Spend four hours cooking fresh seafood and handmade pasta after a morning at Chioggia's bustling fish market. Join Maria's Cookery Course for authentic Italian flavors in the Veneto countryside.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Basic mobility for walking short distances and standing for cooking activities is recommended.
Wildlife
History
Chioggia has been a fishing port since Roman times and retains much of its maritime heritage through daily market traditions.
Conservation
Efforts are underway to support sustainable fishing practices in the Adriatic, ensuring long-term viability of local seafood.
Maria's Cookery Course
Spend four hours cooking fresh seafood and handmade pasta after a morning at Chioggia's bustling fish market. Join Maria's Cookery Course for authentic Italian flavors in the Veneto countryside.
Maria's Cookery Course is a culinary school and tour operator based in San Martino di Venezze, Veneto. The company runs hands-on cooking classes and multi-night culinary retreats at Villa Tenuta Castel Venezze, where guests learn traditional Italian recipes such as fresh pasta, ravioli, gnocchi, and tiramisù. Classes emphasize seasonal ingredients, regional techniques, and practical skills suitable for families, friends, and individual travelers.
In addition to multi-night programs, Maria's Cookery Course offers day experiences including a hands-on pasta-making class, visits to the Chioggia fish market followed by seafood cooking lessons, and a Prosecco wine trail that includes tastings of Prosecco DOC and premium extra virgin olive oil. Nature and culture excursions are available, such as a guided boat tour with local fishermen through the Po Delta Park and wine tours to the Venetian and Euganean hills featuring local varietals.
Programs typically combine instruction, tastings, and free time to relax at the villa; some options explicitly welcome non-participants to rest on the grounds. Small-group formats and personalized attention are part of the retreat-style experiences, creating an intimate learning environment. English-speaking instruction is commonly provided for international guests. Maria's Cookery Course works from a fixed villa base in Veneto, blending practical cooking education with regional food, wine, and nature experiences for travelers seeking authentic Italian culinary immersion.
Guests can end days by the villa pool, enjoy aperitivo pairings with local wines, and take optional free time exploring nearby towns and countryside. Booking details and schedules are provided for each program on request locally.
Location
San Martino di Venezze, Veneto
Set in Veneto, northern Italy
Tours Offered
8 Experiences
Cooking classes and wine & nature tours
Typical Duration
4-hour to multi-night
From half-day tours to multi-night stays
Hands-on Classes
Yes
Practical cooking lessons at the villa
Book a class or multi-night program at Maria's Cookery Course — experiences at Villa Tenuta Castel Venezze fill quickly.
Arrive on time for the market visit
The fish market operates early; arriving promptly maximizes the freshness and variety available.
Wear comfortable shoes
Expect some walking on uneven cobblestone streets and standing during the cooking session.
Bring an appetite for tasting
You’ll actively prepare and eat multiple dishes paired with local wines, so come hungry.
Check transportation options ahead
Public transport from Venice requires coordination; consider arranging pickup from Rovigo train station if traveling without a car.
Comfortable walking shoes
Necessary for navigating the Chioggia fish market’s cobblestones and standing during cooking.
Light layered clothing
Spring weather can vary; layers ensure comfort while moving between market and villa.
spring
Sun protection
Hats and sunscreen protect you during the outdoor market visit and villa grounds.
summer
Camera or smartphone
Capture vibrant scenes from the market and the artistry of your homemade pasta.