As the cultural and economic hub of the island of Sicily— Palermo attracts thousands of visitors from around the world each year. The Italian island’s capital is well-known for its beautiful architecture, rich history and vibrant culinary scene.

Cooking classes in Palermo offer the perfect introduction to southern Italian cuisine, and provide you with the skills and techniques needed to make a variety of traditional Sicilian dishes. Take this opportunity to familiarize yourself with the iconic flavors and ingredients of Sicily.

Here's all you need to know about cooking classes, one of the most captivating gastronomic experiences in Palermo.

What are the best cooking classes in Palermo?

Street food cooking class in Palermo

Palermo is world-renowned for its incredible variety of street food, and in this cooking class, you’ll learn to make a few of the local favorites. The experience takes place in an authentic Sicilian home, with instructions given by a real home chef.

Under your instructor’s expert guidance, you’ll learn to make chickpea flour fritters, fried rice balls and watermelon jelly. These dishes are delicious, authentically Italian and straightforward to make— perfect for beginner chefs.

Enjoy this playful and fun-filled approach to Italian cooking and leave with practical skills that will stay with you for life. The group size is limited to 6 people, ensuring that you receive personal attention from your instructor throughout the experience.

Sicilian cuisine cooking class in Palermo

Create special memories in Sicily by taking part in a half-day cooking class hosted by a local chef. Learn how to make a few of the island’s most popular dishes, including soup, pasta and ice cream, in the comfort of a typical Sicilian home.

Not only will you learn how to prepare four delicious dishes, but you’ll also be provided with the recipes for you to take home with you. Dishes usually include meat or fish, but vegetarians can be catered for so long as you let your instructor know your dietary preferences in advance.

Relax and eat the tasty meal that you’ve created alongside limoncello, wine and coffee. You’ll enjoy the meal alongside the chef and his friendly family, providing you with insight into local family life in Palermo.

Half-day cooking class and market tour in Palermo

Take your taste buds on an unforgettable adventure with this half-day cooking class and market tour in Palermo that aims to teach you about Sicilian ingredients, recipes, techniques and typical dishes of the region.

Travel from your cooking instructor’s home in Palermo to the nearby market, where you will purchase all the fresh ingredients needed to cook your meal. Head back to the kitchen, where you’ll create four delicious courses, including a pasta dish.

When you sit down to enjoy your meal, you’ll get to taste Sicilian wines, which will be paired with each of your courses. Leave the cooking class with insight into Sicily’s culinary scene and a better understanding of local cuisine and culture.

Cooking and limoncello class in Palermo

Leave Sicily with the knowledge of how to make three traditional dishes, alongside the famous Sicilian limoncello. This 4-hour culinary experience provides the perfect way for you to discover the secrets of Italian cuisine.

The first stop on the itinerary is the local market, where you’ll buy the ingredients needed to make your 3-course meal. Head back to your host’s home, where you’ll enjoy a gold class of white wine before you start preparing the meals.

The highlight of the class is undoubtedly learning how to make limoncello. You’ll get to take a bottle home with you and you’ll also be provided with the family’s cherished recipes for you to try when you get home.

Private cooking class and market tour in Palermo

Make the most of your time in Sicily’s capital by booking a private cooking class and market tour in Palermo. Learn how to make some of the delicious dishes that you’ve tasted in local restaurants during your time on the island, and take these recipes home with you!

Stroll through the market with your personal chef as you look for fresh produce and pick out ingredients for your cooking class. Your chef will teach you all the techniques and skills needed to make your tasty 3-course lunch.

Enjoy locally produced wines as you sit down to eat your lunch and appreciate the fruits of your labor. Before the experience comes to a close, your chef will provide you with a signed certificate— tangible proof of your newfound skills.

Which places are visited?

The majority of cooking classes in Palermo take place in a traditional Sicilian home, where you’ll receive instruction from a home chef. Some cooking classes include a visit to Market Vucciria or Market Capo, where you’ll pick up some fresh ingredients for your cooking class.

How much do cooking classes in Palermo cost?

Street food cooking classes in Palermo are generally the most affordable and usually cost around €70 for a small-group experience.

Basic cooking classes in Palermo typically cost around €90 per person for a group experience, in which you’ll learn how to make at least three or four traditional dishes.

Cooking classes that include a market tour and a Sicilian wine tasting typically cost around €155 per person for a group of up to 8 people. Cooking classes that also teach you to make limoncello usually cost around €175 per person.

Private cooking classes are the more expensive option, costing at least €740 per group, which can accommodate up to 6 people.

What is included?

When you book a cooking class in Palermo, all the ingredients you need to make at least 3 different dishes will be included in the cost of the tour. You’ll also receive instruction from a home chef and you’ll get to eat what you made for lunch/dinner.

The beverages that you’ll be provided with will differ from class to class, but in most cases, you’ll be given wine, coffee, tea, water, soft drinks and/or limoncello.

Where does it start?

In most cases, you’ll be provided with the address of your home chef and be asked to make your way there by a certain time. However, there are a few tour operators that ask that you meet at Porta Carini or one of the local markets.

How long does it last?

The typical duration of a cooking class in Palermo is 3 or 4 hours, although more comprehensive experiences can last as long as 6 hours. These experiences usually include a market visit.

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

The best time for a cooking class in Palermo is during the summer months from June to September, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the local markets are full of fresh produce. However, cooking classes are available year-round, so check with the specific provider.

Travel tips

Palermo is a popular tourist destination, and cooking classes can fill up quickly. Be sure to book your class well in advance to avoid missing out.
Cooking classes can be messy, so it's best to wear comfortable clothes that you don't mind getting a bit dirty. Closed-toe shoes are also recommended for safety in the kitchen.
Taking notes during your cooking class can help you remember the recipes and techniques you learn, so bring a notebook and pen to jot down important information.

Cooking Classes in Palermo