7 Day intense weekly cooking course from Florence

Florence , Italy

7 Day intense weekly cooking course from Florence

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About this experience

The best intense cooking experience for foodies & professionals! This 8 day full immersion course will help you discover the delights of Tuscan cooking. The tantalising flavours of Tuscany will come to life as our professional chefs share their passion and secrets to creating 5 course mouthwatering, authentic meals every day. This exclusive culinary experience will give you the hands-on experience and confidence to re-create the Good Tastes of Tuscany back home! The only course that offers so much cooking!

Available options

7 Day intense weekly cooking course from Florence

What's included

Bottled water

Good Tastes of Tuscany signature apron

Transport to all included activities and sightseeing as specified

Alcoholic Beverages

Graduation certificate

Lunch

Ultimate Tuscany Recipe book

6 nights accommodation in the historic setting of Villa Pandolfini Estate

Dinner

Breakfast

Breakfast baskets provided for your villa and Lunch OR Dinner daily

Coffee and/or Tea

Small group hands on cooking classes using only the freshest ingredients

What you'll see

Arrive after lunch to Villa Pandolfini Estate, settle into your villa or apartment. Relax & freshen up for the ‘Benvenuto’ dinner held either at a local restaurant or onsite a relaxed & fun way to get to know your cooking companions & chefs.

The first full day of your program; Breakfast in your villa before heading to the kitchen for your first cooking class. You’ll be greeted by hot mocha coffee & a professional Italian chef will explain the day’s menu. To have you looking & feeling every bit the Tuscan culinarian, we will present you with your Ultimate Tuscany Cookbook & signature Good Tastes of Tuscany apron, then you’re ready to start your culinary experience!

Throughout the week you will have 6 5hr classes, where you will learn the secrets of Tuscan cookery & create tantalising 5 course meals. After each class, sit down around the long Tuscan table to enjoy your creations. The divine meals you create will be complemented by the estates own Chianti wine & extra virgin olive oil, made right here onsite. Of an evening you may like to take a short stroll into town & try one of the local restaurants, some noted as being the best in Italy or share a glass of wine & a few laughs with your new friends in your villa.

Prior to one of the classes there will be the opportunity to accompany the chef & visit a historic local food market,where you will witness a real part of Florentine gastronomic history. The Florentines have been enjoying this market for centuries & it is the best way to see a variety of fresh produce including meat, fish & vegetables, which have shaped the flavour of traditional Tuscan dishes for generations. To add to this fantastic gastronomic holiday, you will also enjoy wine tasting, Tuscan olive oil tasting & balsamic vinegar tasting during our culinary tour with the chefs. You will also be treated to a tour of the magnificent 14th century Villa Pandolfini, the wine cellars, lush olive groves & the impressive ballroom where once Counts & Countess’ alike would dance & socialise with the Florentine elite.

There are many ways to enjoy your free time, from simply relaxing & enjoying the grounds of the estate & pool or experience life like a local, taking in the breathtaking Tuscan landscape & wandering through the mini market stalls in town. Alternatively, the local train is minutes away where you can explore & visit the charming Tuscan towns of Pisa & Siena or of course Florence, with magnificent museums, Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, one of Italy’s largest churches, shop or simply wander the streets & perhaps indulge in a gelato!

Whether you’re a professional chef, experienced foodie or just starting out on your culinary journey, this intense course will have you feeling confident & ready to impress your family & friends with the authentic & delicious flavours of Tuscany!

What's not included

Airport/hotel pick up & drop off, private shuttle can be arranged for an additional charge

Additional meals & drinks

Price is per person, based on 2 people sharing a room. Single supplement available payable direct on day of arrival for an additional €300 per person

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 3.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking

Maximum class size 12-14, average 6-8

Price is per person, based on 2 people sharing a room. Single supplement available payable direct on day of arrival for an additional €300 per person

Free parking available onsite

Tourist tax of € 10 per person required to be paid by law onsite

Possibility of booking for non cooking participants

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Certified culinary academy

Some classes may be held in the afternoon

Current Passport is required for foreigners

About Florence

Florence, the capital of Italy's Tuscany region, is a treasure trove of art, architecture, and history. Known as the birthplace of the Renaissance, it's home to iconic masterpieces, stunning cathedrals, and a rich cultural heritage that continues to captivate visitors from around the world.

Top Attractions

Duomo

The Florence Cathedral, known as the Duomo, is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. Its iconic dome, designed by Brunelleschi, offers panoramic views of the city.

Architecture/Religious 2-3 hours Free to enter the cathedral, €18 for the climb to the dome

Uffizi Gallery

One of the world's most famous art museums, the Uffizi Gallery houses works by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci.

Museum/Art 2-3 hours €20

Ponte Vecchio

A medieval stone bridge famous for its jewelry shops. It's one of the most iconic landmarks in Florence.

Architecture 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Piazzale Michelangelo

A panoramic terrace offering breathtaking views of Florence. It's a perfect spot for sunset and photography.

Scenic Viewpoint 1-2 hours Free

Accademia Gallery

Home to Michelangelo's famous statue of David, the Accademia Gallery is a must-visit for art lovers.

Museum/Art 1-2 hours €16

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bistecca alla Fiorentina

A thick-cut, grilled T-bone steak, seasoned simply with salt and pepper. It's a must-try for meat lovers.

Dinner Contains beef, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Ribollita

A hearty vegetable and bread soup, traditionally made with leftover bread and vegetables. It's a classic Florentine dish.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian, can be made vegan

Lampredotto

A Florentine street food made from the fourth and final stomach of a cow. It's typically served in a sandwich.

Lunch Contains beef, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Cantucci

Almond biscotti traditionally served with Vin Santo, a sweet Tuscan wine. They are crunchy and perfect for dipping.

Dessert Contains almonds, can be made gluten-free

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Tuscan countryside Cycling tours Hot air balloon rides Wine tasting tours Spa day at a luxury hotel Strolling through the gardens of Villa medici Visiting museums and art galleries Attending opera or concerts

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

These months offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds compared to the summer peak. Ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

15-28°C 59-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, French, Spanish
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Florence is generally safe for tourists, but pickpocketing and petty theft can occur, especially in crowded areas. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps

Getting there

By air

Florence Airport • 5 km from city center
Pisa International Airport • 85 km from city center

By train

Santa Maria Novella Station

By bus

Villa Costanza Bus Station, Florence Airport Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The bus network covers the entire city and is the primary mode of public transport. Buses are frequent and reliable.

Taxis

Available • Apps: MyTaxi, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Santa Maria Novella Oltrarno San Lorenzo Santa Croce

Day trips

Siena

70 km from Florence • Half day to full day

A medieval city known for its stunning Piazza del Campo and the Palio, a traditional horse race held twice a year.

Pisa

85 km from Florence • Half day

Home to the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa, this city offers a mix of historic sites and scenic views.

Chianti Wine Region

30-50 km from Florence • Full day

A picturesque wine region known for its rolling hills, vineyards, and charming villages.

Festivals

Festa di San Giovanni • June 24 Calcio Storico Fiorentino • June (dates vary) Firenze dei Fiori • April to June

Pro tips

Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Book tickets for popular attractions in advance to save time and avoid long queues
Explore the city's hidden gems, such as the Oltrarno neighborhood and the secret passages of the Palazzo Vecchio
Try local specialties like Bistecca alla Fiorentina, Ribollita, and Lampredotto
Learn a few basic Italian phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals