Discover Lecce’s best local experiences through well-designed workshops that showcase authentic Pugliese traditions. Learning orecchiette pasta-making from local nonnas and crafting papier-mâché with skilled artisans are standout activities in this Baroque city. I’m especially fond of the limestone sculpting classes – they connect visitors with the same craft that created Lecce’s stunning architecture.
My favorite experiences include the pasta workshops in historic family homes, where grandmothers share generations-old techniques, and the hands-on gelato-making classes that reveal the secrets of Italy’s favorite dessert. The wine-tasting tours through nearby vineyards offer great value, combining education with generous samples of local varieties.
Check out these top-rated workshops that bring Lecce’s traditions to life.
Key Points
- Pasta cooking classes in Lecce offer hands-on experiences in making traditional orecchiette pasta, as well as pasta and dessert combinations.
- Comprehensive culinary experiences include a local market visit followed by a private cooking class in a local’s home.
- Artistic and craft workshops teach sculpting techniques using Lecce’s iconic limestone and provide hands-on papier-mâché experiences.
- Family-friendly workshops introduce children to ancient arts and crafts, including paper mâché, origami, ceramics, and stone carving.
- Guided tours combined with an ice-cream workshop or orecchiette pasta-making class provide cultural and culinary experiences in Lecce.
Orecchiette Cooking Class and Wine Tasting in Lecce
For travelers seeking an immersive culinary experience in Lecce, the Orecchiette Cooking Class and Wine Tasting stands out as a must-try activity.
Set in a scenic osteria in the historic center, this hands-on pasta workshop focuses on the traditional orecchiette. Participants can expect a personalized, small-group setting to learn from friendly hosts, sample regional wines and delicacies, and enjoy the convivial atmosphere.
While a few reviews note overcrowding in some classes, the majority of travelers praise the class as a highlight of their Lecce visit, citing the delicious food, quality instruction, and memorable cultural experience.
At €66.41 per person, this activity offers excellent value for an authentic taste of Puglia.
Read our full review: Orecchiette Cooking Class and Wine Tasting in Lecce Review
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Cookingclass With Livio: Lesson on Typical Salento Pasta
What better way to take in the culinary traditions of Lecce than through Cookingclass With Livio’s Lesson on Typical Salento Pasta?
This 2.5-hour class, rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 124 participants, promises an authentic experience in a 1400s-era courtyard. For $61.35 per person, guests will learn to prepare classic Salento pasta dishes, while sampling local wines.
The small-group setting ensures personal attention from the instructor, Livio, who shares insights into the region’s rich food heritage.
Whether a seasoned cook or a curious beginner, this hands-on pasta-making class offers a delicious way to connect with Lecce’s gastronomic culture.
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After exploring the area’s culinary traditions through Cookingclass With Livio’s Lesson on Typical Salento Pasta, visitors to Lecce can delve deeper into the region’s gastronomic heritage with the “Share Your Pasta Love: Small Group Pasta and Tiramisu Class.”
This intimate 2.5-hour experience, boasting a 98% recommendation rate from 47 reviews, invites participants to master the art of making two types of pasta and the beloved Italian dessert, tiramisu, in a local’s cozy home setting.
The class includes an Italian aperitivo, tasting of the culinary creations, and authentic cooking techniques, ensuring an immersive and delectable journey into Lecce’s food culture.
Read our full review: Share Your Pasta Love: Small Group Pasta and Tiramisu Class in Lecce Review
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Lecce Limestone Workshop
Visitors to Lecce can enjoy the city’s rich artistic heritage by partaking in the “Lecce Limestone Workshop.”
This captivating 2-hour experience invites participants to explore the secrets of the region’s renowned Leccese stone, learning sculpting techniques directly from master artisans. Priced from $89.91 per person, the small-group workshop is limited to just 10 participants, offering a personalized and hands-on learning environment.
Nestled within the stunning Basilica of Santa Croce, the workshop allows attendees to create a unique keepsake from the Leccese stone, while exploring their artistic potential.
With Italian and English as the available languages, this workshop is a must-do for anyone interested in Lecce’s vibrant artistic culture.
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Typical Apulian Orecchiette Cooking Class + Dinner Included and Wines
Why not join the Typical Apulian Orecchiette Cooking Class in Lecce, which includes a delightful dinner and local wines?
For just $59.31 per person, you’ll learn to make traditional orecchiette pasta with hands-on guidance. The intimate, often outdoor class setting in a 14th-century courtyard sets the stage for an engaging cultural experience.
Participants rave about the friendly hosts, Erica and her family, who share stories and techniques. Though some note a lack of detailed instructions or bland sauce, the overall rating is an impressive 4.8 out of 5.
With free cancellation and the option for a private group, this cooking class is a must-try for anyone visiting Lecce.
Read our full review: Typical Apulian Orecchiette Cooking Class + Dinner Included and Wines Review
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Lecce: Pasta Making Class in 1400S-ERA Courtyard With Wine
Embarking upon a pasta-making adventure, visitors to Lecce can enjoy the centuries-old traditions of Apulian cuisine at a 2.5-hour class held in a charming 1400s-era courtyard.
For $55.21, you will learn to craft local specialties like Orecchiette and Sagne under the guidance of a local cook. Instruction is available in multiple languages, and the experience includes enjoying the fresh pasta paired with a glass of wine.
With an overall rating of 4.7/5 based on 123 reviews, this hands-on class promises an informative and delightful exploration of authentic Italian pasta-making techniques in a historic setting.
Read our full review: Lecce: Pasta Making Class in 1400S-ERA Courtyard With Wine Review
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Local Market Visit and Private Cooking Class at a Cesarinas Home in Lecce
Enjoy the vibrant culinary culture of Lecce with an exclusive local market visit and private cooking class at a Cesarina’s home.
This 4.8-rated experience takes you on a delectable journey, starting with a guided tour of the local market alongside a knowledgeable host.
Next, you’ll head to the Cesarina’s home for a hands-on cooking class, where you’ll learn to prepare three authentic regional recipes.
Savor the fruits of your labor with a 3-course meal, paired with local wines, as you dine with your host.
This private tour, starting from $203.80 per person, includes private transportation, cooking instruction, and a delightful meal in a welcoming setting.
Read our full review: Local Market Visit and Private Cooking Class at a Cesarinas Home in Lecce Review
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ARTISTIC WORKSHOP FOR CHILDREN
Lecce’s ARTISTIC WORKSHOP FOR CHILDREN offers a captivating opportunity for youngsters to explore the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Lasting an hour and priced from ₹3,578 per person, the workshop covers a range of ancient arts, from paper mâché and origami to ceramics and Lecce stone carving.
Led by Italian master craftsmen, the activities engage participants’ five senses, stimulating their imagination, creativity, and concentration.
Families can enjoy the historic center of Lecce while interacting with local artisans.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this workshop is an accessible and immersive cultural experience for children of all ages.
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Pasta Cooking Classes and Apulian Recipes
Those seeking to enjoy the rich culinary traditions of Apulia can explore the enticing pasta cooking classes offered in Lecce.
These hands-on experiences feature Apulian recipes and allow a maximum of 15 travelers per session. Participants can expect to learn the art of crafting orecchiette and other pasta shapes while sampling local starters and sipping on regional wines.
The classes take place at a centrally located meeting point or, during the summer, at a charming beach house near Faraglioni di SantAndrea.
Feedback highlights the engaging host, the relaxing atmosphere, and the educational value of these classes, with many guests eager to return.
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Private Cooking Class in Lecce (Corigliano): Handmade Pasta
For those seeking a hands-on culinary experience in Lecce, the Private Cooking Class in Corigliano offers the opportunity to learn the art of making handmade pasta.
Priced from $72.99 per person, the 3.5-hour class is available in English and Italian. Guests will craft orecchiette and macaroni using fresh, seasonal ingredients from local, organic producers.
The experience includes a tasting of Salento wines and ends with a homemade limoncello. Reviewers praise the welcoming hosts, Enza and Antonio, and the class’s suitability for all skill levels.
With a wheelchair-accessible facility and a free cancellation policy, this class provides an immersive introduction to traditional Apulian cuisine.
Read our full review: Private Cooking Class in Lecce (Corigliano): Handmade Pasta Review
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PAPIER-MÂCHÉ WORKSHOP
A 3-hour papier-mâché workshop in Lecce’s historic center allows participants to create a personal souvenir under the guidance of a master craftsman.
Priced at Kč 2,274 per person, the workshop is available in Italian and English and is wheelchair accessible.
Participants will use essential tools like needles, glue, and recycled paper to learn the techniques and history of this craft.
The workshop includes all materials and a free papier-mâché item created during the session.
Local transport is available upon request.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours and no upfront payment, this hands-on experience is suitable for both novices and seasoned crafters.
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Lecce: Pasta & Tiramisu Cooking Class at a Locals Home
Enjoy the art of Italian cuisine with a captivating Pasta & Tiramisu Cooking Class hosted in the homes of local Lecce residents.
This 3-hour experience allows you to learn from expert home cooks as you craft two iconic dishes – fresh pasta and classic tiramisu.
Enjoy an Italian aperitivo, taste the final products with local wines, and pick up tips for recreating the recipes at home.
Costing from $142.80 per person, the class accommodates up to 12 participants and is available in both Italian and English.
With a 4.9/5 rating based on 12 reviews, this authentic culinary experience isn’t to be missed.
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ORECCHIETTE CLASS WITH WINE TASTING & APERITIF
The Orecchiette Class with Wine Tasting & Aperitif offers a captivating introduction to the culinary traditions of Apulia.
During this 2-hour experience, you will learn to make the iconic orecchiette pasta and sample 4 wines from the Salento region.
The cooking class lasts approximately 1 hour, covering the entire process from raw materials to final product.
Alongside the wine tasting, guests will enjoy typical culinary delicacies, including the handmade orecchiette.
The experience caters to various dietary needs, with vegan and vegetarian options available.
Priced at $95.20 per person, this activity provides a well-rounded introduction to Apulian gastronomic culture with the opportunity for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: ORECCHIETTE CLASS WITH WINE TASTING & APERITIF Review
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Lecce: Private Pasta-Making Class at a Locals Home
Travelers seeking an authentic culinary adventure in Lecce can discover the art of pasta-making during a private class hosted in a local’s home.
The 3-hour class, priced from $153.37 per person, allows participants to learn regional recipes from a certified home cook and create genuine connections with Italian families.
Guests will prepare and taste three authentic pasta dishes, accompanied by a selection of local wines.
With individual workstations, instruction available in English and Italian, and accommodations for dietary requirements, the class provides a hands-on, immersive experience.
Customer reviews highlight the class as a delicious, memorable journey into Lecce’s culinary traditions.
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Lecce: Private Cooking Class at a Locals Home
Guests can discover the secrets of authentic Lecce cuisine during a private cooking class hosted in the home of a local family.
The 3-hour class, priced from $153.37 per person, teaches participants to cook 3 traditional recipes from family cookbooks. Participants will enjoy tastings of the prepared dishes accompanied by local wines and receive personalized guidance from the English and Italian-speaking instructor.
With an overall 5/5 rating based on 4 reviews, the class is praised for its welcoming atmosphere, authentic experiences, and the hospitality of the hosts, Carlo and Giusy.
Dietary requirements can be accommodated, and a reserve now, pay later option is available with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
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Lecce: Guided Tour With Artisanal Ice-Cream Workshop
Visitors can also explore Lecce’s cultural heritage and indulge in a delightful ice cream workshop during a guided tour.
This 2-hour experience allows travelers to skip the line and discover the city’s baroque secrets with a local guide. Participants will learn the art of artisanal gelato-making, using fresh, high-quality ingredients.
The workshop includes a tasting of the homemade creations, complemented by insights into Lecce’s history and architecture.
With a rating of 4.6 from 60 reviews and a price of $37.02, this guided tour with an ice cream-making class offers a unique and memorable way to experience the flavors and culture of Lecce.
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Sum Up
Lecce offers a variety of engaging workshops and classes for visitors. From hands-on pasta-making lessons to wine tastings and artisanal ice cream workshops, there are plenty of opportunities to take in the local culinary traditions. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking to learn a new skill, Lecce’s diverse selection of classes caters to a wide range of interests and skill levels.