Florence: Tuscan Farmhouse Pasta & Gelato Cooking Class

Summary

Handmade pasta, creamy gelato and laughter in a Tuscan farmhouse kitchen

You’ll roll fresh pasta by hand in a Tuscan farmhouse kitchen near Florence, guided by local chefs who treat you like family. Taste your own creations—ravioli, pappardelle—and learn to make real Italian gelato using garden ingredients. With plenty of wine and countryside views included, it’s less a class than a memory you’ll carry home.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I didn’t expect to laugh so much kneading dough. The drive from Florence to the farmhouse was just long enough for my nerves to kick in (what if I mess up the pasta?), but as soon as we stepped into that sunlit kitchen, our hosts—Francesca and Paolo—just waved us in like we were cousins dropping by for Sunday lunch. I still remember Paolo’s hands dusted with flour, showing us how to press and fold pappardelle. He kept saying “piano, piano”—slowly, slowly—which is harder than it sounds when you’re hungry and everything smells like warm bread and basil.

Making pasta from scratch is messier than Instagram lets on. My ravioli looked lopsided, but Francesca winked and said “it’s amore.” We tried three kinds—pappardelle with ragù (the sauce simmering away made the whole place smell like home), potato tortelli with pesto that tasted sharp and green, and ricotta ravioli with butter and sage. The main keyword here is “Florence cooking class,” but honestly, it felt more like a family meal than a lesson. There was bruschetta too—crunchy edges, tomatoes so sweet they almost didn’t need balsamic—and glasses of Chianti that kept getting refilled before you noticed.

After lunch (and yes, you eat what you make), came gelato. I thought I knew gelato from city shops, but making it yourself is different—the cold metal churns, the scent of pistachio paste mixing with vanilla. Francesca let us taste every stage: icy fruit purée first, then the creamy finished scoop with hazelnuts on top. Someone asked about the difference between gelato and ice cream; Paolo just grinned and said “gelato has more heart.” Maybe he was joking? Maybe not.

I still think about that view out over the olive trees while we ate dessert—quiet except for birds and someone humming softly at another table. If you’re looking for a day trip from Florence that feels real (and includes pickup so you don’t get lost), this is it. My hands smelled like sage all afternoon. Didn’t mind at all.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Tuscan pasta and gelato cooking class

• Arrive at Tuscan farmhouse
• Meet local chef hosts
• Learn fresh pasta making
• Mix, knead, and shape dough
• Make traditional pasta sauces
• Prepare homemade Italian gelato
• Savor pasta and gelato with wine
• Enjoy panoramic countryside views

Top questions

How far is the farmhouse from Florence?

The farmhouse is located just outside Florence in the Tuscan hills; transportation from Florence to the estate and back is included.

Is this Florence cooking class suitable for beginners?

Yes, local chefs guide you through each step—even if you've never made pasta or gelato before.

Does this day trip include lunch?

Yes, you'll enjoy all the dishes you prepare during the class as your lunch, along with wine.

Are gluten-free options available?

No, gluten-free requirements cannot be catered for on this tour.

Is transportation provided from Florence?

Yes, roundtrip transportation between Florence and the farmhouse is included.

Can wheelchair users join this cooking class?

No, due to uneven surfaces at the farmhouse this tour isn't suitable for wheelchair users or those with walking difficulties.

What dishes will we cook during the class?

You’ll make several types of fresh pasta (like pappardelle, ravioli) plus homemade Italian gelato using seasonal ingredients.

Is wine included during the meal?

Yes, plenty of Tuscan wine accompanies both your meal and dessert.

What’s included

Your day includes roundtrip transportation from Florence to a traditional Tuscan farmhouse where you’ll be welcomed with an appetizer and wine on arrival; hands-on sessions making fresh pasta and authentic gelato; all food paired with regional wines; plus time to relax over your homemade meal before heading back to Florence together.