Extra Virgin Cooking Classes / Countryside Mill location

Guests seeking an authentic taste of Tuscany will find the Extra Virgin Cooking Class in Lucca a truly rewarding experience. Priced at $191.87 per person, this 5-hour guided tour combines shopping for fresh ingredients, cooking in a historic olive mill, and enjoying a four-course lunch paired with regional wines. The tour departs from Piazza Antonio Gramsci in Montecatini Terme at 9:00 am and is ideal for those who appreciate hands-on culinary experiences, regional culture, and small-group intimacy. With a consistently high rating of 5.0 out of 5 from 141 reviews, this class earns 99% recommendation and is booked, on average, 83 days in advance.

While this experience is suitable for all ages and skill levels, it emphasizes local ingredients, traditional techniques, and regional flavors. The setting—an 18th-century palace and the countryside olive press—creates a charming backdrop that elevates the cooking journey. Guests should be prepared for an immersive day that balances market visits, cooking, tasting, and exploration of Lucca’s heritage town after the class.

Key Points

• Authentic Tuscan cuisine with a focus on regional ingredients and techniques.
• Hands-on cooking of a 4-course meal, led by charismatic chef Giuseppe.
• Market shopping experience with tastings of honey, cheeses, and extra virgin olive oil.
• Paired with regional wines and local delicacies in a historic setting.
• Small-group tour with a maximum of 12 travelers for personalized attention.
• Includes a recipe booklet and certificate of achievement to recreate dishes at home.

The Historic Olive Mill Setting in Lucca

The cooking class takes place in Chef Giuseppe’s ancestral home, a beautifully restored 18th-century palace with a scenic countryside backdrop. The venue is located just 10 minutes by car from Montecatini and offers a warm, country-style atmosphere with hearthside cooking, a pizza oven, and views of a babbling brook and a 12th-century stone bridge. The location’s charm is highlighted by its authenticity, blending history with culinary tradition.

This setting has been praised for its beautiful and clean environment, providing an ideal spot for a relaxed and immersive cooking experience. The small group size ensures that each participant receives personalized guidance from Chef Giuseppe, known for his charisma and professionalism.

Market Tour and Ingredient Selection

The adventure begins with a visit to Lucca’s weekly market, where Chef Giuseppe picks fresh vegetables and local products, including cheeses, honey, and olive oil. The market tour is a highlight, as it provides an authentic taste of local produce and allows for sampling regional delicacies. Participants learn about the sustainable ingredients that define Tuscan cuisine and get tips on selecting quality produce.

This part of the experience is praised for its informative and engaging nature, with Chef Giuseppe sharing stories and explaining the significance of each ingredient. It is an excellent opportunity to see local food culture firsthand before heading to the mill to start cooking.

Cooking in a Countryside Olive Press

The core of the experience happens at the Olive Oil Mill, where the group helps prepare a four-course meal in a hearthside kitchen. The menu typically includes an appetizer, two main courses, and a dessert. Guests actively participate in helping to prepare each dish, from chopping vegetables to assembling pasta, under Giuseppe’s guidance.

The setting is especially notable for its rustic charm, with a pizza oven, hearth, and the sounds of wildlife in the background. The space evokes a genuine Tuscan atmosphere that enhances the cooking process. According to reviews, the quality of the food prepared is exceptional, often described as some of the best eaten in years.

Tasting and Wine Pairing

Back at the palatial kitchen, guests enjoy their freshly prepared dishes paired with local regional wines and bottled water. The experience includes a tasting of olive oil, honey, and cheese, which are sampled during the class, adding depth and context to the flavors. The pairing of food and wine is well-regarded, with Giuseppe sharing tips for recreating the pairings at home.

The lunch itself is described as delicious and generous, with many reviews mentioning that the food exceeds expectations. Guests leave with a recipe booklet and a certificate, allowing them to reproduce their favorite dishes later.

Chef Giuseppe’s Expertise and Personal Style

Chef Giuseppe is often described as charismatic, welcoming, and knowledgeable. His storytelling and professional instruction contribute significantly to the positive atmosphere. Guests appreciate how Giuseppe makes the class interactive, allowing everyone to participate, and how he shares tips and techniques that are useful beyond the class.

He is also known for being humble and personable, creating a warm environment where guests feel comfortable asking questions and trying new things. Many reviews emphasize his passion for Italian cuisine and his generous hospitality.

Post-Class Exploration of Lucca

After the cooking session, guests are encouraged to explore Lucca’s heritage. The town is famous for its pastry shops, original wood funicular, and unique shopping spots. The historic town walls and picturesque streets offer plenty of opportunities for further sightseeing and local shopping, especially for those interested in souvenirs or regional foods.

The proximity of the train stop—about 30 minutes from Florence or Lucca—makes this experience convenient for travelers looking to combine cooking with cultural exploration.

Logistics and Group Size

The tour departs from Piazza Antonio Gramsci at 9:00 am and ends at the same location. The maximum group size is 12 travelers, ensuring an intimate and interactive experience. The tour is suitable for ages 16 and up, with no physical demands mentioned, making it accessible for most participants.

Included in the price are Prosecco, regional wines, bottled water, and Nespresso coffee, along with a recipe booklet, apron, and certificate. The tour is free to cancel up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for planning.

Uniqueness and Value for Money

This experience stands out for its authentic setting, personalized instruction, and the opportunity to learn from a passionate chef in a historic countryside location. Guests consistently praise the quality of the food, the friendly atmosphere, and the insight into Tuscan culinary traditions.

While some may note that some prep work is completed in advance, the overall hands-on participation and learning opportunities make this a worthwhile investment for food lovers and cultural explorers alike.

Extra Virgin Cooking Class in Lucca: A Genuine Taste of Tuscany

This 5-hour culinary journey offers more than just cooking; it provides an immersive experience into local ingredients, regional flavors, and Tuscan hospitality. The small-group setting and authentic venue make it especially appealing for those wanting a personalized and authentic experience.

Chef Giuseppe’s warmth and expertise shine through, making participants feel like welcomed friends rather than just travelers. The combination of market shopping, countryside cooking, and wine tasting creates a well-rounded day that leaves a lasting impression.

This tour is most suited for foodies, culture seekers, and those looking for a special activity in Lucca, whether celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in Italy’s culinary treasures.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of the tour?
The price covers market shopping and tastings, the hands-on cooking class, a four-course meal, regional wines, bottled water, Nespresso coffee, a recipe booklet, certificate of achievement, and an EVCC apron.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 5 hours, starting at 9:00 am and ending back at the meeting point.

Where does the tour take place?
The class is held in an 18th-century palace and olive mill near Lucca, with the meeting point in Montecatini Terme at Piazza Antonio Gramsci.

Is this experience suitable for children or teenagers?
The minimum age is 16 years, making it ideal for adults and older teenagers.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with full refunds available.

What makes this tour different from other cooking classes?
Its historic setting, market visit, and personalized attention by Chef Giuseppe create an authentic and intimate atmosphere that many reviews highlight as a key strength.

Is transportation provided?
No dedicated transport is included, but the meeting location is near public transportation options, and the short drive to the countryside mill is part of the experience.

What is the group size?
The class accommodates up to 12 travelers, ensuring a small and interactive group.

What should I wear?
Participants receive an apron and are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing suitable for hands-on cooking.

Will I get to taste the dishes I prepare?
Absolutely—guests enjoy their homemade dishes, paired with regional wines, at the conclusion of the class.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
The data does not specify, but as the class is hands-on and personalized, it’s best to inquire directly with the provider for specific needs.

This Extra Virgin Cooking Class in Lucca offers a comprehensive culinary immersion into Tuscany’s flavors, culture, and hospitality. Its authentic setting, expert guidance, and delicious food make it a memorable choice for anyone eager to learn Tuscan recipes and experience local life.