Cinque Terre: Pesto Class with Focaccia Tasting in Manarola

Manarola , Italy

Cinque Terre: Pesto Class with Focaccia Tasting in Manarola

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About this experience

Step into the heart of Manarola, one of the most picturesque villages in the Cinque Terre, and discover the art of authentic Genovese pesto making in this hands-on, local experience.

Begin your journey in a charming tasting room, then stroll through a private garden filled with lemon trees and fragrant basil plants, where you'll handpick your own fresh basil. Back in the tasting room, you'll be guided through a sensory tasting of Ligurian extra virgin olive oil, learning how to identify its unique aroma and flavor.

Your Cesarina will share the origins of pesto alla Genovese, the importance of using local, high-quality ingredients, and how to craft pesto using a traditional marble mortar and pestle — just like Ligurians have done for centuries.

You'll then savor your handmade pesto on warm focaccia, perfectly paired with a glass of Cinque Terre white wine as you learn about the region’s native grapes and winemaking traditions.

Available options

Pesto Making Class

What's included

Garden tour with Olive oil and focaccia tasting

Hands-on pesto cooking class with a local Cesarina

Beverages (water, 1 glass of Cinque Terre white wine)

Local taxes

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Please inform us of any allergies or intolerances when booking. We will do our best to accommodate your needs, but in the case of severe allergies, we cannot guarantee the absence of cross-contamination.

Meeting point

This experience will be held in one of our Cesarina homes and, for privacy reason, you will receive the full address of your Cesarina host after you have booked. We will contact you after you've booked to match you up with your ideal Cesarina based on what you are looking for.

Important notes

Please specify if you have any food intolerance/allergy at the time of booking or email at booking@cesarine.com with your booking ref. Our team will contact you after you've booked to match you up with your host and providing you with the full address.

About Manarola

Manarola is one of the five colorful coastal villages that make up the Cinque Terre in Italy. Known for its stunning views, vineyards, and charming narrow streets, it's a picturesque destination that feels like a step back in time. The village is perched on a cliff overlooking the Ligurian Sea, offering breathtaking landscapes and a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Top Attractions

Via dell'Amore (Lovers' Lane)

This scenic coastal walkway connects Manarola to Riomaggiore and offers breathtaking views of the Ligurian Sea. It's a romantic and picturesque route that's perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Nature 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Manarola Marina

The marina is the heart of Manarola, offering a picturesque setting with colorful houses, fishing boats, and a small beach. It's a great spot for a swim or a relaxing walk along the waterfront.

Scenic 1-2 hours Free

Manarola Church of San Lorenzo

This historic church is one of the oldest buildings in Manarola and features beautiful architecture and religious art. It's a peaceful spot to visit and offers a glimpse into the village's rich history.

Historical 30 minutes Free

Manarola Vineyards

The vineyards surrounding Manarola are a significant part of the village's heritage and offer stunning views of the coastline. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings and learn about the local winemaking traditions.

Cultural 1-2 hours Moderate (€10-€20 for tastings)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pesto Genovese

A traditional basil pesto made with fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil. It's a staple in Ligurian cuisine and is often served with pasta or as a condiment.

Sauce Contains dairy and nuts

Focaccia

A traditional Italian flatbread that's soft, fluffy, and topped with olive oil, salt, and sometimes herbs. It's a popular snack and is often served with meals.

Bread Vegetarian

Sciacchetrà

A sweet dessert wine made from locally grown grapes. It's a specialty of the Cinque Terre and is often enjoyed with desserts or as an aperitif.

Wine Contains sulfites

Popular Activities

Hiking Kayaking Snorkeling Sunbathing Swimming Wine tasting Visiting historic sites Attending local festivals

Best Time to Visit

May to September

The peak season offers the best weather for exploring the outdoors, swimming, and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. The sea is warm, and all attractions are open.

20°C to 30°C 68°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, French, German
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Manarola is a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. 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 and agree on the fare before starting your journey

Getting there

By air

Cristoforo Colombo Airport • 100 km from Manarola

By train

Manarola Station

By bus

La Spezia, Lerici

Getting around

Public transport

Trains are the most efficient way to get around the Cinque Terre and to nearby cities. The stations are well-connected and frequent services are available.

Taxis

Available • Apps: MyTaxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Manarola Village

Day trips

Riomaggiore

1 km • Half day

Riomaggiore is another charming village in the Cinque Terre, known for its colorful houses, narrow streets, and historic castle. It's a great spot for exploring, shopping, and enjoying local cuisine.

Corniglia

2 km • Half day

Corniglia is a smaller, quieter village in the Cinque Terre, known for its stunning views and peaceful atmosphere. It's a great spot for a relaxing day trip and offers a glimpse into the traditional Ligurian lifestyle.

Portovenere

5 km • Full day

Portovenere is a historic coastal town known for its colorful houses, historic churches, and stunning views. It's a great spot for exploring, dining, and enjoying the local culture.

Festivals

Cinque Terre Festival • July

Pro tips

Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos
Try the local Sciacchetrà wine, a sweet dessert wine made from locally grown grapes
Explore the vineyards and enjoy a wine tasting to learn about the local winemaking traditions
Hike the coastal trails to other Cinque Terre villages for stunning views and a unique perspective on the area
Visit the local shops and boutiques to support local artisans and businesses