Positano’s charm isn’t just in its seaside views and colorful buildings—it’s also in its culinary traditions. Here, learning to cook like a local is almost a rite of passage. We love experiences like the Cooking class with Pasta, mozzarella and Tiramisu with wine, which offers a hands-on journey into classic Italian dishes led by Ferdinando, a local passionate about organic ingredients and traditional techniques. The mix of genuine recipes, fresh produce, and a relaxed atmosphere makes it stand out. Plus, the reviews highlight how much fun and authentic the experience is, making it a perfect choice for travelers eager to take home real flavors of Italy.
Positano, with its steep streets and stunning views, is a natural setting for cooking classes that blend local culture and culinary skills. Whether you’re interested in making homemade pasta, learning family recipes, or enjoying a private home meal, there are options to suit every taste. From intimate family-style lessons to larger group classes with wine, this list covers a range of authentic experiences. Let’s explore the best cooking classes Positano has to offer.
1. Cooking class with Pasta, mozzarella and Tiramisu with wine
This highly-rated class (5.0/5 from 375 reviews) is led by Ferdinando, a local who brings a wealth of experience and passion to the kitchen. Starting at just $79.39 per person for approximately three hours, it’s an excellent value for an authentic hands-on experience. Ferdinando shares recipes rooted in his childhood, focusing on homemade pasta filled with local cheeses, fresh tomato sauces, and his famous tiramisu. The class is relaxed and interactive, with plenty of opportunity to taste and enjoy your creations with wine. Reviewers love how Ferdinando makes cooking accessible and fun, and many mention the engaging personality of Michael, who adds humor and energy. Perfect for those wanting a genuine, budget-friendly class with a friendly local host.
Bottom Line: This class offers a wonderful mix of authenticity, fun, and affordability, ideal for travelers on a budget or first-time cooks eager to learn classic Italian dishes.
2. Small-Group Cooking Class in Positano: Gnocchi, Tiramisu & Drinks
At number 2, this small-group class is rated 5.0/5 from 151 reviews and costs around $174.43 per person for a 3.5-hour experience. It takes place in a private Montepertuso home, giving a truly local feel. You’ll learn to make two types of gnocchi and tiramisu using ingredients from the host’s garden—an authentic touch that impresses many. The class ends with a family-style meal that feels like dining with friends. Reviewers appreciate the personal attention, the warm hospitality, and the opportunity to cook from grandma’s recipes. It’s especially suited for those who want a more intimate experience and enjoy sharing food around a table.
Bottom Line: This class combines authentic cooking with a cozy home setting, perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, personal immersion into Neapolitan cuisine.
3. Ravioli & Tagliatelle Cooking Class at a Local’s Home in Positano
Number 3 on our list is a home-based cooking experience that’s highly praised (5.0/5 from 83 reviews). Costing about $177.74 per person, it offers a deep dive into traditional pasta making. You’ll learn to craft ravioli and tagliatelle with recipes passed down from generations, with a focus on old family techniques. The hosts are enthusiastic, sharing stories and tips that make the experience personal and memorable. Many guests mention that this was their favorite class, with one reviewer calling it “the best meal in Positano.” It’s a hands-on class that teaches practical skills and offers a warm family ambiance, ideal for foodies wanting an authentic taste of local life.
Bottom Line: For those interested in mastering pasta from scratch in a welcoming home environment, this experience provides a true taste of Positano’s culinary roots.
4. Cooking lesson: tagliatelle, mozzarella and tiramisu
This class, offering about three hours of instruction for $80.25, is led by Valentino. It focuses on teaching the art of making fresh homemade pasta, mozzarella, and tiramisu—classics of Italian cuisine. The reviews praise Valentino’s warmth and ability to share secrets of pasta making, making it a practical choice for those eager to learn specific skills. The intimate setting and personalized approach mean you’ll leave not only with new recipes but also with confidence to recreate these dishes at home.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those wanting a focused, hands-on introduction to pasta and cheese, with an approachable host.
5. Sorrento: Gluten Free Cooking Class
For travelers with dietary restrictions, this gluten-free class in Sorrento offers a 2.5-hour session at $113.49 per person. Led by Chef Geppi and Francesca, the class emphasizes local products and traditional recipes that are safe for gluten intolerant diners. The reviews highlight the friendly, professional hosts and the delicious, allergy-friendly dishes. You’ll learn to make iconic Sorrento dishes and taste local Limoncello, adding a regional twist to your cooking skills. It’s a perfect fit for foodies with specific dietary needs or those looking for a more inclusive culinary experience.
Bottom Line: If gluten-free cooking is important for your trip, this class combines authentic flavors with dietary accommodations—worth the extra investment.
6. 3 Hours Sorrento Cooking Class in Sorrento Coast with Pickup
Rated 5.0/5 from 8 reviews, this class costs $149.03 and offers a comprehensive 3-hour session including hotel pickup. It’s ideal for those who want a guided, all-inclusive experience, learning to prepare four different dishes like gnocchi or eggplant parmigiana. The class ends with a communal lunch pairing your creations with local wines—perfect for food lovers who want a full meal and hands-on cooking. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and reviews mention how much fun they had and how much they learned.
Bottom Line: This class is a solid choice if you prefer a structured, all-in-one experience with transportation included and a focus on classic Southern Italian dishes.
7. Cesarine: Positano Cooking Class – 3 Authentic Recipes
This experience, costing around $241.70, features three traditional recipes like Eggplant Parmesan, Lemon Pasta, and Tiramisu. Hosted in a beautiful villa, it’s rated 5.0/5 from 6 reviews. The class emphasizes authentic family recipes and a personal touch, with plenty of storytelling about Positano’s culinary traditions. Guests love the leisurely pace and the chance to learn secrets from local cooks inside a lovely setting.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking an authentic, scenic setting combined with traditional recipes and a relaxed atmosphere.
8. Rada Rooftop Cooking Class in Positano
Offering breathtaking sea views from the rooftop, this 2-hour class at $225.73 per person is perfect for a quick, memorable experience. It combines learning authentic recipes with stunning scenery—ideal for romantic or special occasion celebrations. The reviews mention the incredible food and the flowing Prosecco, making it a popular choice for those wanting a relaxed yet scenic culinary session.
Bottom Line: For a shorter, scenic class that combines great views with delicious cooking, this rooftop experience hits the mark.
9. Farm to Table Cooking Class in Amalfi Coast
At $131.22 per person, this 3-hour class takes you to a working farm, where you prepare antipasto, vegetable pasta, and enjoy locally made mozzarella. Many reviews praise the fresh ingredients and hands-on approach, including collecting ingredients directly from the host’s garden. It’s especially suited for those eager to understand regional ingredients and farm-to-table cooking.
Bottom Line: Perfect for foodies wanting a farm-fresh experience integrated with traditional cuisine and local products.
10. Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina’s Home in Sant’Agnello
This 4-hour, private experience for around $174 offers personalized attention with three regional dishes, including wine and coffee. Rated highly for its intimacy and hospitality, it’s ideal for travelers seeking a tailored experience in a private home setting.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those wanting a customized, private class with a relaxed, home-cooked atmosphere.
11. Amalfi Coast Tour and Cooking Class From Positano with Transfer
This full-day experience (about 6 hours) at $484.90 combines sightseeing with hands-on cooking. Including a scenic transfer, free time in Amalfi, and a cooking session in a traditional kitchen, it’s perfect for those who want a comprehensive day. The included highlights make it a good value for travelers wanting variety.
Bottom Line: For an all-in-one day combining sightseeing and cooking, this offers great value with a scenic backdrop.
12. Dining Experience at a local’s Home in Sant’Agnello with Show Cooking
Rated at $98.87 for 4 hours, this experience features a 4-course meal prepared live by your host. It’s a relaxed, interactive session ideal for those wanting to see how dishes are made in a true home setting, with plenty of wine.
Bottom Line: A good choice for travelers seeking a personal demonstration and a hearty meal in an authentic setting.
13. Lemon & sea food cooking class at local’s home
This 3.5-hour class (costing $232.63) lets you pick ingredients from a host’s garden and learn to prepare seafood, pasta, and tiramisù. Reviewers highlight the family atmosphere and the meal that they say was the best in Positano. It’s suited for seafood lovers and those wanting a farm-fresh experience.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for seafood fans seeking an immersive, garden-to-table cooking session.
14. Gastronomical Amalfi Coast Hike with Cooking Class
This 4- to 5-hour experience combines a scenic 7 km hike with a cooking class featuring fresh pasta, mozzarella, and tiramisù—costing about $59.09. The mix of outdoor activity and culinary education appeals to active travelers eager for both adventure and food.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a bit of exercise and authentic cooking combined in one memorable day.
15. Cesarine: Home Cooking Class & Meal with a Local in Positano
At around $207 per person, this private 3-hour class offers hands-on experience making starters, pasta, and dessert in a local home. Reviews highlight the warmth of the hosts and the delicious, authentic dishes.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers wanting a personalized, intimate experience with a local family.
How to Choose the Perfect Cooking Class in Positano
When selecting a cooking class, consider your budget—ranging from around $79 to over $240—and what kind of experience you want. If affordability is key, Ferdinando’s Pasta, mozzarella, and tiramisu class offers fantastic value. For a more intimate, family-style experience, try the small-group gnocchi class. If dietary restrictions matter, the Gluten-Free class in Sorrento is a smart choice. Consider your fitness level and interests—active travelers may prefer the Gastronomical Amalfi Coast Hike with Cooking, which combines outdoor activity with culinary learning.
Booking early is advised, especially in peak season (May through September), to secure your preferred dates and experiences. Many classes fill quickly, and popular options like private home lessons and scenic rooftop classes tend to be in high demand.
Final Thoughts
Positano’s cooking classes range from budget-friendly classes in local homes to premium private experiences with stunning views. For those interested in learning traditional Italian techniques, options like the Ravioli & Tagliatelle class or the Cesarine Experience are excellent. For travelers seeking a scenic backdrop, the Rada Rooftop offers a quick yet memorable session. No matter your choice, these classes promise a delicious, authentic slice of Positano life—so book early and get ready to cook up some magic.
