Have you heard about gelato in Italy? One of the sweetest things you can do on your next trip is to try as much gelato as you can!
Gelato is an Italian frozen dessert that has captured the hearts of people all around the world. If you’re planning to visit Italy, you must make it a priority to taste the best gelato in the world. Italy is the birthplace of gelato, and you can find it in every corner of the country.
I have personally visited many places in Italy; Rome, Florence, Pisa, Cinque Terre, Venice, Milan, Naples, and others that were beautiful and amazing. I have experienced gelato in most of these places (it kinda became my mission to eat gelato in every town!).
Let’s dive into all things gelato and give you tips on how to find the best gelato in Italy.
What is Gelato?
Gelato is a frozen dessert that is made with milk, cream, sugar, eggs, and various flavors. It is important to note that not all gelato recipes include eggs. So is gelato ice cream in Italy?
The main difference between gelato and ice cream is the amount of fat and air incorporated into the mixture. Gelato from Italy has less fat and less air than ice cream, which results in a denser and creamier texture. Gelaterias serve gelato at a slightly warmer temperature than ice cream, which makes it easier to taste the rich flavors.
A History of Italian Gelato
Gelato has a long and rich history in Italy, dating back to ancient Rome. The Romans, who mixed snow with honey and fruit, made the first known sorbet-like frozen dessert, which was a refreshing treat during hot summers.
The modern version of gelato, however, originated in the Northern Italian city of Florence during the Renaissance period. According to legend, in 1559, Catherine de’ Medici of Florence married the future king of France, Henry II. Catherine, who brought her own gelato maker to France, made the dessert quickly popular among the French nobility.
In Italy, gelato shops started popping up in the 17th century, and by the 18th century, gelato had become a staple of Italian cuisine. Most historians credit Bernardo Buontalenti for developing the modern form of gelato. In the 20th century, the popularity of gelato continued to grow, and it became an integral part of Italian culture and tradition.
Today, gelato is not just a dessert, but a symbol of Italian craftsmanship and excellence, and locals and tourists alike enjoy it. There is even a Gelato World Cup held every other year in Italy, seriously, look it up.
Why is Gelato Famous in Italy?
Gelato is famous in Italy because it’s a part of the Italian culture. Italians take their gelato seriously, and they have perfected the art of making it.
The ingredients used to make gelato are fresh, and the flavors are diverse. Look for seasonal ingredients to enjoy the freshest flavors. You can find traditional flavors like chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla, but you can also find unique flavors like coconut and tiramisu.
Gelato is also served in many Italy gelato shops called gelaterias, which are small and specialize in making the creamy confections.
How to Find the Best Gelato in Italy
Not all gelato is created equally. There are tons of gelaterias in Italy, but to find the most authentic you will want to be on the lookout for several things.
Natural Colors
If you’re looking for the best gelato in Italy, you must visit gelaterias that use fresh ingredients to make their gelato daily. Avoid gelaterias that have bright colors and piled-up gelato! It’s a sign that the gelato may not be fresh. Instead, look for gelaterias that have natural-looking colors and smooth gelato.
Consistent Texture
Do you see ice crystals? The gelato is too cold. Air bubbles? Makes it less dense and more like ice cream. The perfect gelato shop will have gelato that is smooth and uniform in texture. It will never be mounded high.
In-Season Produce
Don’t be afraid to check the ingredients list. The fewer ingredients the better. If the gelato is truly made with natural ingredients beware of the bright pink strawberry flavor in December. Try fruit flavors when the fruit is at its peak (spring and summer) and choose other flavors that don’t require seasonal freshness during off-seasons.
Gelato in Tubs
A key indicator of quality is stainless-steel tubs. If the gelato is in plastic containers, just turn around and walk out. But if the gelato is in metal canisters with covered lids, you know they are protecting the quality of the gelato by keeping it at a consistent temperature.
Spatula or Scoop?
Keep an eye out for the type of serving utensils used too. Proper gelaterias that serve authentic gelato in Italy will use a flat spatula to cut and scoop the gelato instead of a rounded ice cream scooper. With less air and milk fat, gelato is softer than ice cream and will not hold its shape in the same way.
Best Gelato in Rome Italy
I don’t know how many gelato shops in Rome serve “artisanal gelato,” there are no regulations for the term. But there are tons of delicious gelaterias and we’ve compiled the best in some of the most popular cities in Italy.
Giolitti
One of the best gelaterias in Rome is, which has been making gelato since 1900. Located near the Parthenon, this elegant gelato shop is worth waiting in line for. If you want to be extra, make sure to say “si” (yes) when asked if you want “con panna” (with whipped cream on top).
Fatamorgana
Fatamorgana is a modern gelato shop that puts a creative spin on traditional flavors. They use natural and organic ingredients to make their gelato, and they offer unique flavors like black sesame, salted caramel, and ginger. There are 66 flavors, 24 of which are vegan, and all are gluten-free.
La Romana
La Romana is a gelato chain that has several locations throughout Rome. Their creamy, flavorful gelato and helpful, friendly service set them apart from other gelato shops. Some of their top flavors include crema di biscotto (cookie cream), nocciola (hazelnut), and cioccolato fondente (dark chocolate).
Best Gelato in Florence Italy
La Carraia
In Florence Italy gelato is carefully cultivated. When there, you must visit La Carraia, which has a wide range of flavors, including the best hazelnut gelato in the city. Located near the Ponte alla Carraia, you can enjoy a sweet view with your sweet treat.
Gelateria dei Neri
One gelateria that often tops the list in Florence, Italy is Gelateria dei Neri. The chefs make the gelato fresh daily with high-quality ingredients and they offer a variety of classic and unique flavors. I’ve heard they offer half-price gelato during winter, so you never have to go without.
Vivoli
Another highly rated gelateria in Florence is Vivoli, which has been serving up delicious gelato since 1930. It is located in Santa Croce, near the historic city center. They offer classic flavors as well as some creative options like ginger and pear.
Best Gelato in Venice Italy
Gelato di Natura
This shop prides itself on using all-natural ingredients to create its gelato, which comes in a variety of unique and delicious flavors such as Sicilian pistachio, raspberry with rose petals, and black sesame seed.
Suso Gelatoteca
Creamy and rich gelato that comes in flavors like dark chocolate, salted caramel, and hazelnut have put Suso on the map. They also offer vegan and gluten-free options.
Gelateria il Doge
This shop is located in the Campo San Toma neighborhood across the canal from the Piazza San Marco. They offer 8 flavor variations of chocolate like chocolate and candied orange, as well as more unique options like cassata Siciliana inspired by the traditional fruit cake.
Best Gelato in Cinque Terre Italy
There are many gelato shops in Cinque Terre, each with its own unique flavors and styles. Cinque Terre is one of my absolute favorite places in Italy. My husband and I stayed at a little b&b in Riomaggiore and visited all 5 towns, and we had to eat gelato too!
Alberto Gelateria
Check out this popular gelateria known for its classic flavors such as pistachio and hazelnut, located in Monterosso al Mare. It also offers vegan-friendly options.
Gelateria Vernazza
This shop in Vernazza makes fresh gelato on the premises each day. They even have a Taste Lab, where creators work to form new flavors that will tantalize your tastebuds.
Gelateria Il Porticciolo
This little shop located right on the bay in Vernazza is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, with its wide variety of flavors like cinnamon and pistachio.
Best Gelato in Naples Italy
Gay Odin
This family-owned gelateria has been around since 1915 and has the highest-quality, artisanal chocolate. They also have a great selection of gelato flavors, including classic options like chocolate and pistachio, as well as more unique flavors like pear and cinnamon.
Pasticceria Scaturchio
While this historic pastry shop is recognized for its pastries and espresso, they also make some of the best gelato in Naples. They make their gelato fresh daily and it comes in a variety of flavors, including traditional favorites like vanilla and stracciatella, as well as more unusual flavors like ricotta and fig.
Casa Infante
This small gelateria is located in the historic center of Naples and offers a variety of delicious gelato flavors, including favorites like chocolate and coffee, as well as more unique options like prickly pear and fennel. They also make a delicious brioche con gelato, a popular local treat.
Best Gelato in Pisa Italy
La Bottega del Gelato
Located in the heart of Pisa, La Bottega del Gelato offers a wide variety of gelato flavors made with high-quality ingredients. The shop creates delicious fruit sorbets and creamy gelato that cause guests to line up outside. But it’s worth the wait.
De’ Coltelli
This small family-owned gelateria has been serving up delicious gelato for over 50 years. They focus on raw, seasonal, and sustainable ingredients and offer a range of classic and innovative flavors, including pistachio, hazelnut, and cinnamon.
Il Gelato di Toto
Located near the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Il Gelato di Toto offers a range of delicious gelato flavors, scrumptious cakes, and frozen yogurt. The shop also offers vegan and dairy-free options.
Best Gelato in Milan Italy
Gelateria della Musica
This gelateria is popular for its high-quality ingredients and unique flavor combinations. Some of their most popular flavors include “Liquirizia di Calabria” (Calabrian licorice) and “Basilico e Limone” (basil and lemon).
Grom
Locals know that Grom uses all-natural ingredients and classic flavors like pistachio and chocolate. They also have seasonal flavors based on local produce.
Paganelli
This gelateria was established in the 1930s and its traditional and creamy gelato flavors are well known. Some of their most popular flavors include “Stracciatella” (chocolate chip) and “Pistacchio di Bronte” (Bronte pistachio).
How to Order Gelato in Italy
“Gelato” in Italian means “frozen” or “freeze”. To say “gelato” in Italian pronunciation try it this way: “Jeh-lah-toe.”
When ordering gelato in Italy, you must know the basic Italian words for flavors.
For example:
- “fragola” means strawberry
- “cioccolato” means chocolate
- “limone” means lemon
You can order a single flavor, a combination of flavors, or a “coppa,” which is a cup of gelato. If you want a cone, you can ask for a “cono.”
The average price of gelato in Italy varies depending on the city and the specific gelateria. Generally, a single scoop can cost anywhere from €1.50 to €6. Some touristy areas may charge more, so it’s always a good idea to check the prices before ordering.
Learn How to Make Gelato in Italy
You can take a gelato class if you’re interested in learning to make gelato in Italy. There are many gelato classes in Italy that are available in Florence, Rome, and other cities. These classes teach you how to make gelato from scratch, including the different techniques and ingredients used. It’s a fun and educational experience to add to your trip that you won’t forget.
We can help you book many cooking classes in Italy as an excursion or extension to your trip.
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What is the Most Popular Gelato Flavor in Italy?
The most popular gelato flavor in Italy is “fior di latte,” which is a simple vanilla flavor. It’s made with milk, sugar, and vanilla extract, and it’s loved by locals and tourists alike. Other popular flavors include chocolate, pistachio, and stracciatella, which is a vanilla flavor with chocolate chips. It might be impossible to choose which gelato is the best, so be on the safe side and try as many as possible!
Top 10 Best Gelato Flavors in Italy:
1. Stracciatella – Chocolate chip. This classic flavor features a vanilla base with fine shavings of chocolate running through it.
2. Cioccolato – Chocolate. Made with high-quality cocoa powder, this flavor is a chocolate lover’s dream come true.
3. Fior di Latte – Milk flower. This simple yet delicious flavor is made with just milk, cream, and sugar, and is perfect for those who prefer a subtle taste.
4. Pistacchio – Pistachio. This nutty flavor is a favorite among many gelato lovers and is made with premium pistachios from Sicily.
5. Nocciola – Hazelnut. Nutella fans must try this flavor made with ground hazelnuts.
6. Limone – Lemon. Made with fresh lemon juice, this flavor is perfect for those looking for something refreshing and tangy.
7. Fragola – Strawberry. Fresh, ripe strawberries make this fruity flavor and it is a popular choice during the summer months.
8. Amarena – Sour cherry. Made with dark, tart cherries, this flavor is perfect for those who prefer a slightly sour taste for contrast.
9. Bacio – Kiss. This flavor is a delicious combination of chocolate and hazelnuts and is often referred to as “Italian Nutella.”
10. Zabaione – Zabaglione. This traditional Italian dessert is made with egg yolks, sugar, and sweet wine, resulting in a rich and creamy flavor.
FAQs: Gelato Italy
In Italy, the dairy-free alternative to gelato is sorbetto. Sorbetto is a frozen dessert that is made with fruit, sugar, and water, and it does not contain any dairy products. It is a refreshing and lighter option compared to traditional gelato, and it is often enjoyed as a palate cleanser between courses or as a dessert option for those who are lactose intolerant or vegan. Some gelato shops in Italy also offer vegan gelato options made with non-dairy milk alternatives such as almond, soy, or coconut milk.
While there are frozen desserts similar to gelato in other parts of the world, gelato was invented in Italy. So where in Italy was gelato invented? Florence is the origin of gelato during the Renaissance, where it was a popular dessert among the wealthy.
Yes, you can sample gelato in Italy! If you want to try a flavor before ordering, you can ask for a sample by saying “Posso assaggiare?” (Can I taste?) or “Posso provare questo gusto?” (Can I try this flavor?). Most gelaterias have small spoons or cups for tastings, and it’s common practice to try different flavors before making a decision on what to order. So don’t be afraid to ask and sample to your heart’s content!
If you want to get technical, gelato is healthier than ice cream. Gelato generally has less milk fat than ice cream, typically around 4-8% compared to ice cream’s average of 14-25%. This means that gelato has fewer calories and less saturated fat per serving, which could make it a slightly healthier option than ice cream. However, both gelato and ice cream can still be high in sugar and calories, so it’s best to enjoy them in moderation. That being said, how often are you visiting Italy? Carpe diem, eat the gelato, all the gelato!
Conclusion: Best Gelato Italy
To wrap up, gelato is a must-try dessert in Italy. It’s a delicious and refreshing treat that Italians enjoyed for centuries. From classic flavors like pistachio and hazelnut to more unique offerings like ricotta and fig, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. I love the Stracciatella flavor, so try a cone of it for me when you go! Make sure to treat yourself to the best gelato that Italy has to offer during your visit, it will surely be the sweetest part of your trip!
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