Florence: Pasta Cooking Class with Wine Tasting near Duomo

Imagine standing just steps from Florence’s iconic Duomo, surrounded by the smells of fresh pasta and the aroma of Italy’s finest wines. This tour promises a tasting journey through Italy’s diverse wine regions, paired with the joy of crafting authentic pasta from scratch. Whether you’re a foodie, a wine lover, or simply curious about Italy’s culinary traditions, this experience offers a delightful blend of education, flavor, and hands-on fun.

What makes this experience especially appealing? First, the guided wine tasting of 11 different Italian wines—yes, eleven—covering everything from crisp whites to bold reds and sweet dessert wines. Second, the opportunity to pair these wines with artisanal cheeses, honey, and jams, elevating each sip. Lastly, the interactive pasta-making class where you’ll craft three types of fresh pasta and learn how to serve them with regional sauces.

A possible consideration? The tour lasts 2.5 hours, which might feel a bit tight if you’re eager to explore Florence’s sights at your own pace. Also, it’s a paid experience with a set price, so you’ll want to see if the value aligns with your budget.

This tour suits food and wine enthusiasts who want a practical, entertaining way to learn about Italy’s culinary heritage without leaving the city center. It’s perfect for those who enjoy hands-on activities, cultural insights, and delicious flavors rolled into one experience.

Good To Know

Balanced wine and food experience: Guided tastings paired with engaging pasta-making.
Authentic regional flavors: Wines from across Italy paired with regional cheeses, honey, and jams.
Hands-on cooking: Create three types of pasta—tagliolini, shrimp ravioli, and asparagus ravioli.
Central location: Conveniently located near Florence’s Duomo, making it easy to combine with sightseeing.
Expert guidance: Led by a passionate sommelier providing detailed explanations of wine regions and traditions.
Value for money: A comprehensive experience that combines tasting, cooking, and cultural insights for a reasonable price.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Atmosphere

The tour kicks off at Rosso Crudo Restaurant, just a short walk from Florence’s Duomo. This proximity means it’s easy to integrate into your day of sightseeing, and the cozy venue sets the perfect mood for a relaxed, convivial experience. As you arrive, you’ll likely notice the warm, welcoming atmosphere, with plenty of space for small groups to feel intimate yet lively.

The Guided Wine Tasting

Led by an expert sommelier, this part of the experience is a lively exploration of Italy’s wine diversity. You’ll taste 11 wines, spanning regions like Tuscany, Veneto, Piedmont, and Sicily. Highlighted are popular and regionally distinct wines like Chianti Classico, Brunello di Montalcino, Barolo, and more.

Guests mention the knowledge of the guide, who provides in-depth explanations that help you appreciate how soil, climate, and tradition influence flavor. One reviewer notes, “The sommelier was incredibly passionate and made each wine come alive with stories about the region and the winemaking process.” Expect to start with light whites and work towards richer reds, finishing with a sweet Vin Santo that pairs beautifully with regional desserts and cheeses.

Cheese, Honey, and Jam Pairings

Each wine is thoughtfully paired with local artisanal cheeses like Pecorino DOP (with varying aging), Parmigiano Reggiano, and other regional specialties. The accompanying honey and jams are selected to augment each wine’s profile, adding a sweet contrast or a savory touch. These pairings aren’t just filler; they enhance the tasting experience and help you understand how local producers craft products to complement their vineyards.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Pasta-Making Class

After the tasting, it’s time for some hands-on fun. You’ll learn to make fresh pasta from scratch, starting with mixing flour and eggs into a silky dough. The instructor emphasizes the tactile nature of pasta making, and many guests find it surprisingly satisfying to knead and roll out their own dough.

You’ll craft three types of pasta: tagliolini with a bright tomato and basil sauce, shrimp ravioli cooked in a gentle sea mussel reduction, and asparagus ravioli drizzled with a creamy pecorino sauce. The chef guides you step-by-step, ensuring even beginners feel confident in their skills.

Guests often comment on how authentic and rewarding this part feels, with one saying, “It’s like learning a secret family recipe—so much more rewarding than just buying pasta in a store.” The focus on regional ingredients and sauces ties each dish back to Tuscan and Italian traditions.

The Overall Flow

The experience is well-paced, balancing tasting, explanation, and hands-on cooking. The knowledgeable guide ensures everyone is engaged, and the small group size allows for personalized attention. The duration—about 2.5 hours—gives enough time to savor each wine and perfect your pasta without feeling rushed.

The Atmosphere and Value

Guests consistently praise the informal, friendly environment. Many mention that the instructor makes complex topics accessible, and the pairing of wine and food is thoughtfully curated to enhance the flavors.

Considering the price of around $135.94 per person, the experience offers a lot of value. You’re not only tasting wines from across Italy but also learning practical cooking skills, all in a charming central location. Plus, the inclusion of multiple Italian wines and regional products makes this a comprehensive culinary snapshot.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for foodies and wine lovers eager to deepen their understanding of Italian flavors without leaving Florence. It’s perfect for those who appreciate hands-on activities and want to learn techniques they can replicate at home. The tour is also suitable for travelers wanting a relaxed, social activity that combines education with delicious tasting.

However, if you’re on a very tight schedule or prefer self-guided exploration, this might require some planning to fit into your itinerary.

Practical Details

• Meeting Point: Rosso Crudo Restaurant, close to the Duomo — very accessible on foot from most city center accommodations.
• Duration: About 2.5 hours, with flexible starting times based on availability.
• Instructors: English-speaking, passionate, and knowledgeable—many reviewers praise their enthusiasm and clarity.
• Wheelchair Access: Yes, the experience is accessible for wheelchair users.
• What’s Included: Guided tasting of 11 wines, regional cheeses, honey, jams, and the pasta-making experience.
• What’s Not Included: Hotel pickup or drop-off, so plan transportation accordingly.
• Cancellations: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility in your plans.

FAQ

Can I join this experience if I don’t drink alcohol?
While the tour is centered around wine tasting, you may want to contact the provider ahead of time, as the main focus is on tasting a variety of wines paired with regional foods.

Is it suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The pasta-making section is designed to be accessible, and the guide explains everything clearly, making it fun even for those with no prior experience.

How many wines will I taste?
You will taste 11 different wines, covering white, red, and sweet varieties from across Italy, so expect a rundown.

Is the experience family-friendly?
Not for children under 18, as it involves wine tasting. But older teens with an interest in culinary arts might enjoy the cooking part.

Can I participate if I have dietary restrictions?
The focus is on regional cheeses, honey, jams, and pasta. If you have specific dietary needs, it’s best to contact the provider beforehand for clarification.

How physically demanding is the tour?
It involves some standing and light kitchen work during the pasta class. It’s suitable for most mobility levels, especially with wheelchair access.

Will I get to take home recipes?
The experience focuses on hands-on learning, but some providers may share recipes or tips afterwards—check with your guide.

What is the size of the group?
Most reviews mention a cozy, small-group vibe, ideal for interaction and personalized attention.

How close is the start point to other Florence attractions?
Very close—just steps from the Duomo—making it easy to combine with sightseeing or other city explorations.

Final Thoughts

This Florence pasta and wine experience offers a wonderful way to connect with Italy’s culinary heart right in the city’s center. It combines educational tasting, authentic cooking, and regional flavors all in one engaging session. Guests leave not only with new skills but also with a deeper appreciation for Italy’s diverse wine regions and traditional food pairings.

The central location, expert guidance, and well-curated menu make it a great pick for those who want an authentic, relaxed, and memorable culinary activity. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, this tour provides a tasty dose of Italian culture and conviviality.

For anyone seeking a practical way to learn about Italian cuisine while enjoying a variety of wines in a friendly setting, this experience hits the mark. Expect to walk away with full bellies, new skills, and a better understanding of what makes Italy’s food and wine so beloved worldwide.

You can check if your dates are available here: