Food Tours in Florence

The beating heart of Tuscany and the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence draws tourists from all over the world for its beautiful architecture rich, longstanding culture and, of course, internationally renowned food and wine.

Scattered around the city, you'll find bustling markets, family-run trattorias and mouthwatering gelaterias – not to mention the slew of wineries within arms reach.

And with a range of guided Florence food tours to choose from — which are guaranteed to teach you all about the rich flavors and history of this beloved city — you can be sure you'll come back with a newfound appreciation for all things Italian cuisine.

Here's everything you should know about food tours, one of the most captivating gastronomic experiences in Florence.

What are the best food tours in Florence?

There are many food and wine tours in Florence that offer a range of different experiences, from tasting local specialties to cooking the meals yourself and learning the history behind the traditional meals. Let's take a look at the most popular options.

Food and wine excursion to Tuscany

This type of tour can be private or a small group in style. Either way, after being picked up from your Florence hotel, you'll head to Tuscany, stopping at multiple different organic wineries along the way for wine tastings.

At each vineyard, you can expect to learn about the wine-making process and hear some of the secrets behind Tuscan wine-making, all while tasting the local blends — the region is particularly famous for its Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino.

These tours generally have a quick stop at a Chianti Classico village, usually Greve in Chianti, where you can admire the village's main square and learn about the history and culture of the local area.

Multi-course Florence cooking classes

The best way to learn about the history of Italian cuisine (and culture) isn't always to listen to a guide; sometimes it's to get hands-on and make the meals yourself!

With plenty of Florence cooking classes available, during which you can cook everything from traditional dishes — Bistecca alla Fiorentina, Pappardelle al Cinghiale and Tiramise, to name a few — to vegan and vegetarian options, there is something for all palates.

Taking place at either a cooking school or a local's home, you'll be accompanied by a local chef who will teach you all about the traditional recipes that have been passed down from generation to generation – all while picking up some new skills in the kitchen.

Once you have created your amazing Tuscan feast, you can sit down with a glass of Chianti and taste your creation and show off your new skills.

Most cooking classes in Florence also include a market tour, where you can mingle with the butchers, bakers and farmers to get a feel for how the locals live.

Food-themed walking tour around the historic city center

A popular option for active travelers, taking a walking tour through Florence is a great way to sample the local cuisine while checking off the quintessential landmarks.

After meeting your friendly, local guide, you'll make your way around the downtown area, stopping into local haunts to sample Italian coffee, local cheeses, fresh breads (including truffle panini), Chianti wines, olive oil and plenty more.

Most walking tours will wander past landmarks like the Piazza della Repubblica, the Basilica of Santa Croce and the Duomo – allowing you to get a good understanding of the history of the city (it's not just about food).

Depending on your tour, you might also pop into a local market to pick up some fresh produce, or grab a treat at one of the local gelaterias.

Offering interesting details about the history and food culture of Florence throughout, your guide will also give you the opportunity to sample wine and olive oil tastings along your tour, learning more about the area and its products.

Are there any food tour combos in Florence?

Yes, there are a few options for combination tours if you are looking to squeeze more into your Florence food tour. These tours often are the best value for money, combining traditional food and wine with different day trips and/or history-focused elements.

Food and wine safari

The food and wine safari, which includes eating and drinking your way through the Chianti region on a jeep tour, is a popular option. Your guide will escort you through scenic backroads where breathtaking views await. A delicious lunch, plus several food and wine tastings are included in this full-day affair.

San Gimignano and Volterra day trip with food and wine

Another popular combination tour is the San Gimignano and Volterra day trip. This type of tour allows you to explore more of the Italian countryside and the Tuscan attractions. In addition to a mouth-watering lunch, wine tastings and a gelateria visit, generally, you'll be taken on a walking tour through these towns where you'll see historic landmarks such as the Piazza della Cisterna in San Gimignano and the Roman Theatre in Volterra.

Fiat 500 tour with lunch

Another combination tour option, suited to more independent travelers, is a self-driving Fiat 500 tour. With the keys in hand, you'll make your way through the idyllic countryside, stopping at a beautiful villa. Here, a delicious picnic lunch (including bruschetta, cheese, cold meats and pasta) and wine tasting awaits.

Even though you're driving, you still have a guide with you, who will direct you through the area.

Which places are visited?

Every Florence food tour is different, which means you'll visit different locations depending on the tour you select. On a Tuscany winery and food tour, you'll visit at least three local Chianti-area wineries, driving through beautiful landscapes with quick stops in historical places like the medieval village of Greve in Chianti.

Food tours centered around hands-on cooking experiences generally include stops at specialty food stores, local markets, traditional trattorias, or even a local’s home.

On walking tours, you'll likely visit markets in the Florence city center or the Sant'Ambrogio area. While different guides might take you to different markets depending on what you're cooking, you can expect to see some historical places — like the Duomo or Ponte Vecchio — along your walk.

Many tours will also make a stop at the famous Il Forno dei Ciompi bakery, the Migone Confetti chocolate shop and the Alimentari Uffizi delicatessen (or equivalents).

What are the prices of food tours in Florence?

The price of these food tours in Florence varies depending on the type of tour you choose. Food and wine excursions to Tuscany generally are between €50 to €200 per person, depending on the length.

Cooking classes for small groups generally cost between €80 and €150, while a Florence food-themed walking tour typically costs between €80 and €100 per person.

More comprehensive tours that combine a food experience with something else (such as a wine safari or a San Gimignano and Volterra day trip) are generally more expensive, ranging from €150 to €200 per person.

Every tour is different, depending on the type of experience you want, the number of people and the inclusions. Be sure to check pricing before booking your tour.

What is included in the price?

Inclusions depend on the tour you book, so be sure to check before booking.

Generally, food and wine tours include hotel pickup and drop-off, multiple winery visits throughout the Tuscan countryside, lunch, wine and extra snacks throughout the day.

Cooking classes include all of the required ingredients, the tutelage of your chef, cooking supplies and, of course, the meal. Market visits and a glass or two of wine are usually included too.

If you book a food-themed walking tour, your ticket includes the cost of a guide, as well as food and wine tastings at various restaurants along the way.

Where in Florence do food tours start?

For Florence food-themed walking tours, you will likely meet at a local landmark, such as the Piazza di Santa Croce or Piazza di San Lorenzo.

Some tours will offer hotel pickup, particularly out-of-town Tuscany winery excursions.

The exact meeting point depends on the tour company, so make sure to double-check when you're booking.

How long do theylast?

The duration of your Florence food tour depends on whether you choose a walking tour, winery excursion, cooking class, or something else.

Shorter tours, like walking tours and cooking classes, can be completed in 3-4 hours. However, some winery tours or extended excursions may last a full day (up to 8 hours).

If you opt for a private tour, you can adjust the duration if you want to spend more or less time in particular places; just be sure to make a note of it when booking.

Are food tours in Florence accessible to wheelchair users?

Unfortunately, most Florence food tours are not wheelchair accessible.

Private tours are generally more accommodating – you just need to contact the tour company directly to make sure they can put together an itinerary that suits your particular needs.

When is the best time to go on a food tour in Florence?

While a food tour in Florence can be enjoyed any time of year, it's advisable to go outside of the peak summer months between June and August. In the shoulder seasons, you'll experience fewer crowds and lines to popular locales.

It's advisable to do a food tour at the beginning of your stay in Florence, to get a well-rounded view of the local culinary scene and culture.

What other gastronomic experiences can you enjoy in Florence?

• Dinners in Florence
• Cheese tastings in Florence
• Truffle tours in Florence

Travel tips

• Food tours can be very popular, particularly in peak season, so it's advisable to book in advance.
• Florence food tours often involve walking from one place to another, so comfortable footwear is recommended. Also, consider the weather when choosing your clothes.
• Don't hesitate to ask your guide questions. This is an excellent opportunity to learn more about Tuscan cuisine and Florentine food culture.
• If you have any food allergies, intolerances, or dietary restrictions, make sure to inform your tour operator in advance.