Extra Virgin Cooking Classes / Countryside Mill location

If you’re visiting Tuscany and want a taste of authentic Italian life, a cooking class in Lucca like this one might just be the highlight of your trip. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, based on the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions, it’s clear this experience offers more than just cooking — it’s a chance to connect with local culture, enjoy regional wines, and learn recipes you can recreate at home.

What we love about this experience is the personalized approach — from shopping at the local markets with a passionate chef to cooking in a charming countryside setting. And the fact that it’s suitable for all skill levels means it’s accessible whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned home cook.

One possible consideration is that some parts of the class are not entirely hands-on, with reviews mentioning that certain tasks are pre-prepared or done by the chef. If you’re craving a fully participatory experience, it’s worth noting.

This tour is perfect for food lovers, those interested in regional Italian cuisines, and anyone wanting a memorable, intimate experience with excellent food and wine in a beautiful setting.

Key Points

• Authentic Tuscan Experience: Shop at local markets and cook in a historic countryside mill.
• Hands-On Cooking: Prepare a four-course meal with guidance from a charismatic chef.
• Regional Flavors: Tasting of honey, cheeses, olive oil, and regional wines enhances the experience.
• Intimate Setting: Small groups ensure personalized attention and a cozy atmosphere.
• Educational Value: Leave with recipes, tips, and techniques for recreating dishes at home.
• Ideal for All Levels: Suitable for beginners as well as seasoned cooks.

What Makes This Cooking Class Special?

This experience is rooted in tradition, hosted in the ancestral family home of Chef Giuseppe, an aspect that really charms both novices and more seasoned travelers. The setting is a beautiful 18th-century palace and olive mill, right beside a peaceful stream and a 12th-century stone bridge — perfect for those who appreciate scenic, historic surroundings.

The tour begins in Lucca’s vibrant weekly market, where you’ll get the chance to pick out fresh, local ingredients. This part of the experience is highly praised, with reviews mentioning the guide’s deep knowledge and engaging stories. As one reviewer shared, “Giuseppe is such a charismatic and professional chef, with wonderful stories and good instruction on cooking.” It’s clear that the guide’s personality and expertise make the experience more memorable.

After shopping, you’ll head to the countryside olive oil mill, where hearthside cooking and a rustic pizza oven set the scene for your culinary efforts. The environment is described as charming and rustic, with plenty of wildlife around and a peaceful vibe that encourages relaxation and focus.

The Itinerary: What to Expect on the Day

Market Tour & Tasting

The adventure kicks off in Lucca’s market, a lively hub filled with local produce, fresh vegetables, and artisanal food shops. This part of the tour is more than just shopping; it’s an immersion into the region’s culinary heart. Expect to taste regional delicacies, including honey, cheeses, and olive oil, paired with Prosecco, which many reviews highlight as a lovely start.

Heading to the Countryside Olive Press

After the market, you’ll take a quick 10-minute drive to the olive oil mill — a historic site that doubles as a kitchen — where the culinary magic really begins. The setting is inviting: hearths, a pizza oven, and the sounds of nature all around.

Cooking in the Olive Mill

Here, you’ll help prepare a 4-course Tuscan meal with the guidance of Chef Giuseppe. This includes an appetizer, two main courses, and a dessert. While some reviews mention that much of the prep work is already done ahead of time, you’ll still participate in various tasks, tasting ingredients, and learning techniques. Giuseppe’s approach seems to be about sharing his passion and knowledge rather than just demonstration.

The Meal & Wine Pairing

Once the dishes are ready, you’ll sit down to enjoy your creations — paired with regional wines and bottled water. The reviews repeatedly mention the deliciousness of the food and the quality of the wines, which elevates the experience from a simple cooking class to a full sensory feast.

Ending the Day

At the conclusion, you’ll receive a recipe booklet authored by Giuseppe, a certificate of achievement, and an EVCC apron. The small-group setting ensures everyone feels involved and appreciated.

The Value for Money

The tour costs around $192 per person, which includes market tastings, the cooking class, ingredients, four courses, wines, and a recipe booklet. Many reviewers feel this is quite a good value, especially considering the personalized attention, scenic location, and the quality of the food and wine. As one reviewer put it, “We cooked a meal that was some of the best food I’ve eaten in a long time.”

It’s also worth noting that the tour is booked roughly 83 days in advance on average, reflecting its popularity. The 5-hour duration strikes a balance — enough time to truly enjoy the experience without it feeling overly long or rushed.

The Experience’s Atmosphere and Logistics

The experience begins at Piazza Antonio Gramsci in Montecatini Terme at 9:00 am, making it a convenient morning activity. The small group size (max 12-14 people) helps create an intimate, friendly atmosphere, where everyone can participate and ask questions. The transportation from town to the countryside is included, and the setting is accessible, being near public transportation.

The tour is suitable for people 16 and older, and the overall tone is relaxed and warm. Reviewers consistently mention how welcoming and personable Chef Giuseppe is, making both beginners and seasoned cooks feel comfortable. Many reviews describe the class as romantic and charming, especially in the evening, but it’s equally enjoyable as a social or solo activity.

What Could Be Improved?

While most reviews highlight the warm hospitality and authenticity, some mention that parts of the class are more demonstration than full participation. If you’re craving a truly hands-on cooking experience where you do almost everything yourself, this might feel a little less intense. Plus, for those who prefer a very structured, precise cooking class, the flexible, relaxed nature might seem too casual.

The price point is reasonable given the inclusions, but travelers should be aware that this isn’t a cheap activity — it’s a memorable, quality experience that emphasizes culture and culinary education.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This cooking class is ideal for food lovers and curious travelers who want to experience authentic Tuscan cuisine in a scenic, historic setting. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy a relaxed, intimate atmosphere and appreciate regional wines and local ingredients. Families with teenagers over 16 might also enjoy it, but it’s not specifically geared toward children.

If you’re looking for a full, immersive, hands-on culinary workshop, you’ll find that this experience offers a good balance of participation and demonstration. It’s perfect for travelers who value storytelling, regional flavors, and a genuine connection to Italian culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Yes. The class is designed to accommodate all skill levels, including beginners. Giuseppe is friendly and explains techniques clearly, making it accessible for those new to cooking.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 5 hours, starting at 9:00 am and concluding back at the meeting point.

What is included in the tour price?
You get market shopping, a tasting of regional products, a hands-on cooking class, a four-course meal with regional wines, bottled water, a recipe booklet, a certificate, and an apron.

How many people are in the group?
The maximum group size is 12, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, transportation from Montecatini Terme to the countryside olive mill is included. The meeting point is in town.

What is the minimum age for participation?
Participants need to be at least 16 years old.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour starts. Cancellations less than 24 hours in advance are non-refundable.

Where does the tour take place?
In Lucca, with the main activity happening at Chef Giuseppe’s ancestral home and olive oil mill, just a short drive from Montecatini Terme.

This Extra Virgin Cooking Class in Lucca offers a wonderful blend of culinary education, culture, and scenic beauty. It’s especially well-suited for those who want a relaxed, authentic taste of Tuscany, guided by a passionate, engaging host. The setting, food, and wine make it a memorable experience that you’ll likely remember long after your trip ends.

While not a full-on cooking bootcamp, it strikes a nice balance, making it accessible without sacrificing quality or authenticity. If you’re after a meaningful, delicious, and beautifully hosted activity in Tuscany, this class is definitely worth considering.

In summary, this tour is perfect for travelers who want to connect with Italian culture through its food, enjoy a scenic and historic environment, and learn some practical cooking tips to bring home. It’s a delightful way to spend a day, especially if you’re a fan of regional flavors, good wine, and lifelong memories.