Where to go shopping in Florence

Florence, the heart of Tuscany, is the city in Italy you just have to visit. It's known for its Renaissance history, amazing architecture, and world-class museums! But Florence is also a shopping paradise. 

The city's commerce is deeply rooted in craftsmanship, with leather goods, jewelry, and textiles taking center stage. It has a rich tradition of artisan workshops and you can find one-of-a-kind hand-crafted treasures. Whether you're on the hunt for a luxurious leather bag, a beautiful gold bracelet, or a piece of hand-painted pottery, Florence delivers.

People come here not only for its high-end boutiques like Gucci and Prada, but also for its local markets and small artisan shops where you'll find quality at every price. With a mix of timeless luxury and authentic Tuscan craftsmanship, Florence has a shopping experience that’s as memorable as the city itself.

All you need to know when shopping in Florence

Most shopping happens in the city’s charming, cobblestone streets, with open-air markets and small shops that give off that authentic Tuscan experience! While you'll find a few larger malls like The Mall (for outlet bargains) or Centro Commerciale San Donato, the real fun lies in exploring boutiques and artisan shops all around the city.

Florentine shops typically open around 10 AM, take a lunch break from 1 to 3 PM, and close by 7 PM. Larger stores stay open a little later, especially near touristy areas. And the prices? They can vary widely depending on your needs. 

Luxury brands like Gucci or Prada can put a dent in your wallet, but the many local markets and smaller boutiques offer quality items at more affordable prices. If you're looking for deals, the sales in January and July are prime times for fashion finds.

Most places accept cards, but it’s always handy to have cash for small purchases or markets. To shop like a local, avoid the tourist traps and look for local artisans for leather goods and handcrafted pieces. And remember, Florentines take their shopping casually, so enjoy the process and take your time picking out the piece that best describes you!

Unique shops to visit in Florence

If you're looking for local artisans, check out these shops where leather, clothes, and jewelry are traditional and unspoiled by modern capitalism.

1. Leather School

Address: Via di S. Giuseppe 5/R

Step into the Leather School, and you’ll feel like you’ve entered a temple dedicated to craftsmanship! Right in the Monastery of Santa Croce in the city center, this historic workshop has been perfecting the art of leather goods since the 1950s! 

You can find everything from buttery-soft wallets to luxurious handbags, each handcrafted by skilled artisans. When you watch them work, it's like seeing magic unfold.

Plus, if you're feeling fancy, you can even get your initials embossed on your new piece! Shopping here means you’re getting a piece of Florentine tradition.

Pro tip: That leather handbag is a real masterpiece, right? Bounce is here to take care of your things and free up your hands so you can do even more shopping. No need to go back to your hotel room just to leave your new stuff. Grab our snazzy app, find a storage location near you, and continue shopping in no time.

2. Boutique Nadine

Address: Lungarno degli Acciaiuoli 22/red

This famous antique shop near Ponte Vecchio feels like raiding the closet of someone who's effortlessly stylish. You’ll stumble upon unique vintage clothing, quirky accessories like fedoras and oversized hats, and even one-of-a-kind finds that scream "statement piece." This is a women's clothing store though, but it's a little treasure trove of surprises. It's the perfect spot to snag a story-worthy outfit that’ll have everyone asking, “Where did you get that?”

3. Falsi Gioielli

Address: Via de' Ginori 34

Falsi Gioielli is the cheeky rebel of Florence’s jewelry shops. Its name means “fake jewelry,” but don’t be fooled. This store is full of dazzling, handcrafted designs that are anything but ordinary. For decades, Falsi Gioielli has been wowing shoppers with its art gallery of bold, contemporary creations that can add a splash of Italian flair to your look. From funky earrings to avant-garde necklaces, every piece feels like wearable art.

Shopping in Florence beyond clothing

If you're done looking at clothes and want something a bit more satisfying, wander over to olive oil, cheese, meat, and ceramic kitchenware masters.

1. Sbigoli Terrecotte

Address: Via Sant'Egidio 4 R

Sbigoli Terrecotte is a feast for the eyes and the perfect stop for pottery lovers. It's a family-run workshop that's been shaping stunning terracotta and ceramic pieces for over a century! From colorful plates and bowls to detailed vases and kitchenware, everything here is handmade with care and bursting with Tuscan charm.

Whether you’re after bold decorative pieces, memorable souvenirs, or practical pasta bowls to remind you of Florence, Sbigoli has you covered. Bonus points if you snag a hand-painted piece that doubles as art and dinnerware. It's worth the visit, even if you're just window shopping.

2. La Bottega Dell'Olio

Address: Piazza del Limbo, 2

La Bottega Dell’Olio is heaven for olive oil aficionados. This tiny shop is packed with liquid gold (premium Tuscan olive oils) that are just what you need to elevate your cooking game to Michelin-star status.

You’ll also find vinegar, truffle-infused oils, and other gourmet treats to make your pantry the envy of all. Not sure what to choose? The friendly staff love to guide you (and maybe sneak you a sample).

Pro tip: Grab a beautifully packaged bottle as a gift. It’s way better than a postcard.

3. Alimentari Uffizi

Address: Via Lambertesca, 10/R

This cozy grocery shop is a paradise for artisanal Italian goods. Just imagine aged pecorino cheese, mouthwatering cured meats, fragrant Tuscan herbs, and fresh pasta just begging to be cooked. It’s perfect for grabbing picnic essentials by the Arno or taking a taste of Florence home. Don’t leave without a jar of local honey or a bottle of chianti because everything tastes better with a Florentine twist.

Traditional shopping options in Florence

If you're looking for the big hitters of Italian clothing, look no further! These brands are local, and local means cheap!

1. Armani

Addresses: Via Roma 14/R; Via de' Tornabuoni 83/R

These flagship stores are a sleek haven filled with perfectly tailored suits, chic dresses, and timeless accessories. Whether you're looking for a classic blazer that fits like a dream or a statement handbag to elevate your style, Armani's luxury boutiques deliver perfection every time.

If your wardrobe needs a dose of refinement and you need a trip into the fashion world, this is where the magic happens. Remember, Armani is Italian, so it's way cheaper here than anywhere else in the world.

Pro tip: Those are some sizzling hot clothes, how about storing them while you continue to shop for some more? Maybe you're going to Pisa for a quick dip and don't want sand in your Armani blazer, just dump your shopping finds with Bounce and you're set. You can call our 24/7 support line if you need any help with your stuff.

2. Valentino

Address: P.za della Signoria 13

Valentino’s boutique in Florence is pure fashion royalty. The brand is known for its signature red and dreamy designs and the store is filled with show-stopping dresses, sharp suits, and accessories that turn heads! 

From studded Rockstud heels to embroidered clutches, every piece feels like a masterpiece. Even if you’re not shopping for the Met Gala, Valentino has plenty of everyday luxury shopping to keep you stylish! When you buy a signature piece, it feels like you inherited a slice of Italian haute couture history. And who wouldn’t want that?

3. Fendi

Addresses: Via de' Tornabuoni 40/R; Via S. Morese 57; Via Europa 8

If you're on the lookout for some more fashionable locals, Fendi is the spot for bold, playful luxury labels. You'll find everything from iconic baguette bags to cutting-edge ready-to-wear collections that push the boundaries of high fashion. 

Their innovative designs and daring details bring an extra edge to your wardrobe. Whether you leave with a pair of statement sunglasses or a signature peekaboo tote, Fendi promises to add a little drama (the good kind) to your life.

So, why should you shop in Florence?

From high-end fashion houses like Armani and Valentino to charming artisan shops like Sbigoli Terrecotte, the city offers different shopping ops for every style and need! Whether it's chic bags, handcrafted pottery, or liquid gold live oil and melt-in-your-mouth cheese, you're sure to leave with a piece of Florence's magic.