Cooking Classes in Valencia

Underrated, sun-kissed Valencia is Spain's third largest city and a top destination for food lovers. From delicious tapas and paella to the freshest seafood dishes, the city's menu is vast diverse and undeniably delicious.

For those who wish to learn how to sizzle, sauté and slice like a local, there are plenty of cooking classes in Valencia available for gastronomy-oriented travelers.

Whether you’re looking for a hands-on experience or an informative dive into Valencia's culinary culture, these cooking classes will help bring the flavors of Valencia to life.

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

What are the best Cooking Classes tours in Valencia?

Depending on what exactly you're looking for, there are several different kinds of cooking classes in Valencia to choose from. The most popular options are listed in further detail below.

Valencian Paella Cooking Class in a local farmhouse

This popular tour option usually includes a visit to a local farmhouse, farmyard and vegetable garden. After seeing how the farm works, you'll head inside and learn the secrets of the famous Valencian paella.

Led by a friendly, in-the-know local, you can expect to learn how to select the freshest ingredients from the bunch, how to cook over a wood fire and how to season like a professional chef.

As you sample your delicious dishes, accompanied by local wine, you'll have plenty of time to chat with the friendly local host and your fellow food-loving travelers.

Valencian paella online cooking class

If you prefer to cook in your own kitchen (or in the hotel/AirBNB), this online cooking class offers a great way to learn how to cook traditional Valencian Paella without leaving the comfort of your own home.

You'll be emailed your instructions and ingredients list in advance. Then, when it's cooking time, you'll join your instructor virtually and try your hand at making multi-course meals.

Depending on the tour, this could include dishes like traditional Spanish gambas al ajillo, patatas bravas and Tinto de Verano (a wine-based cocktail).

Are there any combos available with cooking classes in Valencia?

Yes, there are! Some cooking classes in Valencia can be combined with other experiences such as market visits.

Valencian paella class with tapas and market visit

A chance to see an authentic side of Spain this tour, this tour invites you to browse through local markets — such as the Ruzafa market — with native chefs.

After handpicking your ingredients, you'll learn to cook a number of rice dishes, including the famous Valencian paella.

Once you've finished cooking up a storm, you and your fellow travelers can sit down and enjoy a handful of local fruits, tapas, cakes and wine.

Seaford Paella cooking class with tapas and market visit

For those who prefer seafood, this tour is a great option.

While slightly more expensive, you’ll learn to cook traditional dishes that revolve and the freshest seafood catch of the day —  you'll typically pick up prawns, shrimp and/or lobster from a local market (usually the Ruzafa market).

After learning to cook your meal, you'll sit down and get to feast, with tapas and wine to boot — all in all, a deep immerson in authentic Valencian culture.

Vegetable Paella cooking class with tapas and market visit

Suited to vegetarians, this tour is ideal for anyone who wants to experience the local Valencian cuisine without any meat.

This cooking tour starts with a visit to one of Valencia’s bustling markets, Rufaza Market.

After your local chef teaches you the tricks of the trade — learning how to cook Valencian paella with fresh vegetables like zucchini, peppers and potatoes — you'll get to sit down and savor your meal with wine and local tapas.

Which places are visited?

Depending on which of the Cooking Classes in Valencia you select, there are different places visited.

Cooking classes usually take place at a local restaurant kitchen, where a Spanish chef will guide you through the recipes of the day or the evening.

If you opt for a combination tour, you'll usually also visit a market, such as the Ruzafa Market, where you can learn about the local fruits, vegetables and meats that are used in the different recipes.

How much do cooking class tours in Valencia cost?

Cooking classes in Valencia vary in cost depending on which tour you select, however, most cooking classes are reasonably priced, starting at just €35 per person.

Online cooking classes are the cheapest, costing around €35-€40 each. Meanwhile, a Valencian Paella Cooking Class in a local farmhouse will cost around €55.

Finally, any cooking classes in Valencia that also visit a local market will usually cost between €55 and €60 per person.

What is included?

Except for online cooking classes, every other cooking class includes the ingredients needed for the recipe, the equipment and, of course, the chance to eat the food itself!

The price also covers the cost of your own professional chef, who will guide you through the process of cooking and provide you with helpful tips throughout.

Depending on the tour you choose, some include additional activities such as visiting a local market or participating in an olive oil tasting session.

Where do the tours start?

Each tour is different, however, most tours begin at a local market, restaurant, or landmark in the heart of the city — if you are staying in any of the tourist areas, you won't have to venture too far.

Depending on your tour, you might start at Rufaza Market, Calle Guadalquivar 17 or Parroquia de San Valero. This is where you will meet your guide and the other participants.

Unfortunately, hotel pickup is usually not included. It is recommended that you check the booking site for the exact pick-up location, as this may vary depending on the tour you choose.

How long do they last?

Cooking classes in Valencia usually last between 2 and 4.5 hours, depending on what is included in your package.

The longer tours usually include a market visit as well as a cooking lesson and a formal tasting with a local chef.

On the other hand, the shorter tours usually just include the cooking lesson with a local chef and the tasting.

Most tours start at 10 AM or 11 AM.

When is the best time for a cooking class tour in Valencia?

Valencia, with its Mediterranean climate and rich culinary traditions, offers cooking class tours all year round.

Travel tips

• Cooking class tours, especially those with high ratings, can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons. Booking ahead ensures you get a spot.
• Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toed shoes. Some classes might provide aprons, but it's good to wear something you wouldn't mind getting a little messy.
• If you have any dietary restrictions or allergies, notify the class organizers in advance so they can make necessary accommodations.