Florence: Lets play pickleball at Chimera Club

Florence: Let’s Play Pickleball at Chimera Club

If you’re searching for a unique way to stay active during your Florence visit, the Chimera Club offers the city’s only dedicated pickleball experience. Located just outside the historic center, this modern sports club introduces you to a sport that’s taking the U.S. by storm—now in the heart of Tuscany. For $56.94 per person, you get a 1.5-hour private lesson or group session, complete with expert coaches and all the equipment you need.

What we love about this experience is how it combines professional instruction with a relaxed, friendly atmosphere—perfect whether you’re a first-timer or looking to sharpen your game. The courts are well-maintained and the club provides paddles and balls, so you only need to bring your enthusiasm. We also appreciate the flexibility—sessions are available from 9:30 am to 7:30 pm, making it easy to fit into your sightseeing schedule.

One potential consideration is that, being the only pickleball venue in Florence, it might be a bit out of the way if you’re staying in the city center without a car. However, the personalized coaching and the chance to learn a new sport in Italy make it well worth the trip. This activity suits travelers who are active, curious, and eager to try something new, especially if you enjoy sports or want a break from museums and art.

Key Points

• Unique Experience: Florence’s only dedicated pickleball club, offering a novel activity for visitors.
• Expert Coaching: Skilled Italian and American instructors provide tailored lessons.
• All Equipment Provided: Paddles and balls are included, so just bring your desire to play.
• Flexible Scheduling: Book sessions between 9:30 am and 7:30 pm, with options for private groups.
• Affordable and Value-Driven: At around $57, enjoy a high-quality, engaging activity that combines sport and local culture.
• Easy to Book: Reserve online with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Florence’s Pickleball Scene

While Florence is best known for its Renaissance art and historic landmarks, it’s also a city that’s embracing new ways to stay active. The Chimera Club is a fresh addition to the city’s sports scene, offering a clean, modern setting specifically dedicated to pickleball. This sport, a mix of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, has caught on in the U.S. and now offers visitors a chance to experience it firsthand—even in Italy.

The club’s location is convenient enough for those staying outside the historic core, and the staff is welcoming. Inside, you’ll find a reception area where the coach, usually dressed in a blue t-shirt and white shorts, greets you and gets you ready to hit the courts. The club’s setup includes four pickleball courts, providing plenty of space for individual coaching or small group play.

What to Expect During Your Session

When you arrive, you’ll find a green gate with “Chimera Club” written on it—your entry point into this sporty enclave. Once inside, the coach will guide you through your session, whether it’s a private lesson or a group with up to 8 players. The core of the experience is the 1.5-hour session, during which you’ll learn the rules, techniques, and strategies of pickleball.

The coaches are bilingual, speaking both Italian and English, which helps ease any language concerns. They focus on improving your game through the quatro pickleball program, tailored for different skill levels. This approach ensures that beginners feel comfortable, while more experienced players can refine their technique.

All the necessary equipment—paddles and balls—is provided. So, your only responsibilities are to bring comfortable sports shoes, a sun hat if sunny, and a towel to stay cool and dry.

The atmosphere is friendly and focused, making it ideal for travelers of all ages. Whether you’re playing for fun or aiming to improve your skills, the coaches’ expertise guarantees a rewarding experience.

The Experience and Its Value

For those who love sports, this pickleball session offers a rare chance to try something new in Florence. The cost of about $57 for a session that includes professional coaching and all equipment is quite reasonable. Many reviewers have expressed satisfaction; one wrote, “We loved the way the coaches took time to teach and guide us, making it fun even for beginners.” Another appreciated the personalized attention—especially valuable for players seeking to improve their game.

While some might find the location a slight hassle if staying in the city center without transport, the overall value for a private, well-organized sports activity makes it worthwhile. Plus, it’s a great way to add an active element to your Florence trip—something different from touring museums or eating gelato.

The experience is especially perfect for groups or families, given the possibility of booking from 1 to 8 people. It’s a fantastic way to meet locals or other travelers who share your interest in sports, and to learn a new game in a fun, relaxed setting.

Practical Details and Tips

• Booking: Reserve online through GetYourGuide. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Timing: Check availability; sessions run from 9:30 am to 7:30 pm, so plan ahead to find a slot that fits your day.
• What to bring: Pack sun protection (hat), comfortable shoes, and a towel—the club provides paddles and balls.
• Location: The green gate with “Chimera Club” written on it marks your start point.
• Language: The coaching staff speaks both Italian and English.
• Group size: Private groups, from solo players to groups of 8.

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Who Should Consider This Experience?

This activity is perfect for active travelers looking to try something different, especially if you enjoy sports or want a memorable, engaging break from sightseeing. It’s also suitable for families or groups who want a shared activity, or for those curious about sports popular in America but new to Italy.

If you’re interested in blending sport with cultural novelty, this pickleball session provides a relaxed, friendly environment to learn, play, and connect. It’s less about competition and more about having fun and improving your skills—a true highlight for those seeking authentic, active experiences in Florence.

Final Thoughts

The Chimera Club’s pickleball experience offers a rare chance to enjoy a sport that’s sweeping across the U.S., now available in Florence. With professional coaching, equipment included, and flexible scheduling, it delivers excellent value for travelers wanting to stay active and try something new. The friendly atmosphere, coupled with the chance to learn from both Italian and American coaches, makes it a memorable addition to your Italian adventure.

While it may not be the easiest to access without transportation, the effort pays off for those seeking a fun, social, and active way to experience Florence differently. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast or simply curious, this activity will leave you with a new skill—and perhaps a new favorite game.

FAQs

Do I need to bring my own equipment? No. Paddles and balls are provided by the club, so you only need to bring comfortable sports shoes, a sun hat, and a towel.

Can I book a private lesson? Yes. The sessions can be booked as private lessons or for groups of up to 8 people.

What is the duration of the activity? The activity lasts 1.5 hours, which includes instruction and play time.

What language do the coaches speak? Coaches are fluent in Italian and English, making it easy for international visitors.

Is there a best time of day to play? You can choose from sessions available from 9:30 am to 7:30 pm, allowing flexibility with your schedule.

How do I find the meeting point? Look for a green gate marked “Chimera Club”; the coach will be there or on the court.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this suitable for children or only adults? The experience is open to all, but age restrictions aren’t specified. Check with the provider if you’re bringing kids.

How much does it cost? The typical price is $56.94 per person for a 1.5-hour session, including equipment and coaching.

Is this activity worth the cost? Given the coaching quality, equipment, and fun factor, many travelers find it offers excellent value—especially as a chance to learn a new sport in Italy.

Whether you’re looking to add some active fun to your Florence trip or want a friendly introduction to pickleball, this experience at Chimera Club combines sport, culture, and a touch of adventure—all in a relaxed setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: