Cooking & Roots in Italian Home

Behind every cooking class lies a family story — traditions passed down from mom and grandma, simple and genuine recipes, aromas that tell the true Italian life. Gaia's Cooking Lab is a family business where every guest feels at home, turning food into a meeting of cultures and smiles.

Why Chose Cooking & Roots in Italian Home ?

Born from the authentic passion of a 25-year-old entrepreneur who entered the world of tourism almost by chance, discovering how natural it was to welcome people from all over the world and share her roots with them. Behind every cooking class lies a family story — traditions passed down from mom and grandma, simple and genuine recipes, aromas that tell the true Italian life, where every guest feels at home and food becomes a meeting of cultures and smiles. Alongside cooking classes, the experience extends to the discovery of local traditions, such as olive oil tours and local excellence, guiding visitors on an authentic journey through flavors, landscapes and stories. Every experience is born with the goal of sharing the simplicity and richness of our land, celebrating rural culture and a deep bond with the territory. Not just learning to cook, but living the truest Italy — made of hospitality, passion and human connection.
5.0
Based on 10 reviews
Abby Dempsey
1 week ago
We had such a wonderful time in our cooking class with Gaia! The experience felt very intimate, which made it extra special. She was incredibly kind, patient, and helpful throughout the entire class. We learned so much, laughed a lot, and truly had a blast!
Shari Laffredi
2 months ago
Booking a cooking experience with Gaia was one of the best decisions I made while in Cortona! Being in her home, in her kitchen, laughing and chatting while cooking was like being with family and friends. The atmosphere was warm and cozy, and Gaia was a great instructor - very patient with an inexperienced cook like me. To top it off, the food was absolutely delicious. I recommend Gaia’s Cooking Lab one thousand percent!!!
Tim Laffredi
2 months ago
This was such a fun, cozy, wonderful experience. Gaia and her family welcomed us into their beautiful home with open arms. Not only do you learn how to cook classic Italian food (while drinking some delicious local wine), but Gaia’s Cooking Lab also lets you feel like you are a member of the family. If you’re in Tuscany and are looking for more of an intimate, cozy, and personal experience where you can learn something to impress your friends at home, make sure you book Gaia’s Cooking Lab. It was one of the best parts of our trip!
Tessa Breimer
8 months ago
Volete assaporare la cucina italiana in un'atmosfera familiare? Allora andate da Gaia! L'atmosfera è molto rilassata e accogliente, perfetta per i bambini, e il fatto che Gaia parli un buon inglese è un vero piacere!
Paul Lehman
11 months ago
What a wonderful time! Gaia was so kind and patient with our very, very limited Italian. We highly recommend. And, oh yeah, the food was outstanding!!
Alessia Scarchini
11 months ago
Serena Presenti
11 months ago
An unforgettable cooking class, between authentic flavors and sweet encounters!

Last week I took part in a truly special cooking class and I was thrilled! The experience was much more than a simple cooking lesson: it was a real dive into nature and authenticity.
We cooked delicious dishes, but one aspect that made everything even more beautiful were the people who led the activity: very sweet, prepared and incredibly friendly. From the first moment they made me feel welcomed and at ease, with a contagious passion for cooking and sincere attention to each participant. It is clear that they love what they do, and their enthusiasm made everything more engaging.
It was a relaxing, authentic experience full of simple emotions. I had a great time and I recommend it to anyone who wants to disconnect from the routine and rediscover the pleasure of cooking and contact with nature.
Sara Speranza
11 months ago
guia bennati
11 months ago
Romina Cavalchini
11 months ago

85 €/person

2+ People

5 Stars

3 H | 5 to 8 pm

Experience the art of making real Italian pizza in a warm, family atmosphere in the heart of Tuscany. During this cooking class you will learn to prepare the dough from scratch, stretch it like a true pizzaiolo and top it with fresh, local ingredients before baking it to perfection.

Every step is guided with care and passion, sharing the secrets and traditions behind one of Italy’s most beloved dishes. The experience is hands-on, relaxed and fun — perfect for families, couples and groups of friends. At the end, everyone sits together at the table to enjoy their own handmade pizza, paired with good wine and the warm Tuscan hospitality.

The class includes preparation and a following dinner with:
● Handmade pizza with traditional toppings (margherita, salami, spicy, tomato and oregano, onion)
● Tiramisù

Please note:
Wine is not included in this experience and comes at an extra cost
1 bottle of Petit Manseng and Viogner white wine € 10
1 bottle of Sangiovese red wine € 15

Duration: 3 hours – Time: 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm | Maximum 8 people


What we include

Mineral Water

Infant:

  • for ages under 5: Free

Not included

Children & Teenagers:

  • Between 5 and 18 yo: 50 € per person

Location

C.S. San Lorenzo
52044 Cortona – Tuscany

Gps Coordinate:
43.226970, 11.957997

Time

Only 1 Slot a day
Time: 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Meeting Point

90 €/person

2+ People

5 Stars

3 H | 5 to 8 pm

Discover the tradition of homemade pasta in a warm, family atmosphere in the heart of Tuscany. During this hands-on experience you will learn to prepare fresh pasta from scratch using simple ingredients and traditional techniques passed down through generations.

You will roll, cut and shape your pasta with care, guided step by step through the secrets of a true Italian kitchen. The atmosphere is relaxed and convivial, perfect for those who want to slow down and connect with the real flavors of Italian home cooking. At the end, everyone sits together at the table to enjoy the pasta they made, sharing stories, laughter and the genuine warmth of Tuscan hospitality.

The class includes preparation and a following dinner with:
● Homemade Gnocchi with Tuscan ragù
● Homemade Pici all’ Aglione
● Traditional Tiramisù

Please note:
Wine is not included in this experience and comes at an extra cost
1 bottle of Petit Manseng and Viogner white wine € 10
1 bottle of Sangiovese red wine € 15

Duration: 3 hours – Time: 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm | Maximum 8 people


What we include

Mineral Water

Infant:

  • for ages under 5: Free

Not included

Children & Teenagers:

  • Between 5 and 18 yo: 50 € per person

Location

C.S. San Lorenzo
52044 Cortona – Tuscany

Gps Coordinate:
43.226970, 11.957997

Time

Only 1 Slot a day
Time: 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Meeting Point

85 €/person

2+ People

5 Stars

3 H | 5 to 8 pm

Taste the true comfort food of Tuscany in a warm, family atmosphere. During this cooking class you will prepare traditional dishes such as pappa al pomodoro, classic Tuscan fried specialties and homemade tiramisù. Genuine ingredients, time-honored recipes and a convivial atmosphere will make you feel like part of a real Italian family.

You will cook together, share stories and discover the simple secrets behind some of Tuscany’s most beloved dishes. At the end, everyone sits together at the table to enjoy a meal that is simple, authentic and full of flavor — a true taste of Italian home cooking.

The class includes preparation and a following dinner with:
● Pappa al pomodoro
● Typical Tuscan mixed fried foods (fried sage, fried courgette flowers, fried meat, fried vegetables)
● Tiramisù

Please note:
Wine is not included in this experience and comes at an extra cost
1 bottle of Petit Manseng and Viogner white wine € 10
1 bottle of Sangiovese red wine € 15

Duration: 3 hours – Time: 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm | Maximum 8 people


What we include

Mineral Water

Infant:

  • for ages under 5: Free

Not included

Children & Teenagers:

  • Between 5 and 18 yo: 50 € per person

Location

C.S. San Lorenzo
52044 Cortona – Tuscany

Gps Coordinate:
43.226970, 11.957997

Time

Only 1 Slot a day
Time: 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Meeting Point

Loading the best rate…

100%

Popular Questions

The experience includes a hands-on traditional Tuscan cooking class inside the winery, a guided tour of the estate and cellar, and an exclusive dinner. During the dinner, each dish you have prepared will be paired with selected wines for a complete food-and-wine experience.

All dietary requirements are accommodated

Yes, the cooking class is designed as an intimate, private experience, ideal for couples, families, and groups of friends. It is perfect for celebrations, small events, or simply sharing unforgettable moments together under the Tuscan sun.

After booking the Service, the cancellation policy is as follows:

100% REFUND OF THE SERVICE FEE
0% penalty for cancellations made up to 46 days before the scheduled date.
5% Reservation Fee – WILL NOT BE REFUNDED
(online collection and booking management fee)

50% REFUND OF THE SERVICE FEE
50% penalty for cancellations made up to 45 days before the scheduled date.

NO REFUND
100% penalty for cancellations made less than 15 days before the scheduled date.

Still have questions? Contact us

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Other Types Of Experiences


Cooking & Wine among the hills

Join a cooking class at a beautiful winery in Cortona to immerse yourself in authentic Tuscan flavors. Learn to make dishes like hand-crafted gnocchi or pici and Tiramisu, enjoy a winery tour, and conclude with an exclusive dinner paired with selected wines, all in a warm, intimate setting.

Why Chose Cooking & Wine among the hills ?

Choosing a cooking class experience at a wonderful winery in Cortona immerses you in the authentic flavors of Tuscany, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
This collaboration between the popular Winery and culinary experts promises an unforgettable culinary adventure born from a passion for the land. In this traditional Tuscan cooking class, you’ll learn to prepare classic dishes like hand-crafted gnocchi or pici with your choice of traditional ragù or a delightful vegetarian sauce, along with the famous Italian dessert, Tiramisu.
This hands-on experience is complemented by a guided tour of the beautiful winery, where you’ll explore the cultural heritage that influences local cuisine. The evening concludes with an exclusive dinner featuring the dishes you’ve prepared, each perfectly paired with selected wines from the estate. In this intimate setting, under the warmth of the Tuscan sun, you’ll share special moments with friends and family. Embrace the essence of Tuscany through its exquisite food and wine, making this cooking class a truly memorable experience.

5.0
Based on 22 reviews
Lauren Samuels
3 weeks ago
My husband and I had such a lovely time touring the grounds and learning about this beautiful family run winery. Such a private unique and cute experience. We had a private tasting with some fantastic wines (we took home a few bottles!) and some delicious local produce. Thank you!!
Response from the owner:Thank you Lauren, for your visit! It was a pleasure have you here!
Celia Griffiths
7 months ago
OMGosh! Great family own small winery! Eliza was a perfect hostess to our tour! Very knowledgeable, personable! Great tasting wine, also have olive oil that is topnotch!!! If you are in the Cortona area, its worth the short trip!!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words, it was a pleasure hosting you!
Eamon Olwell
8 months ago
Lovely afternoon at a charming family winery. Enjoyed the Cabernet Sauvignon, and highly recommend the tasting experience.
Response from the owner:Thank you for visiting and have a wonderful holiday in Tuscany!!
Best,
Elisa
Hoffy Heffer
8 months ago
Wir hatten eine schöne kleine Tour durch die Produktion und eine Verkostung. Das ganze wurde super freundlich von Elisa geführt. Kann man wirklich nur empfehlen.
Response from the owner:Hallo Hoffy, it was a pleasure to welcome you to our winery and meet your sweet dog!
Best,
Elisa
David Turkstra
8 months ago
Super cute! Very nice and intimate. The lady that helped us (I believe one of the owners) spoke good English and was very personable.
Highly recommend to anyone in the area
Response from the owner:Hi David, thank you for your visit, it was a pleasure!
Sarah Kirkhope
8 months ago
Fabulous winery! Elisa was lovely and very informative! The cab sav was amazing. Highly recommend!
Response from the owner:Hi Sarah, Thank you for your visit, it was a pleasure!
Kelly Castleberry
11 months ago
My family had a wonderful time at Iviti for our wine tasting. Gaia was an awesome hostess and the food and wines were great! Looking forward to receiving our shipment when we get home! Ciao!
Response from the owner:Thank you so much! It was a pleasure having you and your family with us! See you soon!
Greg Brown
12 months ago
We had a great experience at the Iviti Winery. We took a tour of the winery and had the wine tasting. It was very informative and relaxing. We loved it. It’s a small winery and that adds to its charm.we highly recommend this winer.
Response from the owner:Ciao Greg, thank you so much for your visit, it was a real pleasure to have you with us! See you soon!
Pieter Baldee
2 years ago
We waren met zijn tweeën en kregen een privé wijnproeverij. Alles werd perfect uitgelegd door de vrouw van de eigenaar. We kregen 3 wijnen voorgeschoteld met bruschetta met zelfgemaakte olijfolie.
Een groot pluspunt was dat we na het proeven even de tijd kregen om samen nog even wat extra te proeven, na te praten en wijn te bestellen.
Je ziet bij dit bedrijf dat er veel liefde in wordt gestoken en alle aandacht naar de gasten gaat. Ik zou het iedereen aanraden die behoefte heeft aan een persoonlijke uitleg.
Response from the owner:Ciao Pieter, grazie mille della tua gentile recensione, è stato un piacere avervi nella nostra azienda! Grazie! A presto!
Kevin Hoover
2 years ago

*85 €/person

1,2,3,*4+ People

5 Stars

3 H | 5 to 8 pm

Discover the essence of Tuscany with our exclusive cooking class experience, born from a shared love for the land, in collaboration with a family winery and a special Cooking Lab. Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, this unique class offers an authentic culinary adventure in Cortona, surrounded by stunning landscapes. Immerse yourself in the rich flavors of this region by learning to craft traditional Tuscan dishes.

The cooking class includes the preparation of:
•⁠ ⁠Hand-made gnocchi or pici with a choice of traditional ragù or a delightful vegetarian sauce
•⁠ ⁠Traditional Tiramisu

Your culinary journey begins with a warm, welcoming atmosphere ideal for creating lasting memories with friends and family under the golden Tuscan sun. After the hands-on cooking session, enjoy a guided tour of the wine estate, where you’ll delve into the cultural heritage that shapes local cuisine.

Finish the day with an exclusive dinner, savoring the very dishes you’ve prepared, all expertly paired with selected wines from the estate.

Duration: 3 hours – Time: 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm | Maximum 12 people

PAIRING WINE:

IGT Tuscan White:


SOIL TYPE: Clay-sandy
ALTITUDE: 310 mt s.l.m.
EXPOSURE: South-east
VINEYARD SURFACE: 0,2 Ha
VINE GROWING SYSTEM: Guyot
VINEYARD PLANTING: 2008 and 2014
HARVEST PERIOD: September by hand-picked grapes in small boxes
WINEMAKING: Pressing grapes and fermentation in steel tank
AGING: In steel tank with fine lees, in bottle for about 3 months before marketing
ORGANOLEPTIC EXAM:
Visual: Straw yellow with golden reflections
Olfactory: Intense, frech yellow flowers white and yellow pulp fruit, apricot and peach, mineral notes
Taste: Fresh, full-bodied with a pleasant and mineral finish
Pairing: Rice, fish and white meats

Cabernet Sauvignon:


SOIL TYPE: Clay-sandy
ALTITUDE: 310 mt s.l.m.
EXPOSURE: South-east
VINEYARD SURFACE: 2Ha
VINE GROWING SYSTEM: Cordon spur
VINEYARD PLANTING:2008
HARVEST PERIOD: From late September to mid-October with hand-picked grapes in small boxes
WINEMAKING: Destemming, soft pressing and fermentation in temperature-controlled steel tanks
AGING: French oak barriques, in bottle for about 12 months before marketing
ORGANOLEPTIC EXAM:
Visual: intense ruby red color, Lively
Olfactory: Intense, elegant, complex, red and black fruit, blueberry, blackberry, wild strawberry, dried red flowers, green pepper, nutmeg and vanilla
Taste: Fresh, intense, full, broad, full-bodied, persistent with fine tannins and enveloping finish
Pairing: Tuscan ragù pasta, grilled meat, pecorino cheese and Tuscan cold cuts

Syrah “S90”:


SOIL TYPE: Clay-sandy
ALTITUDE: 310 mt s.l.m.
EXPOSURE: South-east
VINE GROWING SYSTEM: Cordon spur
VINEYARD PLANTING: 2005
HARVEST PERIOD: September with hand-picked grapes in small boxes
WINEMAKING: Destemming, soft pressing and fermentation in temperature-controlled steel tanks
AGING: In steel tanksand and in bottle for about 3 months before marketing
ORGANOLEPTIC EXAM:
Visual: intense, lively purple red color with violet reflections
Olfactory: Intense, elegant, complex, fresh red and black fruit, blueberry, blackberry, wild strawberry, red flowers, black pepper
Taste: Fresh, intense, full, full-bodied, persistent with fine tannins and an enveloping finish
Pairing: Cold cuts and cheeses, pasta with meat sauce, red meat main courses

IGT Toscano Cabernet Franc:


SOIL TYPE: Clay-sandy
ALTITUDE: 310 mt s.l.m.
EXPOSURE: South-east
VINEYARD SURFACE: 2Ha
VINE GROWING SYSTEM: Cordon spur
VINEYARD PLANTING: 2008
HARVEST PERIOD: October with hand-picked grapes in small boxes
WINEMAKING: Destemming, fermentation in barriques
AGING: French oak barriques, in bottle for about 12 months before marketing
ORGANOLEPTIC EXAM:
Visual: Intense ruby red with violet hues
Olfactory: Intense, ample, small berries, currants, blueberries and raspberries, closes on cherries in alcohol, blood orange, violet petals, bell pepper, coffee powder and graphite
Taste: Large and persistent sip that denotes great body and harmony
Pairing: Pappardelle with hare ragout, grilled Chianina, wild boar in strong sweet

IGT Toscano Late Harvest:


SOIL TYPE: Clay-sandy
ALTITUDE: 310 mt s.l.m.
EXPOSURE: South-east
VINEYARD SURFACE: 0,2Ha
VINE GROWING SYSTEM: Guyot
VINEYARD PLANTING: 2008 and 2014
VARIETY: 100% Grechetto
HARVEST PERIOD: Early November by hand harvesting and selection of the grapes
WINEMAKING: Pressing grapes and spontaneous cold decantation, fermentation in barrique
AGING: French oak barriques, in bottle for about 3 months before marketing
ORGANOLEPTIC EXAM:
Visual: Lively golden yellow color
Olfactory: Intense, complex, elegant. Apricot, peach and pineapple candied fruit, dehydrated lemon; yellow flowers, freesia, nutmeg, cinnamon, white pepper, acacia honey.
Taste: soft and fresh taste, good acidity that well compensates for the light pre-existing sugar residue.
Pairing: aged cheeses, dry pastries, fruit tart.


What we include

5 Glasses of selected wines

Paired with a cooking class result + bruschetta, cold cuts and cheeses

Infant:

  • for ages under 5: Free

Not included

Children & Teenagers:

  • Between 5 and 18 yo: 50 € per person

Location

C.A. Centoia 68
52044 Cortona – Tuscany

Gps Coordinate:
43.193919, 11.934141

Time

Only 1 Slot a day
Time: 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Meeting Point

Loading the best rate…

100%

Popular Questions

The experience includes a hands-on traditional Tuscan cooking class inside the winery, a guided tour of the estate and cellar, and an exclusive dinner. During the dinner, each dish you have prepared will be paired with selected wines for a complete food-and-wine experience.

You will prepare handmade Tuscan gnocchi, served either with a traditional meat ragù or a vegetarian sauce of your choice, and a classic tiramisù. The chef will guide you step by step, so the class is suitable for both beginners and experienced home cooks.

Yes, the cooking class is designed as an intimate, private experience, ideal for couples, families, and groups of friends. It is perfect for celebrations, small events, or simply sharing unforgettable moments together under the Tuscan sun.

After booking the Service, the cancellation policy is as follows:

100% REFUND OF THE SERVICE FEE
0% penalty for cancellations made up to 46 days before the scheduled date.
5% Reservation Fee – WILL NOT BE REFUNDED
(online collection and booking management fee)

50% REFUND OF THE SERVICE FEE
50% penalty for cancellations made up to 45 days before the scheduled date.

NO REFUND
100% penalty for cancellations made less than 15 days before the scheduled date.

Still have questions? Contact us

Name

Book Online is Easy

1

Choose which experience you like best


2

Check prices and available days


3

Confirm your booking, that’s all!

xr:d:DAF8aQeHxbc:8,j:4305859512569507152,t:24021017

Other Types Of Experiences


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Savoring Tuscany: The Ultimate Cooking Class Experience

Tuscany, the heart of Italy, is a treasure trove of art, history, and stunning landscapes. Its unforgettable culinary heritage, steeped in tradition and flavor, offers food lovers and aspiring chefs a chance to take a cooking class. This transformative experience immerses you in the essence of Italian culture, making every moment unforgettable.

Read more “Savoring Tuscany: The Ultimate Cooking Class Experience”