Must-visit gelato shops in Italy

Gelato San Lorenzo, Rome

It's no surprise that Gelato San Lorenzo is known as one of the best gelateries in Rome, because chef Stefano Ferrara uses only the finest quality ingredients.

From basic ingredients like milk and eggs to special ingredients that create the distinctive flavors of gelato, such as lemons from Amalfi or hazelnuts from Piedmont, everything is carefully selected. It would be a shame to come here without trying zabaione – a signature ice cream flavor with Marsala wine as a special ingredient and a taste quite similar to eggnog.

Address: Via Tiburtina, 6, Rome

- Phone: +39 06 446 9440

Emilia Cremeria, Parma

The most interesting thing about this gelateria is that you have to use your imagination to choose your favorite gelato flavors. Instead of displaying large trays of gelato for customers to choose from like other gelaterias, the gelato trays at Emilia Cremeria are sealed in silver foil boxes, so you won't know what they look like or what color they are until you buy them. However, this "wait" will be well worth it when you hold in your hand a gelato cone with a layer of fragrant, melted chocolate inside, filled with delicious, colorful gelato scoops.

Address: Via Farini, 29, Parma

- Phone: +39 0521 207316

Casa Infante, Naples

Nestled in the vibrant Via Toledo district, Casa Infante in Naples is renowned for its incredibly thick, creamy gelato made with organic cream and eggs, along with unique seasonal ingredients. However, what truly sets Casa Infante apart are its unique flavors, such as apricot cake made with ripe apricots from Vesuvius, or white fig and ricotta gelato made with candied figs from Cilento. And, especially, a daisy-shaped cake filled with gelato would be the perfect addition to a complete gelato experience in Naples.

Address: Via Toledo, 258, Naples

- Phone: +39 081 1930 3598

La Carraia, Florence

As the birthplace of gelato, it's no surprise that one of Italy's best gelaterias is located here. Tucked away on the little-known Ponte alla Carraia on the Oltrarno side, La Carraia produces some of the best gelato, not just in Italy, but perhaps anywhere in the world. You won't find any other rich, dark chocolate gelato at such an affordable price (except perhaps Il Massimo in Milan). Each scoop is usually quite large, but the price is incredibly reasonable; you only pay €1 for a full-sized gelato cone!

- Address: Piazza Nazario Sauro, 25r, Florence

- Phone: +39 055 280695

Galateria I Caruso, Rome

No longer a "secret" gelateria for locals, I Caruso has now become a familiar name to any gelato enthusiast visiting Rome. Through the glass window, you can see firsthand the meticulous process of preparing the gelato. Besides traditional flavors, I Caruso is also famous for its seasonal ice cream flavors such as cantaloupe, pink grapefruit, and pineapple. A touch of whipped cream further enhances the refreshing flavors of the gelato.

Address: Via Collina, 13-1, Rome

- Phone: +39 06 4201 6420

La Sorbetteria Castiglione, Bologna

With its exceptional quality and distinctive flavors, it's no surprise that this gelateria has expanded to two locations outside of Bologna. La Sorbetteria Castiglione's signature flavor is Dolce Emma, ​​featuring honeyed figs blended with fluffy ricotta gelato. Dolce Contagio is also a favorite, with its crunchy walnut candies and refreshing pine nut gelato. However, if you're looking for something lighter, the fruit sorbetto is an excellent choice.

Address: Via Castiglione, 44, Bologna

- Phone: +39 051 233257

Alberto Marchetti, Turin

When asked about the best gelato shop in town, all the locals gave the same answer: Alberto Marchetti, and they were probably right. All of Marchetti's gelato is made in-house and served within 24 hours of being prepared. Proud of his high-quality ingredients, Marchetti even shares the ingredient lists for his gelato flavors on his website. Despite using premium ingredients, a single gelato cone here is sold at a very reasonable price; for just €2 you can experience two different flavors.

Address: Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, 2, Turin

- Phone: +39 011 839 0879

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