Typical
markets in Florence
Florence is a great city for going shopping.
In addition to fashion stores, craft workshops and small shops, you will find
numerous markets. Food, clothes, typical products, leather items, antiques, etc
are sold on the stalls in the Florentine markets at very good prices, especially
if you’re an expert in the art of haggling.
The more
central markets in Florence, the ones preferred by tourist, are usually open
everyday, whilst if we go a little further out of the centre we will find
smaller markets where more traditional Italian customs reign.
These are
the more typical markets in Florence:
San Lorenzo
Street Market – right into the heart of the historical centre is one of the
most popular markets in Florence.
It is a lively place, full of life. You can find items ranging from food to
clothes on the various stalls there. However, it is especially well known for
its leather and suede goods including belts, jackets, wallets, bags, shoes and
accessories, all at very good prices. Where: Piazza San
Lorenzo. When: from Wednesday to Sunday from 9am to 7:30pm.
Porcellino
Market (New Market) – This Florentine market houses a popular character of the
city, the Porcellino. It comprises a bronze sculpture of a wild boar. This
pretty little pig is one of the symbols of the city that is visited by tourists
and locals on a daily basis.
It is said that if you rub its snout with the palm
of your hand whilst holding some money, and while you’re rubbing, the money
falls down between the bars of the small hole beneath the pig’s feet, the
Porcellino will grant you a wish and guarantee that you return to Florence.The market
itself is one of the liveliest in the city, with souvenirs, clothes, and
leather and wood items. Where: Piazza del
Mercato Nuevo. When: from Tuesday to Saturday from 8am to 7pm. It only opens in
the afternoon on Monday.
Centrale
Market – A busy and colourful market supplying an array of fresh products. You
will find top quality vegetables there, as well as aromatic spices, fruit,
meat, Italian cheeses and all kinds of products typical of the Tuscany region. A real
feast for the eyes and palates of Italian food lovers. Where: Via de’ll
Ariento and Piazza Mercato Centrale. When: from Monday to Friday from 7am to 2pm. Saturday from 7am to 7pm.
Mercato
delle Pulci – The Florence
flea market. You will be able to find antiques, knickknacks, old money and
jewellery, prints, decorative objects and old books, etc. there. Its worth
visiting on the last Sunday of the month when it’s livelier. Where: Piazza dei
Ciompi. When: from Monday to Sunday from 9am to 7pm.
Laura - Marketing Team