Florence’s cooking classes offer an authentic dive into Tuscan cuisine, with most schools nestled in the walkable historic center.
Family-run cooking schools and professional chefs provide hands-on instruction in traditional dishes, from pasta-making to Tuscan meat preparations.
I especially love the farmhouse experiences just outside the city, where you’ll harvest ingredients from gardens before cooking.
The pizza and gelato workshops are perfect for families, while market-to-table classes give you practical shopping tips at local markets.
The best classes combine cooking instruction with cultural context – you’ll learn why Florentines prepare dishes certain ways and how recipes evolved through history.
Let’s look at our favorite cooking schools in Florence.
Key Points
- Hands-on cooking classes in central Florence, featuring both traditional Tuscan and contemporary techniques to cater to various skill levels.
- Positive reviews highlighting welcoming atmosphere, cultural insights, and quality instruction from expert chefs.
- Diverse class options, including pasta-making, gelato and pizza, and private dining experiences in Tuscan villas.
- Accommodations for dietary restrictions, with vegetarian and vegan options available.
- Convenient locations near major attractions, providing an immersive culinary experience in the heart of Florence.
Cooking Class and Lunch at a Tuscan Farmhouse With Local Market Tour From Florence
For those seeking an immersive culinary experience in the heart of Tuscany, the Cooking Class and Lunch at a Tuscan Farmhouse with Local Market Tour from Florence is an exceptional opportunity.
With over 4,300 glowing reviews and a prestigious Badge of Excellence, this full-day tour takes you on a delightful journey through Florence’s vibrant food markets and a charming Tuscan farmhouse.
You’ll shop for the freshest ingredients, learn Tuscan culinary secrets from an expert chef, and savor a delectable 4-course lunch featuring dishes like handmade pasta and Tuscan roast pork, all paired with Tuscan wine.
This comprehensive experience includes hotel pickup, a cooking diploma, and recipes emailed after the tour.
Read our full review: Cooking Class and Lunch at a Tuscan Farmhouse With Local Market Tour From Florence Review
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Florence Cooking Class: Learn How to Make Gelato and Pizza
Immersing yourself in the art of making Italian delicacies, the Florence Cooking Class: The Art of Making Gelato & Authentic Pizza offers a hands-on culinary experience in the heart of the historic city.
Held at the renowned Towns of Italy Cooking School, this highly-rated class accommodates up to 20 participants, ensuring personalized attention from the professional chef.
You’ll learn to craft authentic pizzas and decadent gelato, sampling various flavors before creating your own.
With insights into traditional methods and techniques, you’ll take home a digital recipe booklet and a graduation certificate, ready to recreate these timeless Italian favorites.
Read our full review: Florence Cooking Class: Learn How to Make Gelato and Pizza Review
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Wanna Be Italiano – the Original Cooking Class & Market Tour in Florence
Wanna Be Italiano is the original cooking class and market tour in Florence, offering an immersive culinary experience that has captivated over 1,274 travelers.
With a 96% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this class is conveniently located near the Central Market.
Accommodating up to 20 students, the program includes a guided visit to the market, food tastings, and the preparation of classic Italian dishes like bruschetta, homemade pasta, and tiramisu.
Participants enjoy unlimited Chianti wine during the meal and receive a digital recipe booklet and graduation diploma.
While not suitable for Celiacs, the class can accommodate vegetarians with advance notice.
Read our full review: Wanna Be Italiano – the Original Cooking Class & Market Tour in Florence Review
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Tuscan Cooking Class and Dinner in Florence
Tuscany’s culinary heritage takes center stage in the Tuscan Cooking Class and Dinner in Florence, a renowned experience that has captivated over 730 travelers.
Hosted by a professional chef, the class immerses participants in the art of authentic Tuscan cuisine, from zucchini millefoglie to truffle risotto and meatloaf in crust.
With a maximum of 15 attendees, the intimate setting fosters camaraderie as you craft a delectable meal, complete with a recipe booklet to recreate the dishes at home.
While the class receives high praise for its instructive format and delicious outcome, some participants note the limited workspace and wine servings during dinner.
Nonetheless, this cooking adventure remains a well-regarded opportunity to savor the flavors of Tuscany.
Read our full review: Tuscan Cooking Class and Dinner in Florence Review
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Pasta Cooking Class: Mastering Nonnas Recipes
Dive into the heart of Italian culinary heritage with the Pasta Cooking Class: Mastering Nonnas Recipes in Florence.
Guided by engaging and knowledgeable chefs, you’ll learn hands-on techniques to recreate authentic dishes like tortelli filled with ricotta, brown butter, and herbs, or ravioli with Gorgonzola and porcini.
The class emphasizes Italian culinary traditions and offers practical cooking tips in an intimate setting.
With a maximum of 12 travelers, you’ll enjoy a fun and educational experience, as evidenced by the 439 reviews and 100% recommendation rate.
At just $124.44, this class is a must-do activity during your time in Florence.
Read our full review: Pasta Cooking Class: Mastering Nonnas Recipes Review
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Handmade Italian Pasta Cooking Course in Florence
Enjoy the art of authentic Italian pasta-making during the Handmade Italian Pasta Cooking Course in Florence.
This highly-rated, award-winning class offers hands-on instruction from professional chefs, allowing you to learn traditional and modern techniques. You’ll create a variety of pasta types, sauces, and even a Tuscan dessert, which you’ll enjoy with local red wine.
With a maximum of 15 participants, you’ll have ample opportunity for one-on-one guidance. The class accommodates vegetarians, and you’ll leave with Tuscan recipes to recreate the dishes at home.
Conveniently located in the heart of Florence, this immersive culinary experience is sure to delight pasta enthusiasts of all skill levels.
Read our full review: Handmade Italian Pasta Cooking Course in Florence Review
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Florence: Pasta Cooking Class With Unlimited Wine
You can learn the art of authentic Italian pasta-making during the Florence: Pasta Cooking Class With Unlimited Wine.
This highly-rated, 5-star experience allows you to create three types of fresh pasta – tortello all’arrabbiata, pappardelle with Tuscan ragù, and ravioli with butter and sage.
Led by professional chefs, the class includes all ingredients and equipment, as well as unlimited Tuscan wine and soft drinks.
With a maximum of 15 participants, you’ll enjoy an engaging and informative hands-on lesson in an intimate setting.
Conveniently located in central Florence, this cooking class is a must for any traveler seeking an authentic taste of Italian cuisine.
Read our full review: Florence: Pasta Cooking Class With Unlimited Wine Review
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Private Cooking Class in a Florentine Villa With Transfer
For a truly immersive Tuscan experience, consider the Private Cooking Class in a Florentine Villa With Transfer.
This 100% recommended class in Florence allows you to prepare four courses of classic Tuscan dishes, including a ricotta and zucchini flan, tagliatelle or gnocchi, pork tenderloin with plums, and tiramisu or cantuccini toscani.
Relax over a four-course lunch with wine on the villa’s terrace, while enjoying the breathtaking views of the Tuscan countryside.
The class includes round-trip private transfer from Florence and bottled water and beverages.
Vegetarian options are available upon request.
With a maximum of 6 travelers, this intimate cooking class offers a welcoming and immersive Tuscan culinary adventure.
Read our full review: Private Cooking Class in a Florentine Villa With Transfer Review
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The Cooking Lab – Authentic Food Experience
Although The Cooking Lab – Authentic Food Experience in Florence may not be as well-known as some other cooking classes, its exceptional reviews and intimate setting make it a top choice for an immersive Tuscan culinary adventure.
This private tour accommodates up to 4 people, providing personalized attention from the renowned host, Luca. Guests will enjoy a hands-on experience crafting classic Italian dishes, from fried pizza dough with prosciutto to homemade pasta with ragu.
The authentic experience is heightened by sharing meals with Luca’s family and sipping on local wines. With 98 glowing reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, The Cooking Lab delivers a delicious and educational taste of Florentine cuisine.
Read our full review: The Cooking Lab – Authentic Food Experience Review
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Traditional Italian Cooking Class in the Florence Countryside With Fabio
Travelers seeking an authentic Tuscan cooking experience will find it in Fabio’s Traditional Italian Cooking Class in the Florence Countryside.
This 5-star rated class offers a sample menu featuring fresh pasta, pork fillet, and panna cotta.
With 100% of travelers recommending the class, guests can expect a warm welcome, great conversation, and a chance to make new friends while learning traditional Italian cooking techniques.
The class includes private transportation to and from the location, approximately 10km from the city center.
Vegetarian options are available, and the experience can be booked with a “Reserve Now and Pay Later” option.
Read our full review: Traditional Italian Cooking Class in the Florence Countryside With Fabio Review
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Florence: Crazy for Pasta Cooking Class and Gelato Making
Expand on your culinary journey in Florence with the “Crazy for Pasta Cooking Class and Gelato Making” experience.
This half-day class teaches you to craft classic pasta dishes and gelato using seasonal ingredients. Led by a professional chef, the hands-on class accommodates up to 20 travelers of all skill levels.
With a 5.0 rating from 68 reviews and a Badge of Excellence, this highly recommended activity promises a memorable experience. Discover the secrets to perfectly executed pasta and gelato as you receive a graduation certificate and digital recipe booklet.
Enjoy unlimited wine and soft drinks throughout the class, which is accessible by public transportation but not wheelchair-friendly.
Read our full review: Florence: Crazy for Pasta Cooking Class and Gelato Making Review
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5 Hours Truffle Hunt Experience With Cooking Class
Nestled in the picturesque Mugello Valley of Tuscany, just a short drive from Florence, lies an immersive culinary adventure that promises to delight both seasoned foodies and novice enthusiasts.
The 5-hour Truffle Hunt Experience with Cooking Class offers a unique opportunity to uncover the secrets of Italy’s prized truffles. Led by an expert truffle hunter and his trained dog, you’ll embark on a foraging expedition, before returning to a local chef’s kitchen to craft a delectable three-course lunch showcasing the freshly foraged truffles.
The menu highlights include homemade pasta, vegetarian side dishes, and the classic Cantuccini dessert, all paired with bottled water, coffee, and tea.
With hassle-free transfers, this experience ensures a seamless and memorable day in the Tuscan countryside.
Read our full review: 5 Hours Truffle Hunt Experience With Cooking Class Review
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Semi-Private Gluten-Free Cooking Class in Florence
Enjoy the art of gluten-free Italian cuisine during this semi-private cooking class in the heart of Florence. Led by the knowledgeable Chef Vary, you’ll learn to craft classic dishes like fresh tagliatelle, ravioli, lasagna, and gnocchi using natural gluten-free flours.
With a maximum of 10 participants, you’ll enjoy personalized attention and hands-on cooking experience. Savor your homemade creations accompanied by wine and craft beer, and access an online cookbook to recreate the recipes at home.
While the class isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s conveniently located near public transportation. Suitable for those 16 and older, the class adheres to safety standards for celiac disease, making it a must for gluten-free foodies.
Read our full review: Semi-Private Gluten-Free Cooking Class in Florence Review
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Pasta Cooking Experience in Florence
Explore the art of traditional Italian pasta-making during this hands-on Pasta Cooking Experience in the heart of Florence.
Led by knowledgeable and patient instructors, you’ll learn to craft three types of pasta – tagliatelle with meat or vegetable ragù, and gnocchi – as well as a delectable dessert.
Afterward, enjoy a communal meal with wine and water, fostering camaraderie with your fellow participants.
With overwhelmingly positive reviews, this 5-star experience is a must for pasta enthusiasts.
Conveniently located and accessible by public transport, the class accommodates a maximum of 20 travelers.
Take home the recipes to recreate the dishes in your own kitchen and impress your friends and family.
Read our full review: Pasta Cooking Experience in Florence Review
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Learn How to Make Pizza and Gelato Cooking Class in Florence
For those seeking an immersive culinary experience in the heart of Florence, the Learn How to Make Pizza and Gelato Cooking Class offers a delectable opportunity to master the art of classic Italian cuisine.
With a maximum of 12 travelers, this small-group class promises an intimate and hands-on experience. Over the course of 3 hours, you’ll learn to prepare handmade pizza with your preferred toppings and savor homemade gelato.
Led by a local chef, the class includes a full dinner of pizza and gelato, complemented by wine or a soft drink.
While reviews highlight the authentic experience and chef expertise, some note organizational issues and limited participant involvement in certain aspects of the class.
Read our full review: Learn How to Make Pizza and Gelato Cooking Class in Florence Review
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Private and Authentic Cooking Class Experience With Family
If the small-group pizza and gelato class doesn’t quite fit your needs, perhaps the Private and Authentic Cooking Class Experience With Family is more your speed.
This highly-rated class in Florence offers a truly immersive culinary journey, with a 5.0 overall rating from 51 reviews. You’ll learn to make classic Italian dishes like tagliatelle, ravioli, and lasagna, while enjoying homemade bruschetta, seasonal desserts, and even a taste of local wine and olive oil.
Hosts Camilla and Samuel are praised for their warm hospitality and expert instruction, making you feel like part of the family.
While one guest had a misunderstanding, the hosts swiftly addressed the concern, highlighting the overall quality of this private, memorable cooking experience.
Read our full review: Private and Authentic Cooking Class Experience With Family Review
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Chefactory Market Tour in Florence+ 4 Courses Cooking Class
The Chefactory Market Tour in Florence+ 4 Courses Cooking Class offers a captivating culinary adventure that immerses you in the vibrant heart of Florence.
With a maximum of 15 travelers, you’ll embark on a 4-hour experience that begins with a guided tour of the bustling Mercato Centrale market, followed by an immersive hands-on cooking class.
The menu features regional specialties like balsamic chicken, fresh pasta, and tiramisu, all prepared under the guidance of friendly, informative chefs.
Inclusive of lunch, unlimited wine, and air conditioning, this highly-rated activity delivers an exceptional value.
Accessible by public transportation, it’s a must-try for foodies seeking an authentic Florentine culinary journey.
Read our full review: Chefactory Market Tour in Florence+ 4 Courses Cooking Class Review
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4 – Courses Dinner Interactive Cooking Lesson In Florence
Enjoy the art of Italian cuisine during the Courses Dinner Interactive Cooking Lesson In Florence.
Located at In Tavola near Ponte Vecchio and Palazzo Pitti, this 4-course experience accommodates up to 16 travelers starting at 5:00 PM.
Indulge in a menu featuring an appetizer, fresh egg pasta, a meat dish, and panna cotta dessert, complemented by Tuscany red wine and bottled water.
The hands-on, interactive format emphasizes learning and culture in a fun, engaging environment.
With 90% of 105 reviews recommending this class, you can expect quality instruction, generous portions, and COVID-safe protocols.
While some feedback notes occasional organizational challenges, the majority of participants praise the exceptional food and atmosphere.
Read our full review: 4 – Courses Dinner Interactive Cooking Lesson In Florence Review
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Cooking Class in Florence With Panoramic View
Are you looking to elevate your culinary skills with a panoramic view of Florence? Look no further than this small-group cooking class in the heart of the city.
With a maximum of 10 travelers, you’ll learn to make traditional Tuscan dishes like bruschetta, handmade pasta, and tiramisu. The class includes a market tour to source fresh ingredients.
Afterward, enjoy a family-style meal on a private terrace overlooking the city. While some have noted issues with group size and instructor engagement, the majority of reviews praise the quality of the food, the beautiful setting, and the engaging learning experience.
Prepare to climb stairs, but the views make it well worth the effort.
Read our full review: Cooking Class in Florence With Panoramic View Review
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Private Cooking Class With a Florentine Local in His Home Kitchen
For an intimate and authentic Florentine cooking experience, consider Alessio’s private cooking class in his home kitchen.
This 4-hour class offers a menu of traditional Tuscan dishes like fiorentino crostini, pappardelle, and torta della nonna. With 30 positive reviews and a 4.5/5 rating, Alessio’s class promises a personalized culinary journey.
You’ll enjoy local wine, non-alcoholic beverages, and learn directly from a knowledgeable Florentine host. While some guests noted concerns about organization and menu discrepancies, the majority praised the welcoming atmosphere and engaging cultural insights.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available upon request, making this class suitable for diverse dietary needs.
Read our full review: Private Cooking Class With a Florentine Local in His Home Kitchen Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Duration of Each Cooking Class?
The duration of each cooking class typically ranges from 2 to 4 hours, depending on the program. You’ll have ample time to learn new techniques, prepare a full meal, and enjoy the fruits of your labor.
Are Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Options Available?
Vegetarian and gluten-free options are usually available at the best cooking classes. You’ll want to inquire about dietary accommodations when booking your class to ensure your needs are met.
Do the Classes Include Transportation to and From the Venue?
The cooking classes typically don’t include transportation, but you can usually arrange for pickup and drop-off services at an additional cost. Check with the class provider to see if they offer this convenience.
What Is the Group Size for Each Cooking Class?
The group size for each cooking class varies, but many offer intimate, hands-on experiences with only 6-12 participants. This allows for personalized attention and a more immersive learning environment throughout the culinary adventure.
Can Participants Take the Recipes Home After the Class?
Absolutely, participants can take the recipes home after the cooking class. Most providers offer printouts or digital copies of the recipes covered, so you can recreate the dishes you learned to make at home.
Recap
When you’re in Florence, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to take a cooking class. From learning how to make authentic Tuscan dishes at a farmhouse to mastering the art of homemade gelato and pizza, there’s a class to suit every culinary interest. With expert instruction and immersive experiences, you’ll leave with newfound skills and a deeper appreciation for Italian cuisine.