Naples, Italy, often hailed as the birthplace of pizza, stands as one of the world’s most iconic cities. Its rich history and gastronomic treasures like Neapolitan pizza, incredible seafood, pasta perfection, and mouthwatering Neapolitan pastries attract food lovers from around the globe. With so much to offer, you should include cooking classes in Naples, Italy, as a key part of your travel plans. This way, you can enjoy a true culinary experience, join an unforgettable food tour, or even plan a full cooking vacation rooted in local ingredients and traditional recipes.
Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned chef, these cooking classes in Naples, Italy, promise an amazing experience. Read along for our top recommendations. Andiamo!
Where are some great cooking classes in Naples, Italy?
AVPN (Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana)
AVPN (Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana) serves as the official referee for Neapolitan pizza. The Association certifies authentic pizzerias based on strict criteria. When you see the red and green AVPN symbol at a pizzeria, you know you are in for quality.
The AVPN pizzaiolo for a day class offers an immersive culinary experience. You will start with a Neapolitan coffee and end with a tasting of fresh, hot pizza made from the finest local ingredients. Each small class has a maximum of 10 people. You will travel through Naples and its food history.
Recommended for: Those who want an in-depth look at the history and technique of pizza making.
Savio’s Kitchen
If you want to eat a lot, choose Savio’s Kitchen. In his pasta and pizza class, you will make both types of food! You will create fresh pasta, often fettuccine or ravioli, and then homemade pizza. All recipes follow authentic techniques and local traditions.
Savio sometimes changes the pasta type, so you might learn to make creative ravioli shapes with delicious fillings.
You can also hire Savio as a private chef for a Neapolitan Sunday lunch or a delicious dinner.
Recommended for: Hungry travelers looking for a homey cooking experience.
Toffini Academy
Toffini Academy operates a cooking school in the seaside district of Chiaia, Naples. Here, guests choose between a pizza class and a gnocchi and ragù class. Every session makes a true highlight for visitors who want to bring home local Neapolitan secrets.
In the gnocchi class, you will create fresh, pillowy gnocchi and learn how to prepare ragù—a classic Neapolitan meat dish.
Chefs show you how to choose the best meat and make a sauce perfect for pasta or as a hearty main dish. Unlike many other pizza classes in the city, Toffini teaches you how to make fried pizza and pan pizza instead of using a wood-fired oven.
Recommended for: Learning skills that you can take home with you.
Toffini Academy stands out for:
- Classes focused on gnocchi and ragù
- Hands-on experience with fried and pan pizza
- Guidance on selecting the best meat for sauces
- Central location in the Chiaia district
Eat and Walk Italy
Eat and Walk Italy hosts a highly rated pizza class in a small restaurant called San Carlo 17, right in the city center. Since the class takes place in a restaurant, you will feel like a true Neapolitan pizzaiolo using local ingredients and time-honored methods.
During the class, you will enjoy a bruschetta, a glass of wine, and a lemon sorbet after you eat your homemade pizza.
Recommended for: Groups and families sightseeing in the historical center.
Mammina
Underneath Mammina, you will find a space for both pasta and pizza classes. You can choose between learning pasta or pizza. Either choice promises a satisfying lesson in Naples cooking.
In the pasta class, you will make two types of pasta: a long pasta like tagliatelle and a stuffed pasta such as ravioli.
The pizza class covers dough making and Neapolitan tricks passed down through generations. Both classes focus on hands-on learning and traditional recipes. Should you still feel hungry, you can visit the restaurant upstairs for dessert!
Recommended for: Those looking for flexible options and a great deal.
Mammina offers:
- Two types of pasta in the pasta class
- Pizza class with time-tested Neapolitan techniques
- Hands-on learning in a welcoming setting
- The option to dine upstairs after your class
Are cooking classes in Naples, Italy suitable for a vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free diet?
If you are vegetarian, vegan, or have food allergies, contact the cooking class before you sign up. Although Naples now has many vegan and vegetarian restaurants, meat and local products remain central to the food culture.
Gluten-free options have also become more common in Naples. However, always check with the class in advance to ensure they can accommodate your needs.
Tip: If you’ll also be traveling to Rome and want to continue the fun via cooking classes, don’t miss our celebrated pizza-making class and pasta-making class at our stunning private kitchen in the Trastevere neighborhood.
FAQ: Naples Cooking Classes
What types of culinary experiences can I expect from a cooking class in Naples?
In Naples, you will enjoy hands-on experiences that guide you through making Neapolitan pizza, fresh pasta, or traditional recipes like gnocchi and ragù. Most classes include tastings and use local ingredients, so you’ll feel like you’re on a mini food tour.
Are Naples cooking classes suitable for beginners?
Yes! Most Naples cooking classes welcome all skill levels. Instructors explain every step, so you can learn and have fun.
Can I book a private cooking class or food tour for my group?
Absolutely. Many providers in Naples offer private culinary experiences for families or groups. You can tailor the menu and enjoy learning together.
Will I learn about local ingredients and traditional recipes?
Definitely. Naples cooking classes focus on fresh, local ingredients and traditional Neapolitan recipes. You’ll bring home more than just memories—you’ll bring home skills.
Passionate about pizza? So are we. If you’re craving more, come join us on our Secrets of Pizza: Original Naples Pizza Tour, where you’ll witness expert chefs craft pizzas in wood-fired ovens, uncover the secrets behind their recipes, and deepen your love for Neapolitan pizza. Mangiamo!
