Florentine Catherine di Medici is credited with bringing culinary art to France

when she married Henry II in the 16th century, but in its truest expression Florentine cuisine

is all about sophisticated simplicity. The art of choosing the best seasonal ingredients,

and preparing them perfectly is what the great chefs and home cooks have been doing for centuries.

Take some time to explore and cooking with a modern day Florentine who loves to share her passion with fellow foodies. Mariangela owns and operates a charming bed and breakfast in the heart of the Santa Croce district. She will be your hostess, taking you to the local market, teaching you how to prepare fresh pasta and other recipes passed down through her family. You will also have the opportunity to explore the town with our licensed guide, seeing the “must see” sights but also some places that only the locals know about.

Day One

Arrival in Florence on your own. Check in to your charming bed and breakfast, located on a quiet street in the historic city.

This evening, join Mariangela for a visit to her favorite wine cellar for a guided tasting with an expert sommelier of four Italian wines, accompanied by artisan cheese. A great way to start the evening!

Day Two

Enjoy breakfast on the flowered terrace. Tuscan bread with home-made organic jams; cakes and doughnuts baked at home, salami and cheeses; “bruschetta” with tomatoes in Spring and “pandiramerino” , a soft sweet typical bread with sultanas and rosemary. Among the beverages, a big selection of teas, real Italian coffee, fresh milk, freshly made orange juice and yogurts. Enough to sustain you on your walking tour of Florence !

You will meet with a licensed, English speaking guide for a walking tour of Florence, exploring Santa Croce square, Piazza Signoria, Ponte Vecchio, Dante’s medieval district, Duomo square and cathedral, San Lorenzo square and also, the Uffizzi.

Your hostess will be happy to provide suggestions for local restaurants that you should try.

Day Three

After breakfast, you will go with Mariangela to the food market to buy ingredients for today’s cooking lesson.

Back at the bed and breakfast; enjoy a hands-on cooking class preparing a classic menu, including starters and dessert.

Lunch with wine follows the lesson. (Vegetarian menus available upon request).

Day Four

Check out and departure.