Pizza & Gelato: Cooking Class in central Florence

If you’re looking for a fun, tasty way to connect with Italy’s culinary traditions during your Florence trip, this Pizza & Gelato cooking class might just be what you need. Taught by a professional chef in the lively heart of Florence, it offers a chance to roll up your sleeves and make some of Italy’s most beloved dishes. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or even with family, this experience promises both learning and plenty of delicious bites.

What really caught our eye is how accessible and engaging this class is — they focus on authentic techniques while keeping it relaxed. Plus, the fact that you get to enjoy your own creations with a glass of Italian wine makes the whole thing feel like a mini celebration. However, if you’re not a fan of hands-on activities or have specific dietary restrictions, it’s worth considering. This experience tends to suit curious travelers who enjoy learning new skills and tasting good food in a convivial setting.

If you’re after a well-rounded, practical culinary experience with a nice balance of instruction and tasting, this class offers a lot for a reasonable price. It’s especially suited to those who want a genuine taste of Italy beyond just sightseeing — a chance to take home new skills, recipes, and stories to share.

Key Points

• Hands-on experience: You’ll actively make your own pizza dough, sauce, and gelato flavors, not just watch.
• Authentic techniques: Learn from a professional chef using traditional recipes and high-quality ingredients.
• Enjoy your creations: Sitting down to savor your own pizza and gelato, paired with a glass of Italian wine, makes the experience memorable.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for travelers of all ages, with a warm, patient approach.
• Central location: Conveniently located in Florence’s bustling city center, close to many sights.
• Flexible booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and pay later options make planning easier.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Florence Pizza & Gelato Class

When you sign up for this three-hour session, you’re signing up for more than just a cooking lesson — it’s a taste of Italy’s culinary soul. The class takes place in the heart of Florence, with the meeting point clearly marked in front of Via Scialoja 13 (look for the TASTE OF ITALY logo). From there, your culinary adventure begins with a warm welcome from your instructor, who speaks English, making the process smooth and accessible.

The Cooking Part: Pizza from Scratch

The class starts with a straightforward yet authentic approach to pizza-making. You’ll learn how to prepare the dough from scratch — no pre-made bases here. The chef will guide you through kneading and shaping the dough, explaining why certain techniques matter. You’ll also make a simple, high-quality sauce from fresh ingredients, which is a key step in achieving that perfect flavor balance.

Many reviews highlight how approachable and patient the instructor is, making it a suitable experience even for complete beginners. It’s about learning the basics but also feeling confident enough to recreate the dishes at home later. You may find that the dough preparation is particularly satisfying; there’s something rewarding about shaping your own pizza and knowing you made it from scratch.

The Gelato Creation

Once your pizzas are set, the focus shifts to gelato — Italy’s iconic frozen treat. Here, you’ll create two flavors using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The instructor shares tips on how to balance flavors and achieve that creamy, smooth texture that distinguishes good gelato from ordinary ice cream.

The process is hands-on, and you might find the experience more about the fun of mixing ingredients and experimenting with flavors. Several reviewers rave about the gelato’s quality, describing it as “delicious” and “fresh.” It’s a highlight for many, especially if you’re a dessert lover.

The Final Feast and Drinks

After all the effort, it’s time to sit down and enjoy your culinary creations. The class concludes with a relaxed meal, where you can savor your homemade pizza and gelato, complemented by a glass of fine Italian wine. This social element — sharing food and stories — is often praised as one of the best parts of the experience. It’s a genuine chance to mingle with fellow foodies, swap tips, and soak up the lively Italian atmosphere.

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Family and Group Considerations

This experience is quite family-friendly, with reviews mentioning how patient the chef was with young children. If you’re traveling with kids, they’ll probably enjoy the interactive element, and parents will appreciate learning some authentic cooking skills to try back home. The group size tends to be manageable, making it a cozy, engaging class.

The Value of This Experience

While this class is priced reasonably, what makes it stand out is the combination of learning, tasting, and socializing. You don’t just watch a demonstration — you get your hands dirty, which enhances retention and makes for a more memorable experience. Many reviews express satisfaction with the quality of the teaching and the food, calling the pizza and gelato “delicious.”

The inclusion of a glass of wine is a nice touch, allowing adults to unwind and enjoy the convivial atmosphere. The overall duration (about 3 hours) hits a sweet spot — long enough to learn and enjoy but not so lengthy that it feels draining or intrusive to your travel day.

Practicalities

The meeting point is easy to find via Google Maps, and the location in central Florence makes it convenient to combine with sightseeing before or after. The class is wheelchair accessible, and the instructor speaks English, ensuring clear communication.

Cancellation policies are flexible: you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds peace of mind when booking plans in uncertain times.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This class is especially suited for curious travelers who appreciate authentic food and hands-on learning. It’s perfect if you’re traveling with family or friends, as it offers a friendly, inclusive atmosphere. Food lovers and those keen to bring some culinary skills home will find it worthwhile. If you’re after a quick, superficial overview of Italian cuisine, this might be a bit too involved, but for anyone wanting to learn real techniques and enjoy delicious results, it’s a strong choice.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, this Pizza & Gelato Cooking Class in Florence offers a genuine taste of Italy’s culinary craft, blended with a welcoming environment and a good dose of fun. The chance to make your own pizza dough and gelato from scratch, then enjoy a meal with wine in the heart of Florence, hits all the right notes for an enriching, enjoyable experience.

It’s a wonderful way to not only learn about Italian food but to also create memories, tasting your own creations and sharing laughs with fellow travelers. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just curious, you’ll leave with new skills, recipes, and a fuller belly.

If you’re looking for an experience that combines culture, cuisine, and camaraderie, this class checks all those boxes without putting you under pressure. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, come ready to get a bit messy, and prepare to enjoy every bite.

FAQ

Is the class suitable for beginners?
Yes, the class is designed to be approachable for all skill levels. The instructor is patient, and you’ll be guided through each step, making it perfect for those new to cooking.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours beforehand for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans shift.

Is the experience family-friendly?
Yes, many reviews mention that children enjoy the hands-on nature and the chef’s patience. It’s a relaxed environment suitable for families.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since you’ll be on your feet while preparing the dishes. No special clothing needed, but be prepared for some flour and ingredients.

Does the class include drinks?
Yes, a glass of Italian wine is included with your meal. It’s a nice touch that makes the experience more enjoyable.

Where exactly is the meeting point?
You’ll meet in front of Via Scialoja 13 (not the blue number). It’s easy to find on Google Maps using the provided coordinates.

How long is the class?
The experience lasts about 3 hours, which includes preparation, tasting, and socializing.

Is it wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the class is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for all guests.

Do I need to prepare anything beforehand?
Just wear comfortable shoes and be ready to get hands-on. No prior preparation is necessary.

If you’re in Florence and want an authentic, fun, and delicious experience, this pizza and gelato class could be just the ticket. It offers a lovely balance of learning and tasting, set in the lively heart of Italy’s Renaissance city.

You can check availability for your dates here: