Cooking Italian style

The love of food and cooking is so ingrained in the culture and people of Tuscany that there is no separating it from the region. Tuscany is one of the world leaders in agritourism. From wine tours to produce and livestock cultivation, if it is related to food, it is done well. For the aspiring or well-seasoned chef this could not be more welcome. If you would like to learn about Italian cooking, Florence is the ideal place to do it. And because it is such an integral part of the culture, no matter where you find your holiday accommodation in Florence, you will not be far from great cooking lessons.

• You do not have much time? Almost all schools will offer day long classes. They will generally involve the preparation of a single, multi-course meal and will likely involve learning to make pasta from scratch, weather permitting. Many will also offer guided shopping excursions, including to the wonderful market at San Lorenzo.


• You are enjoying a leisurely stay? If you have managed to reserve a Florence apartment for a week or more you can hone your skills at a more leisurely pace. Week long courses will cover almost of the basics of Tuscan cooking. From pasta to fagioli to bistecca. Guidance in selection of produce and meat will usually be given as well.


• You have ample time? If you are nestled comfortable into Florence for a few months, then semester long classes can take you from novice to kudos in a single season while still leaving you time to explore Tuscany in the evenings and weekends.