Fancy experiencing the culinary magic of Tuscany? These immersive cooking classes might just be the ticket.
A five day retreat set in a private villa nestled in the rolling hills of Tuscany (Photo: Tripaneer)
Tuscany, with its rich culinary heritage and breathtaking landscapes, is an ideal destination for those seeking immersive cooking vacations. Renowned for its world-class wine, fresh ingredients and traditional recipes, this region offers unparalleled opportunities to learn authentic Italian cooking. Whether attending a prestigious cooking school or joining a hands-on culinary retreat, visitors can explore the art of Tuscan cuisine in picturesque settings, from rolling vineyards to charming villages, making it the perfect place for culinary enthusiasts. We’ve rounded up five of the best places cooking classes in Tuscany, based on customer reviews, value for money and itinerary.
Le 3 Rose Farmhouse
Tuscany is a region synonymous with meat, less so with fish, which makes this five-day introduction to seafood cooking all the more exciting. Set in a private villa nestled in rolling hills just outside the ancient city of Arezzo, the cooking vacation offers a five-day full immersion into the rich culinary traditions of Tuscany. The experience includes three cooking classes, wine tours, excursions, and a cooking certificate. Perfect for all skill levels, this retreat offers a blend of relaxation, culture, and gourmet cuisine in the heart of Tuscany. From £1,320 per person.
Cook Eat Discover
Cook Eat Discover offers several highly-rated culinary school retreats in Tuscany (Photo: Tripaneer)
With Cook Eat Discover, guests are invited to experience an intimate Italian gastronomy and cooking retreat in the picturesque hills of Tuscany, hosted by the experienced Chef Oli Haenlein. Having spent his summers in the Italian Maremma region, Chef Oli infuses his passion and expertise into every cooking holiday he leads. The cooking school, which offers four- and seven-day options, includes vineyard visits, farm and producer tours, and masterclasses in making risotto, gnocchi, and pizza. Guests can choose between private or shared accommodations at Residence Il Ciliegio, a charming poolside residence in the heart of the Tuscan Maremma. The vacation package includes daily cooking classes, personalized instruction, wine tastings, all meals, aperitivos and accommodation. From £900 per person.
Pasta and Tiramisu Cooking Class in Florence
If you’re short on time, this exceptional cooking class in Florence offers an immersive experience of authentic Italian cuisine. Held in a charming restaurant in the city centre, participants learn to craft fresh pasta and tiramisu under the guidance of a skilled instructor. The three-hour class not only teaches the secrets of these classic dishes but also provides an opportunity to savour them afterwards, paired with three glasses of local wine. The session concludes with a choice of coffee or limoncello. Ideal for food enthusiasts, this class blends culinary education with the pleasure of dining in a traditional Italian setting. From £48.24 per person.
Francesco Private Cook
An idyllic setting for a taste of Tuscany (Photo: Tripaneer)
Francesco Falciani offers an authentic culinary experience in Siena, where participants can immerse themselves in the rich flavours and aromas of Tuscan cuisine. This cooking retreat includes visits to renowned food and wine producers, where traditional local dishes are expertly crafted. Highlights of the retreat feature an excursion to the stunning Val d’Orcia, exploration of local markets and sumptuous daily meals that showcase the best of Tuscany. Set at the picturesque Villa Vetrichina, with private double rooms and a charming flower-lined entrance, the cooking vacation includes cooking classes, all meals, excursions, and transfers from Perugia airport. From £528 per person.
Truffle Hunting and Cooking in Chianti
For something a little different, this 3.5-hour class combines truffle hunting, past-making and dining. Set in the heart of Chianti Classico, the day begins with an hour-long truffle hunt in the property’s forest, guided by a professional truffle hunter and his Lagotto Romagnolo dog. Following the hunt, participants return to the farm for a cooking class on fresh tagliatelle pasta. The experience culminates with a leisurely lunch on a terrace overlooking the olive grove, where the freshly prepared pasta is served with truffles found during the hunt, complemented by the farm’s wines and extra virgin olive oil. From £128 per person.
La Mezzaluna
This cookery school covers all the basics of the Italian cooking techniques and traditions (Photo: Tripaneer)
La Mezzaluna offers immersive cooking classes and culinary vacations in Tuscany. Participants join Chef Rita Lucherini in Bargo for an all-inclusive cooking and wine tour, featuring visits to a local market and a Tuscan vineyard, live entertainment, and four traditional cooking classes. These classes cover the basics of Tuscan cuisine, including meals, sauces, homemade pasta, pizza, focaccia, and desserts. Guests will stay at La Mezzaluna, a bed and breakfast with self-contained apartments and en-suite rooms. The package includes cooking lessons, daily meals, tours, wine and cheese tastings, and transfers to Pisa airport. From £932 per person.