Cooking with Locals: Viator’s Best Culinary Classes Worldwide

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Travel deeper by learning to cook the 

world’s favorite dishes—right from the source.

Food is the heart of every culture, and there’s no better way to understand a destination than through its cuisine

While eating local delicacies is one way to connect with a place, cooking them with locals adds an unforgettable, hands-on layer to your travel experience

Viator offers a wide range of culinary classes around the world, led by passionate hosts eager to share their traditions, stories, and secret ingredients. 

If you're hungry for more than just sightseeing, these immersive food experiences are the perfect recipe for cultural connection.

Here are some of Viator’s best culinary classes to book on your next trip:

1. Handmade Pasta in Rome, Italy

Skip the tourist traps and step into a Roman kitchen, where a local chef will guide you through the art of crafting fresh pasta from scratch. Learn how to make fettuccine, gnocchi, or ravioli using age-old family techniques. Top it off with a classic tiramisu—and a glass of wine, of course.

2. Thai Cooking Class in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Thailand’s flavors are legendary, and there’s no better place to learn the secrets of Thai cuisine than in Chiang Mai. Start with a trip to a local market to select fresh herbs and spices, then head to a traditional countryside kitchen. From spicy tom yum soup to sweet mango sticky rice, you'll cook it all under the guidance of a Thai chef.

3. Sushi-Making in Tokyo, Japan

In Tokyo, food is precision, respect, and art. Learn the delicate techniques behind sushi-making, from perfecting your rice to slicing fresh fish. Local instructors provide expert tips—and you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for this iconic Japanese cuisine.

4. Moroccan Cooking Class in Marrakech

In Marrakech, a culinary class is more than just cooking—it’s a sensory journey. Visit a vibrant souk to gather spices, then learn to make tagine and couscous in a riad’s open-air kitchen. You'll cook side by side with local hosts who bring centuries of tradition to life.

5. Parisian Pastry Workshop, France

Bonjour, sweet tooth! Learn the secrets behind France’s most elegant desserts in a Paris pastry class. Under the guidance of a professional pâtissier, whip up éclairs, macarons, or tarts while discovering the precision and creativity behind French baking.

6. Mexican Cooking in Oaxaca, Mexico

Oaxaca is the soul of Mexican cuisine. In these intimate classes, you’ll explore traditional cooking techniques, including grinding corn for tortillas, making mole from scratch, and blending the perfect salsa. You’ll also learn the cultural importance behind each dish.

Why Book Through Viator?

Viator offers verified reviews, local hosts, and flexible booking, ensuring you have a seamless and enriching experience. These classes are often held in homes or small studios, giving you a rare chance to connect with communities in a meaningful way.

Bring a taste of your travels home

Cooking with locals isn’t just about food—it’s about stories, laughter, and shared tradition. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a curious beginner, these Viator culinary classes will leave you with unforgettable memories—and maybe a few new favorite recipes. Book your flavorful journey now at Viator.com.

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