Learn how to make pizza and Gelato cooking class in Florence

If you’re craving an authentic taste of Italy, this Florence cooking class offers a fun, interactive way to learn how to make two of Italy’s most beloved dishes: pizza and gelato. With expert guidance from a local chef, you’ll get your hands dirty kneading dough, preparing sauce, and mixing flavors for creamy gelato—all in a cozy, small-group setting. At the end, you’ll sit down to enjoy your culinary creations with a drink in hand, making it a memorable part of your Florence trip.

What really stands out about this experience is its personalized approach. Unlike large, impersonal classes, the small group size ensures plenty of one-on-one attention and opportunities to ask questions. Plus, the recipes and tips you’ll learn are practical and easy to replicate back home—whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a total beginner.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour is primarily focused on hands-on cooking and tasting. Some reviews mention that certain parts, like the gelato, involve watching rather than actively making, or that the class includes tasting wines and other beverages. If your main goal is a comprehensive culinary workshop with detailed steps for every component, you might find this a bit straightforward. Still, it’s perfect for those looking for a lively, flavor-filled experience, especially if you enjoy a bit of conviviality with your cooking.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate authentic, interactive experiences. Families, couples, and solo travelers looking to connect over food will find it especially rewarding. It’s also ideal for those wanting a delicious souvenir—your own pizzas and gelato—plus recipes to impress friends at home.

Key Points

• Hands-on experience: Knead dough, spread sauce, and top your own pizza.
• Personalized group size: Small groups ensure individual attention and fun interaction.
• Learn practical skills: Recipes and tricks to replicate authentic Italian dishes at home.
• Includes tastings: Enjoy your creations with drinks, and in some cases, a selection of wines.
• Suitable for all skill levels: No experience necessary—just bring your enthusiasm.
• Family friendly: Great for all ages, making it an engaging group activity.

A Closer Look at the Florence Pizza & Gelato Cooking Class

What’s Included and How it Works

At just under $115 per person, this three-hour experience offers excellent value, especially considering all ingredients, recipes, and a dinner of your freshly baked pizza and homemade gelato are included. You’ll also receive a participation certificate— a fun keepsake, plus the recipes to try your hand at these recipes at home.

The meeting point is conveniently located at Via Panicale, 43r, close to Florence’s public transport, making it easy to access. The class is led by a local chef, often praised for their friendliness and expertise—reviewers mention chefs like Alice, Stefano, Niccolo, and John as engaging and informative.

The Itinerary: Step-by-Step

Making the Pizza: The class begins with an overview of the basics—how to create tender, flexible yeast dough and craft a flavorful, light tomato sauce. The chef demonstrates the technique of stretching the dough, and then you get to try it yourself. Several reviewers note that the process of carefully kneading and shaping the dough is both fun and educational. One reviewer mentioned that the chef was very professional and fun, making the experience approachable and enjoyable.

Cooking the Pizza: Once topped with sauce, cheese, and your choice of ingredients, your pizza goes into the oven. Expect to see some variability—some reviews mention that pizzas are baked on-site and served hot, while others note that the chef may prepare some elements for you, especially if time is limited.

Gelato Making: The gelato portion is straightforward but still engaging. The chef introduces the raw ingredients, emphasizing quality and selecting the best products. While some reviews say that gelato was pre-prepared, other guests enjoyed stirring ingredients and learning the basics of gelato consistency and flavors. You might find yourself pouring in vanilla or other flavorings, watching the ice cream churn, and tasting the results.

Tasting and Dining: After cooking, everyone sits down to enjoy their dishes. Beverages are included—wine or soft drinks—adding a relaxed, social vibe. Reviewers highlight the enjoyment of sharing homemade pizza with new friends and savoring freshly made gelato.

The Atmosphere and Group Size

Participants consistently describe the class as intimate and lively, with groups rarely exceeding 20 people. Several reviewers note the warmth and friendliness of the instructors, such as Alice or Chef Jon, who create an inviting environment. The small-group format means you won’t be lost in a sea of travelers—more like cooking with friends in a cozy kitchen.

What Travelers Loved

Many reviews praise the delicious food—the pizzas were described as better than typical restaurant fare, with high-quality ingredients and authentic flavors. The gelato, often vanilla or fruit-based, was described as divine. Reviewers also appreciated the practical tips shared—like how to stretch dough correctly or select the best raw ingredients for gelato.

The fun atmosphere shines through—riders appreciated the chance to get hands-on, laugh, and learn from passionate local chefs. The certificates and recipes serve as lasting reminders of a delightful experience.

Some Criticisms and Things to Consider

A few reviewers mention that parts of the experience, like gelato making, are more watching than actively participating, which might disappoint those seeking a more in-depth workshop. Others note that the class might involve some waiting time or that some ingredients are pre-prepared, which can dull the sense of hands-on involvement.

One review pointed out that the class can feel rushed or that the pizza dough is sometimes prepared by the chef beforehand, so participants might not feel they “made” every element from scratch. Also, for those with gluten intolerance, this tour is not suitable, as gluten is a core ingredient.

Some guests also remark about logistical issues, such as difficulty finding the meeting point or delays caused by transportation. These seem to be exceptions rather than the norm.

Price and Value

Considering the included ingredients, recipes, drinks, and the experience itself, most find the €114.95 price tag reasonable—especially since you get to take home your own homemade pizza and gelato, along with a certificate. Compared to dining out in Florence, this is a fun, interactive alternative that leaves you with new skills and delicious souvenirs.

Who Will Love This Experience?

If you’re a foodie eager to learn authentic Italian recipes, this class offers a perfect mix of practical skills, tasty food, and convivial atmosphere. Families with children will appreciate its relaxed, engaging vibe, making it suitable for all ages.

Travelers who enjoy interactive, hands-on experiences rather than passive observation will find this especially worthwhile. It’s also a good choice for those who want a relaxed evening activity that combines learning, eating, and drinking—all in a small-group setting.

However, if you’re after a comprehensive culinary workshop that focuses intensely on gelato or involves advanced techniques, this might feel a bit light. Also, anyone with gluten sensitivities should look elsewhere since gluten is fundamental to the recipes.

Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?

For anyone visiting Florence and craving a truly authentic Italian food experience, this pizza and gelato class offers excellent value. The personalized instruction, delicious food, and relaxed atmosphere make it a memorable part of your trip. You’ll leave not just with a full belly but with new skills, recipes, and a few stories to tell.

It’s particularly suited for families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy engaging activities and want to take home a tasty souvenir of Florence. Just remember, it’s a fun, social experience best enjoyed with an open mind—and a love for good food.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for all ages, making it a fun family activity.

Do I need any cooking experience?
Not at all. The class is designed to be accessible for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.

What’s included in the price?
All necessary ingredients, a dinner of your pizza and gelato, drinks (wine or soft drinks), recipes, and a participation certificate.

Can I get the recipes afterward?
Yes, all participants receive recipes to recreate the dishes at home.

How long is the class?
Approximately 3 hours from start to finish.

Where does the class take place?
At a location in Florence, with the meeting point at Via Panicale, 43r.

Is transportation provided?
No, this tour does not include hotel pick-up or drop-off.

Is this activity accessible for those with gluten intolerance?
No, gluten is a core ingredient in the recipes.

What if I have dietary restrictions?
Please advise at the time of booking so the chef can accommodate your needs if possible.

What do reviewers say about the overall experience?
Most describe it as fun, educational, and delicious, with many highlighting the friendly guides and tasty results. Some mention minor logistical issues, but they’re rare.

Embark on this tasty journey and bring home not just a full stomach but authentic skills to impress your friends and family with homemade Italian favorites.