Any timeAsk EneaThe Scopri Gaeta guide answers even at night.
In Gaeta, gelato isn’t an afterthought at the end of the day: it’s the very reason people head into town in the evening. The after-dinner stroll almost always ends with a cone in hand, and the question we hear most often is simple — where can I get the good stuff?
In brief: the go-to artisan gelaterias in Gaeta are Gretel Factory in Piazza della Libertà 22, recommended by Gambero Rosso; Il Molo in Piazza del Pesce, close to the Capitaneria and open late; Carmine in Via Buonomo, which is a pastry shop, café, and gelateria all in one; and Brio Bar in Corso Italia, near Serapo, which makes its own gelato in-house. Here is what sets them apart.
Gretel Factory — the award-winning one
If I had to recommend just one to a first-time visitor, it would be this one. Gretel Factory is located in Piazza della Libertà 22, right in the town center, and features a quality that isn’t just marketing: it defines itself as an agri-gelateria, meaning it works with a short supply chain and carefully selected raw ingredients, backed by an educational mission. Gambero Rosso has listed it among Italy’s best gelaterias for several years.
For gluten-free requirements, ask Gretel about available products and procedures. Gluten-free flavours alone do not establish suitability for someone with coeliac disease or membership of a particular programme.
Il Molo — by the harbor, open late
Il Molo is in Piazza del Pesce, near the harbour office and the sea. It can be a stop on an after-dinner walk, but check that day’s hours rather than assuming late-night opening in every season.
At Il Molo, check the flavours and availability at the counter that day. Gelato and yogurt are different options: size, ingredients and quantity matter more than a generic “light” label.
Carmine — pastry shop, café, and gelateria all in one
Carmine, at Via Buonomo 13/5, does it all: breakfast with filled croissants in the morning, pastries in the afternoon, and gelato as well. It is a convenient option if you are in a group and can’t agree on one thing — anyone who wants a cone can get one, and those craving a pastry will find it too. For the complete morning scoop, see our guide to breakfast in Gaeta.
A quick contextual note: in late September, Via Buonomo hosts one of the stops for the town’s culinary events, making the area especially lively during that time.
Brio Bar — the one near the beach
If you’re spending the day at the beach and don’t feel like heading back up into the town center, Brio Bar is on Corso Italia, just a few steps from Serapo, and makes its gelato in-house: artisanal preparation without preservatives, using fresh ingredients. It has been run by the Lisi-Zamberti family since 1991.
At Brio, you can also consider a savoury tiella stop, subject to availability that day. Its page lists Thursday as the usual closing day: check for any changes before visiting.
A tip on when to go
Summer evenings can be busier, but this varies between businesses and days. To reduce waiting, consider another time without assuming that at 7 pm the counter has just been restocked or there will be no queue.
Check the shop’s location relative to your part of Serapo: distances to Piazza della Libertà and medieval Gaeta differ. Gretel’s official website also lists a seasonal corner at Lido Oriente, Via Marina di Serapo 15; check whether it operates on your date rather than treating it as a year-round location. Read more: Serapo, guide to the seven beaches.
Before dessert, though
If you’re in Gaeta and haven’t tried tiella yet, do so before gelato rather than after: it is the savory stuffed pie filled with octopus, escarole, or salt cod that is a local institution, and one of the best-known artisanal versions is made right at Brio Bar mentioned above, where they have prepared it with sourdough starter since 1991. The rest of the spots we know inside out can be found in where to eat in Gaeta, and if you fancy a stroll before or after, the medieval quarter makes for the best evening walk.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best gelateria in Gaeta?
Gretel Factory, at Piazza della Libertà 22, holds the most authoritative recognition: Gambero Rosso lists it among the best in Italy. However, Il Molo in Piazza del Pesce offers more unique flavors, and Carmine in Via Buonomo combines a gelateria with a pastry shop: it all depends on what you’re looking for.
Where can you get gelato late at night in Gaeta?
Il Molo is one option to consider after dinner in the old town. Hours vary by season and day: check opening directly before planning your walk.
Is there gluten-free gelato in Gaeta?
Check products and procedures directly with the gelateria. Describing a flavour as gluten-free does not establish that its preparation and service are suitable for coeliac disease; check AIC programme information where relevant.
Is there a gelateria near Serapo beach?
Yes: Brio Bar, on Corso Italia, is just steps from Serapo and makes its gelato in-house. It is closed on Thursdays.
Where are Gaeta’s gelaterias located?
The shops mentioned are spread between Piazza della Libertà, Piazza del Pesce, Via Buonomo and Corso Italia. Check the route from your starting point: a single ten-minute estimate from the beach does not apply to every destination.
How much does gelato cost in Gaeta?
Prices are in line with those in seaside towns across southern Lazio and vary by size and season. We do not list them here as they change from year to year; they are clearly displayed at each venue.
Addresses have been verified across multiple independent sources. We do not list opening hours: they change with the season and are beyond our control — a quick phone call to the venue before heading out avoids a wasted trip. Reports and corrections are welcome: this page is kept up to date. To find out what is open right now, ask Enea.
