If you’re heading to Florence and want an authentic taste of Italy that’s as interactive as it is delicious, the Pizza and Gelato Experience with Unlimited Wine might just be the perfect fit. Offered by Ciaoflorence Tours & Travel, this 3-hour class combines the joy of cooking with the pleasure of tasting, all set in a welcoming Florence location. It’s a hands-on experience where you don’t just watch; you learn to make the iconic pizza and gelato yourself, then enjoy the fruits of your labor with unlimited local wines.
What makes this tour stand out? First, you’ll appreciate how engaging the chef-led instruction is—these guides aren’t just there to show you what to do but to make sure you understand the “why” behind each step. Second, the authentic ingredients used in both pizza and gelato give you a real taste of Italy’s culinary soul. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that the experience is not suitable for wheelchair users, which could be disappointing for some travelers with mobility challenges.
This experience is ideal for those who love food, want a practical skill to impress friends back home, or simply want a fun, culturally rich afternoon. It’s perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small groups looking for an active way to enjoy Florence beyond sightseeing.
Key Points
- Hands-on learning of making traditional pizza dough from scratch
- Authentic Italian gelato prepared with fresh ingredients
- Includes unlimited wine to enjoy during the meal and class
- Beautiful location in the heart of Florence with a pizza oven on-site
- Educational and fun: great for both beginners and food lovers
- Value-packed experience with a professional chef and all ingredients included
An In-Depth Look at the Florence Pizza and Gelato Experience
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Florence.
Why Choose This Tour?
What makes this experience attractive is its blend of hands-on cooking and culture. For just under $45 per person, you get a lot—three hours of instruction, a chance to create your own pizza, and the opportunity to make fresh gelato. Plus, the unlimited wine really enhances the convivial atmosphere, turning a cooking class into a true Italian celebration.
According to reviews, many participants find the value exceptional. One reviewer, Michelle, noted that she loved “being in the restaurant, doing the class, meeting the chef, and getting to eat at the end.” This kind of interactive, authentic experience is a nice change from typical sightseeing and guarantees a memorable afternoon.
The Itinerary: What Will You Do?
The tour begins in Florence’s historic center, at the Ciaofoodies Hub in La Cucineria. After a quick introduction, you’ll roll up your sleeves and start kneading the pizza dough—a tactile, satisfying process that helps you understand why certain ingredients, like flour, water, and yeast, are essential. The chefs are eager to share their tips and tricks, so even novices can come away feeling confident.
While the dough rests, it’s time to switch gears: you’ll get a chance to become a gelataio (gelato maker). Using fresh ingredients, you’ll follow expert guidance to craft a classic Italian gelato, which is prized for its creamy texture and intense flavor—nothing like the store-bought versions.
Once your dough has rested—and your gelato is chilling—you’ll shape your pizza, choosing from a selection of seasonal ingredients. Popular toppings include margherita, marinara, quattro stagioni, and diavola. The chef explains how to stretch and assemble each pizza, so you’ll leave with a real skill to replicate at home.
The grand finale is the oven-baked pizza—hot, aromatic, and ready for tasting. You’ll enjoy your own creation along with the gelato you made. Throughout, the unlimited wine flows freely, making the experience lively and relaxed. It’s a perfect setting for chatting with your instructors and fellow foodies.
The Quality of Ingredients and Equipment
Participants rave about the quality of ingredients—fresh seasonal produce, premium toppings, and authentic gelato ingredients. The location boasts a dedicated pizza oven and a well-equipped kitchen, ensuring a professional yet approachable environment. The use of aprons and utensils is included, so you’re well-prepared to cook.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Atmosphere and Group Dynamics
The small group size, usually just a handful of participants per session, fosters a friendly and intimate environment. Many reviews mention how helpful and engaging the chef was—Motteo received special praise for his teaching skills and his ability to make the class both fun and informative.
A common sentiment from past participants is how meeting others in the class adds to the experience—sharing stories over pizza and gelato creates a warm, convivial atmosphere.
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Practical Details and Considerations
The tour is 3 hours long, starting at a flexible time depending on availability. It’s not suitable for wheelchair users, so check accessibility before booking if needed. Comfortable shoes are recommended, as you’ll be involved in hands-on activity and standing for a good portion of the class.
The price of $44.75 per person offers excellent value, considering all ingredients, instruction, and unlimited wine are included. Plus, you receive a graduation certificate to remember your achievement.
What Do Participants Say?
The reviews are glowing, with a perfect 5-star rating from 28 travelers. Many highlight the knowledgeable guides and the delicious food as high points. Carlos describes the experience as “amazing” and recommends it wholeheartedly, while Michelle appreciated meeting the chef and gaining insight into Italian culinary traditions.
Joshua appreciated learning about the origins of pizza and gelato, and Brittany found the instructions easy to follow and the class fun. For those who enjoy social cooking, making pizza and gelato while sharing wine with new friends is a big plus.
Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?
This experience is perfect for foodies eager to get practical skills and a deeper appreciation of Italian cuisine. It’s well-suited for couples or small groups looking for a fun activity with a relaxed, social vibe. If you love wine, you’ll especially appreciate the unlimited poured during the class—it’s not just about the food, but about savoring the moment.
Travelers who enjoy interactive experiences that combine learning, tasting, and cultural insight will find this tour satisfying. It’s also a great value for those wanting to indulge in Florence’s culinary traditions without spending a fortune.
However, if mobility is an issue, or if you prefer a less hands-on experience, this might not be the best choice. The focus on active participation makes it less suitable for those who prefer to observe rather than do.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, soft drinks are available for kids, and children who can participate in hands-on cooking will likely enjoy the experience. Keep in mind that this is a 3-hour activity with some standing and active participation.
Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If your plans change, you can also reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility.
What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended because you’ll be standing and working in the kitchen. Aprons and utensils are provided, so no need to bring your own cooking gear.
Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
If you have food intolerances or allergies, you should inform the organizers in advance. They will do their best to accommodate your needs.
Where does the tour start and end?
The activity begins at CIaofoodies Hub in La Cucineria, Via della Mattonaia 19r, Florence, and ends back at the same meeting point.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No, it is not suitable for wheelchair users, so plan accordingly.
The Florence Pizza and Gelato Experience combines culinary skill-building, local flavor, and social fun into a compact package that’s hard to beat. For those wanting to go beyond sightseeing and really connect with Florence’s culinary soul, it offers a memorable, flavorful afternoon. It’s especially ideal if you’re keen on learning a skill you can take home—pizza dough and gelato techniques that might just make you the star of your next dinner party. Plus, with unlimited wine and a friendly atmosphere, it’s as much about enjoying good company as it is about cooking. Whether you’re a foodie, a couple seeking a fun activity, or a solo traveler looking for a lively afternoon, this experience has a lot to offer.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Wine Tours in Florence
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