Matera isn’t just a place to admire ancient caves and stunning scenery; it’s also a vibrant hub for hands-on experiences. Taking part in a workshop or class here offers a unique way to connect with local traditions — whether it’s cooking in a Sassi cellar or crafting a clay bird whistle in a traditional workshop. We particularly love the opportunity to learn authentic Matera recipes in intimate settings, like the Matera: Handmade Clay Bird Workshop, or to discover local breadmaking techniques in a historic bakery. These experiences allow travelers to take home more than photos — they leave with new skills and a deeper understanding of Matera’s rich culture.
From culinary classes in ancient cellars to craft workshops making papier-mâché figures, Matera offers a variety of options for those eager to get their hands dirty. Whether your interest lies in gastronomy, ceramics, or traditional crafts, this list covers the best workshops and classes that will turn your visit into a memorable cultural exchange. Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each experience, helping you choose the perfect activity for your style and schedule.
1. Matera Cooking Class
At number 1, the Matera Cooking Class offers an intimate glimpse into rural life and authentic Southern Italian cuisine. This private experience at a traditional farm lets you visit olive and orange groves, then roll up your sleeves in a rustic kitchen to craft fresh pasta and other local dishes. The class lasts about four hours, and at the end, you’ll sit down to enjoy a country-style lunch featuring the recipes you’ve prepared.
What makes this tour stand out is its emphasis on connecting with a local family and experiencing matera’s agricultural roots firsthand. Guest reviewers highlight the warmth of the hosts, Greg and Sylvia, and the fun of making pasta in a relaxed setting. The price of around $161.34 per person is good value for a personalized, hands-on culinary experience that delivers both skills and a hearty meal. This class is perfect for couples, food lovers, or anyone interested in learning about rural Matera’s food traditions.
Bottom Line: This class combines authentic farm visits with a practical cooking lesson, making it ideal for travelers seeking a genuine taste of Matera’s rural side.
2. Matera: Handmade Clay Bird Workshop
Number 2 on our list is the Matera: Handmade Clay Bird Workshop, a quick but meaningful 1.5-hour activity that immerses you in Ceramics and local traditions. This private workshop focuses on crafting a materan cuckoo bird whistle—a typical regional craft. Led by an expert, you’ll learn about the cucù’s role in Matera’s cultural fabric while molding your own piece from clay.
What makes this experience special is its exclusive nature, limited to just two participants, and its focus on a specific regional craft. Visitors often appreciate the chance to learn about Matera’s artisanal history while creating a keepsake. The $79.71 price makes it accessible for a short cultural stop, and you get to bring home your handmade clay cuckoo.
Bottom Line: Ideal for craft lovers and those interested in Matera’s traditional artisan techniques, this workshop offers a meaningful and creative cultural souvenir.
3. Matera: Pasta Cooking Class Old Farmer Style in a Sassi Cellar
Number 3 is the Matera: Pasta Cooking Class Old Farmer Style in a Sassi Cellar, a 3-hour session that dives into traditional pasta-making in an ancient stone cellar. This hands-on class emphasizes fresh, local ingredients and the old farmer techniques that have kept Matera’s culinary traditions alive. Under the guidance of a professional chef, you’ll learn to prepare bruschetta, cialledda salad, and traditional pasta.
What sets this apart is its historic setting — a cellar carved from ancient stone — which adds a special ambiance to your cooking experience. Reviewers like the authentic feel and the personalized attention from the chef. The $91.04 price includes all ingredients and a tasting of your creations, making it a great value for foodies.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a deeper understanding of Matera’s gastronomic culture, especially in a historic setting, with an emphasis on handmade pasta.
4. Cooking class in a cave restaurant in the Sassi of Matera
Number 4 offers the Cooking class in a cave restaurant in the heart of Matera’s Sassi, a truly unique culinary experience. Starting with a walk through the local fruit market, you will learn to prepare seasonal recipes and traditional pasta shapes alongside a local chef in an exclusive cave setting. The class lasts 3 to 4 hours, culminating in enjoying the dishes you’ve made in this atmospheric environment.
This experience is highly praised, with a reviewer calling it “a MUST DO” for food lovers wanting authentic gastro-tradition in Matera. The tour’s highlight is the rare opportunity to cook inside a cave, adding an adventurous and memorable touch. At $192.62, it is priced at the higher end but justifies it with the exceptional setting and comprehensive experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers seeking an extraordinary culinary immersion with historical ambiance, and who don’t mind splurging a bit for a memorable experience.
5. Matera: Breadmaking Workshop in a Local Bakery
Number 5 is the Matera Breadmaking Workshop, a 1.5-hour session in a traditional bakery that takes you through one of Matera’s oldest culinary traditions. You’ll learn the techniques of bread-making, from kneading dough to baking, and then taste your fresh bread along with some local products and wine. This straightforward workshop offers a hands-on experience that’s perfect for foodies wanting to try baking in an authentic setting.
It’s a short but rewarding activity that highlights Matera’s simple yet essential cuisine. For those interested in local products and baking skills, this offers good value and a memorable hands-on experience.
Bottom Line: A perfect choice for bread lovers or those wanting a quick, genuine introduction to Matera’s baking traditions.
6. Private cooking class at a Cesarina’s home with tasting in Matera
Number 6 features a private cooking class in a local Cesarina’s home, lasting about 3 hours. This intimate experience lets you learn to prepare three pasta varieties and sauces under the guidance of a Matera-based cook. The class is informal and tailored to your skill level, making it ideal for beginners or seasoned cooks alike.
The personal touches and relaxed setting make this highly appealing. Reviewers mention the tricks and techniques learned, and the experience’s customized nature adds to its value. The cost of $168 per person reflects the exclusive, personalized experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, personalized, Italian home-cooking experience that’s flexible and detailed.
7. Pasta & Tiramisu Class at Local’s home with tasting in Matera
Number 7 offers an engaging pasta and tiramisu-making class in a welcoming home setting. Over about three hours, you will learn to craft two pasta dishes and a classic tiramisu, then enjoy your creations with local wine. This class emphasizes regional recipes and hands-on participation.
Reviewers note the fun of learning secrets of Italian desserts and pasta in a cozy environment, making it ideal for those wanting a culinary and cultural experience. Priced at $119.18, it’s a good balance of informal atmosphere and comprehensive learning.
Bottom Line: Perfect for dessert lovers and pasta fans wanting a friendly, home-based cooking class.
8. Matera: Homemade ravioli and ricotta: Italian cooking class
Number 8 focuses on homemade ravioli and ricotta, offering a full-day or half-day hands-on course (lasting about 3.5 hours). Here, you’ll learn the art of handmade pasta from scratch, including making fresh ricotta from milk, giving you skills to replicate anywhere. The class promises a fun, in-depth experience in Italian pasta traditions, culminating in enjoying your meal with local wine.
While reviews are not provided, the emphasis on making ravioli and ricotta from scratch makes it especially appealing for serious foodies. The detailed focus on core Italian pasta techniques makes this a valuable education for future cooking.
Bottom Line: Ideal for dedicated cooks and pasta aficionados eager to master classic Italian pasta from the ground up.
9. Matera. Paper mache workshop with the artisans of the Bruna float
Rounding out our list is the Paper Mache Workshop with local artisans, a 1.5-hour activity exploring Matera’s papier-mâché tradition. Led by Francesca Cascione, you will actively participate in creating objects inspired by the Festa della Bruna float, a tradition spanning over 400 years. This hands-on experience offers insight into Matera’s craft heritage and the chance to produce your own decorative piece.
Though specific reviews are not available, the workshop’s focus on traditional religious craft makes it perfect for those interested in local festivals and craftsmanship. It’s a short, engaging activity suited for all ages.
Bottom Line: Excellent for craft lovers, history buffs, or families wanting a meaningful hands-on activity rooted in Matera’s cultural traditions.
How to Choose the Right Workshop or Class in Matera
Choosing between these options depends on your interests, budget, and time. If you’re a foodie looking for a full-day experience, the Matera Cooking Class or the cave restaurant cooking class offer immersive, memorable options. For those wanting a quick but authentic craft, the Clay Bird Workshop or Breadmaking are perfect. Prefer a personalized home-cooking lesson? The Cesarina’s private class provides a relaxed, tailored experience.
Consider your interest in crafts versus cuisine, your budget, and whether you prefer short workshops or in-depth courses. Book early especially in high season, as these authentic experiences are popular and tend to fill up quickly.
Final Thoughts
Matera’s workshops and classes provide a fantastic way to deepen your connection with this remarkable city. Food lovers will find excellent options like the Matera Cooking Class or Old Farmer Pasta Class. For craft enthusiasts, the Clay Bird Workshop and Paper Mache Workshop offer authentic regional crafts. And for curious travelers wanting a quick taste of tradition, breadmaking or the paper mache experience fit perfectly into a busy schedule.
Whether your goal is to learn authentic cooking techniques, create artistic souvenirs, or just try something new, these experiences will enrich your stay. Be sure to book early, especially for popular classes, and enjoy your time turning recipes or crafts into lasting memories.
