If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into an Italian home kitchen and learning how to make authentic pizza and tiramisù, this private class in Parma might just be your perfect fit. It’s an experience that offers more than just cooking — it’s about connecting with a local family, discovering their culinary secrets, and enjoying a delicious meal straight from your efforts.
What makes this class stand out? First, the hands-on approach ensures you’ll get plenty of practice, not just watch from the sidelines. Second, the personalized experience with a Cesarina (a home cook from Italy’s oldest network of culinary hosts) promises a genuine, intimate touch that you won’t find in generic cooking classes.
However, it’s worth noting that the price — around $173.61 per person — is on the higher side for a 3-hour experience, but many find it a worthwhile investment for a private, authentic taste of Italy. This experience is ideal for food lovers who want to learn new skills, enjoy quality wine, and savor the food they create in a warm family environment. It’s also great if you’re traveling as a small group or family, given its private setup.
Key Points

- Authentic experience: Learn traditional pizza and tiramisù recipes from a local family in Parma.
- Private hands-on class: You’ll be actively involved in making two iconic Italian dishes, not just observing.
- Includes tasting: Enjoy your homemade creations paired with local wines.
- Family-friendly: Suitable for travelers of all ages, making it a flexible option for families or groups.
- Cultural connection: Hosted by a Cesarina, part of Italy’s oldest home cook network, offering genuine hospitality.
- Good value for food lovers: The experience combines skill-building, culture, and delicious tasting in one package.
What to Expect From the Experience

This private class is designed as a full culinary visit into the world of Italian home cooking. Upon arrival at the carefully selected family’s home in Parma, you’ll be greeted as a guest of honor. The hosts, Cristina and her husband Enzo, are praised for their warmth — Cristina for her excellent teaching, Enzo for his lively entertainment. As one reviewer put it, “she the teacher, he the entertainment,” which sums up the relaxed, friendly vibe of this class.
Once settled in, the real fun begins. You’ll learn how to prepare pizza from scratch, starting from making the dough, kneading it just right, and adding toppings that showcase local ingredients. Expect to hear family cooking secrets that give your pizza an authentic flavor. The process isn’t rushed — you’ll have time to perfect your technique and ask questions along the way.
Next, it’s time for tiramisu, Italy’s beloved dessert. Again, you’ll make this from scratch, layering coffee-soaked ladyfingers with mascarpone and dusting cocoa on top. The focus is on understanding the traditional method, so you can recreate it at home with confidence.
Throughout the class, you’ll be sampling what you make, complemented by a selection of local wines. It’s a full sensory experience — tasting, smelling, and ultimately savoring your own culinary handiwork, paired with regional wines that elevate the meal.
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The Meal and Tasting

When the cooking wraps up, you’ll sit down to enjoy your homemade pizza and tiramisù, served in the cozy family setting. This isn’t a sterile restaurant environment — it’s a warm, inviting home where you can really relax and soak in the atmosphere.
According to a delighted participant, “Cristina and her husband Enzo were wonderful! She the teacher, he the entertainment… We had a fabulous afternoon. We learned so much and had a delicious meal.” That highlights just how personal and genuine this experience can be.
The included wine selection is well-liked, adding an extra layer of enjoyment. Many reviews emphasize the quality of the food and drinks — you’ll likely leave with not just new cooking skills but also a few stories to share about your time in Parma.
Practical Details
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a manageable addition to your day in Parma. Meetings happen in the host’s home, which is conveniently accessible near public transportation. It’s a private activity, so only your group participates, ensuring a personalized feel and plenty of space for questions and interaction.
The booking process is straightforward, with most reservations made around 36 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. The tour is flexible with free cancelation up to 24 hours before, which is reassuring if your plans change unexpectedly.
In terms of value, $173.61 per person might seem steep, but considering it includes personalized instruction, authentic recipes, tasting, and a friendly local atmosphere, it’s a well-rounded experience for foodies.
Who Will Love This Experience?
If you’re passionate about cooking — especially Italian cuisine — this class offers a rare chance to learn directly from a local family. It’s ideal for travelers who want more than just sightseeing; they want to bring home new skills and stories. Families with children of all ages can enjoy this, as it’s a relaxed, hands-on activity perfect for all skill levels.
Lovers of wine and good food will also find this a highlight, with the tasting component elevating the entire experience. And if you’re curious about what Italians really cook at home, this is your best shot.
Final Thoughts
This private pizza and tiramisù class in Parma offers a genuine glimpse into Italian home cooking. It combines the warmth of family hospitality with practical skills that go beyond typical tourist experiences. The chance to make and taste authentic dishes paired with local wines makes it both educational and delicious.
While the price might make some hesitate, many find the personalized attention, authentic recipes, and culture worth every euro. If you’re after a memorable, hands-on culinary experience in Italy, this class is well worth considering.
Ideal for curious travelers, foodies, or those wanting to add an extra layer to their Parma visit, this experience delivers genuine hospitality, tasty food, and new skills you can impress friends with back home.
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Private Pizza & Tiramisu Class at a Cesarina’s home with tasting in Parma
“Cristina and her husband Enzo were wonderful! she the teacher, he the entertainment . We had a fabulous afternoon. We would do it again in a heart …”
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, it’s described as suitable for families with children of all ages, making it a flexible option for families wanting a fun, interactive activity.
What’s included in the price? The cost covers the private hands-on cooking class, the preparation of pizza and tiramisù, tasting your own dishes, and a selection of local wines.
How long does the experience last? The class runs for about 3 hours, giving enough time to learn, cook, and enjoy your meal without feeling rushed.
Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, which offers peace of mind.
Where does the tour take place? The class is held in a carefully chosen local home in Parma, close to public transportation, making it accessible.
Is this a group activity? No, it’s a private experience, so only your group will participate, ensuring personalized attention.
What makes this experience stand out? The combination of authentic family recipes, a warm host, wine tasting, and the chance to actively participate in cooking makes it a memorable choice for food lovers.
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