Gelato – The Ultimate Guide (Including the Best Gelaterias in Italy)

Welcome to our ultimate guide on Gelato, the most delicious frozen dessert that has been enjoyed in Italy for centuries.

In fact, the word gelato means frozen in Italian. When eating gelato, the experience begins with a captivating aroma that tantalizes the taste buds and then finishes with an unmistakable creaminess and flavour intensity that lingers long after it has been enjoyed. 

Gelato can be found in gelaterias (Italian gelato shops) throughout Italy but is also a popular sweet treat around the world as it comes in an array of incredible flavours which deliver an unmatched level of satisfaction with each spoonful.

In this ultimate guide to gelato, we’ll explore the difference between gelato and ice cream and how to spot the best gelaterias when you are travelling.

Finally, to make this guide complete, we have featured some of the best gelaterias in Italy’s most visited cities: Rome, Florence and Venice.

So when you are in Italy (or any other country where gelato is eaten), you’ll know everything there is to know about this delicious frozen treat.

What is Gelato?

The base ingredients of gelato are milk, cream and sugar and then flavourings are added such as fruit, chocolate or nuts. The gelato mix is then churned at a slow speed which makes it dense in flavour and creamy. This slow churning process also makes it soft and added to the fact that it is not served frozen is the reason why it is served in scoops and melts quickly. 

The History of Gelato

The enjoyment of frozen treats dates back thousands of years with Asian and then Egyptian cultures creating gelato-like treats using snow and honey. However, the sweet treat of what we know as gelato today flourished during the Italian Renaissance and it is Buotalenti that is credited as the inventor.

The popularity of gelato then spread across the Mediterranean and gelato makers began experimenting with different ingredients and spices. Today its popularity remains due to its variety of flavours and eating gelato has almost become part of life throughout Italy as it is regularly enjoyed as part of a late-afternoon snack or an after-dinner stroll. 

How is Gelato Different to Ice Cream?

Gelato has no eggs and is made with a higher proportion of milk than cream; which gives it a lower fat content. Ice cream when churned is done at a much faster rate making it lighter and airier. Gelato is churned slower making it smoother and denser.

Gelato is also served at a slightly warmer temperature, so not completely frozen like ice cream, which gives gelato its creamier consistency.

It is so common to think that gelato and ice cream are the same. However, there is a difference in the proportions of milk and cream used as well as how it is made.

What About Sorbet or Sorbetto?

Sorbet is a frozen dessert made of fruit, water and sugar. Sorbetto is the Italian word for sorbet and has largely the same meaning. 

How to Spot a Great Gelateria?

Handmade gelato from seasonal and local ingredients is the best and even a small amount will be satisfying. Unfortunately, many gelaterias claim to be authentic but their gelato can be manufactured off-site and made using powder mixtures and pre-made flavourings.

Fortunately, there are ways to spot the difference between an in-house well-made gelato and one that has been manufactured. 

Here are our top tips for spotting a great Gelateria:

These are our top tips to spotting a great gelateria:

• Don’t buy gelato from places that are near tourist spots. Gelaterias located near tourist sites are often set up to cater specifically for tourist crowds and often these places will not only charge more but the quality will be lower. Putting it another way, you will find no locals buying from these places, so go where the locals go.
• Don’t buy gelato where it is piled high in the display. Local authentic gelato will be stored in flat metal tins and not above the height of the tin. Also, if you spot plastic containers, go elsewhere.
• Look for places that have ingredients listed as good gelaterias will show that they are working with great quality produce.
• Take note of the season, gelato made with summer fruits in December will not be using fresh ingredients.
• Avoid places selling gelato in bright colours. If it is too bright and artificial looking it will be an indication that they are not made with high-quality fresh ingredients.  A great tip is to look at the pistachio flavour as it is sold year-round. An authentic pistachio gelato will be a bland muted green colour with pieces of pistachios; if you spot it like this, it is the real deal.
• Finally, ask around for recommendations from locals – their knowledge of where to find great gelato can’t be beaten.

When Is Gelato Eaten?

Gelato is usually eaten as an afternoon snack or as part of an after-dinner walk known in Italy as a “passeggiata”. (Which is a traditional evening stroll around the centre of town). 

Gelato Served In A Cup Or Cone?

Gelato is either served in a cone or a cup. Serving and eating gelato in a cup has its advantages because there is less mess involved (as it melts quicker than ice cream) and you can easily transport the cup of gelato. However, of course if you want to eat gelato with a crunchy texture then opt for a cone. Ultimately, whether you choose to eat your gelato in a cup or a cone is up to you. 

The Best Places to Eat Gelato In Italy

To complete our ultimate guide and to help were you buy our next scoop or three, we have found the best places to eat gelato in Italy’s most popular cities: Rome, Florence and Venice. Buon appetito!

The Best Gelaterias in Rome

The streets of Rome are full of delicious gelaterias to get your fill of frozen goodness. From authentic artisan options offering unique flavour combinations to vintage parlours that have been serving gelato for years. Here are our top recommendations that stand out.

Brivido Gelateria 

Located in the Testaccio neighbourhood and is a favourite amongst the locals as it offers a wide selection of flavours using high-quality ingredients. In addition to the traditional flavours, this gelateria also has a great line of modern and vegan flavour options such as papaya and lime, salted peanut and fig. The portions are generous and a free hot chocolate dip is also available for that extra indulgent treat.

Come Il Latte

This stylish gelateria uses fresh high quality ingredients to ensure that every scoop tastes like a little bit of heaven. Whether you’re looking for classic flavours or something unique, Come Il Latte offers a great choice of delightful options sure to satisfy your cravings. They serve the creamiest classic flavours alongside seasonal creations such as Sorrento lemons, wild strawberry and chestnut cream. Furthermore, the wafers are handmade and an extra topping of hot chocolate or a flavoured cream is also available.

Fiordiluna 

This family-run small gelateria has been serving delicious gelato for over 25 years. The gelato is made from fresh ingredients and crafted with care, resulting in an unforgettable tasting experience. The menu features classic flavours such as pistachio and chocolate alongside unique creations like chocolate and pepper or ricotta fig. 

Fatamorgana

Another great gelateria that now has several locations across the city all serving authentic and great-tasting gelato; some of the best in town. They also specialize in unique and innovative flavours combinations using ginger, horseradish and avocado. 

Gelateria del Teatro 

Located in the heart of the city, this gelateria serves some of the freshest and most flavourful gelato in the city. In addition to delicious classic flavours such as dark chocolate and caramel, this gelateria also creates more unique flavour combinations for the more adventurous eater. 

Gelateria dei Gracchi

With several locations across the city, this place is a great option for gelato lovers. The shops that are more centrally located usually have a queue but it is fast-moving and great for those wanting to grab and go. Not only are the classics great such as pistachio and espresso but they also serve great flavour combinations such as apple and mint, orange and chocolate and apple and cinnamon.

Giolitti

One of the oldest and most loved gelaterias in the city, Giolitti and is always a popular choice with both locals and tourists. Located in the historic centre, this city classic has been serving some of the best hand-crafted gelato for over a century. With over 70 flavours to choose from and served with an optional topping of whipped cream for extra indulgence. 

Il Gelato di San Crispino

This gelateria was featured in the movie Eat, Pray, Love and many say this is the best place in town for gelato. Here the delicious frozen treats are not displayed but hidden under metal covers to preserve their quality. The gelato is made fresh daily in small batches and the flavours range from classic to unexpected options like Italian rosemary and salted ricotta. 

Otaleg

Gelato spelt backwards this popular spot serves gelato made from gourmet ingredients producing both classic gelato flavours as well as innovative creations. 

The Best Gelaterias in Florence

The gelato scene in Florence is as incredible as it is varied. With gelaterias scattered throughout the city, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to indulging in this sweet Italian treat. 

Perchè No

Perche No (translates as Why Not!) is a great place to satisfy your craving for a creamy and delicious scoop of gelato. Located in the heart of Florence, this gelateria offers a wide selection of classics as well as an assortment of unique flavours. All are handmade daily with natural ingredients sourced from local farmers.  

Badiani

Opened in the 1930s, Badiani is a high-end gelateria located near the Campo di Marte train station and the stadium. If you want to get a taste of the first gelato that was created try the Buontalenti, named after the inventor of gelato who made one of the first gelatos for the Medici family here in Florence. 

Vivoli

Florence’s oldest gelateria has been the gelato destination of choice for many Florentines.  Founded in the 1930s, Vivoli is a textbook example of Italian gelato artistry. The secret behind their creamy perfection lies in using high-quality all-natural ingredients. The choice is plentiful ranging from the classics to the more experimental and the atmosphere is warm and friendly. To note, the gelato here is only served in cups.

Il Procopio

For the creamiest gelato in Florence, head to II Procopo. Here they serve their award-winning signature gelato “La Follia” which means madness in Italian and is made with figs, almonds and pistachios. 

La Sorbetterria

La Sorbetteria is one of the best places to eat gelato. They do the classics brilliantly alongside more exotic flavours. Located away from the centre but worth the detour. 

Carapina

This modern gelateria close to the Ponte Vecchio is run by Simone Bonin who is known to be one of the best gelato makers in Italy. Sixteen flavours are available at any one time, produced daily, strictly from high-quality and locally sourced ingredients. Classics include the creamiest pistachio and dark chocolate fondant to more adventurous cheese-inspired flavours made with mozzarella, gorgonzola and pecorino. 

La Carraia

Having two locations in the city, the reason to come here is not only for the classic flavours but also for the house specialities including white chocolate with pistachio sauce, cream with orange sauce and dark chocolate and cream with waffle and chocolate. 

Gelateria dei Neri

This gelateria has a huge selection of flavours on offer and comes in generous portions; so a popular gelato stop for locals and visitors. Also located very centrally so you don’t have to take a detour when you are also busy sightseeing.

The Best Gelaterias in Venice

Venice boasts an array of mouth-watering gelaterias to choose from. Here are our top recommendations made by the best artisan Venetian chefs:

La Mela Verde

This small shop offers some of the creamiest gelato which is all-natural. The flavours vary with the season and their signature flavour is green apple (the name of the shop in Italian). 

Gelateria il Doge

This award-winning shop is a little out of the way but has some of the best gelato in Venice. Their signature flavour Crema di Doge (vanilla and chocolate orange sauce) is served alongside many other flavours. 

Gelato di Natura

Gelato di Natura has been delighting locals and visitors since 1982. This family-owned gelateria now operates multiple outlets throughout the city. Here you can savour their ultra-creamy, artisanal-quality gelato made with high-quality ingredients and using traditional methods. 

Gelatoteca Suso

This is one of the most popular gelaterias in Venice and located very centrally near the Rialto bridge and St. Mark’s Square. This inviting shop has a huge counter offering many flavours as well as their signature flavour Suso (caramel).  

Bacaro del Gelato

This small artisanal gelato shop serves a great selection of high-quality gelato carefully crafted on a daily basis. 

Gelateria Ca’ d’Oro

Gelato here comes in big portions and has a wide-ranging creative seletion. This gelateria follows the seasonal cycle so the menu is always changing as well as offering the classics.  

Gelateria Nico

This place is very popular not only for the great gelato but also amazing views of the water especially at sunset. This gelateria is now over 100 years old and offers both traditional and modern flavours. Gelato here can be enjoyed in glass cups and is served with fresh fruit and crispy biscuits. 

For more information about visiting Venice, read our Best Things To Do in Venice | The Ultimate Guide blog.

So to Wrap Up on the Ultimate Guide to Gelato…

We hope you have enjoyed reading our ultimate guide to gelato and are now more informed about all there is to know about this delicious treat.

Be sure to keep an eye out for the gelaterias we recommended – they are some of the best in Italy – the home of gelato.

Finally, just remember, when it comes to gelato, quality fresh seasonal ingredients is the key.

Further FAQs:

Can You Find a Good Gelateria in the Winter / Off Season?

No matter the season, you can always eat good gelato. Good gelaterias change their flavours with the seasons. So during wintertime, for example, spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg will be used more. Then of course there are also the classic favourites such as coffee, pistachio and chocolate that are served all year round. 

Can Gelato be Dairy Free or Vegan?

Many gelaterias are offering dairy-free and vegan options made from alternative ingredients such as almond and coconut milk. Look for the signs and ask which ones are dairy-free or suitable for vegans.

Is Gelato Healthy?

Though gelato is made from milk, it generally has less fat and fewer calories than ice cream. Also, as good gelato is made from fresh high quality ingredients it is going to be healthier compared to other sweet treats. 

Essential Gelato Terms & Flavours

• cono – cone
• coppa – cup
• one – uno, two – due, three – tre
• flavour – gusto / flavours – gusti
• ananas – pineapple
• bacio – hazelnut
• caffè – coffee
• cioccolato – chocolate
• cocco – coconut
• comcomero – watermelon
• fico – fig
• fior di latte – “flower of milk” – gelato base with no added flavours
• fragola – strawberry
• frutti di bosco – fruits of the forest (made with dark berries such as blackberries)
• lampone – rasperà
• limone – lemon
• mandorla – almond
• mela – apple
• menta – mint
• nocciola – hazelnut
• pesca – peach
• pistacchio – pistachio
• stracciatella – vanilla and chocolate

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