San Gimignano isn’t just about its iconic towers and medieval charm—it’s also a fantastic place to learn new skills and create memorable experiences. For lovers of authentic Italian food, the city offers a variety of cooking classes that go beyond the usual recipes. The Vegan Tuscan Cooking Class stands out for its focus on plant-based dishes and visits to local vineyards, making it ideal for those seeking a mix of culinary skill and Tuscan scenery. Meanwhile, the Truffle Hunting & Truffle Cooking Class is perfect for adventurous foodies eager to combine outdoor exploration with the art of truffle cuisine. Of course, if you’re short on time but want a quick taste of pasta making, the San Gimignano Pasta-Making Class with Aperitif offers a hands-on session with delicious local wine and cold cuts. These experiences give you a taste of genuine Tuscan life through food, nature, and tradition.
In this guide, we’ll explore four of the best workshops and classes in San Gimignano, highlighting what makes each one unique and helping you find the perfect fit for your interests and schedule.
1. Vegan Tuscan Cooking Class
Starting with the Vegan Tuscan Cooking Class, this experience combines cooking, wine tasting, and olive oil sampling—all in a cozy family kitchen. For about $195.91 per person, you’ll learn how to make three types of pasta—including pici, tagliatelle, and gnocchi—plus traditional sauces. The class takes roughly three hours and can be scheduled in the morning or afternoon to fit your plans.
What sets this class apart is its focus on vegan options, making it accessible for dietary preferences. The instructor, praised for being thorough and patient, guides you through the process of creating authentic Tuscan pasta from scratch. You also get to stroll through the vineyards and olive groves of your host, enjoying a wine tasting and sampling extra-virgin olive oil before sitting down to enjoy your homemade meal.
Guests have called it “a fantastic experience,” highlighting the spectacular views and relaxed vibe. The value for money is excellent, considering the included tastings and meal. This class is ideal for food lovers who want to learn vegan Tuscan recipes and soak in the countryside atmosphere.
Bottom Line: A well-balanced class that combines hands-on cooking, local flavors, and scenic beauty—perfect for vegetarians or those curious about Tuscan vegan cuisine.
2. Truffle Hunting & Truffle Cooking Class
For those craving a more adventurous culinary experience, the Truffle Hunting & Truffle Cooking Class offers a true farm-to-table journey. Priced at around $341.49 per person, this 4.5-hour adventure starts with a guided truffle hunt in the woods near a working farm. Accompanied by a truffle expert, you’ll learn how truffles are cultivated and see the process firsthand.
Following the hunt, you’ll head into a rustic Tuscan kitchen to prepare fresh handmade pasta and truffle-based sauces. This experience is unique because it combines outdoor exploration with culinary mastery. The local guide shares insights about truffle cultivation, and the chef helps you craft dishes that showcase the prized fungi. Guests rave about how authentic and immersive this experience feels, with one reviewer calling it “a genuine farm-to-table adventure.”
While the price is higher, it reflects the personalized nature and inclusion of both outdoor hunting and cooking. The scenery, the chance to forage for truffles, and the culinary lesson make this ideal for foodies who want a bit of both nature and gastronomy.
Bottom Line: Perfect for adventurous eaters and those interested in luxury foraging, this tour offers a memorable mix of outdoor activity and gourmet cooking.
3. Florence: Horseback Riding, Wine Tasting & Cooking Class
If you’re after a full-day experience that combines riding, tasting, and cooking, the Florence: Horseback Riding, Wine Tasting & Cooking Class is a comprehensive option. This 12-hour tour is priced by availability and offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and culinary education in Tuscany. The day begins with a horseback ride through the Chianti and San Gimignano regions—an excellent way to see the landscape from a different perspective.
Afterward, you’ll enjoy wine and olive oil tastings at a traditional vineyard, where the focus is on tasting local products that perfectly complement your meal. The highlight is learning to prepare authentic Tuscan dishes with fresh ingredients, culminating in a dinner where you serve what you’ve cooked. The tour also includes free time in San Gimignano, ideal for sightseeing or capturing photos of its well-preserved medieval towers.
Guests rate this experience 4.6/5, citing the beautiful scenery, delicious food, and engaging activities. It’s suited for travelers who want a full immersion in Tuscan food and landscape, with a bit of horseback riding thrown in for good measure. The full-day format makes it less ideal for budget travelers or those short on time.
Bottom Line: A great choice for active travelers wanting a comprehensive day of riding, tasting, and cooking—a true Tuscan experience.
4. San Gimignano: Pasta-Making Class with Aperitif
Rounding out our list is the Pasta-Making Class with Aperitif, a quick but enriching experience that lasts around an hour. For a reasonable price, you’ll learn how to make authentic Italian pasta—specifically tagliatelle and ravioli—with a local expert. The class includes an aperitif with local wine and cold cuts, allowing you to relax and soak in the beautiful Tuscan countryside.
This class is ideal for short on time but eager to gain practical cooking skills. The instructor’s detailed guidance ensures you’ll leave with a new recipe and confidence in pasta making. The scenic views of San Gimignano’s towers add a charming backdrop to your culinary lesson. Guests appreciate the intimate setting and the chance to sample genuine local flavors in a relaxed atmosphere.
While shorter than others, it still offers a taste of Tuscany’s culinary tradition and is perfect for families or travelers with limited time. The focus on learning a skill makes it a memorable quick experience.
Bottom Line: An excellent, brief introduction to Italian pasta-making, ideal if you want to take home a new skill and enjoy local wines.
How to Choose
When selecting a workshop or class in San Gimignano, consider your budget, interest level, and the type of experience you want. If you’re looking for a relaxing, scenic meal, the Vegan Tuscan Cooking Class offers a combination of hands-on cooking and vineyard visits. For those seeking adventure and culinary mastery, the Truffle Hunting & Truffle Cooking Class is unbeatable. Travelers pressed for time but eager to learn pasta skills will enjoy the Pasta-Making Class with Aperitif, while those wanting a full day of activities, including horseback riding and sightseeing, should opt for the Florence tour.
Booking early is wise, especially for the popular classes, and consider the season—Tuscan summers are busy, and outdoor activities may be affected by weather. Think about your own interest in culinary arts, outdoor pursuits, or short visits to tailor your experience.
San Gimignano offers a rich variety of interactive experiences that go beyond sightseeing—perfect for food lovers, adventure seekers, or curious travelers eager to try something authentic. Whether you’re learning to make pasta, hunting for truffles, or riding through vineyards, these workshops will give you stories to tell long after you leave. For the best value and experience, book early and pick the class that best matches your interests and timeframe—your taste buds and sense of adventure will thank you.