Lisbon isn’t just about pastel de nata and sardines — it’s a city where cooking is an art form and sharing a meal is a way of life. Taking a cooking class here offers more than just recipes; it’s a chance to understand Portuguese culture, learn new skills, and taste incredible food. We particularly enjoy the Pastel de Nata Baking Class because it combines hands-on pastry making with a relaxed, fun environment. Plus, who wouldn’t want to walk away with their own batch of these iconic custard tarts? For a more comprehensive experience, the Lisbon Portuguese Cooking Class with 3-Course Dinner offers a full meal paired with local wines, making it ideal for those who want to dive deep into Portugal’s culinary traditions.
Lisbon’s cooking classes stand out because many focus on local ingredients, traditional recipes, and intimate group settings. Whether you prefer a quick, focused pastry class or an immersive three-hour cooking session, there’s something here for every taste and schedule. Below, we’ve listed the fifteen best options, highlighting what makes each one special.
1. Lisbon: Pastel de Nata Baking Class
At number 1, the Lisbon: Pastel de Nata Baking Class is a hands-on way to perfect Portugal’s most famous pastry. For around $63, you’ll learn to make your own pastel de nata from scratch in just two hours with a friendly chef in a casual environment. The class emphasizes step-by-step techniques, with the chance to taste your freshly baked tarts alongside local drinks. The reviews highlight how approachable and fun the experience is, even if you’re a beginner — “Easy to follow instructions,” says one traveler. This class is perfect if you want a quick, authentic taste of Portugal’s pastry scene with lots of personal interaction.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for pastry lovers or first-timers eager to learn the secrets behind Portugal’s iconic custard tart — all in a friendly atmosphere.
2. Lisbon Portuguese Cooking Class with 3-Course Dinner
For around $139, the Lisbon Portuguese Cooking Class with 3-Course Dinner delivers a full meal experience in about three and a half hours. Hosted in a small-group setting, you’ll learn to prepare a traditional Portuguese menu that includes fish, meat, and dessert, all paired with local wines. The class begins with appetizers like olives and chorizo, then moves through each course with personal guidance from the chef. Reviewers love the lively atmosphere and the chance to actually cook and eat their own creations — “Incredible food and great fun,” one says. This is ideal if you’re looking for an in-depth, social experience that ends with a sit-down meal.
Bottom Line: Perfect for foodies wanting a comprehensive, hands-on introduction to Portuguese cuisine paired with wine and lively company.
3. Lisbon: Traditional Portuguese Cooking Class
At number 3, this Traditional Portuguese Cooking Class offers a cozy environment to learn classic recipes over three hours. You’ll make a four-course meal, including Pastel de Nata, guided by a team of chefs. Guests rave about how fun and informative it is, with plenty of attention given to each step. The focus is on understanding Portuguese gastronomy and culture, with tastings of local wines and beers along the way. The instructor’s lively approach makes it accessible for all skill levels, whether you’re an experienced cook or new to the kitchen.
Bottom Line: A warm, comprehensive experience for those wanting to learn traditional dishes and enjoy them in a relaxed setting.
4. Pasteis de Nata Baking Class from Lisbon
Number 4 on our list, the Pasteis de Nata Baking Class from Lisbon is perfect for pastry fans. At just over $71, in about 90 minutes, you’ll learn to craft pastry, custard, and all the tricks for authentic flavor. Limited to small groups, the class emphasizes personalized instruction in a friendly, intimate setting. Reviewers love that they made “delicious pasteis de nata” and appreciated the clear, engaging teaching style. It’s a quick but impactful way to take home a new skill and impress friends with your homemade sweets.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those on a tight schedule who want a high-quality pastry class with personalized attention.
5. Traditional Portuguese Cooking Class in Lisbon
This Traditional Portuguese Cooking Class is a three-hour immersion into local flavors. At $98, you’ll learn to prepare a three-course meal paired with beers or wines, with a focus on Portugal’s eclectic culinary influences. The small group environment ensures plenty of instructor interaction, and the reviews mention how fun and informative the experience is, with guests calling it “terrific” and “highly recommended.” The class includes snacks, finger foods, and drinks, making it a well-rounded introduction.
Bottom Line: Great for those wanting a lively, interactive experience that ends with a hearty, homemade meal.
6. Lisbon: 2-Hour Pastel de Nata Cooking Class
In just two hours, the Lisbon: 2-Hour Pastel de Nata Cooking Class provides a quick, fun way to learn to make Portugal’s most beloved treat. At $63, you’ll learn not only pastel de nata but also another traditional dish, with a friendly chef guiding the process. The class includes a light meal, recipes to take home, and a chance to experience Portuguese culture through food. Reviewers praise the “professional and tasty” results, making this an excellent option for travelers with limited time.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those looking for a short, engaging culinary experience with lasting skills.
7. Hands-on Portuguese Cooking Class in Lisbon
Number 7, the Hands-on Portuguese Cooking Class is a three-hour experience where you prepare a full Portuguese meal with a small group. From local stories to shared wine, this class emphasizes cultural connection through cooking. Guests appreciate the personal attention and the chance to eat the dishes they’ve made, with reviews calling it “great fun” and “a wonderful way to understand Portuguese cuisine.” It’s perfect for those who want an active, educational, and social experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers eager to learn a complete meal while connecting with others.
8. Pastel de Nata Cooking Class in Lisbon
The Pastel de Nata Cooking Class in Lisbon is a two-hour, hands-on workshop focusing on making these iconic custard tarts and an additional pastry. For just over $58, the class includes personalized instruction, recipes to take home, and a friendly environment. Reviewers highlight how “fun and informative” it is, with some mentioning this as their “best pastry class in Lisbon.” It’s perfect if you want a dedicated pastry session in a small-group setting.
Bottom Line: A top pick for pastry enthusiasts wanting a focused, authentic experience.
9. Lisbon Market and Food Tour with Cooking Class and Lunch
Number 9, the Lisbon Market and Food Tour with Cooking Class and Lunch combines a market visit with a cooking class and a farm-to-table meal. For about $151, this four-hour experience begins at a local market, where you pick ingredients to cook a starter, main, and dessert. The reviews rave about the quality of food, the local market visit, and the chance to learn directly from a chef. It’s ideal for those wanting a comprehensive, interactive experience that covers shopping, cooking, and eating.
Bottom Line: Perfect for foodies who want to explore Lisbon’s markets and enjoy a full, homemade Portuguese meal.
10. Portuguese Cooking Class in Lisbon
At number 10, the Portuguese Cooking Class in Lisbon offers a three-hour journey into traditional dishes with personalized guidance. Costing $87, this class emphasizes techniques and sharing stories, with reviews praising the “great food” and “wonderful instructor.” It’s suitable for those interested in both learning and enjoying a relaxed, social environment with wine and snacks.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for those wanting a taste of Portugal’s culinary roots in a friendly setting.
11. Private Market Tour and Portuguese-Goan Cooking Class with Paula
Number 11, the Private Market Tour and Portuguese-Goan Cooking Class offers a personalized, 4.5-hour experience. For $98, you visit a local market and learn authentic recipes in Paula’s home. Guests love her warmth and expertise, mentioning they learned whisking techniques and how to identify quality seafood. This is great for travelers who want an intimate, culturally rich experience — especially if interested in Portuguese and Goan fusion cuisine.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a personalized, culturally immersive cooking experience.
12. Private Traditional Portuguese and Goan Cooking Class with Paula
This Private Traditional Portuguese and Goan Cooking Class is perfect for those seeking a more exclusive experience. Taught in a local home, for around $84, you’ll learn family-inspired recipes like bacalhau a brás and cod fritters, then enjoy your meal with tea and dessert. The reviews mention how “warm and welcoming” Paula is, and how much they appreciated her sharing stories along with the food.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting an authentic, private experience with personalized recipes.
13. Lisbon: Pasteis de Nata Baking Class
At number 13, this Lisbon: Pasteis de Nata Baking Class offers a focused pastry session. Costing $68, in two hours, you’ll learn to make these flaky, creamy treats with full guidance. The class is small, with a maximum of 8 participants, ensuring individual attention. Reviewers praise the “awesome chef” and the “delicious” final product.
Bottom Line: Fantastic for pastry fans wanting a hands-on, small-group experience.
14. Lisbon: Portuguese Cooking Class for Beginners
Number 14’s Portuguese Cooking Class for Beginners is a straightforward, three-hour introduction for around $85. It’s designed for newcomers, teaching three traditional dishes with easy-to-follow guidance. Reviewers note how “fun and educational” it is, and how they leave with new skills and recipes to recreate at home.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for first-time cooks or those seeking a relaxed, beginner-friendly experience.
15. Portuguese Cooking Experience in Lisbon
Rounding out the list, the Portuguese Cooking Experience is a 3.5-hour class costing about $116.29. You’ll prepare multiple dishes, learn about Portuguese ingredients, and taste wine and olive oil, all while chatting with an expert chef. The reviews highlight how much fun and informative the experience is, especially for those interested in technical skills and local food products.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want to learn techniques, taste local ingredients, and enjoy a relaxed, small-group setting.
How to Choose the Right Cooking Class in Lisbon
Picking the best cooking class depends on your interests and schedule. If you’re passionate about pastries, the Pastel de Nata Baking Class offers a quick, focused experience. For those who want to cook a full meal and share it with new friends, the 3-course dinner or the traditional class might suit you better. If you’re interested in a more intimate, cultural experience, consider the private classes with Paula, which combine market visits with authentic family recipes.
Budget-wise, prices range from about $58 for a pastry-focused class to $150 for full market tours with cooking and lunch. Think about your preferred pace — quick pastry lessons or immersive multi-hour experiences? Also, consider the timing — many classes offer morning or afternoon slots. Book early, especially for popular options like the Pasteis de Nata classes, to ensure a spot.
Final Thoughts
Lisbon is a city where food is woven into everyday life, and taking a cooking class is an excellent way to experience that firsthand. Whether you’re a pastry lover or a curious beginner, options like the Pastel de Nata Baking Class and small-group full meals give you a taste of Portugal’s culinary soul. For a more personalized experience, the private classes with Paula are ideal for those wanting an authentic, behind-the-scenes look.
No matter your choice, early booking is wise. Lisbon’s cooking classes fill up fast, especially in peak season, and they’re a wonderful way to connect with Portuguese culture through food. So pick your favorite, prepare to roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the delicious rewards of your culinary adventures in Lisbon.
