Tuscany is perhaps one of the world’s most popular destinations for culinary heritage. From wines, cheeses, pasta and pizza, the region is full of traditional flavours.
In this article, we will explore the region and the role that pizza has in the kitchen. From rustic pizzerias to pizza-making classes, Tuscany is a wonderful place to visit and try this Italian staple.
Tuscany’s iconic pizza and its culinary tradition
Imagine this: you sit at a rustic wooden table on a terrace overlooking Tuscany’s green hills and vineyards. A freshly baked pizza is placed in front of you from a wood-fired oven. Its thin, golden crust is bubbling with mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, savoury prosciutto, and a drizzle of fragrant olive oil. Sounds good, right?
Although pizza originated in Naples in the 18th century, Tuscany has developed its own unique version of this iconic dish. Traditionally, Tuscan cuisine is hearty, using simple fresh, local ingredients. Flatbreads like schiacciata, seasoned only with olive oil and salt are common in the area. It’s believed that this served as the basis for Tuscany pizza.
Today, Tuscany pizza brings people together, whether you share it with friends at a pizzeria or enjoy it with family at home. Many locals still prefer to make their own dough, as store-bought or frozen pizzas are usually frowned upon. Using local ingredients such as Pecorino cheese from Pienza and olive oil pressed in nearby groves adds to the Tuscany Pizza’s signature flavour.
The best pizza in Tuscany
Tuscany has many of Italy’s finest pizzerias, making it a must-visit destination for pizza lovers. You’ll discover everything from traditional Neapolitan-style pizzas with a Tuscan twist to new pizzas inspired by fresh, local ingredients. No matter which city you explore, eating pizza in Tuscany offers an unforgettable culinary experience that blends tradition with creativity.
Top Cities for Pizza in Tuscany
Lucca
In the medieval town of Lucca, Dante & Gentucca offers a modern take on classic pizza. The pizzeria is located near the city walls and specializes in pizza and focaccia. Our favourite pizza here is the Prosciutto, Salsiccia e Provola (prosciutto cured meat, sausage and provola cheese).
Florence
As one of the region’s largest cities, there are many pizzerias to try. However, one must-visit location is Gusta Pizza found in the Santo Spirito district. It’s famous for its wood-fired pizzas. Here, we suggest trying the classic Margherita con Bufala, made from creamy buffalo mozzarella and fresh basil.
Siena
Il Pomodorino, one of Siena’s most unique pizzerias, is just outside the historic city centre. This popular spot serves specialty pizzas, including gluten-free and vegan options, catering to a variety of tastes. With its perfectly balanced flavours, the Quattro Stagioni pizza stands out as a must-try, featuring artichokes, ham, mushrooms, and olives thoughtfully divided into four sections.
Pisa
This city may be best known for its leaning tower, but it also offers incredible specialty pizzas. Renowned for its chickpea flour flatbread called Cecina, Pisa transforms this local delicacy into a unique pizza base. You’ll find Cecina at many pizzerias throughout the city, making it a must-try for anyone seeking an authentic and distinctive Tuscan experience.
Tuscany pizza-making classes: Learn from the masters
Signing up for a pizza-making class in Tuscany is a great way to expereince the culinary heritage of the region. There are many hands-on classes offered that will teach you about local ingredients, and cooking techniques and even pair some pizzas with local Tuscan wines. Many tourists nowadays are looking for experiential travel ideas, where they can learn and connect with the culture of the place they are visiting. A pizza-making class Tuscany is the perfect way to learn about the local cuisine.
Lucca offers a great pizza-making class guided by professional chefs who are passionate about Tuscan cuisine. You will learn how to prepare the dough using age-old techniques and recipes. The chefs will guide you step-by-step making sure that your pizza base is perfect. You will also learn about toppings and how to balance flavours, along with how to cook and control the wood fire for the perfect pizza. Additionally, you will learn about pizza and wine pairings that will elevate your culinary expereince.
What makes Tuscan pizza unique
Tuscany pizza stands out from others because of its simplicity and its emphasis on high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. For instance, olive oil from Chianti, often called “liquid gold,” is typically drizzled over pizzas just before serving. Pecorino cheese, made from sheep’s milk in the Pienza region, is usually grated on top to add a nutty and tangy touch. Additionally, prosciutto from Casentino and seasonal vegetables like artichokes, zucchini, and tomatoes frequently make their way onto a Tuscany pizza, showcasing the region’s amazing produce.
By using these local ingredients, Tuscany pizza demonstrates the region’s farm-to-table philosophy. This approach sets it apart from other Italian styles, such as Naples’ tomato-rich, thick-crusted pizzas. Moreover, Tuscan pizzas are famous for their thin, crispy crusts, which contrast with the chewy and airy texture of Neapolitan pizzas. The dough, often made with local wheat flour, is rolled thinner, giving it a distinct flavour that perfectly complements its fresh toppings. Through these thoughtful details, Tuscany pizza delivers a unique and unforgettable culinary experience.
Pizza and wine pairings in Tuscany
Pairing pizza with wine is a must in Italy, especially in Tuscany, where the region’s world-renowned wines perfectly complement its pizzas. From enjoying a simple Margherita or a gourmet truffle-topped pizza, Tuscany has the ideal wine to enhance your meal. For tomato-based pizzas, light red wines such as Chianti Classico is ideal for balancing the tangy tomato sauce. If your pizza has creamy cheeses like Gorgonzola or Ricotta, a white wine such as Vernaccia di San Gimignano is the perfect match. For seafood-topped pizzas with prawns, tuna, or anchovies, sparkling wines like Prosecco make an excellent choice, as their effervescence elevates the delicate flavours of the seafood while cleansing the palate.
By pairing pizza with the right wine, you will transform a simple meal into an unforgettable Tuscan experience.
Tuscany's pizzas are waiting for you
From eating your way through authentic pizzas in Florence, Siena, Pisa, and Lucca to learning the art of pizza-making from local masters, Tuscany is perfect for any foodie. Pairing pizzas with regional wines only enhances flavours, and teaches you a bit about the local culture and heritage.
For the best in accommodations while in Tuscany, stay with one of Lucca Apartments and Villas‘s many options. Combining comfort with style, pick from city apartments to countryside villas. Book your stay today and get ready to fill your belly. Buon appetito!
