Cooking classes in Paris are a great way to learn about the city's food culture. Led by professional chefs, these culinary excursions take you to some of the best kitchens in the city and teach you how to cook classic French dishes.

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced cook, cooking tours in Paris are a great way to improve your skills in the kitchen. You will return home having mastered a whole new type of cuisine.

Read on for your guide to cooking classes, one of the most hands-on gastronomic experiences in Paris.

What are the best cooking classes in Paris?

Macaron cooking class

Macarons are notoriously difficult to make, but with a professional chef leading the way, you'll be creating these delicate French cookies in no time. This cooking class will teach you everything you need to know about making these sugary delicacies from scratch.

Chocolate eclairs and cream puffs cooking class in Paris

Learn how to make choux pastry like a pro with this hands-on cooking class. Your instructor will also teach you how to whip up the perfect Chantilly cream and ensure that your pastries rise evenly every single time.

Small group French cooking class in Paris

One of the best food and wine experiences in Paris is joining a cooking class to create an authentic three-course French meal. This intimate cooking class takes place in the private apartment of a local French chef. You will prepare dishes such as soufflé and cod mouclade, then enjoy the fruits of your labors for lunch with a glass of wine.

Full-day cooking class with four-course lunch in Paris

During this intimate cooking class, you will learn how to make a four-course meal using classic French techniques. Your instructor will teach you all about how to plan the perfect meal and convenient ways to prepare in advance. As you cook, you will sip on local wine and hear stories about French food and culture.

When the cooking is finished, it's time to sit down and enjoy the elaborate four-course meal that you have created, complemented by some excellent wine pairings.

How much cooking classes in Paris?

Macaron or pastry cooking tours in Paris generally cost around €100 and €160. Meanwhile, classes during which you prepare and eat an entire meal cost around €200. This is because these tours are longer in duration, involve more ingredients and include wine.

What do cooking classes include?

The price of cooking tours in Paris includes all of the ingredients and equipment that you will be using. It also covers the cost of your chef's time and expertise. Wine is usually included in the price for classes during which you prepare an entire meal.

Where do cooking tours in Paris start?

Cooking tours in Paris start at the location of the culinary school or wherever the chef is based. Most cooking classes in Paris are held in private apartments or cooking studios, but some may be held in restaurants or bakeries. These are generally located in the center of Paris.

How long do cooking classes last for?

Pastry and macaron cooking tours in Paris generally last for around three hours. Classes that teach you how to make a multiple-course meal usually last between five and six hours. This includes time to sit down and enjoy the meal you have prepared at the end of the class.

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

Cooking tours in Paris are suitable for any time of year and any weather. Since they are a great indoor activity, it could be a good idea to schedule them on a rainy day if one is forecast during your trip.

Are there any combos available with cooking classes tours in Paris?

Full-day cooking class with market tour and lunch

Combining a cooking class with a market tour is a great way to learn about the ingredients you'll be using during the cooking class. At the local market, your guide will teach you how to select the freshest produce, meats and cheeses for your meal.

Are children allowed on a cooking class tour in Paris?

There are usually no age restrictions for cooking tours in Paris. It is at parents' discretion to decide whether cooking tours in Paris are appropriate for their children. Keep in mind that cooking classes usually involve the use of sharp knives and hot cooking surfaces.

For some tours that take place in the private apartment of a chef, the host may ask participants not to bring very small children. Check with your tour operator before booking.

The legal drinking age in France is 18, so minors will not be served wine during their cooking class or meal.

Top tips

Be sure to inform your tour operator of any allergies or dietary restrictions in advance so that they can make the necessary accommodations. It may not be possible to accommodate all dietary restrictions, so it may be worth checking before you book.
Don't wear anything that you wouldn't want to get dirty. Splashes and spillages may be involved, so you don't want to ruin any expensive clothing items.
You will be on your feet for several hours, so wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes.
It can get hot in the kitchen, so wear removable layers that you can take off if you start to feel too warm.

What other gastronomic experiences can be enjoyed in Paris?

Cooking Classes in Paris