Pesto-Making Class at Nessun Dorma in Manarola (Cinque Terre Review)

Fresh basil, ocean views, and learning a local tradition — this is why Manarola stole our hearts.

Cinque Terre is famous for its postcard-perfect views — but the moment that stayed with us most had nothing to do with a viewpoint. It was standing on a sunny terrace in Manarola, crushing fresh basil by hand, and learning to make pesto the traditional way.

Experiences like this are exactly why we chose to stay in Manarola. And it’s exactly the kind of experience that’s easier to enjoy when you’re staying right in the village.

Why We Chose to Stay in Manarola

The five colorful coastal villages of Cinque Terre each have their own unique feel. Manarola has a slower, more relaxed vibe compared to the others. It’s a central location for exploring Cinque Terre, but staying here is what made this experience easy and special.

Pesto-Making Class at Nessun Dorma in Manarola

What the Experience Is Like

This pesto-making class takes place outdoors at the restaurant Nessun Dorma. It’s a small group, and the experience is entirely hands-on. You’ll learn the traditional method of making pesto with a mortar and pestle, guided step-by-step by your host.

The Setting

The terrace is lined with tiny tables with front-row views over Manarola’s picturesque harbor. The ocean breeze and white umbrellas overhead keep you comfortable as you work.

Music plays, laughter fills the air, and the host creates a casual, fun atmosphere. This is not just a cooking class—it’s a full sensory experience.

What You Actually Make (and Eat)

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You’ll make your bowl of pesto from scratch, picking fresh basil and learning about each locally sourced ingredient. Pesto itself is simple — basil, pine nuts, Parmesan, and olive oil — but making it by hand is what makes it extraordinary.

Afterward, you’ll enjoy your creation with wine, bread, meats, and fresh fruit, savoring not just the flavors but the satisfaction of having made it yourself. Plus, you’ll come away with your own adorable Nessun Dorma apron.

Save or Splurge? (Cinque Terre Travel Tip)

💡 Where to Save

💎 Where to Splurge

Why This Pesto Making Class in Cinque Terre Is Worth It

My husband and I love to cook, and pesto is easy to make, so we didn’t view this as a “how to” class. Through that lens, it’s probably not worth it. Instead, we came for the experience — and that’s exactly what makes it special.

At one point, the music blares and a conga line of pesto makers snakes around the terrace (with my husband somehow leading ours, lol). Laughing, sipping wine, enjoying the views, and making something together — that’s the real value of this class.

Final Thoughts

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This pesto making class overlooking the harbor in Manarola was a highlight of our trip to Italy. It was an easy walk from our accommodation, giving us time to soak in the sights, sounds, and smells of this coastal gem.

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We’ll never forget learning to make pesto here — treat yourself to the same unforgettable experience in Manarola. Reserve your spot at Nessun Dorma in advance — this experience often sells out.

This open-air pesto making class in the home of a local (located in Riomaggiore) also receives top reviews.

Planning to visit Cinque Terre during your time in Italy? Read my Cinque Terre Hiking Guide.

What’s the most memorable food experience you’ve had while traveling?