Prices checked on Sep 12, 2026Things to do in Lake Como
Immerse yourself in Italy's culture with this hands-on cooking class held in a local home and led by an expert Italian home cook. Learn the secrets of the most iconic Varenna dishes and taste the fruit of your labour for lunch or dinner with local wines included. You'll have a fully equipped workstation with utensils and ingredients and your local host will reveal the tricks of the trade of 3 authentic Varenna recipes (starter, fresh pasta and dessert) handed down by generations of mammas and nonnas. After the class, sit down at the table with your Italian family and taste everything you have prepared accompanied by a selection of local wines. This experience is held by Cesarine, Italy’s oldest network of home cooks and wine experts. Cesarine are passionate and welcoming hosts that open the doors of their own homes to curious travellers for immersive culinary experiences. Every host is reviewed for authentic culinary traditions.
Exclusive Private Group Cooking & Meal in Varenna by Cesarine lasts about 3 hours.
Prices start at $124 per person for this Lake Como experience, booked through Viator with the price shown before checkout. There are 2 booking options, so the final price depends on the option you choose.
Yes. Cancel at least 1 day before the start for a full refund. Later cancellations are non-refundable.
The meeting point is Experience the warmth of a Cesarina’s home. For privacy, the exact address will be shared after booking. Your experience may be hosted in either Varenna or Bellano, just an 15-20 minute taxi ride apart. . Hotel pickup is not part of this experience.
The experience is available in EN, IT.
It is a private experience: only your party takes part. Up to 10 travellers can book together.
Yes, bookings are confirmed instantly.
Travellers rate it 4.8 out of 5 across 53 verified reviews; it is run by Cesarine: Cooking Class. Most-mentioned highlights: Learn and taste 3 Italian recipes (starter, fresh pasta and dessert); Water, local wines and Espresso; Hands-on cooking class.
I went with my family. The instructions were clear and thorough, and the food was delicious. I would absolutely recommend to anyone interested in Italian food and/or a hands on experience in cooking. (attached is the photo of the pasta I made. It was fantastic!)
We had an outstanding meal with a beautiful view at Patrizia’s. We also really enjoyed learning the cooking methods. This was a highlight of our honeymoon!
An unforgettable experience! We cooked with Monica, who was lovely. We had the best time learning how to make homemade ravioli.
We really enjoyed Monica. She was engaged and very friendly.
Monica was fabulous! Very welcoming in her beautiful home. We cooked a delicious pasta meal. Would definitely recommend
Patrizia was absolutely wonderful! We had such a great experience in her home learning her recipes. Her home was so beautiful. My son and I could not have asked for a more memorable experience. I’m so glad we did this and I highly recommend it.
Our experience with Annamaria through Cesarine was one of the highlights of our time near Lake Como. We first met her at the markets near Varenna, where she walked us through the stalls and explained where many of the ingredients came from. It was fascinating to hear about the farmers, the cheeses, and how the seasons shape what people cook in this region. After the market visit, she welcomed us into her home. She offered wine, cheese, and other fresh foods and immediately made us feel comfortable. Her home is beautiful, and her two dogs added to the warm, relaxed atmosphere. During the cooking portion, she carefully explained the ingredients and techniques as we made fresh pasta together with a simple tomato basil sauce. She also prepared a handmade tiramisu that was incredible. Throughout the experience she shared stories about Italian food traditions and told us about her hometown of Milan, where we will be staying soon. She also went above and beyond after the class by sharing a recipe file with us and offering thoughtful recommendations for the rest of our stay in the area. By the end of the afternoon, we truly felt like guests in her home rather than participants in a class. It felt as if a family member was teaching us a treasured recipe. If you’re visiting Lake Como and want an authentic and welcoming experience, we would highly recommend spending time with Annamaria.
Amazing experience! Patrizia was so kind and patient (even when we arrived late)! The food was amazing and we learned so much about local culture. Highly recommend!
Amazing! To be invited into a personal home was such a treat. And the view! Wow. Such an amazing host.
Wonderful evening with Patricia in her home … not just the cooking but the wine and conversation were a really memorable experience. We loved it !!
| Tour | Duration | Rating | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Exclusive Private Group Cooking & Meal in Varenna by Cesarine | 3 hours | 4.8 (53) | $124 | |
 Lake Como Private Boat Tour : The Wooden Venetian Limo Escape | 1–4 hours | 5.0 (71) | $414 | View |
 Lake Como Private Wooden Boat Tour & Italian Glamour | 4 hours | 4.9 (633) | $414 | View |
 Como, Bellagio & Varenna: Small Group from Milan with Boat Cruise | 10h 30min | 4.9 (1,532) | $129 | View |
 1H - 4H Private Boat Tour on Lake Como 6 pax | 4 hours | 4.8 (267) | $355 | View |
 Lake Como Premium Shared Boat Tour • 1 Hour Shared Tour | 1h 15min | 4.8 (134) | $47 | View |
 Como, Lugano & Bellagio: Exclusive Cruise–Two Countries in a Day | 11 hours | 4.7 (1,632) | $80 | View |