When the sun starts shining a little brighter and the days stretch longer into the evening, there’s one thing Italians and travelers alike crave: gelato. In Italy, gelato is more than just a dessert: it’s a way of life, a ritual, and a cultural treasure. 

If you're ready to dive into the world of authentic, artisanal gelato, here’s where you’ll find the very best across the country!

Florence isn’t just a cradle of Renaissance art and culture, it’s also the proud birthplace of one of Italy’s most beloved treasures: gelato. Legend has it that in the late 16th century, Bernardo Buontalenti, a talented Florentine artist, architect, and engineer, was tasked with organizing an extravagant banquet for the Medici court. Rising to the challenge, he created a creamy, frozen dessert that would eventually evolve into what we now know as gelato. Thanks to Buontalenti's invention, Florence’s love affair with gelato has lasted for centuries.

Among the city’s many outstanding gelaterias, Badiani stands out as a true icon. Founded in 1932, Badiani has earned international acclaim, particularly for its signature flavor, Buontalenti: a luxurious, creamy gelato inspired by the original recipe attributed to its namesake. Rich, velvety, and made with only the finest milk, cream, and sugar, Buontalenti is pure Florentine indulgence at its best.

As you wander through Florence’s sun-dappled piazzas and hidden alleys, don’t be surprised if you find yourself drawn to a different gelateria each day. In Florence, enjoying a scoop, or two or three, isn’t just a treat; it’s part of experiencing the city’s sweet, historic soul.

And gelato isn’t the only frozen delight you’ll want to try while in Florence. The city also perfects the art of the caffè affogato: a heavenly combination where a shot of hot, rich espresso is poured over a scoop of creamy gelato, usually vanilla or fior di latte. And if you want to taste the very best affogato in town, head straight to Vivoli. Established in the 1930s, Vivoli is one of Florence’s oldest gelaterias and has built a legendary reputation for its exquisite affogato.

Now that we’ve covered the history and roots of Italian Gelato, let’s continue the journey!

If you’re visiting Rome, you’re in the right place. Gelato is not just a sweet treat: it’s a beloved ritual woven into the fabric of daily life. The Eternal City offers a fascinating blend of the old and the new, with gelaterias that honor centuries of tradition standing proudly alongside innovators who aren’t afraid to experiment with bold new flavors.

One of Rome’s crown jewels is Gelateria Fassi, known as the oldest gelateria in Italy. Founded in 1880, Fassi - also called the "Palazzo del Freddo" - has been delighting Romans for generations. Stepping inside feels like stepping back in time, with its grand, historic interiors and timeless flavors. Fassi is particularly famous for its Sanpietrino, a small cube of gelato covered in chocolate that pays homage to the cobblestones of Rome’s historic streets. It’s an essential stop for anyone wanting to taste a piece of Italian gelato history. Just a short stroll from the Pantheon, Giolitti is another historic institution that has been scooping creamy cones for over a century. Known for its old-world charm and decadent flavors like pistachio, crema, and zabaglione, Giolitti remains a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

For those craving something more adventurous, Rome’s newer stars like Otaleg and Fatamorgana are redefining what gelato can be. Otaleg, “gelato” spelled backwards, crafts each flavor with an obsessive attention to texture and taste, while Fatamorgana is celebrated for its all-natural, gluten-free creations, offering intriguing combinations such as pear with gorgonzola or almond milk infused with rosemary.

No matter your preference, the city’s passion for this sweet art is impossible to miss - and impossible to resist in the hottest summer days!

The region of Emilia-Romagna is often celebrated as the gastronomic heart of Italy, and when it comes to gelato, it’s no exception. From Bologna to Modena, this fertile land nurtures some of the best gelato artisans in the country, blending deep-rooted tradition with a passion for innovation.

In Bologna, artisan gelato is taken as seriously as its legendary tortellini and ragù. J
ust outside the city lies the Carpigiani Gelato University, the world’s leading school dedicated entirely to the art and science of gelato-making. Here, future gelato masters from across the globe come to learn the secrets of true Italian gelato, helping to cement Bologna’s reputation as a center of gelato excellence.

Within the city itself, Cremeria Santo Stefano and La Sorbetteria Castiglione are two must-visits, celebrated for their intense, unforgettable flavors and artisanal craftsmanship. Expect scoops of chocolate fondente so rich it feels like eating pure truffle, and seasonal fruit sorbets that taste like freshly picked orchard treasures.

Travel a little further to Modena, and you’ll find another gem for gelato lovers. In this elegant city, known worldwide for its traditional Aceto Balsamico di Modena (balsamic vinegar), some gelaterias offer a truly unique experience: fior di latte gelato drizzled with aged balsamic vinegar. The combination might seem surprising at first, but the pairing of creamy, milky sweetness with the rich, syrupy tang of traditional balsamic creates a symphony of flavors that is unforgettable. It’s a perfect example of how Emilia-Romagna’s culinary creativity extends even into the realm of gelato.

In Emilia-Romagna, gelato is far more than a refreshing treat, it’s a reflection of the region’s love for craftsmanship, high-quality ingredients, and the pure pleasure of good food.

Sicilian gelato is truly in a league of its own. Here, under the Mediterranean sun, centuries of culinary tradition meet an extraordinary bounty of natural ingredients to create some of the richest and most authentic flavors in all of Italy. Pistachios from Bronte, blood oranges from Mount Etna, and almonds from Avola are not just ingredients, they're proud symbols of the island's unique terroir, and they infuse Sicilian gelato with an intensity you simply can't find anywhere else.

One of Sicily’s most delightful traditions is enjoying gelato in a completely different way: stuffed inside a soft, sweet brioche bun. Known as brioche con gelato, this beloved treat is so deeply rooted in Sicilian culture that it’s perfectly acceptable, even expected, to have it for breakfast during the hot summer months. Whether you're strolling through the colorful streets of Catania or relaxing in a sun-dappled piazza in Palermo, biting into a freshly baked brioche overflowing with silky gelato is one of those pure, unforgettable pleasures that defines an authentic Sicilian summer.

While gelato holds a special place on the island, it's important not to confuse it with another iconic Sicilian specialty: granita. Unlike gelato, which is creamy and churned, granita siciliana has a crystalline, slushy texture achieved through a slow freezing and stirring process. Traditional flavors like lemon, almond, and gelsi capture the very essence of Sicily's landscapes in refreshing spoonfuls. In some places, especially on the eastern side of the island like Siracusa, granita is also served alongside, or even inside, a brioche bun, offering another layer of cool, sweet indulgence perfect for the warm climate.

Whether you choose the creamy richness of a pistachio gelato or the icy sparkle of a lemon granita, Sicily invites you to slow down, savor every bite, and fall in love with the simple joys of summer.

Milan might be world-renowned as Italy’s fashion and design capital, but its creativity extends well beyond the catwalk. In the world of gelato, Milan stands out for its boldness, elegance, and innovation. Here, tradition and modern flair blend seamlessly, offering visitors a chance to experience gelato with a distinctly sophisticated twist.

The city is home to some of the most stylish gelaterias in the country, where aesthetics are as carefully curated as the flavors themselves. At Pavé - Gelati & Granite, the focus is on purity and seasonality, with small-batch creations that highlight the natural excellence of their ingredients. Expect minimalist, beautiful presentations and unusual but irresistible flavors like ricotta with lemon zest or fig and walnut. Meanwhile, Gelato Giusto, a favorite among discerning locals, prides itself on using only artisanal techniques and premium raw materials, with a rotating menu that might include tonka bean, salted caramel, or even rosewater sorbet.

Milanese gelato isn’t just about taste: it’s about the whole experience. Presentation is an art form in itself: you’ll find sculpted cones, artfully plated gelato desserts, and even gelato cocktails that pair creamy scoops with fine liquors or sparkling wine for a truly grown-up treat.

This city invites you to look beyond the traditional and explore how innovation can elevate even Italy’s most beloved classic. Whether you prefer a timeless pistachio or feel adventurous enough to try a saffron-infused creation, Milan’s gelaterias offer a flavor journey as stylish and surprising as the city itself.

Few places in the world are as enchanting as Venice, with its labyrinth of canals, elegant bridges, and hidden alleyways. After a long day of wandering through this floating city, there’s no better reward than a scoop of artisan gelato, enjoyed slowly as gondolas drift past and golden light dances on the water.

Venetian gelato carries a touch of history with it. Thanks to Venice’s centuries-long role as a powerful maritime republic and gateway to the East, the city was among the first in Europe to have access to exotic ingredients like spices, sugars, and rare fruits. Even today, you’ll notice a certain richness and depth of flavor in Venice’s best gelaterias, a subtle legacy of that vibrant trading past.

One of the standout spots is Gelatoteca Suso, a favorite among both locals and visitors. Here, the gelato is crafted with meticulous attention to texture and taste, offering a decadent range of flavors that mirror the city's opulent beauty. Try their signature Manet flavor, a luscious blend of gianduja chocolate, caramel, and salted peanuts.

The experience wouldn’t be complete without finding a quiet canal-side spot to sit, cone in hand, watching as the city's magic unfolds around you. In Venice, every moment seems dipped in sweetness, and with a scoop of gelato, it becomes simply unforgettable.

Every year, the prestigious Gambero Rosso guide awards the coveted "Tre Coni" to Italy's finest gelaterias. In 2025, 72 establishments received this honor, showcasing the pinnacle of artisanal gelato craftsmanship across the country. Here are ten standout gelaterias that exemplify excellence in flavor, technique, and innovation we personally recommend:​

📍Gelato Contadino: Bergamo, Lombardy
A new entry in 2025, Gelato Contadino is celebrated for its commitment to local ingredients and traditional methods, delivering flavors that resonate with authenticity. We especially recommend their Pistachio flavor!

📍Mille: Verolanuova (BS), Lombardy
Also newly awarded, Mille has quickly gained acclaim for its creative flavor combinations and dedication to quality. Their signature flavor is the Gajàrdo Bitter Sorbet.

📍Maritozzi e Gelato di Barbara e Renato: Bologna, Emilia-Romagna
This Bologna-based gelateria stands out for its fusion of classic Italian pastries and gelato, offering unique treats like maritozzo filled with artisanal gelato.

📍Gelati Crispini: Spoleto, Umbria
Known for its rich textures and deep flavors, Gelati Crispini has become a must-visit spot for gelato enthusiasts in central Italy. Here, their pistachio is magnificent with a blend of three different pistachio varieties!

📍Mokambo: Ruvo di Puglia, Apulia
Mokambo impresses with its use of regional ingredients, crafting flavors that reflect the essence of Apulian culinary traditions. Try their Gelso Rosso (red mulberry)!

📍La Cremeria Vitaro: Rende, Calabria
This Calabrian gem is lauded for its creamy textures and innovative takes on classic flavors, earning its place among the top gelaterias. Don’t miss out on their Hazelnut flavor enriched with authentic Calabrian Licorice!

📍Pavé – Gelati & Granite: Milan, Lombardy
A Milanese favorite, Pavé combines sleek design with a menu that balances traditional flavors and modern twists. We suggest the Sbrisolona, inspired by the traditional Lombard crumbly cake.

📍Cremeria Santo Stefano: Bologna, Emilia-Romagna
A staple in Bologna, this gelateria is famed for its intense chocolate fondente and seasonal fruit sorbets that capture the essence of Italy's orchards.

📍Gelateria Dondoli: San Gimignano, Tuscany
Nestled in the medieval town of San Gimignano, Dondoli offers award-winning flavors like “Crema di Santa Fina”: a unique blend of Madagascar Bourbon vanilla, San Gimignano saffron, and Pisa pine nuts.

📍I Fenu Gelateria e Pasticceria: Cagliari, Sardinia
Consistently recognized for its high-quality products, I Fenu blends Sardinian ingredients into its gelato, creating unique flavors that tell a story of the island - like their Saffron and Almond flavor!

Whether you're in the north or south, a visit to any of these establishments promises a delightful experience.​ If you want to know the best gelaterias in the Italian town region you’re staying in, just contact us for the best food tours and local experiences!

Not all gelato is created equal. When you're in Italy, spotting a real artisan gelateria will make the difference between an average scoop and an unforgettable experience. Here are a few essential tips:

Natural ingredients produce natural colors.

• Pistachio should be pale green, not neon green.
• Banana should be almost grayish, not bright yellow.
• Strawberry should have a soft, natural pink, not an electric red.

If the colors are too bright or artificial-looking, the gelato likely contains artificial flavorings and colorings.

The best gelato is often stored in covered, flat metal containers (called pozzetti) and not piled into fluffy mountains. When gelato is hidden below the counter in covered tubs, it means the product is kept at the ideal temperature and protected from oxidation.

Real gelato doesn’t need a long list of additives. The ingredient list should be short and simple: milk, cream, sugar, fresh fruit or nuts, and maybe a little egg yolk for creamier bases. For vegans, the list is even shorter with many fruit-based flavors made with a water base instead of milk!

Here at Play Italy, we are dedicated to transforming your exploration of Italy's natural wonders into a seamless and unforgettable experience. Whether you're marveling at the majestic peaks of the Dolomites, relaxing by the serene waters of Lake Como, savoring the rolling hills of Tuscany, or soaking in the stunning coastal views of the Amalfi Coast, our Booking Agent service is here to tailor your adventure to your tastes. We ensure that each moment is not just seen but truly experienced. 
 
For more insights on how to weave these natural delights into your travel itinerary, subscribe to our newsletter. Here, we offer expert travel tips, guides to Italy's flora and fauna, and a special discount on your first tour with us! Additionally, our 'How to Book' video tutorial is designed to help you navigate the booking process effortlessly, making your journey from planning to departure as smooth as possible. 

Choose one of our tours and let Play Italy open the door to a world where each sight is a story, each landscape a memory. Come play with us and let us turn your Italian holiday into a journey of enchanting nature and unforgettable experiences. Your dream of Italy awaits—let's bring it to life, together.