Florence: Pizza and Gelato Experience with Unlimited Wine

A Practical Look at the Florence Pizza and Gelato Experience

If you’re dreaming of tasting Italy’s most iconic delights with your own hands in Florence, this pizza and gelato experience might just be the thing to add to your trip. Designed as a three-hour, hands-on workshop, it offers an authentic opportunity to learn some of Italy’s culinary secrets while enjoying the lively atmosphere of a local pizzeria. It’s a playful, flavorful way to spend an afternoon, especially if you’re into food, wine, and a bit of interactive fun.

What really draws us to this experience are the chance to make your own pizza from scratch—including the dough, which is often the most overlooked part—and creating genuine Italian gelato using fresh ingredients. Plus, the unlimited wine makes the whole thing feel like a laid-back, convivial celebration. On the flip side, keep in mind that this isn’t a large-scale cooking school, so if you’re after a very structured course or a more extensive culinary adventure, this might feel a bit light.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, engaging way to get a taste of Florence’s food scene without it feeling like a formal class. It’s especially suited to those who enjoy interactive experiences, casual dining, and socializing over good wine and delicious food. Families with older children and anyone interested in a fun, authentic culinary experience will find it a great fit, as long as you’re not expecting a professional chef certification.

Key Points

• Hands-on Learning: You’ll get to knead, top, and cook your own pizza, gaining practical skills you can try at home.
• Authentic Flavors: The ingredients are seasonal and fresh, ensuring a true taste of Italy.
• Culinary Tradition: Making gelato with traditional recipes gives insight into Italy’s beloved dessert.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: The experience is friendly and informal, perfect for those looking to simply enjoy good food and wine.
• Unlimited Wine: Sip as much as you like during the workshop, ideal for wine lovers.
• Convenient Location: Starting and ending at a central Florence spot, easy to fit into your city exploration.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Florence Pizza and Gelato Experience

The Location and Meeting Point

The tour begins at the Ciaofoodies Hub at La Cucineria, in the heart of Florence. It’s a convenient spot for most travelers staying in or near the city center, which means you can easily walk or take a short ride. The meeting point itself is friendly and welcoming, setting the tone for a relaxed, enjoyable experience.

What the Experience Involves

This isn’t just a demonstration; it’s a fully hands-on workshop. You’ll start by learning to mix the perfect pizza dough from scratch using simple ingredients like flour, water, and yeast. The real fun begins as you knead and shape the dough, getting a real feel for the process. The chefs are knowledgeable and friendly, sharing tips that make it easy for even novice cooks to shine.

While the dough rests, you’ll switch gears and don a white apron to craft authentic Italian gelato. Using fresh, seasonal ingredients, you’ll learn how to turn basic components into a creamy, flavorful dessert—an experience that shows the artistry behind one of Italy’s most loved treats.

Following these preparations, it’s time for the best part: baking and tasting your pizza. You’ll select your favorite toppings from a range of high-quality ingredients, then watch as your creation cooks in a proper pizza oven. The smell alone is worth the price, and the chance to eat your own pizza hot from the oven makes it all worthwhile.

The Food and Drink

The pizza options are varied—Margherita, Marinara, Quattro Stagioni, and Diavola are some popular choices. The ingredients are seasonal, so expect fresh, flavorful toppings. Many reviews highlight how good the pizza turns out, with one guest noting they felt like a true “pizzaiolo” by the end.

The gelato is made with just fresh ingredients, which means it’s simple but full of genuine flavor. It’s a perfect way to cool down or finish the meal on a sweet note. The emphasis on quality ingredients results in a dessert that feels authentically Italian.

The unlimited wine means you can enjoy multiple glasses during the three-hour workshop, making it a laid-back, convivial experience. Soft drinks are provided for kids or those who prefer non-alcoholic options, allowing families or groups with varying preferences to relax together.

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What the Reviews Say

Participants consistently praise the knowledge and friendliness of the chef, with one mentioning Stefano as a great, helpful guide. Several reviews describe the experience as “amazing,” citing the “great time,” and appreciating the chance to learn about pizza and gelato origins. One reviewer loved the social aspect, noting that “meeting other people” made it even more enjoyable.

Some suggestions for improvement include providing recipes for future reference, as one guest mentioned. This small addition could make it easier to replicate the experience at home.

The Price and Overall Value

At around $44.75 per person, the cost covers all ingredients, equipment, and the food you prepare—plus unlimited wine. Considering you get to make and eat your own pizza and gelato, plus enjoy a casual wine experience in Florence, this feels like good value. It’s a fun, social activity that combines learning with leisure, making it a worthwhile addition to your Florence itinerary.

Practical Considerations

The activity is about three hours long, and you should check available times beforehand. It’s suitable for most travelers, but not wheelchair accessible. Comfortable shoes are recommended, since you’ll be on your feet kneading and preparing food. If you have food intolerances or allergies, it’s best to inform the organizers in advance.

Who Will Love This Experience?

If you’re looking for a relaxed, interactive way to experience Florence’s culinary culture, this workshop hits the mark. It’s perfect for food lovers, wine enthusiasts, or anyone who enjoys a social, hands-on activity. The friendly atmosphere and focus on authentic techniques make it suitable for a wide range of travelers—just be aware that it’s not a formal cooking class but more of a fun, culinary souvenir.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, as long as they are comfortable participating in the activities and are old enough to handle kneading dough and making gelato. It’s a casual, family-friendly environment, but younger children should be supervised.

Do I need to know how to cook?
Not at all. The workshop is designed for all skill levels. The chefs guide you through every step, making it accessible for beginners.

Can I book this experience if I’m traveling solo?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention meeting new people and enjoying the social aspect of the activity, making it a friendly environment for solo travelers.

What’s included in the price?
All ingredients, use of apron and utensils, a professional chef guide, the food you prepare (pizza and gelato), unlimited wine (or soft drinks), and a certificate of participation.

How long does the workshop last?
Approximately three hours. Check availability for specific start times.

Is there a dress code?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as you’ll be standing and working with ingredients. Aprons are provided.

Are there any cancellation policies?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

Will I get a copy of the recipes?
While not currently provided, guests have suggested this as an improvement. For now, you’ll be learning on the spot.

Is transportation included?
No, the meeting point is in central Florence, so you’ll need to make your own way there.

Final Thoughts

This Florence pizza and gelato workshop offers a fantastic way to get a taste of Italy’s culinary treasures in a relaxed, friendly setting. The mix of hands-on activity, delicious food, and unlimited wine makes it an experience that’s both fun and filling. It’s particularly suited for travelers who enjoy interactive experiences and want a memorable, local flavor to their visit.

While it’s not a comprehensive cooking course or a formal culinary class, it’s a charming way to connect with Florence’s food culture without the fuss. If you’re after a lively, authentic, and tasty way to spend an afternoon, this experience might just be your next favorite part of the trip.

Let me know if you’re thinking about booking—happy to help with tips or alternatives!

You can check availability for your dates here: