Cooking, Dinner & Live Opera in the countryside

If you’re dreaming of a dinner that combines the artistry of traditional Italian cooking with the soulful notes of live opera, then this experience in the Florence countryside might just be your next highlight. While I haven’t personally booked this tour, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a truly special way to spend an evening far from the hustle of city life.

What immediately stands out is the focus on multisensory engagement—your senses will be involved from the moment you arrive, with fresh scents from the garden, the tactile joy of making pasta, and the emotional power of live singing. We love how this experience seamlessly blends authentic cuisine, stunning scenery, and cultural entertainment, all wrapped into an accessible three-and-a-half-hour window.

That said, it’s worth noting that the experience is weather-dependent, so a rainy evening could mean rescheduling or missing out. Still, for lovers of food, wine, music, and genuine local charm, this tour is tailored for those seeking a memorable, intimate glimpse into Tuscany’s culinary and musical soul.

Who This Tour Suits Best

This experience is ideal for travelers who appreciate authentic cultural moments, enjoy hands-on activities, and want a relaxed, immersive evening. Perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who love good food and live music, it offers a taste of Tuscany that’s both fun and meaningful.

Good To Know

• Authentic Cooking: Prepare traditional pasta recipes based on grandma’s methods.
• Stunning Setting: The villa dating back to the 1600s offers picturesque views and historic charm.
• Multisensory Experience: Sight, smell, taste, touch, and sound are all engaged during the evening.
• Local Products: Taste and learn about family-produced EVO Oil and wine.
• Intimate Atmosphere: Limited group size (maximum 10) ensures personalized attention.
• Unique Entertainment: Enjoy a live opera performance for an emotional finish.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Venue: A Villa from the 1600s

The tour takes place at a beautifully preserved villa that dates back to the 1600s. This historic setting offers more than just a backdrop—its rustic charm, with its old barn kitchen and traditional trough, transports you to another era. The villa’s location also means you’ll get sweeping views of the Tuscan countryside, perfect for snapping photos or simply soaking in the serenity.

Starting Point and Arrival

Meet at Via Senese, 2 in Florence, at 5 pm. If you’re staying nearby, the location is convenient, and transportation can be arranged upon request—though it’s worth noting that the tour is just over 25 minutes from Florence, making it a quick escape from the city buzz.

The Garden and Vineyard Tour

After arriving, you’ll be welcomed with a classic Italian moka coffee—a small but meaningful gesture that sets the tone. From there, guides will lead you on a stroll through the property, where you can pick seasonal vegetables (depending on the time of year) and herbs in the garden, and learn about the estate’s history, including how they produce wine and extra virgin olive oil.

This part of the experience adds a tangible connection to the land and the ingredients used in your meal. Reviewers have praised this segment, mentioning that guides are knowledgeable and passionate about sharing their family traditions.

The Hands-On Cooking Class

Once gathered in the old barn, you’ll get into your aprons and start cooking. The menu is based on recipes handed down from “Lulu’s grandmother,” giving an authentic, homestyle touch. Making pasta from scratch—using simple, traditional methods—is both fun and rewarding. Everyone gets to prepare their own dish, ensuring a lively, interactive session.

Prepare to taste the estate’s EVO Oil—a family-produced product since 3 January—and learn how its quality elevates traditional dishes. The guides explain the significance of each ingredient, making it clear why these products are central to Tuscan cuisine.

Dining and Tasting

No meal is complete without wine, and this tour offers tastings of estate-bottled wine that pairs beautifully with your homemade pasta. The relaxed setting means you’ll enjoy your meal at a leisurely pace, with plenty of time to chat, savor, and appreciate the flavors.

The Live Opera Performance

The finale is a live opera performance—an unexpected delight that elevates the entire experience. The singer, often described as talented and engaging, performs in an intimate setting that amplifies the emotion of the music. Reviewers have called this a highlight, with one noting the performance as “a highlight” that added a profound, almost cinematic touch to the evening.

Hearing opera in the open-air setting of the Tuscan countryside, under the stars or in the softly lit villa, makes this a truly memorable sensory experience.

Practicalities and Extras

The experience lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 5 pm. It’s suitable for small groups—max 10 participants—which guarantees personalized attention and a cozy atmosphere. Transfers are available on request, though most guests probably find it easy to arrive on their own.

You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, making it flexible to plan around weather or other commitments. For those interested, accommodations at the villa can be arranged, turning this into a full countryside retreat.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $208.99 per person, this experience offers a lot of value, especially considering the quality of the setting, the personalized cooking experience, and the live entertainment. The combination of hands-on participation, local products, and cultural performance makes it a holistic taste of Tuscany’s soul—something you wouldn’t get from a standard restaurant or city tour.

Reviewers have expressed high satisfaction, with one stating, “Everyone was so wonderful and lovely,” and describing the dinner as “fantastic.” The fact that participants often book this experience 106 days in advance speaks to its popularity and perceived worth.

The Sum Up

This tour isn’t just about cooking or watching opera; it’s about creating a genuine connection to Tuscan traditions through sensory-rich activities. You’ll learn about local ingredients, enjoy the beauty of a historic villa, and be serenaded by talented performers—all in a small, friendly group.

It’s perfect for those who want a more personal, immersive experience that combines food, wine, music, and scenery into one memorable evening. Whether you’re a food lover, a music aficionado, or simply seeking a unique cultural outing, this experience promises to leave you with lasting memories of Tuscany’s warmth and charm.

FAQ

Is transportation provided?
Transfers are available on request, but most guests find it convenient to arrive on their own, as the meeting point is in Florence.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers the entire experience: coffee, ingredients, cooking instruction, local wines, EVO Oil tasting, and the live opera performance.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the experience requires good weather. If canceled due to rain or poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people will be in the group?
The maximum group size is 10, ensuring a cozy and personalized atmosphere.

Is there a dress code?
While there’s no strict dress code, comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for a hands-on cooking class are recommended.

Can I book accommodations at the villa?
Yes, accommodations are available on request, allowing you to extend your stay and enjoy the countryside longer.

Is this experience suitable for children?
The experience is designed for adults and older children who can participate in cooking and enjoy the performance; check with the provider for specific age recommendations.

This experience offers a delightful blend of culinary tradition, scenic beauty, and cultural music—an excellent way to deepen your appreciation for Tuscany beyond the usual sightseeing.