A guide to typical florentine products and historic shops
A journey into the authentic flavors, craftsmanship, and rich traditions of Florence.
Florence is the cradle of the Renaissance and a city rich in culinary and artisanal traditions. Beyond its famous landmarks, the true essence of Florence can be discovered in its historic shops, where centuries-old crafts and local delicacies continue to thrive. There are many goods Florence is known for, from leather to tripe; these time-honoured Florentine products offer a unique glimpse into the authentic soul of the city. Let’s explore the typical foods and wines of Florentine artisans:
1. Gastronomy: Florentine Delicacies
- Lampredotto: A traditional Florentine street food made from the cow's fourth stomach, slow-cooked and served in a sandwich. It can be found at Trippai iconic street vendors. Read more!
- Cantucci and Vin Santo: Cantucci are almond biscuits traditionally enjoyed dipped in Vin Santo, a sweet dessert wine. Try them!
- Tuscan Olive Oil: Florence is surrounded by olive groves, making high-quality olive oil tastings and mill tours a staple of this land. Taste it!
- Bistecca alla Fiorentina: A thick-cut T-bone steak, often sourced from Chianina cattle and grilled rare. Read more!
- Pappa al Pomodoro & Ribollita: Pappa al pomodoro is a hearty Florentine dish made from ripe tomatoes, stale bread, garlic, and basil, simmered into a thick, flavorful stew. Ribollita, another traditional favourite, is a rustic soup of cannellini beans, vegetables, and stale bread, slowly cooked to perfection and traditionally enjoyed as a warming meal in the colder months.
2. Wine: Tuscan Vineyards’ Finest
Florence is at the heart of Tuscany’s renowned wine regions. Historic wine shops (enoteche) often feature:
- Chianti Classico
- Brunello di Montalcino
- Vino Nobile di Montepulciano
3. Typical Artisanal Products Florence
- Leather Goods: Florence is known for its high-quality leather craftsmanship. The district of Santa Croce houses workshops that have been operating for centuries, making bags, belts, and shoes. Try the workshop!
- Goldsmiths and Jewelers: The Ponte Vecchio is famed for its historic goldsmith shops, where artisans create intricate jewellery pieces. Read more!
- Paper and Stationery: Florence has a tradition of handmade paper and marbleised stationery, often sold in family-owned shops that have passed down their craft for generations.
4. Cultural Experience
These historic shops often serve as small cultural centres, preserving Florentine traditions and offering visitors a unique opportunity to engage with the city’s heritage. Many are family-owned businesses with centuries of history, where stories of Florence’s past can be felt in the atmosphere.