Shopping Guide to Florence
High Fashion and Mainstream Shopping in Florence
If you’re seeking haute couture fashions from renowned brands like Gucci, Pucci, or Ferragamo, head to the vibrant streets of Via Tornabuoni, Via della Vigna Nuova, and Via dei Calzaiuoli. These areas in the Santa Maria Novella district are bustling with the latest collections from both Italian and international designers.
For affordable clothing, housewares, and other items, explore the shops around Piazza della Repubblica, especially on Via Calimala. Here, you can find popular brands such as Zara as well as department stores like Rinascente, making it an ideal spot for budget-friendly shopping.
Outdoor Flea Markets and Antiques in Florence
Outdoor markets abound throughout Florence, with the renowned Mercato Centrale in the San Lorenzo district standing out. Inside, you can enjoy delicious food stalls offering meats, cheeses, olives, breads, and many delectable bites perfect for a picnic. Additionally, vendors outside the market sell clothing, leather goods, ceramics, and more.
The Mercato Nuovo, located near the iconic Ponte Vecchio, is another excellent destination for discount finds and souvenirs. Across the Arno, Piazza Santo Spirito boasts a produce market alongside vintage clothing, accessories, antiques, and jewelry. This market operates daily except Sundays and features an arts and crafts market on the second Sunday of every month. For a truly local experience, visit the Cascine Market, held weekly on Tuesdays, where around 300 vendors offer clothing, linens, housewares, antiques, and more.
Florentine Specialty Items
Florence is not only about high fashion; it is also a treasure trove of unique gifts. For exquisite marbled stationery, make sure to stop by Zecchi (Via dello Studio 19r) or Il Papiro (Piazza del Duomo 24r), both located in the charming San Giovanni neighborhood.
You can find leather goods throughout the city, but the Santa Croce Leather Workshop, nestled within the cloister of the church of Santa Croce, is the premier location for leather items, ranging from jackets and belts to bookmarks. Another must-visit spot is Santa Maria Novella, home to an apothecary that has been crafting perfumes and aromatic oils since the 13th century.
Moreover, gold is a coveted item commonly sought after in Florence, particularly due to its association with the famous Ponte Vecchio. Stroll across this iconic bridge and you will encounter numerous gold vendors on either side. While the value of the gold may vary, you can discover high-quality, unique pieces like necklaces, earrings, bracelets, watches, and rings.
