Known as a foodie’s delight, Italy is the place to go for authentic ingredients and bold flavors. After an all-you-can-eat pasta and pizza tour, you’re bound to crave a sweet dessert to end the night. Thankfully, Italy is just as famous for its gelato, and these six places will bring your taste buds to tears.
Giolitti in Rome
Giolitti in Rome offers an Old-World spin on a delicious treat.
Giolitti uses only the freshest dairy and makes everything completely by hand, which might be why travelers all over the world flock to the local shop for gelato, ice cream, cheesecake, pastries, and biscuits. One of the most popular sweets is the Coppa Giolitti, made with chocolate ice cream, custard, and chilled zabaione, and topped with cream and hazelnuts flakes.
If you’re not in the mood for a cup, try the ice cream on a stick or a banana split. Whatever you choose, you’ll have a hankering for more as soon as you take your last bite.
Perche No! in Florence
After your visit to The Duomo, the next place to stop on your pilgrimage is Perche No!
Italian for Why Not!, Perche No! sources local ingredients to produce one-of-a-kind gelatos with unique flavor combinations. One scoop gives your palate access to Tuscan roses, San Gavino saffron, Bronte pistachios, and Langhe hazelnut. Another bonus for patrons is that anyone with dietary restrictions can enjoy several vegan and dairy-free options, as well as gluten-free cones.
Tons of people make this spot a priority on their trip, so don’t be alarmed if the line stretches around the block.
Gelateria Latteneve in Milan
In Milan, not only is the fashion on point, but even the gelato makes a powerful statement.
Gelateria Latteneve owns the culinary runway in Milan with an all-natural menu and bustling environment. It’s a popular destination for late-night snacks, especially since many options are vegetarian/vegan-friendly. Their coconut, dark chocolate, and fruit flavored ice creams are dairy-free, and many other products are “Vegan OK” certified. One of the most sought-after combinations is the Grigio de Milano, a salty, creamy blend of sesame and peanut.
There are plenty of seasonal options, too. Try a steamy hot chocolate with notes of cinnamon and fig in the winter or an ice-cold summer granita to fight off the heat.
Pasticceria Savoia on the Amalfi Coast
When life gives you lemons, make lemonade. But when life gives you lemons on the Amalfi Coast, get some gelato!
Not only are the coastlines some of the most captivating in the world, but the Amalfi Coast is also home to Pasticcertia Savoia, a charming gelato shop with deep Italian roots. With a family history dating back to WWII, the parlor serves an eclectic mix of traditional desserts and contemporary pastries. From croissants baked with lobster tail to cannolis with Sicilian flare, the food will leave you in a seaside food coma. Limoncello liqueur is a delicacy to the region, so make sure to try their authentic Limoncello gelato.
Gelateria Alaska in Venice
Much like the seclusion and beauty of the Yukon, Gelateria Alaska is a hidden gem of Venice for classic gelato and sorbet with bold fusions.
Tucked between the Rio Marin and the Rio de San Zan Degola, Gelateria Alaska uses non-traditional flavors to captivate customers and leave them wanting more. The shop showcases delectable favorites with flavors that include Amarena (black cherry), ginger, cardamom, and rose.
The only tricky thing is that finding this refuge can be a journey of its own. Keep your eyes peeled and let your sweet tooth lead the way.
Gelateria Buonocore in Capri
Sometimes you have to get off the mainland to discover something new, and Gelateria Buonocore in Capri is the perfect reason for an island getaway.
The scent of waffle cones drifts through the streets as you gaze at the Gulf of Naples in the distance. Amidst the narrow walkways extending from Via Roma, you’ll no doubt see throngs of tourists flood the parlor’s tiny archway and display windows. A red “Buonocore” sign greets people as they order hefty scoops of stracciatella or chocolate hazelnut.