The Benefits of Taking a Class or Workshop While Traveling, Supporting…

Many people relate travel to seeing new places, which of course is true. But many people don’t think about the connection between travel and learning something new. Taking a class or workshop, that you may not have access to, can turn an ordinary vacation activity into a memorable one. A unique hands-on experience can allow you to connect with the destination, its culture, and its people in a more meaningful way.

Viator offers more than a wide variety of classes and workshops around the world. These classes and workshops give you the opportunity to learn everything from cooking and arts and crafts to dancing, languages, yoga, surfing, and other outdoor activities. IYou can enjoy such experiences as cooking classes in Tuscany and Thailand, surf lessons in Costa Rica, mask-making in Venice, salsa classes in San Juan, and pottery workshops in Cambodia.

Learn a Skill You Can Take Home

One of the biggest benefits of participating in a class or workshop is that you learn a new skill that you can take home and put into practice. You may learn how to prepare traditional local dishes, or learn an art or craft that you can continue practicing long after your vacation. With some workshops you may be able to take home something you have created yourself, such as pottery, stained glass, or artwork.

Experience Local Culture

What better way of experiencing a more authentic connection to the destination. Participating in an activity, rather than simply observing, gives it more meaning. By learning to cook a traditional meal, or create a traditional craft may provide insights into the local culture that you might not have discovered during a conventional sightseeing tour.

Meet People and Make Memories

Many of these classes and workshops are designed for groups, making them a great way to meet fellow travelers and interact with local instructors. These workshops are for just about everyoner, couples, families or friends, and participating in classes and workshops together can create lasting memories and shared stories.

Try Something Completely New

Some of these classes and workshops force you to step outside your comfort zone. You don’t need experience as an artist, a chef, a dancer, or an athlete to participate. Most of these experiences are geared for beginners and provide professional instruction and equipment where necessary.

Make your vacation more than a collection of photographs and sightseeing stops by experiencing something new. From glassblowing and perfume-making to surfing and archery, there are opportunities to try something you may never have considered at home. It gives you a chance to learn, participate, create, meet people, and take a piece of the destination home with you. With thousands of classes and workshops available, no matter where you go in the world, you learn a new skill that will last a lifetime.

Classes and Workshops Canada & Around The World

Just a small sample of some classes and workshops you can take from Viator.com

Alberta, Canada

Calgary – Kawaii Sushi Making Class With a Local Chef in Calgary
Learn how to create fun and visually appealing sushi during this hands-on cooking class in Calgary. A local chef guides participants through the preparation process while sharing useful sushi-making techniques.

Calgary – Modern Sushi-Making Class in Calgary (Includes 4-Course Meal)
Learn the fundamentals of preparing modern sushi in this hands-on Calgary cooking class. Enjoy creating your own sushi while experiencing a four-course meal.

Calgary – Pasta Cooking Class at a Local Brewery in Calgary
Learn how to prepare fresh pasta in a fun and interactive Calgary cooking experience. The class combines hands-on instruction with a relaxed local atmosphere.

Calgary – Fun Chocolate Making Class With a Local Chef in Calgary
Discover the techniques behind making delicious chocolate with guidance from a local chef. This hands-on class offers a fun way to learn a new culinary skill while travelling.

Calgary – Fun Sushi Cooking Class at a Local Brewery in Calgary
Try your hand at making sushi during this interactive Calgary cooking class. You’ll learn useful preparation techniques while enjoying a relaxed experience in a local setting.

Calgary – Beginner Bouldering and Climbing Lessons in Calgary, Gym Included
Get introduced to indoor bouldering and climbing with instruction designed for beginners and progressing participants. It’s an active way to develop climbing skills while enjoying Calgary’s indoor climbing scene.

Calgary – Make Japanese Sushi With a Local Chef in Calgary
Learn to prepare Japanese-style sushi alongside a local chef in Calgary. This hands-on experience introduces travellers to practical techniques they can use long after their trip.

Calgary – Craft Your Own Gin at Burwood Distillery
Explore the craft of gin making with a hands-on experience at Burwood Distillery. Participants can learn about the process and create a personalized gin experience.

Edmonton – Intimate Italian Pasta Class in Edmonton (Includes 4-Course Meal)
Learn the basics of preparing Italian pasta during an intimate hands-on class in Edmonton. The experience combines cooking instruction with a four-course meal.

Edmonton – Refined Indian Cooking Class in Edmonton (Includes 4-Course Meal)
Discover Indian cooking techniques and flavours in this hands-on Edmonton class. Participants can learn new culinary skills while enjoying a four-course meal.

Lake Louise – Learn to Cross Country Ski in Lake Louise
Get introduced to cross-country skiing in the spectacular surroundings of Lake Louise. This active outdoor experience is a great way to learn basic techniques while enjoying the Canadian Rockies.

British Columbia, Canada

Clearwater – Mountain Suncatcher Stained Glass Class in Clearwater, BC
Create a colourful stained-glass mountain suncatcher during this creative workshop in Clearwater. Travellers can learn basic stained-glass techniques while creating a unique handmade souvenir inspired by British Columbia’s natural scenery.

Kelowna & Okanagan Valley – Farm-to-Flask Tasting Experience
Discover the journey from locally sourced ingredients to finished spirits during this Okanagan experience. It’s an opportunity to learn about local production while sampling products connected to the region.

Kelowna & Okanagan Valley – Farm-to-Flask Tasting Experience
Discover the journey from locally sourced ingredients to finished spirits during this Okanagan experience. It’s an opportunity to learn about local production while sampling products connected to the region.

Vancouver – Traditional Turkish Mosaic Lamp Workshop in New Westminster
Learn the traditional techniques used to create Turkish mosaic lamps during this creative workshop in New Westminster. Participants can select colours and patterns while creating a distinctive decorative lamp to take home.

Vancouver – Vancouver Chinatown Tour and Dumpling-Making Cooking Class
Explore Vancouver’s historic Chinatown before taking part in a hands-on dumpling-making class. The experience combines local history and culture with the opportunity to learn how to prepare dumplings.

Vancouver – Stanley Park Bike Tour
Explore Vancouver’s famous Stanley Park by bicycle while discovering its scenic paths, landmarks and waterfront views. This guided experience offers an active way to see one of the city’s most popular attractions.

Vancouver – Fun Sushi Making Cooking Class With a Local Chef in Vancouver
Learn the fundamentals of sushi preparation during this interactive Vancouver cooking class. A local chef provides instruction as participants prepare their own sushi in a relaxed and social environment.

Vancouver – Handmade Linguine Pasta Making Class in Vancouver
Discover how to make fresh linguine from scratch during this hands-on pasta-making class. Travellers can learn practical techniques for preparing homemade pasta and enjoy the results of their work.

Vancouver – Pasta Making Class With a Local Chef in Vancouver
Learn how to make fresh pasta alongside a local chef in Vancouver. This hands-on culinary experience gives travellers the opportunity to prepare pasta while learning useful cooking techniques.

Vancouver – Electric Unicycle Riding Course – Become a Rider in 2 Hours!
Learn the basics of riding an electric unicycle during this practical Vancouver course. Instruction helps beginners develop balance, control and confidence on the vehicle.

Vancouver – Beachfront Vinyasa Yoga Flow Every Sunday
Enjoy a Vinyasa yoga session in a beachfront setting in Vancouver. The class provides an opportunity to combine exercise and relaxation with views of the surrounding coastline.

Vancouver – Pasta Making Class With a Local Chef in Vancouver
Learn how to make fresh pasta alongside a local chef in Vancouver. This hands-on culinary experience gives travellers the opportunity to prepare pasta while learning useful cooking techniques.

Vancouver – Electric Unicycle Riding Course – Become a Rider in 2 Hours!
Learn the basics of riding an electric unicycle during this practical Vancouver course. Instruction helps beginners develop balance, control and confidence on the vehicle.

Vancouver – Beachfront Vinyasa Yoga Flow Every Sunday
Enjoy a Vinyasa yoga session in a beachfront setting in Vancouver. The class provides an opportunity to combine exercise and relaxation with views of the surrounding coastline.

Victoria – Traditional Turkish Mosaic Lamp Workshop in Victoria BC
Create a traditional-style Turkish mosaic lamp during this hands-on workshop in Victoria. Travellers can explore a distinctive craft and create a personalized souvenir to take home.

New Brunswick, Canada

Saint John – Create Your Own Stained Glass Masterpiece
Enjoy a hands-on creative experience in Saint John where you can learn the basics of stained-glass making. Participants get to design and create their own unique piece to take home as a memorable souvenir.

Nova Scotia, Canada

Mahone Bay – Hands-On Workshop with Amos Pewter | Mahone Bay
This hands-on workshop at Amos Pewter in Mahone Bay introduces travellers to the traditional craft of pewter making. It provides an opportunity to learn about the process and create a personalized keepsake.

Ontario, Canada

Caledon Village – Privately Curated Introduction to Wellness and Biohacking
Explore concepts related to wellness and biohacking during a privately curated introductory experience. It offers travellers an opportunity to learn about different approaches to personal performance and wellbeing.

Niagara – 2 Hour Blacksmithing Experience in Niagara (Craft Class/Activity)
Learn traditional blacksmithing techniques during this hands-on experience in the Niagara area. Participants can work with metal under guidance and experience the basics of an age-old craft.

Ottawa – Gatineau- Introduction to Helicopter Piloting in Gatineau-Ottawa
Get an introduction to helicopter piloting in the Gatineau-Ottawa area. This aviation experience gives participants the chance to learn about helicopter operation in an instructor-guided setting.

Ottawa – Gatineau Introduction to Airplane Piloting in Gatineau-Ottawa
Experience an introduction to airplane piloting in the Gatineau-Ottawa area. Participants can learn about the fundamentals of flying and experience aviation from a pilot’s perspective.

Ottawa – Gatineau Introduction to Airplane and Helicopter Piloting – Gatineau-Ottawa
Combine introductions to both airplane and helicopter piloting in this unique Gatineau-Ottawa aviation experience. It’s an interesting option for travellers who want to explore two different forms of flight.

Roslin 6 Hour Motor Sports Class in Roslin
Spend six hours developing motorsports skills at an all-electric motocross facility in Roslin. This active experience provides instruction and practical time on the course.

Toronto Premier Sushi-Making Class in Toronto (Includes 5-Course Meal)
Learn the techniques behind preparing sushi during this interactive cooking class in Toronto. The experience combines hands-on instruction with a five-course meal, making it an enjoyable choice for food-loving travellers.

Toronto Pasta Making Class With Local Chef in Toronto
Learn how to prepare fresh pasta with guidance from a local chef in Toronto. This hands-on class gives travellers an opportunity to develop new cooking skills while enjoying a relaxed culinary experience.

Toronto Fun Sushi Making Cooking Class at a Trendy Venue in Toronto
This interactive Toronto sushi-making class teaches participants how to prepare popular sushi dishes in a fun setting. It is a great way to combine learning, food and a social experience while visiting the city.

Toronto Beginner Tufting Experience
Try your hand at textile art during this beginner-friendly tufting workshop in Toronto. Participants learn the basics of tufting while creating their own colourful handmade piece.

Toronto Paint Night at Paint Cabin, Toronto’s Original Paint Bar
Enjoy a relaxed and creative evening at Paint Cabin, where participants can create their own artwork in a social setting. It is a fun option for travellers looking to combine creativity with an entertaining night out.

Toronto Fun Pasta Making Class With a Local Chef in Toronto
Learn how to prepare fresh pasta with guidance from a local chef in Toronto. This hands-on experience allows travellers to develop new cooking skills while enjoying a fun culinary activity.

Toronto Toronto Glow-in-the-Dark Neon Splatter Painting Experience
Get creative with a colourful glow-in-the-dark splatter-painting experience in Toronto. Participants can experiment with neon paint and create an expressive piece of artwork in an energetic environment.

Toronto Interactive Mystical Tarot Card Experience
Explore the symbolism and traditions of tarot during this interactive experience in Ontario. It offers travellers an entertaining and unusual way to discover an alternative form of storytelling and interpretation.

Toronto Authentic Pasta Making Experience in Niagara
Discover the art of Italian pasta making during this culinary experience in the Niagara area. Travellers can learn traditional techniques and enjoy a meal featuring the pasta they help prepare.

Toronto Pasta Night: Handmade Ravioli in Toronto
Spend an evening learning how to make handmade ravioli in Toronto. The class provides a fun introduction to fresh pasta preparation and gives participants the chance to enjoy their creations.

Toronto Dubai Chocolate Making Class With Local Chef in Toronto
Learn how to create Dubai-style chocolate during this hands-on culinary class in Toronto. A local chef guides participants through the process while introducing techniques for preparing and decorating chocolate.

Toronto Fun Dumpling Making Class With Local Chef in Toronto
Learn how to prepare delicious dumplings with guidance from a local chef in Toronto. This hands-on cooking class offers a fun introduction to dumpling preparation and culinary traditions.

Toronto SUP Yoga in Toronto Islands, Canada
Combine stand-up paddleboarding with yoga during this unique Toronto Islands experience. The class provides a fun way to exercise and enjoy the natural surroundings from the water.

Toronto Adventures in Abstract Paint Pouring
Experiment with colour, movement and creative techniques during this abstract paint-pouring experience. It’s a relaxed artistic activity suitable for travellers looking to create something unique.

Prince Edward Island, Canada

Charlottetown Hands-On Workshop with Amos Pewter in Charlottetown PE
Discover the traditional craft of pewter making during this hands-on workshop in Charlottetown. Travellers can learn about the craft and create a special handmade item to remember their visit to Prince Edward Island.

Quebec, Canada

Gaspésie / Carleton-sur-Mer Artistic Experience in Gaspésie Art Gallery – Carleton-sur-Mer
Visit an art studio and gallery in Carleton-sur-Mer while experiencing the creative process alongside an artist. It’s an opportunity to discover local art and gain insight into the region’s artistic culture.

Gatineau–Ottawa Introduction to Helicopter Piloting in Gatineau-Ottawa
Get an introduction to helicopter piloting in the Gatineau-Ottawa area. This aviation experience gives participants the chance to learn about helicopter operation in an instructor-guided setting.

Gatineau–Ottawa Introduction to Airplane Piloting in Gatineau-Ottawa
Experience an introduction to airplane piloting in the Gatineau-Ottawa area. Participants can learn about the fundamentals of flying and experience aviation from a pilot’s perspective.

Gatineau–Ottawa Introduction to Airplane and Helicopter Piloting – Gatineau-Ottawa
Combine introductions to both airplane and helicopter piloting in this unique Gatineau-Ottawa aviation experience. It’s an interesting option for travellers who want to explore two different forms of flight.

Montreal Montreal Home Dining & Dim Sum Cooking Class
Experience dim sum in a local home setting while learning about the dishes and preparation techniques. This culinary experience provides an intimate way to discover Montreal’s multicultural food scene.

Montreal Outdoor Fitness Class
Take part in an outdoor fitness class while exploring Montreal in an active way. It’s a great option for travellers who want to stay active while experiencing the city.

Montreal Private Flying Trapeze Class at Académie De Cirque
Try the flying trapeze in a private circus-training environment in Montreal. With instruction and hands-on practice, participants can experience an unusual and exciting new skill.

Montreal Pen Making With The Woodworker Himself
Learn the craft of pen making alongside an experienced woodworker in Montreal. This hands-on workshop lets participants work with wood and create a personalized functional keepsake.

Quebec City Quebec City Photo Tour
Discover the historic streets and architecture of Quebec City while developing your photography skills. The experience provides opportunities to capture memorable images of Old Quebec.

Quebec City Cross Country Ski Introduction at Camp Mercier
Learn the fundamentals of cross-country skiing in the scenic surroundings of Camp Mercier. This introduction is a great way for beginners to experience one of Quebec’s popular winter activities.


Discover Africa through hands-on classes and workshops that introduce travellers to local traditions, cuisine, crafts, and creative skills. These experiences provide an opportunity to learn directly from local instructors while gaining a deeper appreciation for the region’s diverse cultures.

Explore Asia through engaging classes and workshops that offer practical experiences in cooking, arts, crafts, traditions, and other local skills. Learning alongside knowledgeable instructors provides a memorable way to experience the culture beyond traditional sightseeing.

Experience the Caribbean through hands-on classes and workshops focused on local cuisine, crafts, music, culture, and traditional skills. These activities allow travellers to connect with local communities while learning something they can take home as a lasting memory.

Discover the culture and traditions of Central America through interactive classes and workshops featuring cooking, crafts, art, and other local experiences. These hands-on activities give travellers the chance to learn from local experts while experiencing the character of each destination.

Experience Europe’s diverse cultures through classes and workshops ranging from cooking and wine-making to art, crafts, and traditional skills. These interactive experiences allow travellers to learn from local experts while discovering the history and traditions behind each destination.

Discover the rich cultural heritage of the Middle East through classes and workshops featuring traditional cuisine, crafts, art, and local customs. Hands-on learning offers travellers a more personal way to experience the region and connect with its traditions.

Explore the unique cultures and traditions of Oceania through hands-on classes and workshops that showcase local food, arts, crafts, and creative skills. These experiences offer travellers a chance to learn directly from local instructors while gaining a deeper understanding of the destination.

Experience the creativity and traditions of South America through classes and workshops covering everything from cooking and dance to arts, crafts, and local culture. These immersive activities provide a fun way to develop new skills while connecting with the people and traditions of the region.

Discover the USA through hands-on classes and workshops covering everything from cooking and crafts to art, music, and other local skills. These interactive experiences give travellers the opportunity to learn from local experts while gaining a deeper appreciation for the culture and traditions of their destination.


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Common Questions and FAQs

Taking a class or workshop allows you to experience a destination in a more hands-on way. Instead of simply sightseeing, you can learn a new skill, meet local people, and gain a deeper understanding of the area’s culture and traditions.

There are many options available, depending on the destination. Popular choices include cooking classes, painting and art workshops, pottery, photography, dance, jewelry making, crafts, wine and food experiences, and traditional cultural workshops.

Yes. Many travel experiences are designed for people with little or no previous experience. Instructors generally provide guidance and demonstrations, making these activities a fun way to learn something new.

Yes. Many classes and workshops are suitable for families and can provide a fun way for parents and children to learn and create something together. They can also be a welcome change from traditional sightseeing.

Definitely. Classes and workshops often provide opportunities to interact directly with local instructors, artisans, chefs, and other participants. These personal connections can give you insights into the destination that you might not discover through ordinary sightseeing.

In many cases, yes. Depending on the activity, you may be able to take home something you created, such as artwork, pottery, jewelry, crafts, or food. This can make a workshop especially memorable because you have a unique souvenir connected to your travel experience.

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