CORTONA, Tuscany - Enjoy an intimate and authentic Italian cooking class in the relaxed home of a local Cortonese. Alessandra, a great friend and fantastic cook, is graciously hosting willing participants into her family home to enlighten them with the secrets of creating everyday delicious but simple Italian meals.

Full day cooking lessons are offered to small groups (from 2 - 6). All lessons start with a trip to the local market to select fresh and seasonal ingredients for the meal. Alessandra will show you how to prepare an antipasto (appetizer) primo (first dish, usually pasta, rice or soup), secondo (main course), contorni (a vegetable) and dolce (dessert). Local wine will be provided for your enjoyment during the cooking lesson and also be served with the meal. You are encouraged to assist with the preparation of the meal as Alessandra teaches you tips and tricks of the Italian kitchen. Alessandra's style of cooking transforms normal ingredients into delectable feasts easy enough to prepare for any meal.

After your lesson Alessandra and her family will invite you to sit with them at their table to savor the fruits of your labor and enjoy the chance to get to know you better, as you feast on your freshly prepared meal.

You will receive a printed menu of the recipes in English to take home with you along with your memories of this unforgettable experience and slice of "real" Italian life.

Cooking classes with Alessandra include detailed instruction in English, a scrumptious meal, plenty of wine and a lot of fun!

To book a cooking class for Alessandra's "Real" Italian Cucina, or for questions or further information please send us an email at This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it .

We look forward to cooking with you soon!