Sant’Ambrogio Market Tour and Cooking Class with a Local Chef in Florence
Discover Tuscan street food, prepare a 3-course meal with tagliatelle and tiramisù and try 2 wines
The true Florentines don’t shop in the crowded markets or tourist-filled shops of the city center. They head to the hidden gem of Sant’Ambrogio Market, a local favorite you might have trouble discovering on your own. Let a local chef guide you through this vibrant, off-the-beaten-path market and taste local street food specialties, before heading to a cozy kitchen where you’ll prepare and taste a traditional 3-course Tuscan meal. Enjoy two wine tastings and finish in style with a tiramisù!
- Meeting point
- Sant’Ambrogio Market
- Food Tastings
- Seasonal Shopping
- Cooking Class
- Handmade Pasta
- 3-Course Meal
- Wine Tasting
- Ending Point
Embark on a journey through Florence’s authentic culinary heart with a local chef as your guide. Meet at Borgo la Croce and start your adventure with an energizing espresso before heading to the bustling Sant’Ambrogio Market, where Florentines still shop for fresh, local ingredients. Far from the tourist crowds, this vibrant market has been the city’s hub for authentic flavors since 1873. Follow your chef through colorful stalls to discover the freshest produce based on the season.
Afterward, head to a fully equipped kitchen inside historical Teatro del Sale where you’ll dive into a hands-on cooking class, learning to prepare a Tuscan meal, including homemade pasta, tagliatelle and ravioli, and tiramisù. The tour concludes with a 3-course meal featuring an appetizer like bruschetta, your freshly prepared pasta dressed with seasonal toppings, and tiramisù. All of this is paired with local wines. This small-group experience offers a true taste of Florence’s culinary heritage, leaving you with new skills and unforgettable memories.
Sant’Ambrogio Market Tour and Cooking Class Description:
Your 4.5-hour tour includes:
English speaking, local chef guide
Visit to Sant’Ambrogio market, a favorite of Florence’s locals
Tastings of Tuscan cold cuts, cheeses, and traditional dishes
Hands-on cooking class
3-course meal with appetizer, pasta and dessert
2 glasses of local wine paired with your meal
Small-group experience with a maximum of 15 participants
Sant’Ambrogio Market: Florence’s Culinary Hub
The Sant’Ambrogio Market is one of Florence’s true hidden gems. Located in the heart of the city, it has been a local staple since 1873, offering a lively atmosphere where Florentines still shop for fresh, seasonal ingredients: cheeses, meats, and other essential culinary delights. You won’t be going it alone—your expert, certified chef guide will be with you every step of the way, helping you navigate the market and answering any questions you have about the products. They’ll share tips on selecting the best ingredients and help you uncover the local flavors that make this market a true culinary treasure. If you’re looking to escape the tourist traps and experience Florence in its most authentic form, this market is the perfect spot.
A Journey of Local Flavors
During the market tour, that will last about 2.50 hours, you’ll explore the market’s many delights, starting with a tasting of renowned Tuscan products. At the salami shop, you’ll savor famous cured meats like prosciutto, salame, and finocchiona, offering a unique taste of Tuscan charcuterie. At the cheese stall, you’ll sample Tuscany’s best cheeses, including pecorino and other regional specialties. As you wander through the market, you’ll also discover seasonal produce—perhaps picking up fresh tomatoes for your pasta, or a head of lettuce to make a fresh, local salad. After indulging in these local treats, your chef guide will help you select the best ingredients for your upcoming cooking class, giving you a firsthand look at how Florentines shop for their meals.
A Hands-On Tuscan Experience
After your market visit, you’ll head to the renowned Teatro del Sale, a cultural association and restaurant in Florence’s historic center. where you will find a fully equipped kitchen, where the real culinary magic happens. Under the guidance of your local chef, you’ll have the chance to create traditional Tuscan dishes, such as fettuccine (a type of flat pasta made with eggs and flour, often served with rich sauces) and ravioli, the beloved stuffed pasta filled with a variety of seasonal ingredients. For dessert, you’ll craft a classic tiramisù, layering coffee-soaked ladyfingers with a luscious mascarpone cream. As you cook, your chef will explain the history and significance of each dish. When your hard work is done, you’ll sit down to enjoy the fruits of your labor: a three-course meal that includes bruschetta with fresh toppings, your handmade pasta dish, and the delicious local dessert you just prepared. Throughout the meal, you’ll pair your dishes with two glasses of fine local wine, completing your authentic Tuscan experience.
What you get with this tour
Frequently Asked Questions
Where to meet?
The meeting point for this tour is at Via Panicale 43r, Florence. Your tour will end at Teatro del Sale, after your meal.
What to bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as you will walk through the market and the cooking class location. You may also want to bring a water bottle and a camera to capture the memories!
Is this tour run by The Tour Guy?
This tour is operated by one of our trusted and vetted partners in Florence.
Is there any chance my tour might be canceled?
On rare occasions, the tour might be canceled. We will inform you as soon as possible and work together to reschedule or offer a refund.
What if I have concerns about my mobility on this tour?
If you have mobility concerns, we recommend reaching out to us in advance so we can accommodate your needs. The market tour involves walking, so it’s important to ensure it’s suitable for your comfort.
What happens if it rains?
This tour operates rain or shine. If the weather conditions are particularly severe, we will make necessary adjustments to the itinerary and inform you accordingly.
How many glasses of wine will I get?
You will enjoy two glasses of local wine during the tour.
What if I don’t drink alcohol but I’d still like to join the tour?
Not a problem. Please let us know in advance and we will provide an alternative drink option for you.
Can I bring my kids and do I have to pay for them?
Children of all ages are welcome on this tour. For children under 3 who will not be eating the food, you will not need to pay. Please choose accordingly during the booking.
Does this tour include hotel pickup?
No, hotel pickup is not included. Please meet your guide at the designated meeting point in Florence.
Where does this tour end?
The tour ends at Via Panicale 43r, the same location where the tour began. Feel free to continue exploring Florence at your leisure.
What if I have food allergies, intolerances, or other dietary requirements?
Please inform us in advance, and we will do our best to accommodate your dietary needs by offering alternatives when possible.
What if the Market is closed?
Please note that when the Sant’Ambrogio Market is closed (on Sundays and bank holidays), a special introduction and extra tastings at the cooking class location will substitute the visit to the market.
Is lunch included in the tour?
Yes, lunch is included! You will enjoy a 3-course meal, featuring the dishes you’ve prepared during the class, including pasta, bruschetta, and a local dessert, along with two glasses of wine.
What’s on the menu?
The menu of our Florence Cooking class varies slightly according to the season but will generally include bruschetta, hand-made pasta, pasta sauce, and tiramisù. Depending on the season, the dishes may change, but always with authentic Tuscan flavors!
You may also like
Skip the Line
Florence in a Day Combo Tour with David and Uffizi
Explore Accademia Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, Florence Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, and so much more
Day Trip
Tuscany Wine Tour from Florence to Siena & Chianti
Enjoy a luxury Tuscany day trip to visit Siena and San Gimignano then taste food and wine in Chianti
Guided Tour
Florence Evening Food Tour with Florentine Steak and Tuscan Wine
Indulge in 14 authentic tastings across 5 local restaurants for the ultimate Florentine food journey
Skip the Line
Statue of David Evening Tour
Skip the line to see Michelangelo's David on a later tour of the Accademia Gallery with fewer crowds
Skip the Line
Florence Walking Tour with Statue of David
Uncover the best of Florence at the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio, and skip the line at Accademia
Skip the Line
Uffizi Private Tour in Florence
Skip the line to see Birth of Venus, Medusa, Doni Tondo, and more with your own private art guide
Skip the Line
Skip the Line Uffizi Gallery Tour
See Botticelli, Caravaggio, and Michelangelo's masterpieces in Florence's famous Uffizi Gallery
New Tour
Tuscany Wineland Safari from Florence
Get off the beaten track across vineyards, castles and Chianti wine and chees on this 4x4 experience
Accademia's David and Uffizi Half-Day Skip the Line Tour
Explore Florence's must-see masterpieces including the Duomo in a small group
Skip the Line
Complete Florence Duomo Tour with Dome Climb
View this charming city from the hidden terraces of Brunelleschi’s dome after touring the cathedral
Pisa & Cinque Terre Day Trip From Florence
Explore the charming towns of Monterosso and Manarola, embark on a coastal hike, and tour Pisa
New Tour
Tuscany in a Day Tour from Florence
Visit Siena, dine at a Chianti vineyard, explore San Gimignano, and see the Leaning Tower of Pisa!
New tour
Pisa and The Leaning Tower Half Day Tour from Florence
Explore the City famous for its Piazza dei Miracoli and enjoy skip-the-line access with this tour
New Tour
Pizza and Gelato Making Cooking Class in Florence
Create the authentic food of Italy with an expert pizzaiolo chef, homemade lunch, and wine
New Tour
Florentine Gondola Boat Tour
Sip wine on the Arno River and cruise by Ponte Vecchio, Uffizi, and more on a classic Barchetto boat
Florence Duomo Skip-the-Line Tour with Dome Climb
Explore the breathtaking cathedral and take in captivating views from Brunelleschi’s Cupola!
New Tour
Pasta Cooking Class and Gourmet Wine Pairing in Florence
Create authentic pasta with a Michelin-star chef and savor Tuscan wines guided by a master sommelier
New Tour
Cinque Terre Tour with Locally Produced Limoncino Tasting from La Spezia
Explore the Beaches and Picturesque Peaks in a Small Group
New Tour
Tuscany Wine Tour by Vespa from Florence
Taste the food and wine of Chianti as you ride through the Tuscan countryside on a vintage scooter
New Tour
Cinque Terre Hiking Tour from La Spezia
Walk clifftop trails to discover vineyards, epic views, and famous villages on Italy's magical coast
New Tour
Semi-Private Cinque Terre Day Trip & Vineyard Tour from Florence
Discover the best of Cinque Terre with seafood lunch, wine tasting, and transportation included
New Tour
Authentic Tuscan Cooking Class in Florence with San Lorenzo Market
Create delicious pasta, tiramisu, and more with market-fresh ingredients and an expert local chef
New Tour
Pisa and Lucca Day Trip from Florence
Book a stress-free trip to see the Leaning Tower of Pisa and Lucca's medieval walls in a day
New Tour
Florence in a Half Day by Bike Tour
Take a ride through the city's hidden gems from Ponte Vecchio to the Oltrarno neighborhood
New Tour
Cinque Terre Day Trip from Florence with Boat Ride
Visit these iconic fishing villages the easy way on this tour to the beautiful Italian Riviera
Skip the Line
Kid-Friendly Private Florence Walking Tour: David & Gelato
Bring the fun to Florence on this family walking tour that includes a merry-go-round and papermaking
Skip the Line
Florence Private Walking Tour with Michelangelo's David
Explore the famous sites of Florence, with Ponte Vecchio, Duomo, and skip-the-line Accademia entry
Private Tour
Private Wine Day in the Chianti Hills from Florence
Enjoy an intimate day trip tasting wine and organic food from local farms and vineyards in Tuscany
Private Tour
Private Pisa Day Trip from Florence with Lunch in Vinci
Discover Tuscany on this VIP private tour, with Leaning Tower of Pisa, Da Vinci Museum, and more!
Private Tour
Orvieto, Civita di Bagnoregio & Winery Private Day Trip from Rome
Escape the city on a memorable journey through Umbria’s historic towns to taste fine local wines
Private Tour
Livorno Shore Excursion: Florence & Pisa
Maximize your day ashore on this jam-packed private tour with Leaning Tower, David, and more!
Private Tour
Tuscany Shore Excursion: Chianti Wine Country and San Gimignano
A Chianti Wine Tasting Excursion
Skip the Line
Private Siena Walking Tour
Explore this charming Tuscan city with an engaging local guide to see the Duomo, San Domenico & more
Brunello di Montalcino Helicopter Tour from Rome or Florence
Soar above Tuscany on an exclusive VIP tour, complete with private wine tastings and a gourmet lunch
New tour
Authentic 4-Course Meal at a Local’s Home in Florence
Watch your host’s cooking demo from her own kitchen, then enjoy a family lunch or dinner together!
New Tour
Tuscan Countryside Vespa Tour from Florence
Cruise to the rolling hills of Tuscany and taste local food and wine!
E-Bike Tour Through Florence and Tuscan Countryside
Ride along Tuscany’s majestic rolling hills, visit a medieval village, and sample local delicacies!
Chianti Vineyards 3-Course Dinner with Transportation from Florence
Escape to Tuscany for an evening of wine tastings, savoring 4 exquisite wines and local cuisine
New Tour
Florence Duomo Skip-the-Line Tour
Explore the iconic cathedral with an expert guide and visit the fascinating Misericordia Museum
New Tour
Florence Accademia Gallery Express Guided Tour
Skip the line, marvel at renowned masterpieces and see Michelangelo’s iconic David statue!
New Tour
Tuscany Winery Tour and Gourmet Bites in Montalcino
Pair irresistible wine with delicious gourmet bites after strolling through picturesque vineyards
Val d’Orcia Day Trip with Two Wine Tastings from Florence
Sip on Brunello in Montalcino, wander through Pienza, and savor pecorino cheese in Montelpuciano
New Tour
Brunello di Montalcino Winery Tour & Tasting
Sip wine and stroll through vineyards alongside an expert guide in the hills of Montalcino
New Tour
Exclusive Florence Duomo and Secret Terraces Tour
Discover Florence's Duomo with our small group, skip the line tour with hidden terrace access
500 tour from Florence
Private Vintage FIAT 500 Chianti Tour with Driver from Florence
Cruise through the hills of Tuscany in style and dine at a Tuscan villa on this exclusive experience
Palazzo Vecchio Small Group Skip the Line Guided Tour
Roam through the lavish apartments and halls that were home to the iconic Medici family in Florence
New Tour
Skip the Line Duomo Terraces Tour with Dome Climb
Admire the Florence Cathedral, climb to the top of Brunelleschi’s Dome, and enjoy breathtaking views
Three-Day Chianti Vineyard Wine & Spa Getaway
Rejuvenate at the rustic Borgo Casa al Vento while learning the secrets of Tuscan wine and cuisine
New Tour
Early Morning Duomo Tour with Exclusive Entry and Brunelleschi's Dome
Be among the first of the day to enter Florence cathedral on this VIP experience
New Tour
San Lorenzo Market Tour and Wine Tasting in Florence
Eat your way through Florence’s historic market, enjoy a wine tasting, and try real Italian gelato!
New Tour
Pizza and Gelato Cooking Class in a Tuscany Farmhouse in Florence
Pick fresh ingredients and learn to make authentic, Italian cuisine on an unforgettable day trip!
New Tour
Oltrarno Local Food Tour in Florence
Take a break from the crowds and eat like a local in the lively neighborhood of Oltrarno
New Tour
Chianti Vineyards Tour and Wine Tastings from Florence
See two luxurious wine estates, taste local wine, and sample delicious produce on this half day tour
Vintage FIAT 500 Tour from Florence
Vintage FIAT 500 Self-Drive Tuscany Tour from Florence
Get behind the wheel of an iconic Italian car, cruising to the Tuscan countryside
New Tour
Tuscany Day Trip from Rome with Vineyard Lunch and Wine Tasting
Wander through the medieval towns of Montepulciano and Pienza and enjoy a 3-course meal!
