Positano: Cooking class and tasting with a view of the Galli Islands

If you’re dreaming of soaking up the charm of Positano while learning to cook like a local, this cooking class and tasting experience might just be the highlight of your trip. Hosted by a family with roots in traditional cuisine, this tour offers an authentic taste of rural life along Italy’s stunning Amalfi Coast. It’s a chance to get your hands dirty in a garden setting, enjoy breathtaking views of the Galli Islands, and leave with new skills and delicious memories.

What immediately draws many to this experience are two things: first, the opportunity to learn recipes based on grandmother’s traditional methods using locally sourced ingredients; second, the stunning backdrop of the Li Galli islands that makes every moment picture perfect. The only caveat? The experience isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and some travelers might find the 4-hour commitment a bit long if they’re short on time. Perfect for food lovers, curious travelers, and those eager to connect more deeply with local culture, this class provides a genuine insight into the heart of Positano’s culinary traditions.

Key Points

• Authentic family recipes rooted in tradition
• Stunning views of Li Galli from the estate
• Hands-on experience picking ingredients from the farm
• Includes tasting of local products, wine, and artisanal liqueurs
• Small group size (limited to 10 guests) for a personalized experience
• Full recipe folder and certificate of participation for keepsake

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Positano Cooking Class Experience

This 4-hour experience offers much more than just a cooking lesson; it’s an opportunity to see, taste, and feel the real essence of Positano’s countryside. The tour starts with a guided visit to the estate, where you’ll wander through citrus, olive groves, vegetable gardens, and vineyards. It’s a lively, informal walk that invites questions and encourages participation—whether you’re a seasoned chef or a total beginner. The hosts love sharing explanations about local cultivation and production, making this not just a cooking class but also a mini agricultural tour.

During this walk, you get to pick some of your ingredients—a simple but meaningful act that lends authenticity to your dishes. Imagine plucking fresh herbs, tasting ripe tomatoes, or gathering fragrant citrus, all while soaking in views of the glistening Galli Islands just off the coast. We loved the way this part brings you closer to the land and makes the food you cook feel truly connected to its roots.

Next comes the aperitif and tasting segment, where you’ll sample homemade jams, extra virgin olive oil, cheeses, cured meats, and other farm specialties. This convivial moment sets the tone for the day—relaxed, friendly, and full of good flavors. The hosts emphasize that the real value of this experience is “us, our family,” which they convey through warmth and genuine passion.

A highlight for many is the mozzarella-making demonstration. Watching and participating in this process gives you insight into one of Italy’s most beloved cheeses. The hosts invite you to join in, making this a memorable hands-on activity that’s as fun as it is educational. It’s a chance to see the artisanal process up close and perhaps even take part in shaping the cheese.

The core of the experience is the cooking lesson, where you’ll prepare fresh pasta from scratch and eggplant parmigiana step by step. This isn’t just a quick demonstration—participants are actively involved, following detailed instructions that anyone can replicate at home. The hosts focus on simple, traditional methods, ensuring that even kitchen novices can succeed. We loved how they explained each step, making the process accessible and fun, especially in such a picturesque setting.

Once the dishes are ready, it’s time for the tasting. You’ll enjoy your homemade creations in a relaxed, convivial atmosphere, accompanied by local wines matched to the flavors of your dishes. The experience is designed to be more than a meal; it’s a celebration of gastronomy and tradition. The hosts also serve artisanal liqueurs like limoncello and nocino, crafted from family recipes—perfect for ending the meal on a sweet note.

Before leaving, everyone receives a personalized certificate and a folder with the recipes you’ve cooked, so you can recreate your favorites back home. The entire experience, including transfers, Wi-Fi, and parking, is designed for convenience and comfort.

Value and Practicalities

The experience costs a fair amount, but it’s easy to see why. You’re paying for authenticity, intimacy, and expertise. With a small group limit of 10, the tour ensures personalized attention and a friendly vibe. The full table service includes two courses, dessert, unlimited water, and local house wines, which means your meal is both generous and thoughtfully paired.

The transfers included make it simple to access the estate from key points on the Sorrento Peninsula, adding to the ease of planning. Plus, the ability to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund offers flexibility if your plans change—important for uncertain travel schedules.

Some may wonder about the price versus value. Considering the full experience—hands-on cooking, farm tours, tastings, local wines, and a keepsake certificate—it’s a solid investment for those seeking an authentic, immersive activity that combines culinary skills with cultural insight.

Why This Experience Stands Out

Travelers consistently praise this class for its stunning views, delicious food, and warm family ambiance. One review highlights it as “our favorite night in Italy,” mentioning the “beautiful view, food, & property,” and how it feels like “instant family.” The combination of scenic beauty and genuine hospitality makes it a memorable event.

Another traveler notes how delicious the food was, how much they learned, and how worth every penny it was. The emphasis on local, farm-fresh ingredients creates dishes that are both authentic and satisfying. Participants often remark on how the experience deepens their appreciation for Italian culinary traditions, especially through the artisanal mozzarella and local wine pairings.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience is ideal for food lovers eager to learn traditional recipes and connect with local culture. It’s perfect for those who enjoy hands-on activities and want an authentic farm-to-table experience. Families, couples, or small groups seeking a relaxed, intimate atmosphere will find this a perfect fit.

However, it’s less suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues due to the nature of the estate and walking involved. Travelers craving a fast-paced or purely sightseeing tour might find this too slow or detailed for their taste. But for anyone wanting a genuine taste of Positano life—through its food, scenery, and warm family hospitality—this class promises a rich, flavorful experience.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included? Yes, transfers are included from main points on the Sorrento Peninsula, making it convenient to access the estate.

How long is the experience? The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, with specific starting times available depending on the day.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size? Yes, the small group is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel schedule.

What languages are available? The experience is conducted in Italian and English, making it accessible for most travelers.

What is included in the price? The price covers a welcome drink, farm tour, ingredient gathering, a full meal with wine and water, recipe folder, and personalized certificate.

Are there any dietary restrictions? The provided information doesn’t specify, but since it’s a family-crafted experience focused on traditional recipes, it’s best to inquire directly if you have specific dietary needs.

Final Thoughts

This Positano cooking class offers a genuine slice of local life, combining stunning scenery with hands-on culinary practice. It’s a thoughtfully designed experience that balances tradition, fun, and hospitality. You’ll leave with new skills, a deeper appreciation for local ingredients, and a collection of recipes to recreate at home.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or simply curious about Italian cuisine, this experience rewards those who seek meaningful, authentic travel moments. The views of Li Galli, the warm family atmosphere, and delicious, farm-fresh food make it a worthwhile addition to any Amalfi Coast itinerary. It’s a perfect choice for those wanting to connect more deeply with Italy’s culinary soul—one dish, one view, and one smile at a time.

You can check availability for your dates here: