Private cooking class at a local's home with lunch or dinner in Parma

Parma , Italy

Private cooking class at a local's home with lunch or dinner in Parma

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(8 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

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 Parma 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 Parma 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.

Available options

Morning cooking class

Cooking class

Afternoon Cooking Class

Cooking class

What's included

Learn and taste 3 Italian recipes (starter, fresh pasta and dessert)

Water, local wines and Espresso

Hands-on cooking class

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

6 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Meeting point

This experience will be held in a local's home. For privacy reasons, you will receive the full address of your Cesarina host after you have booked. We will contact you by e-mail after you've booked to match you up with your ideal host based on what you are looking for.

Important notes

To craft your perfect culinary experience please remember to share your email address with us. Our culinary guides will send you a short form to express your food preferences, intolerances and allergy for a 100% customized experience with your Italian family.
Once you complete the form you'll receive your host details via email.
In case we do not receive your email shortly we will match you with a local host, based on the preferences expressed at the time of booking.

About Parma

Parma is a charming city in northern Italy, renowned for its rich culinary heritage, particularly its ham (Prosciutto di Parma) and cheese (Parmigiano Reggiano). It's a city where history, art, and gastronomy blend seamlessly, offering visitors a delightful Italian experience.

Top Attractions

Baptistery of Parma

The Baptistery of Parma is a stunning example of Romanesque and Gothic architecture, known for its intricate frescoes and sculptures.

Historical/Religious 1 hour €3

Parma Cathedral

The Parma Cathedral, dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, is a masterpiece of Romanesque and Gothic architecture with stunning frescoes and a beautiful bell tower.

Religious/Historical 1 hour €3 (combined ticket with Baptistery)

Palazzo della Pilotta

The Palazzo della Pilotta is a grand Renaissance palace housing several museums, including the National Gallery, the Archaeological Museum, and the Bodoni Museum.

Historical/Museum 2-3 hours €7 (combined ticket for all museums)

Teatro Regio

The Teatro Regio is a historic opera house and one of the most important cultural venues in Parma, known for its stunning architecture and world-class performances.

Cultural/Entertainment 2-3 hours (depending on the performance) Varies by performance (€20-€100)

Parco Ducale

Parco Ducale is a beautiful public park in the heart of Parma, offering a peaceful escape from the city with its lush gardens, ponds, and historic architecture.

Nature/Park 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Prosciutto di Parma

A world-famous cured ham made from the hind legs of pigs, salt-cured, and aged for at least 12 months. It is thinly sliced and served on its own or with other appetizers.

Appetizer Contains pork, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Parmigiano Reggiano

A hard, granular cheese made from cow's milk, aged for at least 12 months. It is often served in small chunks or grated over pasta dishes.

Appetizer/Dessert Contains dairy, not suitable for vegans or those with lactose intolerance.

Tortelli d'Erbetta

A traditional Parmesan pasta filled with a mixture of ricotta, spinach, and herbs, served with a sage and butter sauce.

Main Course Contains dairy and eggs, not suitable for vegans.

Gnocchi di Patate

Potato dumplings made with a mixture of potatoes, flour, and eggs, often served with a rich ragù or tomato sauce.

Main Course Contains eggs, not suitable for vegans.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the surrounding countryside Biking along the Po River Rock climbing in nearby valleys Spa treatments in Salsomaggiore Terme Strolling through Parco Ducale Enjoying an aperitivo at a local wine bar Visiting museums and historic sites Attending opera and concert performances

Best Time to Visit

Spring (April to June) and Fall (September to October)

Spring and fall offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and are ideal for exploring the city's attractions and enjoying outdoor dining.

15°C to 28°C 59°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

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

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Parma is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, it is always advisable to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid using them at night

Getting there

By air

Giuseppe Verdi Airport • 6 km from city center

By train

Parma Centrale

By bus

Parma Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The public bus system in Parma is efficient and covers most of the city. Buses are a convenient and affordable way to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: FreeNow, ItTaxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Centro Storico Oltretorrente Viale Mentana

Day trips

Castello di Torrechiara

20 km from Parma • Half day

A stunning 15th-century castle with a rich history and beautiful architecture, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Castello di Bardi

40 km from Parma • Full day

A medieval castle perched on a hilltop, offering stunning views of the surrounding valleys and forests, with a rich history and fascinating exhibits.

Salsomaggiore Terme

30 km from Parma • Half day

A charming spa town known for its thermal springs and luxurious spa treatments, offering a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

Festivals

Parma Jazz Frontiers Festival • November Parma Ham Festival • February Festa di San Giovanni • June 24

Pro tips

Visit local producers of Prosciutto di Parma and Parmigiano Reggiano for an authentic taste of the city's culinary heritage
Explore the underground tunnels of Parma for a unique and fascinating experience
Attend a performance at the Teatro Regio for a taste of the city's rich cultural heritage
Stroll through Parco Ducale for a peaceful escape from the city and a chance to enjoy nature
Sample local wines and cheeses at Enoteca del Tribunale and Caseificio di Parma