Make pasta, drink wine. Cooking class with transported included!

If you’re dreaming of a true taste of Italy where you can get your hands dirty, make something delicious, and sip on local wines, then this pasta-making and wine-tasting tour in Lecce might just be what you’re looking for. According to enthusiastic reviews and stellar ratings, it’s an experience that captures the warmth of Salento’s culinary culture, and it’s highly recommended for anyone who wants more than just sightseeing — a genuine glimpse into local life through food and drink.

What we really love about this experience is how personal and interactive it feels. The hosts, Lisa and Fabio, don’t just teach you to roll pasta — they create a welcoming atmosphere that feels like visiting friends rather than a typical class. Plus, the combination of making two types of pasta and pairing them with local wines makes the evening both practical and indulgent.

That said, it’s worth noting that this experience is designed for small groups, which means a maximum of 8 travelers. While that keeps things intimate, it also means booking well in advance is a smart move (about 50 days on average). Also, since it involves making pasta by hand and tasting wine, it’s best suited for adults or those comfortable with a relaxed, culinary-focused evening.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate authentic activities, love good food and wine, and are eager to learn a traditional craft in a cozy setting. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, a family, or a small group of friends, this experience promises a memorable night filled with laughter, delicious bites, and new skills.

Key Points

• Authentic and Hands-On: You’ll learn to craft two types of pasta from scratch, making the experience both educational and interactive.
• Genuine Hospitality: The hosts are praised for their warmth, friendliness, and ability to create an inviting atmosphere.
• Culinary and Cultural Immersion: The tour connects local ingredients, traditions, and wine, providing a well-rounded taste of Salento.
• Small Group Focus: With a maximum of 8 people, expect personalized attention and plenty of opportunities for questions and conversations.
• Value for Money: For around $115, you’re getting a crafted experience that combines cooking, tasting, and local stories — a worthwhile investment.
• Ideal for Food Lovers: Perfect for those who love to cook or simply enjoy savoring authentic Italian flavors in a relaxed setting.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

This pasta and wine tour in Lecce isn’t just about making food — it’s about connecting with local traditions in a way that feels genuine and personal. From the moment you arrive at the charming villa on the outskirts of Lecce, you’re welcomed into a warm, homely environment. The experience kicks off around 6:15 pm, starting with a typical Lecce drink, which sets the tone for a relaxed, convivial evening.

The Setting and Atmosphere

Lisa and Fabio’s home is described as beautiful, with a garden setting that instantly makes guests feel comfortable. Many reviews mention how they’re greeted with genuine warmth, making you feel like part of the family. This friendly environment means you’re encouraged to ask questions, share stories, and really engage with the hosts.

The Pasta-Making Process

The core activity involves producing your own dough for two types of pasta: orecchiette and macaroni wire. Both are staples of Salento cuisine, and making them by hand is a rewarding process. The hosts demonstrate each step, offering tips and encouragement. Guests particularly enjoy that they’re not just passive observers — they get to roll, shape, and cut their own pasta.

Some reviews emphasize how therapeutic and enjoyable the act of working with dough can be. One reviewer calls it “quite therapeutic doing orecchiette while chatting,” which highlights how this isn’t just a cooking class but a relaxing, almost meditative activity. Plus, everyone gets their own portion of dough to work with, making it a personalized experience.

The Tools and Techniques

A charming highlight is the special tool called the “Caturu,” used to shape the macaroni wire. This is a traditional piece of equipment that adds authenticity to the experience, and it’s given as a gift afterward, making it a memorable takeaway.

Pairing with Local Food and Wine

While your pasta is being shaped, the hosts prepare sauces to accompany your creations, explaining each step and the significance of traditional local ingredients. During the first part of the evening, you’re served an aperitif based on local, Km.0 products, along with some of the region’s best wines — all designed to showcase Salento’s terroir.

The tasting doesn’t stop there. After creating your pasta, you sit down to enjoy your handmade dishes paired with additional local wines, elevating the experience to a true celebration of regional flavors. Multiple reviews mention the outstanding wine selection and the warm, friendly service that makes the evening feel special.

Ending with Sweets and Limoncello

No Italian evening is complete without a sweet finish, and here, you’ll indulge in a dessert while sipping Limoncello — a perfect way to cap off a night of culinary discovery. This part of the evening is often praised for its convivial spirit and the chance to relax and soak in the warmth of the hosts.

The Value and Practical Details

At around $115 per person, this experience offers a lot for the price. You’re not just paying for a cooking lesson but for a memorable evening that blends local tradition, personal interaction, and regional flavors. It’s worth noting that the class lasts approximately 3.5 hours, making it a substantial yet relaxed activity.

The small group size means everyone has ample opportunity to interact and ask questions, which enhances the learning aspect. Plus, booking is recommended about 50 days in advance, reflecting its popularity.

The Reviews Speak Volumes

Guests consistently describe this experience as “one of the highlights” of their trip, with words like “authentic,” “warm,” and “delightful” cropping up repeatedly. Several reviewers mention that Lisa and Fabio are “incredible hosts,” offering a genuine taste of local hospitality. The combination of making pasta, tasting regional wines, and sharing stories creates an atmosphere that’s both fun and meaningful.

The reviews also highlight how well-organized and enjoyable the experience is, with many saying they’d recommend it to friends, family, or anyone wanting a true Italian evening. The hosts’ ability to combine education, entertainment, and authentic flavors is clearly a major selling point.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for food lovers who enjoy hands-on activities and want to learn a traditional craft. It’s equally suited for couples looking for a cozy, romantic night or small groups of friends wanting a memorable evening together. If you’re traveling with kids, keep in mind it’s designed for adults, given the focus on wine tasting and pasta shaping.

Those interested in regional culture, authentic flavors, and friendly hosts will find this tour hits all the right notes. It’s also a wonderful way to connect with locals and gain a deeper appreciation of Salento cuisine beyond just visiting restaurants.

The Sum Up

If you’re after an experience that combines the joy of cooking, the pleasure of tasting regional wines, and the warmth of Italian hospitality, this pasta-making tour in Lecce ticks all the boxes. You’ll leave with new skills, a full belly, and stories to tell. It’s a chance to see behind the scenes of Salento’s culinary traditions and enjoy a relaxed, friendly environment that makes you feel right at home.

This tour is especially suited for travelers who want more than just sightseeing — those who crave authentic, engaging activities that connect them with local culture. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a total novice, you’ll find something to love here: delicious food, heartfelt hospitality, and a memorable evening you’ll likely talk about long after you return home.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for children?
The tour involves wine tasting and making pasta, so it’s mainly geared toward adults. While some older teens might enjoy it, it’s best suited for those 18 and over.

How long does the tour last?
The activity lasts about 3 hours and 30 minutes, from around 6:15 pm to approximately 9:45 pm, including tasting and socializing.

What is included in the price?
You get hands-on pasta-making, a typical Lecce drink, tasting local products and wines, and a dessert with Limoncello. The “Caturu” tool used for shaping macaroni is a gift.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with a full refund.

Is transportation included?
Transport is not included, but the meeting point is easily accessible, and the tour starts at Porta Napoli in Lecce.

What if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

If you’re craving a genuine taste of Italy that combines cooking, wine, and warm hospitality, this Lecce pasta and wine experience could be just the thing. It’s a chance to create delicious memories—literally and figuratively—that you’ll cherish long after your trip.