Cooking classes in Bilbao cut straight to the heart of Basque Country’s famous food culture. Local chefs teach intimate groups in professional kitchens, focusing on practical skills you’ll actually use back home. I’m especially fond of the pintxo-making workshops – they’re hands-on, informative, and come with plenty of wine. The paella classes are also excellent, teaching authentic techniques rather than tourist versions. What makes these experiences special is the combination of professional instruction and relaxed, social atmosphere. You’ll leave knowing how to make at least three traditional dishes, plus insider tips on local ingredients. Ready to discover our favorite Bilbao cooking experiences?
Key Points
- Pintxos and Tapas Cooking Class in Bilbao is a highly-rated (4.9/5 stars) and recommended (97%) experience focusing on traditional and modern Basque pintxos.
- Bilbao: Basque Pintxos and Tapas Cooking Class With Open Bar offers an engaging, English-led class on preparing authentic pintxos and includes tastings and a charcuterie board.
- Paella Cooking Class (with Basque Sangria) in Bilbao receives excellent reviews (5.0/5) for its hands-on experience in making fish and meat paella alongside Basque cultural storytelling.
- Paella Cooking Class With Sangria in Bilbao is a well-regarded (4.9/5) 3.5-hour class teaching participants to prepare 2-3 starters and both meat and fish paella.
- Bilbao: Traditional Basque Cooking Class With Wine Tasting provides a personalized culinary journey (4.8/5) by a bilingual Basque chef, including the preparation of starters, a main dish, and dessert alongside a local wine tasting.
Pintxos and Tapas Cooking Class in Bilbao
The Pintxos and Tapas Cooking Class in Bilbao offers a unique opportunity for travelers to enjoy the vibrant culinary culture of the Basque region. Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars with 35 reviews, this class is recommended by 97% of travelers and has earned a Badge of Excellence.
Hosted by Northern Spain Gastronomy, the class takes place in Bilbao, Spain, and is priced at $107.24 per person, with a maximum group size of 12 travelers.
The class features a delectable menu, including starters like La gilda, El Bilbainito, spicy local mushrooms, and grilled cod with mayo, as well as the Basque Toast for dessert. Guests can enjoy unlimited drinks during the experience, which starts at 6:00 PM and returns to the meeting point at the Plaza de la Salve square.
While the class isn’t wheelchair accessible, it welcomes participants aged 18 and above. Reviewers praise the organization, learning experience, and the warm hospitality of the hosts, Irene and David, though some suggest more hands-on cooking opportunities.
Read our full review: Pintxos and Tapas Cooking Class in Bilbao Review
Book now: Check availability
Bilbao: Basque Pintxos and Tapas Cooking Class With Open Bar
For travelers seeking an immersive culinary experience in Bilbao, the Bilbao: Basque Pintxos and Tapas Cooking Class with Open Bar offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the region’s vibrant gastronomic culture.
Priced at $110.96 per person and lasting 2.5 hours, this English-language class allows participants to learn from an experienced chef how to prepare traditional and modern pintxos, the iconic small bites of the Basque Country.
The hands-on cooking session focuses on local ingredients and their significance, culminating in the creation and tasting of 4 different pintxos, complemented by a charcuterie board and dessert.
Throughout the experience, guests can enjoy an open bar, enhancing the convivial atmosphere of the well-equipped cooking school.
With an overall 5/5 rating based on 12 reviews, this class consistently earns praise for its engaging instruction, high-quality food and wine, and the opportunity to learn about local gastronomy in a friendly environment.
Read our full review: Bilbao: Basque Pintxos and Tapas Cooking Class With Open Bar Review
Book now: Check availability
Paella Cooking Class (with Basque Sangria) in Bilbao
Nestled near the iconic Guggenheim Museum, Gastronomía Bilbao’s Paella Cooking Class enthralls travelers seeking an immersive culinary adventure in Bilbao.
With a 5.0 rating across 23 reviews, the class is highly recommended by 100% of participants, earning a prestigious Badge of Excellence.
The hands-on experience begins at 11:00 am, where guests learn to craft two types of paella – fish and meat – as well as traditional Basque starters and desserts.
Participants savor the fruits of their labor, complemented by sangria and local drinks. The class has a maximum size of 12 travelers, ensuring personalized attention from the expert instructor.
Beyond the delectable menu, the class showcases the rich culinary heritage of the Basque region, weaving captivating storytelling into the hands-on cooking.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours prior and a “Reserve Now, Pay Later” option, this paella class is a must-try for foodies visiting Bilbao.
Read our full review: Paella Cooking Class (with Basque Sangria) in Bilbao Review
Book now: Check availability
Paella Cooking Class With Sangria in Bilbao
Tucked away near the iconic Guggenheim Museum, Gastronomía Bilbao’s Paella Cooking Class with Sangria offers an immersive culinary experience for travelers seeking to uncover the flavors of the Basque region.
Over the course of 3.5 hours, you will learn to prepare authentic Spanish paella, sangria, and other traditional dishes under the guidance of an experienced chef.
The class covers the creation of 2-3 starters, one meat and fish paella, and a dessert. Participants will have the opportunity to make dishes like Padron peppers, garlic prawns, and Spanish Basque toast. The menu may vary based on market availability.
Along with the cooking lesson, the experience includes a charcuterie board, a variety of local wines, and recipe cards to take home.
With a 4.9/5 rating based on 9 reviews, the class receives high praise for its clear instructions, cleanliness, and enjoyable atmosphere, even for small groups.
Travelers can book their spot without upfront payment and enjoy the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Paella Cooking Class With Sangria in Bilbao Review
Book now: Check availability
Bilbao: Traditional Basque Cooking Class With Wine Tasting
In the heart of Bilbao, travelers can enjoy the rich culinary traditions of the Basque region through the “Bilbao: Traditional Basque Cooking Class with Wine Tasting” experience.
This 3.5-hour class, priced from $153.23 per person, offers participants the chance to learn how to prepare 2-3 starters, a main dish, and a dessert that represent the essence of Basque cuisine.
Led by a bilingual Basque chef, the hands-on cooking class covers dishes like txuleta (meat chop), Tolosa beans, and Marmitako (tuna stew), while also providing insights into the history and techniques of the region’s culinary heritage.
The experience is further enhanced by a wine tasting featuring local Riojas, Txakolis, or Albariños, and a meal in a private dining room, accompanied by an open bar of regional wines.
With an overall rating of 4.8/5 from previous participants, this class offers a personalized and immersive culinary journey through the flavors of the Basque Country.
Read our full review: Bilbao: Traditional Basque Cooking Class With Wine Tasting Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Transportation Provided to and From the Cooking Class?
Many cooking classes don’t provide transportation, but some may offer it for an additional fee. It’s best to check with the specific class you’re interested in to see if they include transportation or if it’s an extra service.
Can Dietary Restrictions or Allergies Be Accommodated?
Most cooking classes in Bilbao can accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies with advance notice. Students should inquire about the available options when booking their class to ensure their needs are met.
What Is the Minimum and Maximum Group Size for the Classes?
The class sizes typically range from 4 to 12 participants, allowing for personalized attention and hands-on experience. Instructors are happy to accommodate dietary restrictions or allergies with advance notice.
Are the Cooking Classes Suitable for Children or Families?
The cooking classes are suitable for both children and families. Many classes offer special menus and activities tailored to younger participants, making them a great option for family bonding and learning new culinary skills together.
Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available for the Classes?
Many cooking class providers in Bilbao offer discounts or package deals, such as reduced rates for families, students, or groups. Some also have special promotions during peak seasons or for multi-class packages.
The Sum Up
Bilbao offers an array of cooking classes showcasing the region’s renowned pintxos, tapas, and paella dishes. From hands-on instruction to wine tastings, these classes provide an immersive culinary experience for visitors. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced cook, these top-rated classes in Bilbao cater to all skill levels, allowing you to savor the flavors of Basque cuisine.