Paris isn’t just about sightseeing; it’s a city where you can learn about its culinary arts, fragrance secrets, and artisan crafts firsthand. What makes Paris an ideal place for workshops and classes is the abundance of expert instructors eager to share their skills, whether in a cozy kitchen or a historic perfume museum. For example, the Paris Cooking Class and Lunch with Wine offers a full gourmet experience with market visits and wine pairing, perfect for food lovers. Meanwhile, those with a sweet tooth will appreciate classes like the Macarons and Croissants or the Sweet Crêpe Cooking Class. This list highlights the top 15 workshops, covering everything from pastry making and wine tasting to perfume creation—ensuring there’s something for every type of hands-on traveler.
Below, we’ve summarized the types of tours included: French cooking classes, pastry workshops, wine tastings, perfume making, and even professional-level baking like croissants. Each offers a distinct way to bring home more than just pictures—whether that’s a new skill or a bottle of personalized perfume. Now, let’s explore each experience in detail.
1. Paris Cooking Class and Lunch with Wine plus Market Visit Option
At number one, this 6-hour culinary experience combines hands-on cooking with a market visit if you choose the option. You’ll prepare a 3-course French meal—starter, main, and dessert—guided by an instructor who helps you master French techniques. The class includes a visit to a food market in the Latin Quarter, where you pick ingredients from fresh produce and cheeses. The meal is enjoyed with a selection of French wines, with tips on pairing them perfectly. The small group size (limited to 11) ensures personal attention and a more intimate learning environment. Reviewers praise this class for its quality ingredients and the chance to learn French cheese and wine pairing in an authentic setting. With a high rating of 5/5 from over 900 reviews, it’s an excellent choice for foodies wanting a comprehensive, authentic experience. Bottom line: If you want a full day of culinary immersion, this class delivers both technique and culture, with the bonus of market shopping.
2. Paris Croissant Small-Group Baking Class with a Chef
For around $150, this 2.5-hour hands-on bakery class is perfect for pastry lovers wanting to learn how to make authentic croissants and pains au chocolat. Located conveniently in central Paris, the class is small—up to 8 participants—so you get plenty of individual guidance from your chef instructor. During the session, you’ll learn the secrets of laminated dough, a skill that takes a bit of patience but results in flaky, buttery pastries. Many reviews highlight how fun and educational the experience is, with guests leaving confident they can replicate perfect croissants at home. The class includes all supplies and drinks, plus your baked treats to take away. Bottom line: This class is ideal for those eager to walk away with a new baking skill and a delicious souvenir.
3. Paris Cooking Class: Learn How to Make Macarons
This 3-hour class is all about mastering one of France’s most iconic confections: macarons. Led by an expert instructor, you’ll learn how to make perfect meringue shells, fill them with buttercream, and choose your preferred colors. The class emphasizes the cultural significance of macarons in France, and you’ll get to taste your creations with tea or coffee. Reviewers note that the instructor provides clear, detailed guidance, making it accessible even for beginners. The class is suitable for all skill levels and offers an enjoyable, tasty experience in the heart of Paris. Bottom line: If you want to impress friends with your new pastry skills, this class offers a delightful introduction to French confections.
4. Paris: French Croissant Baking Class with a Chef
Baking croissants from scratch in Paris? Yes, please. This 2.5-hour workshop at Maison Fleuret teaches you how to shape, proof, and bake authentic French croissants with guidance from professional chefs. The class focuses on traditional methods, emphasizing technique and attention to detail. Participants rave about the intimate setting and the ability to take home freshly baked croissants. The workshop also offers insights into the history of this pastry and the secrets to flaky layers. The price reflects value, considering the skills you’ll gain and the quality of instruction. Bottom line: Perfect for baking enthusiasts wanting a hands-on, authentic experience, with the bonus of hot, fresh croissants.
5. Paris: French Macaron Culinary Class with a Chef
This 2.5-hour class hosted at Maison Fleuret is a favorite for its friendly atmosphere and expert guidance. You’ll learn the techniques for making crisp, flavorful macarons, including preparing ganache and achieving the perfect meringue. Participants leave with a box of macarons they made themselves, ready to share or enjoy. Many reviewers praise the instructor’s patience and the chance to connect with others. The class is ideal for those who want a relaxed yet skillful introduction to French pastry making. Bottom line: A fun, social class that results in delicious, professional-quality macarons to take home.
6. Fragonard Paris: Mini Perfume Workshop
In just 45 minutes, this mini perfume workshop offers a taste of Parisian luxury. You’ll explore the Fragonard Perfume Museum and create your own 12ml Eau de Toilette with guidance from an expert. The process involves blending top, heart, and base notes, with the chance to learn about the history and art of perfume making. It’s a perfect activity for those interested in fragrances and a memorable souvenir. The workshop receives a 4.5/5 rating from over 1,600 reviews. Children over 8 are welcome, making it family-friendly. Bottom line: Ideal for perfume enthusiasts or anyone wanting a quick, fragrant escape into French craft.
7. Paris: 2-Hour Perfume Creation Workshop
For a more personalized perfume experience, this 2-hour workshop near Île Saint Louis guides you through creating your own 50ml fragrance. With the help of a professional, you’ll learn about the history of fragrance and how to blend essential oils to match your style. You even have the option to engrave your bottle. Many find this a delightful way to develop a signature scent and bring home a custom perfume. The 4.8/5 ratings reflect high satisfaction. Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting a deeper, more customized fragrance experience.
8. Paris Evening Cooking Class French Dinner and Market Visit Option
This 6-hour evening experience starts with a market visit (if selected), then continues into a hands-on cooking class. Under the guidance of a chef, you’ll prepare a 3-course dinner paired with half a bottle of French wine. The small group (up to 12) offers an intimate setting, and guests rave about the quality of the dishes and the technique learned. The class ends with a shared meal in a cozy setting. Reviewers highlight this as a highlight of their trip, especially for those who love food, wine, and good company. Bottom line: For food and wine lovers who want an authentic, social dinner experience, this class is a stellar pick.
9. Paris: French Wine Tasting Class with Sommelier
In just 2 hours, this wine tasting class explores France’s main wine regions. Led by a knowledgeable sommelier, you’ll learn how to taste and identify different wines, understand terroir and labels, and discover perfect pairings. The class is perfect for wine enthusiasts wanting a structured, educational experience without a full day commitment. Many reviews mention the engaging guidance and the variety of wines tasted, making it a good value for wine lovers. Bottom line: An excellent choice if you want to deepen your understanding of French wines in a friendly setting.
10. Paris Macarons Small-Group Baking Class with a Chef
This 2-hour class offers a chance to learn macaron baking from a professional chef in a small group (up to 7 people). Ingredients and equipment are provided, and you choose your preferred flavor. Reviewers love the personal attention and the delicious results, often commenting on how they leave with both new skills and tasty macarons. Perfect for those who want a quick, fun pastry session. Bottom line: An intimate, focused class that guarantees tasty, homemade macarons.
11. Paris: Croissant Baking Class with a Chef
Join a 3-hour session with a seasoned pastry chef to master the art of croissant shaping, proofing, and baking. The class emphasizes hands-on learning, with personalized guidance in an intimate setting. Participants enjoy learning about the pastry’s history and leave with a batch of freshly baked croissants. Many find this class combines technique with fun, especially if they’re serious about baking. Bottom line: For pastry enthusiasts seeking expert instruction and expert tips, this class is a must.
12. Amazing Sweet Crêpe Cooking Class Paris
This 3-hour class focuses on how to make classic French sweet crêpes. Hosted in a cozy crêperie, the instructor shares tips for perfect batter, flipping, and fillings. Participants learn about the history of crêpes and enjoy eating their creations afterward. Reviewers mention how fun and informative it is, with lots of laughs along the way. It’s suitable for all ages and skill levels. Bottom line: Great for families or couples wanting a relaxed, tasty experience of a French favorite.
13. Paris: Macaron Baking Class in Central Paris
Set in the heart of Paris, this 2.5-hour class emphasizes improving baking skills while making flavorful macarons. You’ll learn about the science behind perfect macarons, customizing flavors and fillings, and tasting your finished batch. The class is praised for its practical approach and friendly instruction. It’s perfect if you want to develop your baking confidence in a central, lively Paris setting. Bottom line: A hands-on, scientifically oriented class that makes you a confident macaron baker.
14. Paris: Macarons Class, Teatime and To-Go Box
This 3-hour experience combines a macaron-making class in the Latin Quarter with a delightful teatime and a to-go box of macarons. You’ll learn techniques for Italian meringue, pipe fillings, and then relax over stories of French culture. The experience ends with a box of macarons you made yourself. Reviewers appreciate the relaxed atmosphere and the opportunity to taste and take home your own delightful treats. Bottom line: Ideal for those who want a full sensory experience—making, tasting, and sharing macarons in a friendly setting.
15. Paris: Macarons Cooking Class with Pâtisserie Chef Noémie
Led by Chef Noémie in her cozy Parisian atelier, this 2.5-hour class focuses on making two types of macarons. You’ll learn classic flavor combinations like chocolate and caramel, and leave with recipes and tips from a seasoned pâtisserie chef. Participants often enjoy chatting with Chef Noémie over tea or coffee afterward. With intimate class sizes and personal guidance, it’s perfect for serious home bakers or those wanting a detailed, authentic experience. Bottom line: A wonderful, personalized opportunity to master macarons alongside a talented chef.
How to Choose Your Workshop in Paris
When deciding between these fantastic options, consider your budget, time, and interests. If you’re a foodie who wants a full culinary experience, the Paris Cooking Class and Lunch offers a comprehensive day. For pastry enthusiasts, classes like the Croissant or Macarons guarantee hands-on skills and delicious results. If fragrance appeals, then the Perfume Workshops or Fragonard Mini are ideal for creating your signature scent. Budget travelers will appreciate the Perfume creation or Macaron classes at lower prices, offering authentic experiences without breaking the bank.
Booking early is wise, especially during peak seasons, as these popular classes fill up quickly. Consider your schedule—whether you want a quick afternoon activity or a full day of culinary immersion—and choose accordingly.
Paris offers an array of workshops that turn your visit into a hands-on adventure. From mastering pastry skills to creating personalized perfume, these classes add a delicious, fragrant, or artistic dimension to your trip. The best choice depends on your interests—baking croissants, tasting wine, or designing a signature scent—so pick what excites you most. With this list, you’re well on your way to experiencing Paris through the skills and flavors that make the city so special. Don’t forget to book early—these experiences are popular and fill up fast!
