From hand-made egg pasta doused in flavorsome sauces to rich tiramisu and indulgent pizzas, Italian cuisine is among some of the best in the world. If you want to dive into the regional cuisine of Puglia, you should consider participating in a cooking class in Bari.

Whether you’re a cooking connoisseur or an absolute beginner, you’ll cook up a storm, following the techniques of experienced cooks, which you’ll be able to recreate for years to come.

Here's all you need to know about cooking classes, one of the most delicious food experiences in Bari.

What are the best cooking classes in Bari?

Home cooking class with a local in Bari

If you’re seeking an authentic experience while in the Puglia region, look no further than a cooking class in Bari, which is hosted by a local Cesarine.

Itinerary

These types of excursions take place privately, meaning that you’ll benefit from the undivided attention of your guide, as you chop, saute and bake a mouthwatering feast. You’ll learn about seasonal produce as you make a fresh starter with local goods before mastering the knack of creating homemade pasta.

For dessert, you’ll whip up a traditional sweet treat, such as the Italian classic — Tiramisu — or deep-fried zeppola pastries. Once you’ve finished assembling, you’ll sample your dishes while you bond with your loved ones over your shared experience with a glass of wine in hand.

Market visit and private cooking class in Bari

Alternatively, breathe in the multitude of aromas that waft together in a local market where you can see how locals shop for their ingredients before participating in a cooking lesson.

Itinerary

You’ll begin your tour by wandering through the streets of Bari alongside your knowledgeable guide to a fresh produce market, where you can see the wide range of seasonal goods on offer, from fragrant herbs to juicy fruits and fresh fish. Find out more about these ingredients and how they are used in Italian cuisine before heading back to your guide’s home for an intimate cooking lesson. Here, you’ll discover how to make fresh pasta with a flavorful sauce, as well as a seasonal starter and decadent dessert.

How much do cooking classes in Bari cost?

A private cooking class in Bari with a local costs between €140 and €150 per adult. Children between the ages of 4 and 8 can participate for half of the adult fare while those under 4 incur no additional charge. You can book for up to 15 individuals.

You’ll pay €190 per person aged 9 and over for a tour that includes a market visit while children between 4 and 8 benefit from a discounted rate of between €90, and €100 each. Children under 4 can join in for free and you can book for up to 10 travelers at a time.

A 4-day Puglia tour with a cooking class costs €800 per person and you’ll be part of a small group limited to eight participants.

What is included?

Bari culinary lessons include all ingredients needed to whip up a feast, as well as the guidance of a professional chef or experienced local. You’ll also be provided with beverages throughout your excursion and, in some cases, souvenirs, such as an apron, and tote bag.

If you participate in a combination multi-day trip, you can expect your accommodation to be covered.

Where does it start?

Many cooking classes in Bari do not release the exact location of the tour until you book as they often take place in a locals’ home. However, you’ll be informed of your destination with plenty of time to spare so that you can organize any necessary transportation in advance.

Alternatively, in some cases, such as with multi-day tours, you may benefit from a convenient accommodation pickup at a predetermined time from your hotel lobby.

How long does it last?

Cooking classes in Bari typically last between 3 and 5 hours, depending on the type of excursion you participate in, and the number of dishes you master in your lesson. If you have more time to spare, you can consider a multi-day trip of Bari and its surrounding regions, which lasts 4 days.

When is the best time for a cooking class in Bari?

The best time to attend a cooking class in Bari, is during spring (April to June) or autumn (September to November).

Spring and autumn in Bari are mild and pleasant. It's neither too hot nor too cold, so it's a comfortable environment to attend a cooking class.

Are there any combos available with cooking classes in Bari?

Puglia sightseeing tour with cooking class

You’ll begin your combination multi-day trip with a visit to the UNESCO-listed site of Alberobello, which perfectly showcases the Trulli architecture that is unique to this corner of Italy.

You’ll discover the main highlights of Bari, including its 11th-century Basilica of Saint Nicholas, before exploring Gargano National Park, which covers over 110,000 hectares and includes four enchanting islands, the following day. Travel around the mountains and villages of northern Puglia before participating in a traditional cooking class with a team of professional chefs.

Which places are visited?

Bari is the capital of Puglia, a region known for its exquisite pasta and bread. One of the most famous breads that originate in this corner of the country is puddica — a type of flatbread that is typically topped with fresh tomatoes and sprinkled with oregano. You can also try Pane di Altamura Dop, which is a type of sourdough that has been perfected over the course of the last 2,000 years, as well as olive-oil-laced focaccia. Frisella is also a popular bread product in Puglia and is twice-baked to give it a delicious crunch.

When it comes to pasta, there are a variety of dishes that you may learn to create during a cooking class in Bari. Strascinati di grano saraceno is one of the most famed main dishes in the region and is made with a buckwheat, and zucchini pasta and topped with a tomato-based sauce.

Bari’s coastal location means that its fresh seafood often features on the menu, in dishes such as Linguine ai datteri, which is made using fresh clams, white wine and parsley. You may also learn how to create Cartellata bares, which is a sweet pastry that is typically made at Christmas or other holidays. Another popular sweet treat Sasanelli, combines lemons, chocolate and almonds to form a delectably moreish cookie.

Is it wheelchair friendly?

You’ll find that some culinary classes in Bari are wheelchair friendly. However, the vast majority are not accessible to those with reduced mobility. Consult the booking page to see whether your preferred excursion is suitable for each member of your party.

Travel tips

Check your language options. Make sure the cooking class you choose offers instruction in the language you're comfortable with, whether it's in English or another language you understand.
Discover local markets. Before your cooking class, visit Bari's local markets, such as the San Nicola and Coperto markets, to find fresh produce and gain insight into the local food culture.
Comfortable clothing. Please wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes for the cooking class. Comfort is essential as you work in the kitchen as an active participant.
Taste and Learn. Take advantage of the opportunity to taste a variety of ingredients, spices and dishes during a cooking class. This will give you a better understanding of taste and technique.
Take notes and photos. Bring a notebook and pen to write down recipes, tips and tricks shared by your instructor. Taking pictures is also a great way to capture memories and review dishes later.

Cooking Classes in Bari