Chiavari in 1 Day for Couples - Real Genovese focaccia aperitif with homemade pesto and salted anchovies
In Collaboration with Rigatoni Experience. Updated on February 13, 2026.
Hands-on Ligurian cooking class in Chiavari: start with a classic Genovese focaccia aperitif, make fresh pasta with a traditional 'guitar' cutter, then taste your pasta with homemade pesto paired with local DOP white wines. Perfect for couples seeking a romantic, intimate evening.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Rigatoni Experience, inspired by the tour Ligurian Cooking Class with Focaccia and Wines. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Real Genovese focaccia aperitif with homemade pesto and salted anchovies
- Hands-on fresh pasta making using the traditional 'chitarra' (guitar) cutter
- Tasting of local DOP white wines guided by the host
- Stroll through Chiavari's Centro Storico before the class
Itinerary
Day 1
An intimate evening in Chiavari: start with a short historic stroll, meet at Rigatoni Experience for a hands-on Ligurian cooking class (aperitif, pasta-making, wine tasting), then a romantic seaside walk to finish.
Stroll through Centro Storico di Chiavari (meet & explore)
Begin with a relaxed 45-minute walk through Chiavari's historic center: narrow porticoes, boutique shops and quaint piazzas — great prelude to the cooking experience.
Tips from local experts:
- Romantic photo spot: pause at Via Ravaschieri under the porticoes for soft evening light — ideal for a couple’s shot.
- Wear comfortable shoes — the historic center has cobbled streets and small steps; bring a light jacket for sea breezes in May.
- If you have time, pop into a local pasticceria (bakery) for a quick bite to sample Ligurian sweets; tell the staff you're on your way to a cooking class — they often suggest little local treats.
Walk / transfer to Rigatoni Experience (short local walk)
Short, easy walk from the historic center to the cooking studio on Corso Genova — enjoy a few minutes to soak in local street life.
Tips from local experts:
- Allow 10–15 minutes to walk and possibly find a quick photo spot along Corso Genova's lively shops.
- If you prefer not to walk, local taxis are available near Piazza Roma — say 'Corso Genova 10/1' to drivers.
- Watch for local parking restrictions if you drove; many spaces are limited in the centro storico in the evening.
Ligurian Cooking Class — Welcome & Hands-on Experience (aperitif, pasta-making, wine tasting)
Main activity (DINNER EXPERIENCE): meet your host at Rigatoni Experience. Start with a focaccia and bruschetta aperitif, then make fresh pasta using the traditional 'chitarra' (guitar) cutter and finish by tasting your pasta with homemade pesto paired with a selection of DOP white wines; coffee and a small digestive close the evening.
Tips from local experts:
- Special moment for couples: during the aperitif the host often shares anecdotes about local food traditions — sit close and ask for wine pairing tips to make it intimate.
- Dietary note: inform the host of allergies or strong dislikes when you book; the class is interactive and the host can usually adapt components (e.g., anchovies) on request.
- Bring a small reusable bag if you want to take home any leftover focaccia or a little bottle of oil — hosts sometimes offer extra baked focaccia pieces after the class.
Romantic post-class stroll along Lungomare Vittorio Veneto (seaside special moment)
Wrap up with a short seaside walk to enjoy the night air and, depending on the season, lingering sunset colors over the Ligurian Sea — a peaceful romantic finale.
Tips from local experts:
- Golden-hour/romantic tip: in May the sunset can be later — if you time the class earlier in the season, step onto the promenade for golden reflections on the water.
- Bench pick: look for the benches near the small harbor for a quieter spot; bring a light layer as sea breezes can be cool after evening wine.
- If you'd like a keepsake, ask a local vendor for a bottle of Ligurian olive oil or a small votive of pesto found in nearby shops — makes a charming souvenir for couples.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 4 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | 1 |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 3 |
| Total Places | 3 |
| Activities Types | Neighborhood, Transfer, Experience, Outdoor |