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Italy is a haven for ice cream lovers, and for those who can’t resist the allure of gelato, it’s truly a paradise. If you’re on a quest to find the most authentic and artisan gelato in Italy, you’re in for a treat!
As self-proclaimed food enthusiasts, my husband, John and I embarked on a six-week adventure in Italy, where gelato wasn’t just a dessert—a daily ritual, our sweet reward after long days of exploring. With each visit to a gelateria, we transformed into true gelato connoisseurs, assessing each scoop with the same fervour as wine aficionados swirl and sniff their vintages. Our mission is to separate the heavenly from the mediocre and to indulge in the decadent world of gelato, one tantalising flavour at a time!
With gelato shops lining the streets, each more inviting than the last, we dove headfirst into this icy paradise. Throughout our travels, we sampled nearly a hundred different flavours—each cone a new adventure, each bite a blissful reminder of why we love Italy. It wasn’t just about the taste of the gelato. It was the entire experience involved in the atmosphere and artistry that crafted each delectable scoop.
We are thrilled to share our findings after extensive gelato tasting and serious waistline adjustments (we had to loosen our belts!).
Join us as we unveil our top picks for the best gelato in Italy, from the bustling streets of Rome to the elegant canals of Milan, and of course, to the birthplace of gelato, Florence. Get ready to embark on a sweet journey that will have you craving gelato long after you’ve returned home!
Discovering the Best Gelato in Italy: An Insider’s Guide
On our delightful Florence for Foodies tour, we learned from our charismatic guide, Natalie—affectionately known as Mamma Nat. With her insider knowledge, she opened our eyes to the magic behind authentic Italian gelato.
The Art of Gelato Making
Imagine stepping into a charming gelateria, where the air is infused with the sweet aromas of freshly made gelato. A true maestro gelatiere, or master gelato maker, proudly sources the finest ingredients to create irresistible flavours, shouting their craftsmanship from the rooftops with labels like artigianale (artisanal) or fatto in casa (homemade). But be wary of eye-catching signs that promise the world but deliver a lacklustre experience!
Quality Over Quantity: The Gelato Guide
Food is an art form, and gelato is no exception in Italy. Here’s what to look for to ensure you’re indulging in a superior scoop:
- Freshness: Quality gelato is made on the premises fresh daily, and stored in shiny metal tins (never white plastic).
- Colour: Skip the overly vibrant hues; authentic gelato boasts natural, pastel shades.
- Ingredients: The best recipes use a higher ratio of milk (at least 3.5% butterfat) and just the right amount of cream and eggs, ensuring a low-fat yet satisfying treat.
- Texture: A good gelato should be dense and creamy, giving each bite a luxurious feel.
- Flavour: Seek out rich seasonal tastes with genuine ingredients, such as luscious fruits like raspberry and lychee, savoury nuts like pistachio and hazelnut, and delightful herbal infusions like basil or rose water.
Sampling Authentic Flavours
When you find yourself in a gelateria, don’t hesitate to ask for un assaggio—a taste of their divine pistachio. A robust flavour here often hints at the excellence of all their offerings!
And if you’re looking for something lighter, try their refreshing sorbetto—the perfect balance of flavour and texture without the heaviness. We dove into refreshing watermelon, cantaloupe, and honeydew sorbets that truly cleansed our palates and revitalised our spirits.
Mamma Nat shared a golden nugget of wisdom: “Beware of those eye-catching gelato displays with bright, candy-coloured mounds designed to lure unsuspecting parents and their little ones.”
We quickly realised that the vibrant Shrek-green gelato likely wasn’t the beloved pistachio we craved!
We quickly learnt that Shrek green
was not really Pistachio
The Truth Behind Gelato Colours
Many shops resort to artificial flavourings, neon colouring, and preservatives. Sorry, Princess Fiona, but your ogre boyfriend Shrek has no place on our top five gelato list! Seek true quality, and allow your taste buds to experience the authentic flavours of Italy.
So, the next time you’re wandering through the streets of Italy, let this guide lead you to the most exquisite gelato experience—one that lingers sweetly in your memory long after the last scoop has melted away. Buon appetito!
The Italy Gelato World Cup Winners – A Cone Above the Rest
In Italy, gelato isn’t just a treat; it’s an art form, a passion, and a fiercely competitive realm! Every two years, the Gelato World Cup (Coppa del Mondo Gelateria) showcases the talents of artisans from around the globe, all vying for the prestigious title. Imagine my delight when I discovered that an Australian gelateria took home 3rd place in the 2016 competition! Who would’ve thought?
During our Italian escapade, we stumbled upon a couple of these award-winning parlours purely by the irresistible pull of their signage and the long, eager queues snaking down the streets. With anticipation in the air, we knew we were in for a sweet adventure!
On the Trail for Good Gelato in San Gimignano, Italy
Our gelato quest led us to the enchanting hilltop towns of San Gimignano and Volterra in May 2017. San Gimignano, a medieval gem, is famed for its 14 majestic towers (of the original 72), all encased within a remarkably preserved 13th-century wall. The essence of history surrounds you, and it feels like stepping back in time.
As we meandered through the narrow cobbled streets, we passed charming shops with vibrant ceramics, delicate lace, and a delightful array of food and wine offerings. Tempted to indulge in a bottle (or two) of authentic Italian wine, we embraced an alcohol-free day during our stroll. Well, that plan lasted until 11 o’clock!
Our resolve wavered when we discovered a delightful shop brimming with local produce. A tasting table showcasing rich salami, earthy truffles (a specialty), and the light, crisp Vernaccia di San Gimignano white wine caught our eye. It was impossible to resist! A sip or two felt necessary.
In bustling Cistern Square, our senses heightened as we spotted a lively, winding queue snaking outside the Gelateria Dondoli. After two nights of indulgent four-course meals, I figured we should rein it in a bit on the culinary front. But the signage screamed its accolade as the official Gelato World Cup winner. With piqued curiosity, we couldn’t resist discovering what made this place so special!
Upon entering Gelateria Dondoli, staff will enthusiastically greet you with an overwhelming selection of gelati. They are flat-out busy here. A great sign of tasty gelato to come!
Enter a Gelateria At Your Own Risk!
Stepping into Gelateria Dondoli is an adventure in itself! The enthusiastic staff greet you with an overwhelming selection of gelati that beckons from every corner. The energy is palpable, and the busy atmosphere is a tantalising hint of the deliciousness that awaits!
Before you lie a mesmerising array of ice creams with whimsical names like “Tuttobosc,” “Litchi e Rose,” and “Cantuccini Alio Zafferano.” With over fifty tantalising flavours, the toughest challenge lies in making your selections. How does one choose from such an extraordinary assortment? The excitement of discovery adds to the delightful dilemma!
With every scoop, you’re tasting gelato and indulging in a masterpiece crafted with passion and skill. So grab a cone and prepare yourself for a flavour journey unlike any other – because gelato truly reigns supreme in Italy!
How to Order Gelato Like a True Local in Italy!
Indulging in gelato isn’t just a treat; it’s a delicious ritual in Italy! Imagine the sun shining, the charming streets bustling with life, and the irresistible aroma of fresh gelato wafting through the air. Here’s your ultimate guide to savouring this Italian delight like a seasoned local!
Understanding the Price
Gelato isn’t just about flavour; it’s also about value! Prices generally start at a delightful €1.80 for the smallest serving. The options for enjoying your gelato are as tasty as the flavours themselves: choose a coppetta (a cute plastic bowl), a cestino (a crispy wafer), or a classic cono (a cone).
The Art of Tasting
Here’s a little insider tip: don’t hesitate to ask for a sample! In Italy, it’s acceptable to approach the gelateria counter and request a taste before you commit to a flavour. This friendly gesture is key to ensuring you find your perfect scoop!
The Local Way to Order
After picking up a few Italian hand gestures, we embraced the local way of ordering. With a confident point and a friendly smile, we confidently exclaimed, “Due misurini in un cono, per favore!”—that’s “two scoops in a cone, please!” in Italian. Simple, right?
Savouring the Moment
With our two-scoop cone in hand for just 3 euros, we wandered through the streets, indulging in every creamy bite of our gelato. The rich, velvety texture and vibrant flavours danced on our tongues as we joined the locals for an enchanting Passeggiata evening. It was pure bliss—each lick was a slice of heaven!
Quick Italian Phrases for Your Gelato Adventure
To make your gelato experience even more engaging, here are some handy phrases to try at the gelateria:
| English | Italian | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| I’d like / We’d like… | Vorrei / Vorremmo… | Vor-REHee / Vor-RAY-moh |
| A taste, please | Un assaggio, per favore? | oon ah-SAH-joh pehr fah-VOH-ray |
| What tastes go well together? | Quali gusti stanno bene insieme? | KWAH-lee GOO-stee STAH-noh BEH-nay een-see-EH-may |
| one / two / three | uno / due / tre | OO-noh / DOO-ay / tray |
| A €3.00 cup | Una coppetta da tre euro | OO-nah koh-PEH-tah dah tray eh-OO-roh |
| I’d like two cones. | Vorrei due coni gelato. | Vor-REHee DOO-ay coh-nee ge-LAH-toh |
| Hello, I’d like a gelato in a bowl | Buon giorno, vorrei un gelato in coppetta. | bwohn JOR-noh, vor-REH-ee oon je-LAH-toh een koh-PEH-tah |
| I’d like a €3.00 gelato with two flavours, please. | Vorrei un gelato da tre euro con due gusti, per favore. | Vor-REH-ee oon je-LAH-toh dah tray eh-OO-roh kohn DOO-ay GOO-stee, pehr fah-VOH-ray |
| Which flavours would you like? | Quali gusti vorrebbe? | KWAH-lee GOO-stee Vor-RAY-beh |
| Hazelnut, chocolate and pistachio. | Nocciola, cioccolata e pistacchio | NOT-choh-lah, choc-koh-lah-tah eh pis-tash-ee-oh |
| Coffee, strawberry and lemon | Caffè, fragola e limone | kah-FEH, FRAH-goh-lah eh LEE-mo-neh |
Classic Gelato Flavours to Order
- After Eight: Chocolate and Mint.
- Bacio: Chocolate hazelnut, named for Italy’s popular “kiss” candies
- Cassata: With dried fruits.
- Cioccolato: Chocolate.
- Crema: Vanilla.
- Croccantino: “Crunchy,” with toasted peanut bits.
- Fior di latte: Sweet milk.
- Fragola: Strawberry.
- Macedonia: Mixed fruits.
- Malaga: Similar to rum raisin .
- Riso: With actual bits of rice mixed in.
- Stracciatella: Vanilla with chocolate shreds.
- Tartufo: Super chocolate.
- Zabaione: Named for the egg-yolk-and-Marsala wine dessert.
- Zuppa Inglese: Sponge cake, custard, chocolate, and cream.
So gear up to explore the world of gelato like an Italian local! With these tips, make the most of every delectable scoop. Buon appetito!
Our Top Artisan Gelateria Picks in Italy: A Flavourful Journey
Ask ten locals about the ultimate gelateria or their favourite flavour in their city, and you’ll likely hear ten unique answers, each with its delicious twist. If you’re looking to savour a delightful gelato cone while soaking in the charm of Italy, look no further than our curated list of must-visit gelaterias.
Imagine this: Instead of lingering in a restaurant and sifting through a dessert menu, we joyfully wrapped up our evening with a scoop of gelato and a stroll around the picturesque piazza. Of course, it became a cherished ritual, transforming our nights into unforgettable experiences brimming with laughter, conversation, and exquisite gelato.
RAE’S TRAVEL TIPBeat the sweltering summer heat with frequent gelato breaks! And if you’re in the enchanting canals of Venice, don’t miss out on trying a Sgroppino—a sensational after-dinner drink made with zesty lemon juice, creamy lemon gelato, and a splash of vodka. Your taste buds will thank you later!
After indulging in countless heavenly gelato experiences, we’ve compiled our absolute favourite authentic gelato spots to explore.
So, get ready to embark on a delightful gelato-tasting adventure. We savoured every scoop, and we know you will too! Buon Appetito!
If you want to savour the best of Italy’s timeless cuisine—think pizza, pasta, Parmigiano-Reggiano, espresso, wine, and gelato—then this fun and practical handbook is your ticket to eating well in Italy. Buon appetito!
Rick Steves: Italy for Food Lovers is a four-part practical guide for those seeking to experience Italy through its iconic sights and Italian food, wine, and culinary philosophy. It is packed (464 pages) with unique insights and tips for appreciating good food as Italians do.
Best Gelato Artisan Locations in Italy (Mainland):
Amalfi Coast
1. Alberto Gelateria, Via Fieschi, 74, 19018 Corniglia. Try Alberto’s Miele di Corniglia, made from local honey; his gelato made with basil, and his lemon ice slush (granita).
Bologna
2. La Sorbetteria Castiglione, Via Castiglione 44 d / e Bologna OR Via Saragozza 83, 40135, Bologna, Italy. Smooth, creamy gelato, try their Crema Michelangelo (almond). We were also suitably impressed by their vegan range!
Florence
3. Gelateria Carabè, Via Ricasoli, 60/R, 50122, Florence. Near the Accademia. Try their pistachio-flavoured gelato or a granita—Italian fresh fruit ice slush.
4. Gelateria Perche No, no Via Dei Tavolini 19r, Florence. Try any of their wide range of flavours.
5. Gelateria dei Neri, via dei Neri 9/11, Florence. Try any of their seasonal wide range of flavours.
6. Gelateria Rivareno Borgo degli, Albizi 46r, Florence.
7. Gelateria Edoardo Piazza Duomo 45r, Florence.
Lucca
8. Gelateria De’ Coltelli, Via S. Paolino, 10, 55100 Lucca. Try their Sicilian-style gelato.
Naples
9. Casa Infante, Via Toledo, 258, Naples. Try their gelato flavours, like apricot cake (made with ripe apricots from nearby Vesuvius) and white fig and ricotta (buffalo ricotta mixed with caramelised figs from Cilento).
Orvieto
10. Il Gelato di Pasqualetti, Piazza del Duomo, 15, 05018 Orvieto.
Pisa
11. La Bottega del Gelato, Piazza Garibaldi, 11, 56127 Pisa.
Rome
12. Tre Scalini dal 1946, Piazza Navona, 28, 00186 Rome. Famous for its chocolate gelato (Tartufo).
13. Cremeria Monteforte, Via della Rotonda, 22 Roma RM. Near Piazza Rotunda and the Pantheon.
14. Il Gelato di San Crispino, Piazza della Maddalena, 3 Roma RM. Near Piazza Rotunda and the Pantheon.
15. Gelato San Lorenzo, Via Tiburtina, 6, 00185 Roma RM. Try their sinfully rich zabaglione, a creamy, almost eggnog-like flavour that’s sweetened with Marsala wine.
16. Oteleg, Via di San Cosimato 14 / A, 00153 Rome. Head to one of Rome’s best gourmet gelaterias, Oteleg (gelato spelt backwards), for their gin mascarpone with strawberry compote or white cream gelato with orange jam and cinnamon.
San Gimignano
17. Gelateria Dondoli, Piazza Della Cisterna, 4, San Gimignano. Official Gelato World Cup winners. Try anything on the menu, including any new flavours recently invented. You won’t be disappointed.
Santa Margherita Ligure
18. Simonetti, Piazza Martiri della Libertà 48, Santa Margherita Ligure. Try their chocolate-truffle tartufato.
Sorrento
19. Davide il Gelateria, Via Padre Reginaldo Giuliani, 41, Sorrento. Choose from 30 of their 155 different gelato flavour creations.
Venice
20. Gelateria Ca’ d’Oro, Campiello del Spezier, 2041, 30125 Venice. Try the granita di caffe con panna (coffee shaved ice with whipped cream).
21. Gelatoteca Suso, Sotoportego de la Bissa, 5453, 30124, Venice. A 2-minute walk from the Rialto Bridge. Choose from a variety of decadent flavours, like mascarpone with fig and walnuts, the ever-popular Orient Express (with ginger and cinnamon), and fruit flavours like passion fruit.
22. Gelateria Nico, Fodamenta Zattere al Ponte Longo, 922, 30123. A 3-minute walk from from the Gallerie dell’Accademia. Try the classic gianduiotto served with ample whipped cream, the tiramisu and the cassata.
23. Gelateria Il Doge, Dorsoduro 3058/A, Rio Terà Canal, Venice. An award-winning gelato shop located across the Grand Canal from Piazza San Marco. There are 15 flavours, including their signature Crema di Doge (candied orange and chocolate), spicy chocolate (with pepper), and dark-pink Himalayan salt and cocoa. Also, try their traditional Sicilian granita (in five flavours) and the cassata Siciliana gelato.
Best Gelato Artisan Locations in Sicily:
Gelato is found all over Sicily, with local varieties such as pecorino (sheep’s milk), fichi d’india (prickly pears), and cassata, a cake version. Gelato on soft brioche is Sicily’s version of an ice cream sandwich.
Cefalu
24. Squagghiò, C.O, Via Carlo Ortolani di Bordonaro, 69, Cefalù. Try their signature flavour — a combination of almond, sour cherry, and pistachio.
Noto
25. Caffè Sicilia, Corso Vittorio Emanuele, 125, 96017 Noto. Located in the town centre, this unassuming 124-year-old cafe serves almond-milk granita and cappuccino ghiacciato (iced coffee with almond milk granita).
26. Caffè Costanzo, Via Silvio Spaventa, 7/9, 96017 Noto. This place is a traditional Sicilian pasticceria and gelateria, famous for its cassata, gelato. Try their almond granita.
Taormina
27. BamBar, Via di Giovanni, 45, 98039 Taormina. BamBar in Taormina is famous for its refreshing granita, crafted with fresh local ingredients, delivering bold, vibrant flavours like citrus, almond, and pistachio—a must-try Sicilian delight!
Read More:
- From Arancine to Panelle: Delicious Palermo’s Best Street Eats
- Sicily’s Sweet Secrets: 6 Epic Traditional Treats You’ll Love
- Best Gelato in Italy: Why Shrek Green is Not Pistachio
- Best Tuscany Food Walking Tour with Florence for Foodies
- Taste the Unseen: Rome’s Best Kept Food Secrets
- Ultimate Venice Bucket List: From Gondolas to Grand Canals
- Top 10 Cicchetti Bars in Venice: Ultimate Guide to Venetian Tapas
- 10 Practical Tips for Selecting a Food Tour
- Europe Road Trip Food: How to Picnic on the Road
Where is your favourite gelato place in Italy? What flavour did you try? Let us know by providing your comments below.
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