Florence: Oltrarno Food & Wine Tour with Negroni Class

Summary

Florence food tour in Oltrarno with negroni class and gelato

You’ll wander Florence’s Oltrarno with a local guide, tasting Chianti wine, learning to mix your own Negroni cocktail, sharing plates of Tuscan pasta and Florentine steak in a cozy trattoria, and finishing with artisan gelato. Expect laughter, real stories behind ancient wine windows, and flavors you’ll remember long after you’ve left Florence.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is that glow from the street lamps in Oltrarno, bouncing off old stone walls while our group shuffled behind Giulia (our guide, who somehow knew everyone). We’d barely turned the corner from Santo Spirito when we ducked into this tiny wine bar—no sign outside, just laughter spilling onto the street. Inside smelled like toasted bread and something earthy—maybe truffle oil? I lost track of time over Chianti Classico and bruschetta. Someone at the next table winked when I tried to pronounce “schiacciata”—still not sure I got it right.

I didn’t expect to actually make my own Negroni. Giulia handed me a shaker and grinned like she knew I was about to mess it up (I did). The bartender showed us the trick—equal parts gin, vermouth, Campari—and then let us loose. My first sip was strong but kind of perfect with salty pecorino and that warm focaccia. The air outside felt cooler by then, so we wandered past an old wine window—Giulia told us how nobles used to pass glasses through them during plagues. It’s wild what sticks with you.

By the time we reached the trattoria for pasta and Florentine steak, I was full but not in a bad way—more like happy-full. There was this moment where everyone went quiet after tasting the steak (rare, just as they do here), and it felt like we were all in on some secret. Dessert was gelato from a spot Giulia swore by—hazelnut for me. I still think about that flavor sometimes when I’m back home staring at supermarket ice cream. Anyway, if you’re looking for a Florence food tour that actually feels local—not just ticking boxes—I’d say go hungry and don’t wear tight pants.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Florence food and wine tasting tour

• Sample Tuscan cheese, bruschette, focaccia, and Chianti
• Enjoy a glass of Florence’s Prosecco
• Learn to make a Negroni cocktail
• Drink Negroni with schiacciata aperitivo
• Eat Tuscan pasta and Florentine steak
• Try artisan Italian gelato

Top questions

How long does the Florence Oltrarno food tour last?

The exact duration isn’t listed but expect an evening walking tour covering multiple stops for tastings and drinks.

Is this Florence food tour suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, it’s adaptable for vegetarians if you inform the team after booking.

Are drinks included on this Florence food & wine tour?

Yes, there are 6 drinks included—regional wines plus your own handcrafted Negroni cocktail.

Does the tour include making a Negroni in Florence?

Yes, you’ll learn to make Florence’s iconic Negroni cocktail at a local spot.

Is there hotel pickup for this Florence food tour?

No hotel pickup is included; public transport options are nearby.

Can people with dietary restrictions join?

The tour can accommodate several dietary needs except vegans or those with celiac disease; contact after booking to arrange.

Is this walking tour accessible for wheelchairs or strollers?

No, unfortunately it’s not suitable for guests with mobility impairments or strollers due to venue access.

What’s included

Your evening includes an expert English-speaking local guide leading a small group (12 people or fewer), more than eight Tuscan food tastings paired with six regional drinks—including Chianti wine and your own handmade Negroni—and ends with artisan Italian gelato before parting ways in central Florence.