Pizza & Gelato: Family Cooking Class in Florence

Trying to cook Italian classics in Florence without leaving the city sounds like a dream, and this family-friendly cooking class makes it a reality. With a focus on pizza and gelato, this 3-hour experience offers a hands-on way to learn authentic recipes from passionate local chefs. It’s perfect for families or groups that want more than just sightseeing — you get to roll up your sleeves and enjoy the tasty results.

What really draws us to this tour are three key points: the interactive nature of the class, the professional guidance from experienced chefs, and the chance to bring home recipes that really work. Plus, it’s great to know that children are warmly welcomed and can participate in the fun, making it ideal for family vacations. The only thing to consider is the duration — three hours is perfect, but might feel a little rushed if you’re used to more leisurely experiences.

This class suits anyone eager to learn authentic Italian cooking, especially families who want an activity that combines learning, eating, and a bit of culture. If your goal is to discover local flavors with a fun twist, this tour could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Family-friendly: Designed for children and adults, making it perfect for all ages
• Hands-on learning: Master pizza dough, sauce, and gelato flavors with expert guidance
• Authentic recipes: Leave with recipes that truly reflect Florence’s culinary traditions
• Includes lunch: Enjoy eating your own creations alongside a glass of wine
• Small groups: Max of 12 travelers ensures personalized attention
• Great value: Combines cooking, tasting, and cultural experience in just 3 hours

A Closer Look at the Experience

Location and Meeting Point

Set in the heart of Florence, the meeting point at Via D’Ardiglione, 39r is easy to reach, and the activity ends back at this same spot. Being centrally located means you’ll be in the midst of Florence’s lively atmosphere before and after the class.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The session starts at 12:15 PM or 3:45 PM, depending on your chosen time slot, with a maximum of 12 participants. The class lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a compact yet comprehensive peek into Italian culinary art.

Making Pizza from Scratch

You’ll begin by learning how to prepare pizza dough from scratch, a skill that many find surprisingly simple yet satisfying. The chef will guide you through creating the perfect dough and sauce, sharing tips and tricks for achieving that authentic flavor. Several reviews mention the professional and friendly approach of the chef, who was praised for being very interactive and patient.

Creating Gelato Flavors

Next, you’ll turn your attention to gelato, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to craft two flavors. This part is often highlighted as a favorite among families, especially kids, who love the chance to make their own sweet treats. One reviewer appreciated watching the chef make gelato and sorbet in front of them, describing the process as fun and delicious.

Tasting and Lunch

Once your recipes are ready, you’ll gather around to enjoy your culinary creations. The tour includes tasting of your dishes, with a glass of wine to enhance the experience. The reviews note that the authentic Florence pizza made during the class was “amazing,” and the cookies and gelato received praise for their flavor.

Educational and Practical

Throughout the class, you will learn tips and techniques that can be replicated at home, making this more than just a fun activity. The chef provides recipes to take home, helping you impress family and friends later.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 12 travelers, the setting remains cozy and personable. Many reviews describe the atmosphere as friendly and welcoming, with some groups consisting of only two families, adding to the intimacy.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $135.98 per person, the experience covers instruction, tasting, lunch, and a cooking skill set that’s applicable long after your trip ends. Considering the high ratings (a solid 5.0 based on 9 reviews), it’s clear that most guests find it well worth the price. The inclusion of professional guidance and personalized attention—especially in small groups—further enhances the value.

Authenticity and Quality

Guests rave about the authenticity of what they learned, from genuine Italian pizza dough to fresh gelato flavors. Multiple reviewers mention the incredible chef, praised for being very knowledgeable and interactive, which makes the entire experience engaging and educational.

Engagement for All Ages

This activity is particularly designed to be family-friendly, making it a perfect way for children to connect with Italian cuisine. Many reviews highlight how kids loved making pizza and gelato, with some describing the class as a fun way to spend an afternoon.

Practical Skills & Recipes

Beyond just tasting, you’ll walk away with new skills and recipes that are simple enough to try at home. This hands-on learning makes the class not just memorable but also useful.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

If you’re visiting Florence with children or simply love hands-on culinary adventures, this class fits perfectly into your itinerary. It’s ideal for those who want to combine learning, eating, and cultural discovery in a small-group setting. Food lovers eager to master authentic Italian recipes will find this especially rewarding. Plus, if you’re after a fun, interactive activity that won’t break the bank, this class hits a strong sweet spot.

Practical Details and Tips

• Booking in advance is recommended, averaging about 58 days ahead, ensuring you secure your spot.
• The tour is mobile ticket, so no need to worry about printing.
• The duration of 3 hours** strikes a good balance—long enough to learn and taste, but not so lengthy that it interferes with your sightseeing.
• Note that child rates apply when sharing with two paying adults, making it accessible for families.
• Tipping is not included, so consider showing appreciation for your chef’s efforts.

FAQs

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, it’s designed to be family-friendly, with children encouraged to participate in the hands-on cooking activities.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers the professional chef, the cooking class, tastings of your dishes, a lunch, and bottled water.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility.

Will I get to keep the recipes?
Absolutely, you’ll receive recipes for the pizza, gelato, and other treats you prepare, so you can recreate them at home.

How many people are in the class?
A maximum of 12 travelers ensures a personalized experience, with some groups as small as two families.

What is the meeting point?
The class starts at Via D’Ardiglione, 39r in Florence, and ends back at the same location.

Is alcohol included?
A glass of wine accompanies your meal, adding to the authentic Italian experience.

Is there any extra cost not included in the tour price?
Tipping is not included, so you might want to tip your chef if you enjoyed the experience.

Final Thoughts

This Florence-based Pizza & Gelato Family Cooking Class offers a well-rounded, engaging culinary adventure. It’s ideal for families, food lovers, and anyone wanting to take a practical skill home from their trip. The small-group setting, expert guidance, and authentic recipes make it a worthwhile addition to your Florence itinerary, especially if you want a memorable, taste-filled experience.

Whether you’re making your own pizza dough or learning how to craft perfect gelato, you’ll come away with more than just a full belly—you’ll have new skills, delicious memories, and stories to tell. It’s a tasty way to turn your Florence visit into a family activity full of flavor and fun.

In essence, this experience is a fantastic choice for those who want to enjoy Florence’s culinary heart while creating lasting memories with loved ones. It’s educational, tasty, and intimate—all in the charming city center.