In recent years, Tuscan cooking classes in Florence have literally exploded, and it’s easy to see why. Getting up close with Tuscan cuisine and Florentine dishes, while donning an apron and guided by an experienced local chef, is truly an experience every food lover should have.
In Florence, some of the most sought-after cooking classes are right in the city center, just steps from the Duomo. I’ve created this list so you can get to know them and get an idea of which one might be right for you. In these classes, you’ll learn how to make homemade pasta, roll out pizza, or create creamy gelato.
Pasta Class Florence
One of my favorite experiences in Florence was at Pasta Class Florence, located at Via degli Alfani 18r. I got to create my own pasta with a Master Pasta Chef and pair it with Tuscan wines, guided by a knowledgeable sommelier.
Pasta Class Florence truly offers an authentic taste of Italian life. I learned traditional pasta-making techniques in a fun, friendly environment, just like in real Italian homes. Don’t miss out—check out their site and offers at Pasta Class Florence.
Florence Food Studio
Another top experience in Florence was attending at the Florence Food Studio. Located at Via D’Ardiglione 39, this school teaches Tuscan traditions through classes with expert chefs. Their cooking class offered an authentic taste of Italian life.
Their Pizza & Gelato class is a must-try, where you’ll learn to make the perfect pizza base and two delicious gelato flavors. After a historical introduction, you’ll get hands-on with these iconic dishes. Enjoy your creations with a glass of Prosecco.
Chef Vary
If you want to cook and laugh you have to meet Chef Varinia “Vary”. Located at Via Romana 41 r, Chef Vary’s Cooking School offers an array of classes that promise not just to teach you how to cook but to immerse you in the joy of Italian cuisine. With her engaging style, Chef Vary ensures you can whip up an amazing Italian dinner in just a few hours, complete with a glass of wine and lots of laughter.
Whether you’re looking to join a hands-on pasta class, a private vegetarian session, or even a gluten-free cooking class, Chef Vary has you covered. Each class, from the Artistic Colored Pasta to the Family-Style Meatballs, is designed to be fun and educational.
MaMa Florence
Join the Pasta Making Cooking Class located at Viale Francesco Petrarca 12. Dive into the heart of Tuscan culinary traditions with hands-on lessons focused on authentic, regional specialties like handmade Corzetti pasta and classic Cacio e Pepe.
Since 2013, Mama Florence has welcomed over 10,000 guests. Learn from experienced chefs, mastering pasta-making techniques while enjoying a fun, interactive environment. Check out their site for more information and booking options.
Towns of Italy | Cooking School | Florence
If you’re in Florence and craving some authentic Italian cooking, check out this small group cooking class near Mercato Centrale. The chefs are super knowledgeable and you’ll learn to whip up dishes like pizza and gelato.
It’s not just about recipes; you really get into the heart of Italian food traditions. Located at Via Panicale, 43/r, the place feels more like a cooking adventure with friends than a formal class. You’ll leave with some solid skills and fun memories, check Towns of Italy site here.
Chefactory Cooking Academy Florence
For another deep dive into Italian cooking, head to Chefactory Cooking Academy on Via Camillo Cavour in Florence. It’s laid-back yet professional, perfect for feeling like a pro chef while learning the ropes from an experienced international staff.
This academy covers everything from market tours to crafting a full Italian dinner. Classes are available in several languages, making it a welcoming spot for any food lover looking to master Italian cuisine.
Cooking Art Brunelleschi
Visit Cooking Art Brunelleschi on Via Matteo Palmieri for a hands-on pasta-making class inside a medieval tower steps from Brunelleschi’s Dome. Learn traditional techniques to make ravioli, tortellini, and tagliatelle in a setting steeped in history, once connected to Dante Alighieri himself.
You’ll pick fresh ingredients nearby, craft pasta from scratch, and enjoy your creations with Tuscan wine in a truly immersive environment. This experience blends culinary expertise with a historic ambiance for a memorable cooking session.
The Cooking Lab
Join Luca at The Cooking Lab on Via Pasquale Villari for a friendly and intimate cooking session. Rooted in his childhood passion for Italian cuisine, Luca’s classes are a mix of tradition and personal touch, ideal for anyone eager to learn about authentic Italian cooking.
Situated in the heart of Florence, The Cooking Lab offers a unique opportunity to cook inside Luca’s custom-designed kitchen. The experience goes beyond cooking; it’s about sharing a meal, enjoying good company, and drinking fine Tuscan wine in a cozy, homelike setting.