, multi-part experience combining market shopping with hands-on cooking.
How to Choose the Best Workshop or Class in Ravenna
Choosing between these culinary experiences depends largely on your interests and schedule. For a short, sweet introduction to gelato, the Ravenna Gelato Making Class offers a quick but satisfying taste of Italy’s frozen favorite. If you prefer an authentic, home-style cooking experience, the private classes at a local’s home or a Cesarina’s home provide deeper insights into regional recipes. Budget-wise, the gelato classes are more affordable, while the private experiences offer more personalized attention and a cultural connection.
Think about your time availability—if you only have a couple of hours, the gelato or the quick gelato workshop might suit you best. For a more comprehensive outing, the 3- or 5-hour classes, which include market visits, are excellent options. Also consider your desire for social interaction—small-group classes foster camaraderie, while private sessions focus on personalized learning.
Booking early is advisable, especially in high season, to secure your preferred time and ensure a spot in these popular experiences. These classes aren’t just about learning recipes—they’re about enjoying a slice of Italy in a relaxed, authentic setting.
Final Thoughts
Ravenna offers a wide range of workshops that turn a simple visit into a memorable culinary adventure. Whether you’re after a quick, flavorful lesson in gelato making, a thorough family-style pasta class, or an immersive market-to-table experience, there’s something here for every food lover. For a balanced mix of fun, learning, and culture, the private classes in locals’ homes stand out, especially if you want to truly connect with Italian traditions.
If you’re short on time but craving a sweet taste of Italy, the Ravenna Gelato Making Class is a fantastic pick. Those who want a deeper dive into regional recipes will find the private pasta and tiramisu classes or the market tour and cooking experience especially rewarding. Whichever you choose, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these flavorful opportunities to learn and taste like an Italian.
