Cooking Classes in Donostia - San Sebastián

Known for its streets filled with traditional pintxo bars, serving bite-sized snacks and fresh seafood, San Sebastián is one of Spain’s most vibrant gastronomy hotspots. But why simply indulge in Basque cuisine when you could learn to make a few dishes for yourself?

Cooking classes in San Sebastián provide you with the opportunity to familiarize yourself with the authentic flavors of northern Spain as you learn new culinary skills from an experienced local chef.

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

What are the best cooking classes in San Sebastián?

Basque pintxos and traditional dishes cooking class in San Sebastián

The coastal resort town of San Sebastián is famous for its pintxos, which are a variety of bite-sized snacks similar to tapas. Learn how to make these tasty treats, as well as a few other traditional delicacies, when you join this popular cooking class.

You’ll prepare several different pintxos, including the famous Gilda pintxo, which consists of olives, anchovies and green peppers. In addition to pintxos, you’ll also learn to make bacalao al pil pil, an Iberian pork dish and a delicious cheesecake for dessert.

Throughout your class, you’ll be treated to glasses of regional wine, including txakolí, a dry sparkling white wine. Once you’ve prepared everything, you’ll get to sit down and relax with the other tour participants as you feast on your creations.

This is the perfect opportunity to improve your cooking skills and enjoy an unforgettable culinary experience in San Sebastián’s picturesque Old Town. All participants are welcome, no matter whether they have any culinary experience or not.

Private gastronomy and Basque cooking class in San Sebastián

Northern Spain’s Basque Country has gained international fame for its innovation in the culinary arts. Discover the wonders of Basque cooking for yourself when you book this private cooking class in San Sebastián.

Before your cooking class takes place, your instructor will take you on a walking tour in San Sebastián's Old Town, where he will explain the history behind some of the region’s most iconic dishes and point out famous landmarks and monuments.

Next, you’ll visit a local market where you will pick out fresh ingredients that will be used in your cooking class. Your instructor will teach you how to make the most important elements used in Basque cooking as you sip on a delicious glass of regional wine.

As this is a private class, there will be plenty of opportunities to ask your instructor questions and make the most out of your experience. You may even be able to customize the menu to your particular tastes.

San Sebastián farmers’ market visit and Basque cooking class

Immerse yourself in the flavor-filled gastronomy of northern Spain as you learn to make a variety of bite-sized pintxos. Not only will you learn to create these traditional snacks, but you’ll also learn about the history behind them and which ingredients are most typical.

You’ll receive practical guidance from your instructor and learn skills that you can use to impress your friends back home. By the end of this experience, you’ll have newfound confidence when it comes to cooking traditional Spanish dishes.

The visit to the farmers’ market will provide valuable insight into regional produce, and you’ll get to see where locals shop for their ingredients. Next, it’s time to cook. In addition to pintxos, you’ll learn to make kokotxas, as well as a lamb dish and a cheesecake.

Once you have prepared everything, you’ll enjoy your meal and get to try San Sebastián's famous wines, such as txakolí. This is a lunchtime activity, allowing you to explore the Old Town on your own terms once the class comes to an end.

Which places are visited?

While most cooking classes in San Sebastián take place in a local cooking school in the city center, some experiences also visit a nearby farmers’ market as well as a few of the town’s most iconic pintxo bars before your cooking class begins.

Most of the places you’ll visit are located within San Sebastián’s Old Town, which is famed for its historic landmarks and vibrant culinary scene.

How much do cooking classes in San Sebastián cost?

Basic cooking classes in San Sebastián typically cost around €160 per person for a shared group experience that teaches you to make several local dishes, including pintxos and a dessert.

Cooking classes that include a visit to the farmers’ market usually cost roughly €200 per person for a shared group experience that lasts roughly 5 hours and teaches you to make two starters, two mains and a dessert.

Private cooking classes, which cater solely to you and your travel companions, usually cost €300 per person if there are at least two of you in the class. For a one-on-one class, you can expect to pay around €500.

What is included?

When you book a cooking class in San Sebastián, you’ll be provided with all the ingredients you need to make three or four dishes. Your class will be led by a professional cooking instructor, and you’ll also be given beverages during and after the class.

Some classes also include a pintxo tasting, wine tasting and farmers’ market visit. Make sure you read tour inclusions carefully before making a booking so that you know what to expect.

Where does it start?

In most cases, you’ll meet your instructor at one of San Sebastián’s central landmarks or at the cooking school, where your class will take place. Make sure that you arrive at least 5 minutes before the starting time so that you don’t keep anyone waiting.

How long does it last?

Cooking classes in San Sebastián usually last around 3 hours, although there are plenty of 5-hour classes for those interested in a more comprehensive experience. Longer classes are typically inclusive of a trip to the farmers’ market.

Is it wheelchair friendly?

Cooking schools in San Sebastián aim to be inclusive, but accessibility can vary. While many cooking classes are wheelchair friendly, some are not suitable for wheelchair users, so confirm accessibility details before booking.

When is the best time for a cooking class in San Sebastián?

The best time for a cooking class in Donostia-San Sebastián is during the late spring to early autumn. These months offer the freshest local produce and seafood, allowing for a richer culinary experience. Additionally, the weather is pleasant, perfect for strolling through markets and enjoying the town's vibrant atmosphere.

Travel tips

• Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toed shoes. Most classes will provide aprons, but it's good to be prepared.
• If you have any dietary restrictions or allergies, communicate them in advance. Many schools are accommodating and can adjust recipes accordingly.
• There's so much to learn, from cooking techniques to the history of Basque cuisine. Keep a notebook or phone handy.
• Apart from cooking classes, consider joining food tours in San Sebastián, which often combine history, culture, and tasting sessions.