Cooking Classes in Dubrovnik

Croatia is known for its unique culinary culture, but visitors don’t always know how and where to gain real insight into the country’s traditional cuisine. Through the popular cooking classes in Dubrovnik and its countryside, you will not only learn how to cook authentic Croatian dishes, but also learn more about local culture.

Experienced cooks will share their considerable expertise while you prepare traditional local dishes, using recipes passed down from several Croatian generations.

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

What are the best cooking classes in Dubrovnik?

Traditional cooking class in Dubrovnik countryside

Break away from the city with a round-trip transfer into the picturesque Croatian countryside for a fascinating 5-hour cooking class excursion from Dubrovnik. With your small cooking class group, you will learn about the unique Dalmatian cuisine from a local chef from traditional tastes and recipes for a fantastic day in a countryside kitchen.

The countryside cooking class is held in a beautiful location and you will be welcomed by a convivial and hospitable host family. You will admire a breathtaking garden and terrace area, before moving on to the kitchen. During your cooking class, a local chef will guide you through the preparations of a 4-course meal, including traditional dishes such as peka and ražnjići.

When you’ve finished your cooking class, you can sit down to your dinner consisting of your Dalmatian dishes prepared during the class. Enjoy it with wine, liqueurs, coffee or tea. At the end of a delightful day, you will return to your accommodation in Dubrovnik.

Private cooking class and luxury boat cruise in Dubrovnik

Discover hidden bays in the Dubrovnik and Pelješac area by private speedboat and enjoy a 5-course meal cooking class by a renowned master-chef. Admire great views of the islands and sandy beaches and learn the tricks of the Dalmatian cooking trade in a most beautiful secluded bay.

You can go directly to your preferred meeting point, or request pickup to the nearest speed boat mooring. Your private skipper will be cruising with you through the beautiful Elaphiti channel, offering views of many small islands and hidden bays. You'll make a first stop on the small Jakljan Island for swimming or snorkeling.

After about an hour, continue to the hidden Kobaš Bay, where your cooking class will take place. There you will prepare five courses under the guidance of a renowned Croatian chef at a local restaurant, which produces its own olive oil and serves fish from its own catch – everything is either homegrown or homemade. You will learn tips and tricks from professionals with more than 40 years of cooking experience.

After completing the dishes, you can sit down and enjoy your meal and pair it with some of the great local wines. From Kobaš, you continue to Marčuleti Beach for snorkeling or to rent a jet ski. After some fun on the beach, you’ll head back to Dubrovnik, passing through the beautiful Elaphiti channel again.

How much does it cost?

A traditional cooking class in Dubrovnik will typically cost around €160 to €190 per person and lasts about 5 hours. Longer, 8-hour cooking classes in the rural side of Dubrovnik cost €490 per person.

For a private cooking class with a luxury boat cruise, you can expect to pay about €530 per person, but fuel is not included and is paid at the end of the tour. The fuel surcharge is between €200 and €300 depending on the boat you choose.

What is included?

Included in the cooking classes are the dishes prepared during the class with wine, liqueurs, coffee and tea, all the ingredients and kitchen utensils. Also included are hotel pickup and drop-off, a driver/guide, coffee/tea and alcoholic beverages.

In the case of the private cooking classes with a boat cruise, snorkeling equipment is also included.

Where does it start?

The cooking classes usually start with pickup from your hotel. If you don’t request pickup, you head to an agreed meeting point or directly to the restaurant where the cooking class is scheduled to take place.

How long does it last?

The typical duration of a cooking class in Dubrovnik is about 5 hours, however there are also full-day classes that can last up to 8 hours. Cooking classes that include boat trips usually last about 8 or 9 hours.

Are children allowed in a cooking class in Dubrovnik?

Children are allowed but must be accompanied by an adult, and some tours have infant seats available.

Is it safe?

Cooking classes are safe, however you must inform your tour operator of any food allergies or dietary restrictions before booking.

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

The best time for a cooking class in Dubrovnik is during the summer, from June to August, especially if there is a cruise involved. During this period, the weather is warm and there are plenty of fresh ingredients available. However, cooking classes are available year-round, so it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and schedule.

Travel tips

• Cooking classes in Dubrovnik can be popular, so make sure to book in advance.
• The chefs leading the cooking classes are there to help you, so don't be afraid to ask any questions.
• Cooking classes can be messy, so dress in comfortable clothing that you don't mind getting a little dirty.
• Do your Dubrovnik sightseeing later in the day when the crowds start to fizzle out.