Cooking Art Brunelleschi

This experience made our article of Florence’s 14 Top Cooking Classes.

Introduction

If you’re dreaming of creating authentic Italian pasta during your visit to Florence, the Cooking Art Brunelleschi experience might just be your perfect match. This well-reviewed, three-hour group cooking class offers more than just a chance to learn—it’s an immersive journey into the heart of Florence’s culinary traditions, all set in a historic medieval tower close to Brunelleschi’s famed dome.

What really catches our eye about this tour are the expert guides, the authentic regional recipes, and the stunning setting inside a 1200s stone tower. Plus, the unlimited Tuscan wine makes it a truly indulgent experience. On the flip side, some might find the length of the class a bit tiring, especially if you’re not used to long, hands-on activities. Still, it’s ideal for food lovers, history buffs, and those who want to take home a piece of Florence’s culinary soul.

This class is best suited for travelers eager to get involved in cooking, enjoy good wine, and learn about Italy’s culinary roots firsthand. It’s perfect for couples, families, or groups of friends ready for a memorable, authentic experience.

Key Points

• Authentic Pasta Making: Learn to prepare three different types of fresh pasta—ravioli, tortelli, and pappardelle—from scratch.
• Expert Instructors: Guided by professional chefs with years of experience in Italian cuisine, making sure you get detailed, helpful tips.
• Historic Setting: Cook inside a medieval tower from the 1200s, just a stone’s throw from Florence’s iconic Brunelleschi Dome.
• Tasting and Drinking: Enjoy your homemade pasta paired with Tuscan wine, with unlimited drinks available.
• All-Inclusive: All ingredients and equipment are provided, so no need to bring anything except your enthusiasm.
• Great Reviews: Consistently rated 5.0/5, with many describing it as a highlight of their trip, emphasizing the fun, learning, and delicious food.

An In-Depth Look at the Florence Pasta Class

Setting the Scene: A Medieval Tower in Florence

What makes this experience stand out before you even start cooking is the location. The class is held inside a medieval tower from the 1200s, near Florence’s famous Brunelleschi Dome. This isn’t just a kitchen—it’s a slice of history. As one reviewer mentions, the tower belonged to Dante Alighieri’s wife’s family, adding a layer of cultural significance that enriches the atmosphere.

You’ll feel transported back in time, surrounded by stone walls and historic charm. The air feels thick with stories of Florence’s past, giving a unique backdrop to your culinary adventure.

What’s on the Menu?

We loved how the class is thoughtfully planned to teach three types of fresh pasta: ravioli, tortelli, and pappardelle. The chef will guide you through the entire process, from kneading the dough to shaping each pasta type. Their approach is very hands-on, with the chef standing by to assist and ensure everyone gets a good feel for each step.

Alongside the pasta, sauces are prepared to match each shape—ranging from a simple butter and sage to a spicy arrabbiata and a traditional Tuscan ragù. These sauces are not just add-ons but essential parts of the authentic experience, giving you a complete meal at the end.

The Learning Experience

Many reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides, with some mentioning chefs like Lorenzo, Valentino, and Antonio, each bringing their own warmth and expertise to the class. The instruction is described as thorough, patient, and engaging, with many saying they left feeling truly inspired to recreate the recipes at home.

One guest notes, “Valentino was great, so informative, warm, and funny”, highlighting that the instructors not only teach but also entertain. The fact that the chefs explain regional differences in sauces and regional ingredients adds further depth for those interested in Italian culinary culture.

The Atmosphere and Group Size

Classes are kept intimate enough to allow personalized attention—most reviews mention groups of around 19 participants, ensuring everyone has a chance to participate fully. The lively, friendly environment encourages interaction, making it easy to ask questions or just share a laugh.

As one reviewer states, “We met fellow travelers, learned to make delicious food, and enjoyed a terrific meal together.” Many guests enjoy the social aspect, often ending their afternoon with a casual drink at a local pub after the class.

What’s Included?

All necessary ingredients, cooking equipment, and utensils are provided, which means you don’t need to bring a thing. The professional chef will guide you step-by-step, demonstrating each stage and helping you perfect your pasta shapes.

The meal you create is served to you at the end of the class, accompanied by Tuscan wine and unlimited soft drinks. This wine is often highlighted in reviews as a highlight, with guests appreciating how freely they can indulge while cooking and eating.

Price and Value

At $68.50 per person, this class offers excellent value considering the high-quality instruction, authentic recipes, and historic setting. Guests often mention that the experience feels more personalized and genuine compared to larger, more commercial classes, which adds to its value.

Since many reviews note that the experience is booked about a month in advance—sometimes 31 days or more—you’ll want to book early to secure a spot in this popular activity.

The Real Experience: What Travelers Say

Guests consistently describe the class as “fantastic,” “brilliant,” and “the highlight of their trip.” One reviewer mentions their instructor Lorenzo was “outstanding,” and another calls the whole experience “truly authentic.” The fun and relaxed atmosphere, combined with expert guidance and tasting, make it a memorable part of their Florence visit.

Some critique that the class can be long—reviewers mention three hours being quite a stretch, especially if you’re not used to extended hands-on activities. Also, a few comment on the group size feeling somewhat commercial, but most find the overall experience well-organized and worthwhile.

Final Thoughts

This pasta-making class in Florence is a well-rounded experience that combines history, culture, and cuisine. The historic setting alone makes it worth the price, but the real treasure is the chance to learn authentic Italian cooking from passionate chefs. It’s perfect for travelers who want a fun, interactive, and delicious activity that leaves them with new skills and stories to tell.

If you’re a foodie eager to recreate authentic pasta dishes at home or simply want an immersive taste of Florence’s culinary soul, this class ticks all the boxes. The unlimited Tuscan wine, engaging guides, and historic ambiance make it an activity you’ll remember long after your trip ends.

Remember to book early, as this experience is highly recommended and popular among travelers. Whether traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, you’ll walk away with more than just recipes—you’ll carry a piece of Florence’s essence in your cooking.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beginners? Yes, the class is designed to be accessible for all skill levels, with the instructor guiding each step carefully, ensuring everyone can participate regardless of cooking experience.

Do I need to bring anything? Nope. All ingredients, equipment, and utensils are provided, so just bring your enthusiasm and appetite.

How long does the class last? The experience is approximately 3 hours long, which includes hands-on cooking and tasting your creations.

Can I book this last minute? The tour is usually booked about 31 days in advance, so it’s best to reserve early to secure your spot.

Is alcohol included? Yes, the class offers Tuscan wine and unlimited soft drinks, but alcohol is only for guests aged 18 and above.

What type of pasta will I learn to make? You’ll learn to craft ravioli, tortelli, and pappardelle, along with matching sauces like butter and sage, arrabbiata, and Tuscan ragù.

Where does the class meet? The meeting point is at Via Matteo Palmieri, 31 R, in Florence, conveniently near public transportation.

Is there a refund policy? Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start time. Cancellations within 24 hours are not eligible for a refund.

The Sum Up

For travelers seeking an authentic, hands-on Italian culinary experience, this Florence pasta class offers unbeatable value. The historic setting inside a medieval tower, combined with expert guidance and genuine recipes, makes for a memorable and enriching activity. The inclusion of unlimited Tuscan wine and the convivial atmosphere ensures you leave with both new skills and great memories.

It’s especially ideal for those who love cooking, history, and local culture, and who want to take home more than just souvenirs—namely, delicious pasta and a story to tell. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a meaningful activity, this class delivers a slice of Florence’s culinary heritage in a fun, engaging way.

Note: To make the most of this experience, book well in advance, arrive ready to get your hands dirty, and prepare to enjoy some of the best pasta and wine Florence has to offer.