Cooking Classes in Porto

Straddling the Douro River, with hilly streets and striking, centuries-old buildings that contrast more modern masterpieces, Porto isn't just one of the most beautiful cities in Portugal, but worldwide.

Yet this cosmopolitan destination isn't just about good looks; with its rich culinary culture, Porto also offers an array of restaurants serving up all kinds of delicious local delicacies.

But why stop at just eating? If you're looking for a unique way to experience the city's culinary offerings, cooking classes in Porto are the perfect solution. With an experienced chef leading the way, you'll learn all about Portuguese cuisine while mastering traditional cooking techniques — exploring the cultural gems of this stunning port city along the way.

Allowing you to try – and create – everything from Alheira croquettes and Pasteis de Nata to the world-renowned port wine, the variety of hands-on Porto cooking classes provides an exclusive insight into the region's culture and cuisine.

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

What are the best cooking class tours in Porto?

There are plenty of cooking classes in Porto to choose from, depending on what you're looking for and which kinds of foods you prefer. The most popular options are listed in further detail below.

Portuguese Cooking Class in Porto with Portuguese Wine

This three-hour evening cooking class focuses on learning how to prepare and cook traditional Portuguese dishes.

Typically, as part of this cooking class, you'll make a four-course meal — which could include codfish, clams and almond tarts, for example — taste a few local wines along the way. A local chef instructor will show you the ropes, and the class only has 8 participants, making it more personal than most.

Portuguese Cooking Class in Porto with a Professional Chef

This style of tour is a dinner-time cooking class and includes preparing a three-course meal showcasing some of the region's different flavours.

The roughly three-hour cooking class, which takes place in the private home of your host, includes all the ingredients and equipment needed to make a delicious feast, as well as a complimentary local wine and fruits.

Are there any combos available with cooking class tours in Porto?

Yes, there is a handpicked selection of combinations available. The most popular combos are listed below.

Combo: Local Market & Cooking Class

This hands-on, immersive cooking class gives you an introduction in Portugal's fascinating food and wine traditions.

Lasting around four hours, the activity starts by meeting your guide at one of the traditional markets. Here, you'll get to meet local vendors and shop local produce.

After taking in the atmosphere of Porto's streets while walking to your venue, you'll learn how to prepare a multi-course meal (including meals like Alheira croquettes, and cod with cream) under the tutelage of an experienced chef.

Combo: Aveiro Private Walking Tour with Personal Cooking Class

This combination tour kicks off with a walking tour of the city of Aveiro, during which you'll see sights like the Museu de Aveiro, an old ancient convent, and the Cattedrale di Aveiro, an old cathedral that played a significant role in the economic expansion of the country during the Templars era.

After stopping at a local market, you'll make your way to the host's house to start cooking a lunch dish — usually pataniscas (codfish).

Which places are visited/seen?

Depending on the tour you choose, different places will be visited, such as:

Local restaurants or private homes

Depending on the tour you choose, classes can take place in a local restaurant or private home. If it's taking place in a restaurant, you'll be able to experience the atmosphere of traditional Portuguese cuisine while learning how to make classic dishes.

Meanwhile, if it's taking place in a private home, you'll get to see how cooking is done in a more homely environment.

Markets

Many tours will stop at local markets to buy ingredients for the upcoming cooking classic. When you visit one of the traditional markets at Porto (or Aveiro), you can mingle with the local sellers and sample different foods.

The streets of Porto

Before you enter the venue, many tours will take you on a guided walk through Porto's streets — or at the very least, a walk between the market and the cooking venue.

Aveiro's monuments and landmarks

If you choose a combination tour, such as the Best of Aveiro Private Walking Tour with Personal Cooking Class, you can expect to visit beautiful sites such as the Museu de Aveiro (housed in an old convent) and the Cattedrale di Aveiro.

How much do cooking class tours in Porto cost?

Costs of cooking classes in Porto vary depending on the type of experience you are after, the size of your group and additional activities included in the tour, but generally starts at around €80 per person.

A standard cooking class typically ranges between €80 and €90 per person.

Cooking classes that involve multiple courses or include wine are more expensive, ranging between €80 and €190.

A half-day cooking class that also visits a market can be as much as €260. However, these are usually cheaper when you book with more people.

Finally, a combination tour that visits nearby Aveiro is actually the cheapest option due to being part of a larger tour group, at roughly €45 per person.

What is included?

Cooking class tours in Porto typically include a visit to the local market, where a guide will help you pick up fresh ingredients and explain the different flavors that are an essential part of Portuguese cuisine.

The price also includes the actual cooking class, all the necessary equipment, a kitchen to use, and a professional chef who will guide you on how to prepare typical local dishes.

Additionally, some cooking classes also offer wine tastings as well as tapas.

Of course, you get to enjoy the meal you've made as well. When you sit down and eat, your guide will provide plenty more insights into Portuguese — and Porto – food culture.

Where do cooking classes start?

Each cooking class in Porto tour is different so starting points may vary. That said, the majority of cooking classes in Porto will meet at a central location, such as the Mercado do Bolhao (Bolhao market) or Praca de Republica (the old City Hall building).

If your tour is run by a host, you might meet outside the host's home.

These tours usually do not include transport so it's important to double-check the meeting point beforehand and check how to get there.

How long does it last?

Depending on the type of Porto cooking class you choose, the duration will last anywhere from 2 hours to 5 hours. This gives you plenty of time to  pick up all the groceries, learn how to make a delicious Portuguese dish and sit down for a meal with fellow travelers.

Each tour is different so it is best to check before booking a tour, as some might include additional activities like wine tastings.

Is it wheelchair friendly?

Unfortunately, most of these cooking classes in Porto are not wheelchair accessible as they involve a lot of walking.

If you have special requirements, it is best to double-check with the tour operator when booking your ticket, as they will be able to advise you on the best course of action and may be able to provide an alternative solution.

When is the best time for cooking class tours in Porto?

While cooking classes can be enjoyed year-round, the best time for cooking class tours in Porto is in the spring (April to June) and September to October, when you can use fresh, local ingredients as a variety of produce is in season.

What other gastronomic experiences can you enjoy in Porto?

• Food Tours in Porto
• Cálem Cellars
• Wine Tours and Tastings in Porto
• Beer Tastings in Porto
• Cheese Tastings in Porto

Travel tips

• Cooking classes can fill up quickly, particularly those that are well-reviewed or unique. It's a good idea to book your class well in advance to secure your spot.
• You'll most likely be eating the food you prepare, so make sure to arrive with an appetite.
• Make sure to wear comfortable clothes and shoes as you may be standing for a long period.