Varenna Walking Tour and Cooking Class
Active
5h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Prepare yourself for an authentic and extraordinary journey through Italian culture & cuisine! Travellers come from far and wide to explore Lake Como. Meet your tour guide in Varenna and learn about the history, culture and food of this enchanting hamlet. Walk along the lake and take photos of the elegant XIX century villas surrounded by enchanting mountains. Visit Piazza San Giorgio with its beautiful Church and follow your guide through picturesque stone alleys to meet your chef.
Get ready for the second part of your adventure. Make Memories to last a Lifetime on our “Cooking Masterclass experience". Break the ice and sit together around a large table. Inhibitions fall away when engaged in chopping or rolling pasta dough – a great way to get conversation flowing. Learn to make an appetizer, two pasta shapes and a delicious dessert. Our local chef will guide you through every step and teach you new cooking techniques for a memorable experience.
Available options
Varenna Walking Tour and Cooking Class
What's included
Professional chef
Varenna Walking Tour (1.5 hours)
Cooking Class (3.5 hours - lunch included)
Friendly English speaking local guide
Receive personalised attention in a small group limited to 12
Detailed itinerary
1
A guided Varenna walking Tour combined with a 3 hours cooking class with a professional local chef.
2
Meet your guide in Varenna. Nobody can resist this world famous village. Explore the charming hamlet walking along the lake and through its picturesque steep stone alleys admiring the elegance of its villas and boutiques. Continue visiting the historic center to Piazza San Giorgio and learn about the history and culture of this magic place. Take photos of the main Church which like a shrine holds the treasures of this small community and follow your guide to meet our chef to start the second part of this adventure.
Enjoy a 3 hours cooking class and learn all the tips & tricks that will turn you into a regular pasta aficionado. You will be guided through every step always using fresh, seasonal and healthy ingredients.
What's not included
Gratuities
Extra drinks and meals not included in the program
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
IT
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Operates in all weather conditions; please dress appropriately.
Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking.
Meeting point
Meet us outside the Boat Terminal Ticket Office in Varenna (opposite Hotel Olivedo). Look out for our "Taste & Travel Italy" local guide.
About Bergamo
Bergamo is a stunning Italian city that beautifully blends medieval architecture with modern charm. Known for its Venetian walls, the upper city (Città Alta) offers a picturesque and historic experience, while the lower city (Città Bassa) provides a vibrant urban atmosphere. Bergamo's rich cultural heritage, combined with its strategic location in the Lombardy region, makes it a captivating destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Città Alta (Upper City)
The upper city is a UNESCO World Heritage site, enclosed by Venetian walls and featuring medieval architecture, charming streets, and historic buildings.
Historical
2-3 hours
Free to explore, individual attractions may have fees
Città Bassa (Lower City)
The lower city is the modern hub of Bergamo, with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
Urban
1-2 hours
Free to explore, individual attractions may have fees
Bergamo Alta Funicular
A historic funicular that connects the upper and lower cities, offering scenic views of the city and surrounding landscape.
Transport
10 minutes
€2.50 one way, €4.50 round trip
Mura Venete (Venetian Walls)
These 16th-century walls surround the upper city and offer a glimpse into Bergamo's historic past.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free to walk along the walls
Accademia Carrara
One of Italy's most important art museums, featuring works by Renaissance and Baroque masters.
Museum
1-2 hours
€12
Must-Try Local Dishes
Polenta e Osei
A traditional dish consisting of polenta with small bird meat, typically served with a rich sauce.
Main Course
Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians
Casoncelli
Stuffed pasta with a filling of meat, breadcrumbs, and herbs, served with butter and sage sauce.
Main Course
Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians
Stracchino di Bergamo
A soft, creamy cheese with a mild flavor, often used in cooking or eaten as a spread.
Cheese
Contains dairy, not suitable for vegans
Polenta e Formaggio
A simple dish of polenta served with melted cheese, often made with local cheeses like Taleggio or Fontina.
Side Dish
Contains dairy, not suitable for vegans
Popular Activities
Hiking
Cycling
Boat tours
Wine tasting
Spa treatments
Strolling through historic streets
Museum visits
Art galleries
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the peak tourist season with warm weather and numerous festivals. The city is lively, and all attractions are open, but it can be crowded.
18°C to 30°C
64°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Italian
- Widely spoken: English, German
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (Central European Time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Bergamo is generally safe, with low crime rates. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
Getting there
By air
- Orio al Serio International Airport • 5 km from city center
By train
Bergamo Station
By bus
Bergamo Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The ATB bus network is efficient and covers both the upper and lower cities. Buses are the primary mode of public transport.
Taxis
Available • Apps: FreeNow, MyTaxi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Città Alta
Città Bassa
Day trips
Lake Iseo
30 km from Bergamo • Half day to full day
Lake Iseo is a picturesque lake surrounded by mountains and charming villages. It's a popular destination for hiking, cycling, and water sports.
Brescia
60 km from Bergamo • Full day
Brescia is a historic city with a rich cultural heritage, featuring Roman ruins, medieval buildings, and a vibrant city center.
Franciacorta
30 km from Bergamo • Half day to full day
Franciacorta is a renowned wine region known for its sparkling wines and beautiful vineyards. It's a popular destination for wine tasting and scenic drives.
Festivals
Festa di San Vigilio • June 26
Bergamo Film Meeting • March
Christmas Markets • December
Pro tips
- Visit the upper city early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos
- Use the funicular or bus to travel between the upper and lower cities to save time and energy
- Try local specialties like polenta e osei, casoncelli, and stracchino di Bergamo
- Explore the Venetian walls for stunning views and a glimpse into Bergamo's historic past
- Visit the Accademia Carrara for a comprehensive overview of Italian art history
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
